Strategic leader sees zinc battery innovation as critical to resilient energy future
RICHMOND, Calif.: Enzinc Inc., a developer of advanced rechargeable zinc battery technology, announced today that retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Hugh Wyman Howard III has joined its board of senior advisors. Howard brings decades of operational leadership, strategic planning, and innovation experience from the highest levels of U.S. national defense and intelligence.
“Wyman’s leadership expertise and mission-first mindset are invaluable as we grow Enzinc into a company that delivers energy security and sustainability,” said Michael Burz, Enzinc founder and CEO. “His global perspective and operational insights—especially regarding logistics, supply chain resilience, and safety—align perfectly with the advantages zinc batteries offer over traditional chemistries.”
Howard’s military career spanned multiple combat deployments in SEAL teams and joint special operations. Howard most recently served as Commander of Naval Special Warfare Command, where he led the more than 10,000-person naval commando enterprise through a period of substantive changes for strategic relevancy. Before that, he commanded United States Special Operations Command Central after serving as assistant commander of Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). He is a recognized expert in innovation for missions of national consequence, integrating cutting-edge technologies for decision advantage and non-linear outcomes.
“Energy resilience is mission-critical; from defense and disaster response to commercial applications that advance sustainability objectives,” said Howard. “Enzinc’s rechargeable zinc battery technology offers a scalable, safe, and resource-efficient solution that’s urgently needed. I’m proud to support a team focused on delivering real innovation in energy storage.”
Howard speaks widely on innovation and serves as a senior advisor with McKinsey & Company. He holds a Master of Science in National Security and Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School and a Master of Business Administration from the TRIUM consortium of the London School of Economics, HEC Paris School of Management, and New York University’s Stern School of Business.
Enzinc’s patented zinc sponge anode unlocks the potential for zinc to power a new generation of high-performance rechargeable batteries. Filling a gap between lithium and lead-acid chemistries, Enzinc’s batteries are safe, recyclable, and cost-effective—providing up to three times the energy and lifespan of lead-acid batteries without their toxicity or the global supply chain risks of lithium. Howard’s appointment comes as Enzinc continues to scale its technology and expand market applications in mobility, grid resilience, and defense energy storage.