Jack Hirsbrunner - Synectics

In Memory of Dr. Jack E. Hirsbrunner (1909-2024)

The Future Is Built by Minds that Come Together

Celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Jack Hirsbrunner—and the people at Synectics who continue his mission to uplift others through unity, purpose, and shared progress.

Early Career

Dr. Jack Hirsbrunner’s journey began in Argentina, where he earned his Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Buenos Aires. Determined to expand his knowledge and opportunities, he later moved to the United States through an educational exchange program and pursued his Ph.D. in Economics at Columbia University in New York.

What started as a promising career in New York’s investment world took a transformative turn when his firm sent him to Puerto Rico to expand their operations. There, he found not just opportunity—but purpose.

In 1969, Dr. Hirsbrunner founded Synectics for Management Decisions, Inc., marking a historic milestone as one of the first Hispanic-owned government contracting firms in the United States. His entrepreneurial vision was driven by more than business success—he carried a deep conviction that data, education, and empowerment were tools to shape lives and transform nations.

For Dr. Hirsbrunner, Synectics was a way to give back to the country that gave him the opportunity to pursue his dreams. Coming to the United States as an immigrant with little more than determination and a dream, he never forgot the doors that had been opened for him. In return, he made it his mission to contribute to the growth and betterment of the nation—leveraging his expertise to support public service initiatives and develop solutions that would enhance the lives of everyday citizens

When Synectics expanded into federal government consulting, Dr. Hirsbrunner relocated operations to the Arlington, VA area—continuing to push boundaries in data-driven decision-making and mentoring rising leaders every step of the way.

Achievements

In Puerto Rico, he helped establish the first American National Accountants Association chapter and provided educational certification programs to inmates at La Princesa prison in San Juan, offering second chances through learning. He partnered with political figures like Teodoro Moscoso, Luis A. Ferré, and Rafael Hernández Colón to conduct an economic and resource viability study that became the foundation for legislation to structure Puerto Rico’s tourism industry—what we now know as the Compañía de Turismo.

Jack also helped establish the Caribbean’s Job Corps Training Center near El Yunque, creating a hub for workforce development that uplifted countless young people with skills and opportunities for a better future. His model for economic growth was so impactful that he was invited to collaborate with the Jamaican government to replicate it, extending his vision for community-driven development throughout the Caribbean.

As Synectics grew, Jack’s influence expanded into the federal government sector. He was instrumental in the modernization of several U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offices, championing the use of data-driven solutions to improve public service delivery. His work included collaborating on the modernization of Alcohol, Drug Abuse and Mental Health Administration (ADAMHA), which evolved to the Behavioral Health Services Information System (BHSIS), as part of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) database, providing policymakers with critical data to address health and social issues nationwide.

Beyond health services, Jack also contributed to the modernization of the Head Start program, leveraging data systems to support early childhood education initiatives. His expertise and leadership impacted multiple federal agencies, always guided by his belief that empowering people through information, collaboration, and innovation was the key to national progress.

Philanthropy

Above all, Dr. Jack Hirsbrunner was known for one thing: helping others achieve their dreams. He believed in people, in their potential, and in creating systems that gave everyone a seat at the table. His legacy is one of courage, compassion, and transformation—built on faith in others and a relentless drive to make a difference.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Jack Hirsbrunner was deeply committed to community upliftment and social impact. He actively supported nonprofit organizations like La Fondita de Jesús, which combats hunger and homelessness in Puerto Rico, particularly focusing on feeding vulnerable children. His belief in second chances also led him to spearhead an accounting certification program for inmates at La Princesa prison in San Juan, empowering individuals through education and skills for reintegration.

Jack’s dedication to professional growth extended to the broader business community. He was a key figure in the creation of the National Accountants Association, Puerto Rico Chapter, fostering a platform for professional excellence and collaboration. His passion for the arts and culture was equally strong, as he sponsored emerging artists in the Washington, DC area, recognizing creativity as a vital force for community identity and expression.

In addition, Jack was a founding member of the Northern Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NOVAHCC), where he championed Hispanic entrepreneurship and advocated for greater opportunities within the region’s business ecosystem. His legacy is a testament to a life lived in service—not only building businesses but building lives, communities, and futures.

At Synectics, the difference is clear; it’s why we’ve been in business since 1969. Our growth since then is primarily attributed to one factor—client satisfaction. We are obsessed with collaboration, innovation, and a “no surprises” commitment to our clients. Synectics employees get it. An unyielding devotion to the highest quality services and a passion to make an impact for our clients is in the fabric of our culture.