Who we are
Bluestem Consulting is a appropriations risk consulting and strategic advisory firm. We’re not a lobbying firm or a law practice. In addition to consulting and strategy, we also provide consulting and training on the budget and appropriations process.
With over 20 years of experience navigating the complexities of the Federal budget and appropriations process, Joe Carlile brings unparalleled expertise to Bluestem Consulting. As a former Associate Director at the White House Office of Management and Budget and Clerk for the House Appropriations Committee, Joe has been at the center of federal resource allocation decisions impacting hundreds of billions of dollars.
Joe's career spans critical leadership roles across the Federal government, where he successfully managed multi-billion dollar budgets, led high-performing teams, and developed strategic initiatives that transformed government operations. His experience includes:
Directing the formulation and execution of more than $350 billion in federal resources
Leading negotiations with Congress to secure additional funding for key priorities
Drafting and negotiating complex federal funding legislation
Implementing major federal programs, including disaster recovery initiatives
Guiding federal agencies in aligning operations with strategic priorities
Joe offers strategic advice on managing appropriations risk, helping clients anticipate funding challenges, develop contingency plans, and position themselves effectively amid changing budget landscapes and political priorities.
Having served as a trusted advisor to the highest levels of government, Joe understands the intricacies of Federal budgeting from both the executive and legislative perspectives. His unique insight into how decisions are made—and how resources are allocated—provides clients with a strategic advantage in navigating the Federal landscape.
Joe now offers specialized consulting and training services through Bluestem Consulting to help organizations understand, navigate, and succeed within the Federal budget and appropriations process. Whether you're seeking to enhance your understanding of Federal budget mechanics, analyze your Federal appropriations risk and opportunities, or improve your organization's approach to Federal resources, Joe brings the expertise and guidance needed to achieve your goals.
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you! You can also email us directly at info@bluestemconsultingllc.com.
Why the name bluestem?
Bluestem Consulting draws inspiration from the remarkable native prairie grasses that define America's heartland. Like the big and little bluestem grasses, our approach to appropriations risk management is deeply rooted, resilient, and adaptive.
These iconic grasses have thrived for centuries by developing extraordinary resilience to challenging conditions. Their extensive root systems—reaching up to 12 feet deep—allow them to survive drought, fire, and extreme weather by accessing resources others cannot reach. Similarly, our consulting team digs deeper to identify funding risks and opportunities that others might miss.
Bluestem grasses don't just survive challenges—they're strengthened by them. Prairie fires that devastate other species actually stimulate bluestem's growth cycle. In today's volatile funding environment, we help your organization not merely withstand uncertainty but emerge stronger through strategic adaptation.
Just as bluestem grasses form the backbone of prairie ecosystems, connecting and supporting diverse species, our firm connects you to resources and knowledge that will enhance your organization's appropriations strategy and long-term sustainability.
At Bluestem Consulting, we believe the most resilient organizations, like the most enduring natural systems, thrive in the face of challenges because they've developed the capacity to adapt to and leverage change.
