Who We Are
About GS Federal
Founded with a passion for community well-being and safety, GS Federal staff have rapidly become a trusted partner for entities seeking specialized training and technical assistance. Our expertise spans a diverse range of critical areas, from substance misuse prevention to disaster preparedness and emergency operations.
Our team, comprised of seasoned professionals, is dedicated to delivering solutions that are both innovative and practical. We understand the unique challenges faced by government, non-profit, and business entities, and we tailor our services to meet their specific needs.
At GS Federal, we believe in the power of knowledge and collaboration. Whether it’s helping organizations develop robust emergency response strategies or providing insights into behavioral health, our goal remains the same: to empower our clients to make informed decisions and create lasting positive impact.
Co-Founder & CEO
Desiree Pliler
Desiree Pliler exemplifies a unique blend of financial acumen and crisis management expertise as the CEO and co-owner of GS Federal. A retired Air Force non-commissioned officer, Desiree has an extensive background in emergency operations, having served in critical roles within the Iowa National Guard. Her military tenure is marked by significant contributions to emergency preparedness and disaster response and has evolved into planning state-level exercises and developing vital training programs for active shooter scenarios and disaster readiness.
In addition to her distinguished military career, Desiree is a seasoned entrepreneur and financial expert. She is the founder and Financial Manager of Squared Away Financial LLC, where her responsibilities span from tax preparation to strategic financial planning and process improvement. Her business consistently achieves and surpasses goals in support of small businesses across Iowa.
Desiree holds an MBA with a focus on Accounting, equipping her with the skills to oversee the financial and operational aspects of GS Federal adeptly. Her dual expertise in financial management and emergency management allows her to provide invaluable insights into both the strategic and day-to-day operations of the company.
Driven by a commitment to excellence and a passion for community safety, Desiree’s leadership at GS Federal ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of delivering high-quality training and assistance for crisis prevention and management. Her vision for integrating solid business practices with emergency preparedness strategies significantly enhances GS Federal’s capacity to serve and protect communities effectively.
Co-Founder and COO
Greg Pliler
Greg Pliler brings a wealth of expertise in substance misuse prevention and project management to his role as the Chief Operating Officer and co-owner of GS Federal. His dedication to fostering community resilience and preparedness is underpinned by a rich background in providing technical assistance and training to address public health issues, notably in rural communities.
A retired Army non-commissioned officer, Greg’s leadership skills were honed over years with the 82nd Airborne Division and the Iowa National Guard, including a deployment to Iraq in 2008. His military experience instills a disciplined, strategic approach to operations and problem-solving at GS Federal. Under his stewardship, the company offers tailored services that range from disaster preparedness to substance misuse prevention training.
Greg’s career is distinguished by significant roles, such as directing the Region 7 Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Center and managing large-scale behavioral health projects with various agencies. He holds a Master’s degree in Prevention Science from the University of Oklahoma and is known for his ability to translate complex data into actionable plans, a skill that enhances GS Federal’s offerings and impact.
Committed to innovation and excellence, Greg envisions a future where every organization is equipped to mitigate adversity effectively, making communities safer, healthier, and more resilient. His leadership not only guides GS Federal’s strategic direction but also inspires a team of professionals dedicated to making a difference in public safety and health.