BENTON LEWIS

I combine expertise in Warfighter Performance Optimization (WPO), Human Systems Integration (HSI), and behavioral science to inform Warfighter-centered design requirements for sociotechnical solutions aligned with the Total Force Fitness framework.

Since 2019, I have supported military human performance optimization as a coach, advisor, and researcher. I began advising Army ROTC cadets at Austin Peay State University as a fitness intern, then returned in 2021 as the campus Fitness & Wellness Coordinator, where I led cadet physical readiness training via remote programming. In 2023, I joined the U.S. Army Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System as an embedded Strength and Conditioning Coach. After conducting graduate research to diagnose and propose a Soldier-centered redesign of the H2F operating concept, I transitioned into my current Human Performance Advisor role.

I hold a Master of Arts in Sport Coaching from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance from Austin Peay State University. My professional recognition includes the inaugural 2022 National Strength & Conditioning Association LIFT Committee's ELEVATE Award and the University of Denver GSPP's 2025 Distinguished Alumnus designation.

To advance my interests and expertise in human performance and systems thinking, I am currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering with a concentration in Human Systems Integration at Colorado State University, alongside Board Certification in Health and Wellness Coaching.

Tactical Human Institute

THI is my independent research and development platform, engineering the next generation of human performance optimization. It serves as a proving ground for Warfighter-centered concepts and applications. Since 2020, THI has helped 14+ tactical professionals advance their careers by applying principles of Human Systems Integration, Performance Science, and Behavioral Science.

In 2026, I authored and published the independent white paper, “Diagnosing and Redesigning the U.S. Army H2F System for Autonomous Soldier Readiness," which integrates Self-Determination Theory into the H2F operating concept. Today, it serves as the philosophical backbone of my collaborative approach with Warfighters and human performance professionals to reimagine the future of operational readiness systems.

Education

• Master of Engineering, Systems Engineering (Human Systems Integration) | Colorado State University (Expected 2030)

• Master of Arts, Sport Coaching (Strength & Conditioning) | University of Denver (2025)

• Bachelor of Science, Health and Human Performance (Performance & Wellness Psychology) | Austin Peay State University (2020)