ATARC Federal IT Newscast

Join host Brian Fox as he interviews Frank McNally, an acquisition strategist with the United States Digital Service (USDS), about the pivotal role of procurement in government tech modernization. Frank shares insights from his career, spanning from the TSA to private consulting and now USDS, where he helps agencies tackle modernization challenges alongside top designers and engineers. He highlights the Digital IT Acquisition Professional training program and the importance of “failure as an option” to foster agile, adaptable solutions. Tune in for valuable insights into the evolving landscape of federal acquisition.

In this episode, podcast host, Brian Fox sits down with Jed Sundwall, the Executive Director of Radiant Earth and Lecturer at Yale School of Global Affairs, to explore the challenges and opportunities in managing and sharing planetary-scale data. We dive into the evolution of cloud computing, discussing how thoughtful, intentional use of this technology can lead to incredible performance, while avoiding the pitfalls of centralized storage solutions. Whether it’s data management, geospatial tools, or global collaboration, this episode sheds light on the future of shared knowledge in a digital world.

In this episode, co-hosts Brian Fox and Gordon Deng explore the unique challenges of measuring return on investment (ROI) within the Department of Defense. Drawing on research from the AIRC and Georgetown University, we discuss how ROI is calculated in a DOD context, how it differs from industry practices, and the barriers posed by fiscal constraints, budget programs, and acquisition processes. Tune in for insights on how the DOD can better manage and optimize its investments amidst these complexities.

In this episode, host Brian Fox sits down with Clair Koroma, a Senior Advisor to the Federal CIO, to discuss the journey of IT modernization in government. Clair shares her incredible journey, starting with hands-on front and back-end development, and how her passion for technology began. Throughout her career, Clair has remained deeply involved in the evolution of technology within the government, ensuring that communication with communities is impactful and serves the public effectively. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the continuous push for IT modernization and the future of digital in government!

Join us on this episode "Doing Tech Better in Government" as we sit down with Michael Chappell, Chief Information Officer at the US Army PEO Enterprise. With a distinguished and long career supporting the federal government, especially within the DoD, Michael shares insights into navigating agile technology adoption – a current primary goal of the government. Discover why getting it right the first time is crucial and how integrating external expertise can streamline modernization efforts, ensuring efficiency and success.

In this episode of "Orbital Convergence," join Brian Fox and Gordon Deng as they explore the evolution of software factories within the Department of Defense. They will dive into the origins of these initiatives, starting with Secretary of Defense Ash Carter’s 2015 announcement that established the Defense Innovation Unit in Silicon Valley. Discover how active-duty service members are leveraging partnerships with commercial industries through programs to gain new skills outside traditional government paths. Brian and Gordon also discuss the challenges of driving real progress without relying on overused buzzwords and look at how industry collaboration continues to advance defense technology. Tune in to learn how the DOD is staying ahead by learning from the best in the commercial world.

In this episode, we delve into the future of space technology with Laura Rodriguez, Gravity Lead at the U.S. Space Forces Chief Technology and Innovation Office. Laura leads the development of Gravity, a cutting-edge DevSecOps platform designed to revolutionize mission support for our guardians. With a keen eye for innovation, Laura harnesses the latest technologies to ensure our forces have unparalleled efficiency and capability in their operations. In this episode, Laura shares her journey from application development to spearheading Gravity, uncovering and addressing critical pain points along the way. Don't miss out as we explore the transformative impact of Gravity and the evolving landscape of space technology.

In this episode we are joined by Brad Punch and Katie Wildman dive into the role of PEO Digital and its integration within IT services. They break down how PEO Digital ensures user needs are consistently met across the Navy's various PEOs and emphasize the importance of collaboration. The discussion touches on their involvement with the SAFE program, reflecting on how their approach evolved since the pandemic and continues to deliver key outcomes. Brad and Katie also share insights on how understanding team knowledge helps identify gaps, and they underscore the value of learning from failures to drive technological progress.

In the inaugural episode of "Orbital Convergence," join hosts Gordon Deng and Brian Fox as they delve into their journeys into government service. This Space Force and Space Mission-oriented podcast introduces listeners to Gordon and Brian's backgrounds, tracing their paths to their current roles. They share firsthand encounters with advancing military technology and reflect on the profound impact of mission-driven work on military personnel. Tune in to uncover their insights into mission drivability and the transformative power it holds in today's military landscape.

In this episode, host Brian Fox sits down with Sage Goyda, a seasoned veteran with a distinguished career in the United States Marine Corps. Sage shares insights from their extensive journey, focusing on the past year spent working on the Marine Corps Talent and Acquisitions Pilot (MCTAP). Tune in as Sage delves into the logistics of the program, shedding light on the entry process, recruitment strategies, and the cultural shifts designed to support new Marines as they embark on their careers. This episode offers a deep dive into the transformative efforts within the Marine Corps to adapt and enhance its recruitment and support systems for the future.