Keeping IT Brief: The Power Perspective

Federal agencies are under growing pressure to modernize digital identity systems as cyber threats escalate and citizens expect seamless digital services. Yet legacy infrastructure, siloed systems, and inconsistent standards create barriers to trust and efficiency. Biometrics and next-generation identity technologies offer a path forward—but adoption requires careful balance between security, usability, and privacy. Today Jesus Aragón, CEO and Co-Founder of Identy.io discusses how investing in interoperable, privacy-first digital identity solutions, agencies can strengthen security, build public trust, and unlock more accessible government services.

Jesús Aragón, CEO and Co-Founder of Identy.io

Jesús Aragón is the CEO and Co-Founder of Identy.io. He has over 20 years of experience as an executive in the technology and consulting sectors. He has successfully built mobile roadmaps and business for a leading voice ID vendor and managed corporate development and marketing. He began his career at Hewlett-Packard and Texas Instruments.

Identy.io is a mobile-first biometric authentication company offering secure, password-less identity verification solutions tailored to both government and enterprise clients. Their suite includes facial, fingerprint, and palm biometrics, all processed fully on-device to maximize privacy, reduce infrastructure costs, and prevent data mishandling. 

Headquartered in the U.S. with operations in Brazil, Mexico, Spain, and India, Identy.io was co-founded in 2017 and leverages its founding team’s involvement with the FIDO Alliance to build solutions compliant with NIST, ISO, FIDO, and GDPR standards .

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A recent report from the Government Accountability Office from April identified cybersecurity concerns and lack of data privacy as some of the top risks associated with Generative AI. As the federal government ramps up AI investments, with the DOD prioritizing AI in its Software Fast Track (SWFT) Initiative and recent legislation allotting hundreds of millions for AI-related efforts, industry findings point to emerging risks that government agencies need to start addressing during initial AI adoption.

GitLab’s Bob Stevens joins the Keeping IT Brief Podcast to discuss the government's AI adoption journey as well as GitLab’s C-suite survey from July, which highlights as organizations rapidly adopt AI, cybersecurity threats, data privacy, and governance stand as top concerns.

Bob Stevens (Vice President at GitLab)

With 25+ years of experience in the Public Sector industry, Bob Stevens helps government agencies fundamentally change the way their development, security and operations teams collaborate. Prior to GitLab he led the Americas team at Lookout where he focused on providing mobile threat visibility and protection to enterprise and government entities. Before his time at Lookout, he led the Juniper Network federal team and has held leadership positions at Network Equipment Technologies, Bivio Networks and Brocade Communications. Bob also served in the U.S. Air Force as a computer specialist at the White House Communications Agency.

GitLab 

GitLab is the most comprehensive, intelligent DevSecOps platform for software innovation. GitLab enables organizations to increase developer productivity, improve operational efficiency, reduce security and compliance risk, and accelerate digital transformation. More than 50 million registered users and more than 50% of the Fortune 100 trust GitLab to ship better, more secure software faster.

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The White House's latest cybersecurity executive order has introduced critical new directives for federal agencies: incorporate AI software vulnerability management into existing processes and share indicators of compromise for AI systems. But as agentic AI and GenAI adoption accelerates across government—often creating complex Shadow IT networks—how can agencies gain the visibility needed to securely integrate these powerful tools?

In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown sits down with Elad Schulman, CEO and Co-Founder of Lasso Security, to unpack the security implications of the new executive order and explore practical strategies for federal agencies navigating the GenAI era.

What You'll Learn:

• The compliance challenges federal agencies face when implementing AI systems
• Unique security risks and considerations for government AI deployment
• Practical steps to align AI security with the new cybersecurity executive order
• How to manage AI vulnerabilities within existing security frameworks
• Strategies for gaining visibility into model-tool interactions across agencies

Elad brings extensive experience as a seasoned tech expert spanning corporate giants and innovative startups. As the leader of Lasso Security—a GenAI security platform that autonomously monitors GenAI interactions and detects risks in real-time—he offers unique insights into the challenges and solutions facing government organizations as they embrace AI while maintaining robust security postures.

With Lasso recently named a 2024 Gartner® Cool Vendor™ for AI Security, this conversation provides timely, expert guidance for federal IT leaders working to balance innovation with security in an evolving threat landscape. 

Elad Schulman

Elad is a seasoned tech expert with a wealth of experience spanning both corporate giants and innovative startups. He is currently the CEO and Co-Founder of Lasso Security, a GenAI security platform that enhances security posture by autonomously monitoring all GenAI interactions, detecting risks in real-time, and enabling organizations to effortlessly safeguard their GenAI activities. 

Lasso Security

Lasso is at the forefront of GenAI security, delivering cutting-edge solutions that protect GenAI applications from emerging threats. With a focus on governance, observability, and seamless integration, Lasso empowers public sector organizations to securely navigate the GenAI era. Lasso was recently named 2024 Gartner® Cool Vendors™ for AI Security. 

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Join host Mary Ann Brown for a fascinating conversation with Tim Solms, CEO of Slingshot Aerospace, as he takes us beyond Earth's atmosphere to explore one of the most critical challenges of our time: keeping space safe, sustainable, and secure. 

In this episode, Tim reveals how Slingshot Aerospace is transforming space domain awareness through cutting-edge AI technology. As space becomes increasingly crowded with thousands of satellites and growing commercial activity, the need for comprehensive space situational awareness has never been more urgent. 

Tim discusses the groundbreaking launch of Agatha—a revolutionary AI system developed in partnership with DARPA that can pinpoint subtle spacecraft abnormalities and identify potential bad actors in the vast sea of satellite constellations orbiting Earth. Unlike traditional space surveillance methods, Agatha detects minute behavioral differences that may indicate suspicious missions, unique hardware, weapons, or abnormal operations. 

Drawing from his extensive background as a former U.S. Army pilot who flew AH-1 Cobra and AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, and his executive experience at Microsoft, Dun & Bradstreet, and other tech companies, Tim provides unique insights into how military precision meets commercial innovation in the space sector. 

Listeners will discover how Slingshot's platform transforms disparate space data into a unified operating picture, combining information from global sensor networks, satellite databases, and third-party providers to create a holistic view of space activities—past, present, and predicted. Tim shares real-world applications of Agatha and discusses how AI is revolutionizing space operations to enhance safety, improve efficiency, and reduce risks for space operators worldwide. 

This conversation offers a compelling look at the intersection of national security, technological innovation, and the future of space exploration, making complex space domain challenges accessible and relevant for technology leaders across all industries. 

Guest: Tim Solms, CEO, Slingshot Aerospace 

Topics Covered: 

• Space safety, sustainability, and security challenges
• Agatha AI system and its revolutionary capabilities
• Partnership with DARPA and government collaboration
• Real-world applications and suspicious activity detection
• AI's transformative impact on the space sector
• Future of space domain awareness and operations

About Slingshot Aerospace: Slingshot Aerospace provides government and commercial partners worldwide with AI-powered solutions for satellite tracking, space traffic coordination, and space modeling and simulation, driven by its mission to make space safe, sustainable, and secure.
 

Follow the show on your favorite podcast platform, and discover more conversations with the FORUM Media Network at GovForum Podcasts. 

As the federal government looks to modernize IT solutions to better support citizens and create efficiencies, they often face challenges in adopting emerging technologies like AI due to complex compliance requirements and integration barriers. It’s key that organizations have the ability to help government teams navigate these complexities and deliver measurable outcomes that modernize operations and maximize value for federal missions.

In December 2024, iTech AG achieved a milestone in federal innovation by implementing its first ServiceNow Generative AI integration for Customer Service Management at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Center for Clinical Standards and Quality. As a ServiceNow Elite Partner with a Product Line Achievement in Customer Service Management, iTech AG leads the first-ever Federal Civilian go-live of ServiceNow’s Now Assist, enhancing efficiency and customer outcomes.

 iTech AG provides the government and federal health community with leading-edge technology solutions to help agencies modernize systems to fit their needs, enable organizations to better serve citizens, and optimize results.

Jeremy Tipton

Jeremy Tipton is a digital solutions leader with over 12 years of experience in federal government contracting. As Director of Digital Platforms at iTech AG, he drives innovation to enhance operations, streamline processes, and improve service delivery for public and private sector customers.

Jeremy ensures the successful implementation of digital strategies that optimize efficiency and user experience. His expertise in data analytics and process improvement enables organizations to harness technology for smarter decision making and operational success. Passionate about digital transformation, Jeremy collaborates with key stakeholders to implement leading-edge solutions that align with evolving business needs. His strategic leadership empowers organizations to adapt, innovate, and achieve long-term success in an ever-changing digital landscape.

iTech AG

iTech AG is a Washington, D.C. area-based technology consulting firm that helps federal, state, local and private organizations streamline operations through a wide range of customized and innovative solutions. Combining strategic IT management consulting, zero trust security, human-centered design and a customer experience approach to facilitate digital modernization, agile framework adoption, enterprise platform implementation, and automation through AI to achieve mission-critical results.

Follow the show on your favorite podcast platform, and discover more conversations with the FORUM Media Network at GovForum Podcasts. 

Fraud, waste and abuse of the Medicare system have always been challenging to get under control. Those who exploit federal health care programs can cost taxpayers billions of dollars, according to a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services report, while putting beneficiaries’ health and welfare at risk.

CMS’s Center for Program Integrity plays a key role in managing this challenge by detecting, preventing and combating fraud, waste and abuse across CMS and other federal health programs. Beyond that, the organization is tasked with strengthening integrity programs, expanding the scope of integrity programs and integrating technological improvements like AI to reduce fraud, waste and abuse, and streamline operations.

In a time when efficiency has become top-of-mind for most federal agencies, optimizing CPI’s ability to catch fraud, waste and abuse will play a major role in the government’s larger push to streamline operations and costs.

Ken Hofgesang

Vice President of Health at RELI Group

Ken Hofgesang brings 20+ years of experience in the federal health arena. He holds expertise in account and project management, business development, and executive leadership, focused on cost control, new operation setup, automated solutions, and innovative technology infusion. Prior to joining RELI Group, Ken served as the VP of the HHS account at SAIC. In addition to his extensive experience across the industry, he holds a master’s degree in computer science from Hood College, as well as a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Mount Saint Mary’s College. Ken is a certified Project Management Professional, holds an ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management, and has earned certificates in both executive and performance leadership from Cornell University. 

RELI Group

Based near Baltimore, Maryland, RELI Group is a trusted partner to federal agencies, delivering innovative solutions that address today’s complex challenges across health, security and technology. Since 2013, the company has been collaborating with agencies throughout the government that touch the lives of every American, with goals of improving health, safety and national security.

RELI Group’s success is driven by skilled professionals who embrace innovation, collaboration and continuous learning to meet client needs. Through structured, efficient processes that enhance organizational performance and ensure consistent outcomes, the team provides cutting-edge technology to optimize operations, enhance security and enable data-driven decision-making for mission-critical operations.

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In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown is joined by Max Shuftan, Director of Mission Programs at SANS Institute, to discuss one of the most pressing issues in cybersecurity today: the talent shortage in federal agencies. As nation-state cyber threats continue to evolve, agencies are facing an uphill battle to find skilled cybersecurity professionals. Max sheds light on how inclusive and targeted training programs can help address this critical shortage by unlocking untapped potential within the workforce. 

Max explores the value of reskilling and upskilling programs, sharing insights on how agencies can turn individuals with diverse backgrounds into cyber professionals. He also discusses how agencies can not only fill cyber roles but retain this talent by fostering a supportive and growth-oriented environment. 

Key Topics Include: 

• The role of inclusive cyber training programs in addressing the skills gap
• The power of reskilling programs and how to successfully transition employees into cyber roles
• Strategies for retaining cybersecurity talent once agencies have filled the roles

If you're interested in the future of cybersecurity workforce development, this episode is a must-listen!

Max Shuftan leads mission programs and partnerships at SANS Institute. In this role, he manages strategic partnerships for SANS and oversees an organization focused on (1) growing the global cybersecurity talent pipeline, and (2) fostering a stronger cyber workforce through partnerships that expand targeted reskilling and upskilling efforts. 

 SANS Institute: Launched in 1989 as a cooperative for information security thought leadership, it is SANS’ ongoing mission to empower cyber security professionals with the practical skills and knowledge they need to make our world a safer place. We fuel this effort with high-quality training, certifications, scholarship academies, degree programs, cyber ranges, and resources to meet the needs of every cyber professional. Our data, research, and the top minds in cybersecurity collectively ensure that individuals and organizations have the actionable education and support they need. 

Follow the show on your favorite podcast platform, and discover more conversations with the FORUM Media Network at GovForum Podcasts. 

In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown sits down with Jim Coyle, US Public Sector CTO at Lookout, to discuss the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats posed by nation-state actors. With over two decades of experience in cybersecurity, Jim brings invaluable insights into the emerging tactics, tools, and techniques used by global adversaries to target critical infrastructure. 

As we look toward 2025, Jim highlights the growing alignment between cyber efforts from nation-states and the increasing sophistication of their attacks—especially with the rise of social engineering, phishing, and AI-powered threats. Tune in as he explores the most pressing cyber threats agencies should be preparing for and the steps they can take to protect vital systems. 

Key Topics Include: 

• Emerging nation-state cyber threat actors to watch
• Top attack methods and priority targets for nation-states
• How agencies can bolster defenses against the surge in cybercrime from these actors

Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cybersecurity for government agencies, and how to stay one step ahead of the next wave of cyber threats.

Jim Coyle serves as the US Public Sector CTO at Lookout, drawing upon two decades of hands-on experience in cybersecurity to assist government agencies in fortifying their defenses. Jim is a cyber security industry thought leader, delving into geopolitical cyber issues, emerging threats, defense tactics, and industry developments, offering valuable insights cultivated throughout his career. 

 Lookout, Inc. is the data-centric cloud security company that uses a defense-in-depth strategy to address the different stages of a modern cybersecurity attack, which now starts with mobile. Data is at the core of every organization, and our approach to cybersecurity is designed to protect that data within today’s evolving threat landscape no matter where or how it moves. People — and human behavior — are central to the challenge of protecting data, which is why organizations need total visibility into threats in real time, starting with the mobile endpoint.

The Lookout Cloud Security Platform is purpose-built to stop modern breaches as swiftly as they unfold, from the first mobile phishing text to the final cloud data extraction. We are trusted by enterprises and government agencies of all sizes to protect the sensitive data they care about most, enabling them to work and connect freely and securely.

Follow the show on your favorite podcast platform, and discover more conversations with the FORUM Media Network at GovForum Podcasts. 

In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown sits down with Jeremy Tipton, Director of Digital Platforms at iTech AG, to discuss a groundbreaking innovation in federal government IT solutions. Jeremy brings over 12 years of experience in digital solutions and shares insights into iTech AG’s recent achievement—implementing Generative AI (GenAI) for Customer Service Management (CSM) at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). 

This milestone marks the first-ever federal civilian go-live of ServiceNow’s Now Assist, a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance operational efficiency and improve customer outcomes. Jeremy explores how iTech AG’s unique approach is overcoming the challenges federal agencies face when adopting emerging technologies like AI, especially in the complex and highly regulated healthcare sector. 

Join us as Jeremy dives into how this GenAI integration is modernizing federal health IT workflows, addressing critical challenges, and paving the way for continued success in 2025. Tune in to learn about the future of digital transformation in government and the impact of AI on service delivery and citizen care. 

Jeremy Tipton is a digital solutions leader with over 12 years of experience in federal government contracting. As Director of Digital Platforms at iTech AG, he drives innovation to enhance operations, streamline processes, and improve service delivery for public and private sector customers.

Jeremy ensures the successful implementation of digital strategies that optimize efficiency and user experience. His expertise in data analytics and process improvement enables organizations to harness technology for smarter decision making and operational success. Passionate about digital transformation, Jeremy collaborates with key stakeholders to implement leading-edge solutions that align with evolving business needs. His strategic leadership empowers organizations to adapt, innovate, and achieve long-term success in an ever-changing digital landscape.

iTech AG is a technology consulting firm that helps federal, state, and private organizations streamline operations through a range of customized and innovative solutions. Specializing in strategic IT management consulting, digital platforms, zero trust, cybersecurity and customer experience, iTech AG facilitates digital modernization, agile framework adoption, enterprise platform implementation, and AI-driven automation.

In 2015, the U.S. Small Business Administration certified iTech AG as an 8(a) disadvantaged small business. The company has supported work with various federal agencies, including the Department of Energy, Department of Defense, Department of Justice, U.S. Census Bureau and more.

 In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown sits down with George Kamis, Chief Technology Officer at Everfox, to dive into the critical intersection of cybersecurity, zero trust, and cross-domain solutions. With over 25 years of experience in Cyber and Cross Domain Solutions, George sheds light on the common misconceptions surrounding zero trust and its role in government security frameworks. While zero trust is foundational to securing networks, George explains why it cannot address all the security needs for agencies working with highly classified data. 

Tune in as George discusses the importance of integrating cross-domain solutions alongside zero trust for comprehensive protection, especially for government agencies like the Department of Defense. 

Key Topics Include: 

• Misconceptions about zero trust in government agencies
• The value of cross-domain solutions in a zero trust environment
• Challenges agencies face when integrating cross-domain solutions and actionable steps to overcome them

Whether you're in the cybersecurity field or simply interested in the future of government network security, this episode is a must-listen!

 George Kamis is Everfox’s Chief Technology Officer. In this capacity, George works closely with Information Assurance industry leaders, government executives, and the executive management team to help guide their long-term technology strategy and keep it aligned with federal and industry requirements.

George brings more than 25 years of experience in Cyber and Cross Domain Solutions and has helped lead Everfox to the forefront of Cyber and Cross Domain product development.

George holds a degree in Electrical Engineering with honors from West Virginia University and holds active membership at Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA).

 Everfox, formerly Forcepoint Federal, has been defending the world’s most critical data and networks against the most complex cyber threats imaginable for more than 25 years. As trailblazers in defense-grade, high-assurance cybersecurity, Everfox has led the way in delivering and developing innovative cybersecurity technology. Headquartered in Herndon, VA, Everfox’s suite of cross-domain, threat protection, and insider risk solutions empower governments and enterprise organizations to use data safely - wherever and however their people need it. 

Follow the show on your favorite podcast platform, and discover more conversations with the FORUM Media Network at GovForum Podcasts.