David G. Taylor is a seasoned leadership coach who helps leaders expand their strategic capacity, strengthen their leadership presence, and navigate complex challenges and transitions. Leveraging more than 40 years of leadership experience spanning military service, the defense industry, higher education, and ministry, David brings a holistic approach that helps clients become more confident, resilient, and intentional leaders. As founder of Next Summit Advisors, he is particularly committed to developing and inspiring the next generation of leaders through strategic insight, curiosity, and reflective inquiry. 
 
David’s extensive education and professional credentials underscore the breadth of experience he brings to coaching. He holds an MS in Operations Research, an MA in Christian Leadership, and BS degrees in Physics and Mathematics. His credentials include the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) designation from the International Coaching Federation and certifications in CliftonStrengths, EQ-i 2.0, Wiley’s Everything DiSC™, Change Style Indicator™, and the Polarity Approach to Continuity and Transformation (PACT™). A retired U.S. Air Force officer, former defense executive, longtime educator, pastor, and college chaplain, he brings analytical rigor, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of people and organizations to his coaching practice. 
 
David’s coaching philosophy is rooted in a strengths-based and values-oriented approach. He partners with clients to uncover their unique potential, recognize strengths and potential derailers, and align their personal and professional goals with their core values. Guided by curiosity and reflective inquiry, David helps leaders translate insight into intentional action and sustainable development. His favorite coaching question, “When’s the last time you did something for the first time?” reflects his commitment to growth, experimentation, and continued learning. 
 
David has coached leaders across organizational levels, from emerging leaders and managers to senior executives. His coaching has helped federal leaders gain acceptance into Senior Executive Service development programs, supported executives in strengthening executive presence and strategic leadership, and helped teams improve effectiveness through experiential learning and intentional development. His approach combines practical leadership tools, assessment-based insight, strategic thinking, and deep reflection to help clients build the capacity to lead more effectively long after the coaching engagement ends.