Chief Consultant, Stephen R. Barnhart, Ph.D., holds several positions and brings to the IBEC a world of business experience and education.  He holds several internationally recognized and accredited degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Technology - Computer Science, a MBA in Business, as well as a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration.  Dr. Barnhart also holds an Honorary Doctorate from the Global Academy, pertaining to his duties as a Chaplain and Minister.

Dr. Barnhart has received numerous citations and awards from around the world, including an award for consultancy to the KOSOVO Peacekeeping Mission, a letter of thanks from the Royal Family of Saudi Arabia for his contributions to security and international relations, the Medal of Merit from President George W. Bush, personal letters of thanks from The President, Governors, Congressmen, Senators, and Members of Parliament, Royalty, Government, Military, and VIP’s.  Recently, Dr. Barnhart has been invited by the Royal Family of Bahrain, to act as a Security Advisor.

Dr. Barnhart’s career includes many titles and responsibilities, such as; Police Officer, Sheriff’s Deputy, Fireman, State & City Licensed Private Detective, Bonded Locksmith, Certified Alarm Technician, Certified Electronics Technician, Certified Countermeasures Technician, Executive Protection Agent, Certified Homeland Security & Public Safety Director and a 32nd Degree Mason, and has done much for charity through the Shriner's Organization. Dr. Barnhart was also on the International Champion Harley Davidson Motorcycle Team and a member of the Provost Unit.

Dr. Barnhart was recently appointed to the highest level to the Australian-Asian Institute of Civil Leadership, a professional and academic institute, whose mission is the promotion and recognition of excellence of leadership in various fields of endeavor. Admission to the Institute is merit-based, and reflects formal recognition of significant achievements. Dr. Barnhart shares the prominent members section with Royalty from around the World, as well as being recognized as a Diplomat in several countries.

Dr. Barnhart also supports World Peace, and has been awarded several high honors, including the Kentucky Colonel, Nebraska Admiral, Honorary United States Marine, and is a Gold Commander / Diamond Member in the DAV. 

Dr. Barnhart is a founding member of The Presidential Prayer Team, has served as Chaplain of the Shrine Motor Corps, and is an ordained Minister.