Richard Barnhart though now retired continues to seek opportunities to serve Christ. He is the previous owner and President of Compet Consulting, which for 25 years specialized in competency-based approaches to individual and organizational effectiveness. His portfolio of clients consisted primarily of criminal justice organizations including the National Institute of Corrections. Prior to forming his own company, he spent 25 years in various positions within probation and parole, community corrections and institutions, as well as the US Justice Department.

Richard served as a commissioned officer in the US Navy, retiring after 23 years on active duty and in the reserves. He completed one tour in Vietnam as a bombardier-navigator aboard A-6 attack aircraft based on the USS Constellation (CVA-64). With his extensive experience in criminal justice and military service he is aware of the issues which impact veterans through their incarceration and reintegration back into their communities. He also has been privileged to serve Christ as a small group leader, head of adult education in a mega- church, and as the executive director of a national organization training pastors and volunteers to serve the incarcerated population.

He has had the good fortune to lead a rich, diverse life that has included over 50 years of experience managing and leading in organizations in the public sector, private businesses and in service to God. To better equip him to serve others, he obtained a BS degree from Utah State University in Sociology, an MS degree from the University of Utah in Social Work and Theology Degree from Liberty University.