Adita Karkera, "..motivated and inspired in how the public sector can cater to the needs of our citizens. My heart lies in the public sector."

Data.gov was launched in 2009 and is the United States government's open data website. It provides access to datasets published by agencies across the federal government. It wasn't until 2018 that the federal government's mandate became a clear sign acknowledging the value and effectiveness of data.

The 2018 Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act is a United States law that requires the federal government to modernize its data management practices. Its goal was to change the way data is used in the government to create policy. The law aims to improve access to federal data so agencies and policymakers can craft better, more effective policies and programs and deliver on services promised to the country.

In 2019, as a follow-up to the prior 2018 Foundations Act, the head of each agency was tasked to appoint or designate a qualified #chiefdataofficer (CDO) without regard to political affiliation.

Since then, a Federal Data Council has been established, bringing # CDOs across all federal government agencies. This interagency council has a charter establishing best practices to leverage data as a strategic asset. As of this recording, around 80+ individuals make up that council.

Some of the other topics explored with Adita:

- Are there challenges for the CDO in the public and private sectors?

- Skills for a data-literate workforce

- Understanding the 360-degree view of the citizen

- Perception the public sector moves slowly may be an advantage rather than a hindrance

- Potential risks in leveraging data can not be ignored, no matter how excited we are about emerging technologies such AI

We need more women in the public sector to help shape our future. I am interested in serving the public after listening to Adita speak so passionately. Reach out directly to discuss the role of Women in Data in the Public Sector.   / aditakarkera