In this episode, we sit down with Joanne Woytek, one of the leaders behind the NASA's Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) Program, a U.S. Government-Wide Acquisition Contract. Joanne shares how she's witnessed NASA's technological evolution over the decades, from her early days as a NASA mathematician to leading the SEWP Program.

Joanne reflects on the early days of SEWP, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how a pilot project grew into a major procurement vehicle. She also discusses the program's future direction as technology continues to advance and offers insights for those looking to take on leadership roles in tech and government.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Joanne opens up about her personal journey—balancing her career with advocacy work and reconnection with the LGBTQIA+ community.

LINKS:

+ MetroStar: https://bit.ly/3NhtasC

+ Rhino Ramblings Blog: https://bit.ly/4eJp9Jt

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

In this episode, we meet Danielle Metz, a leader who moved to Washington DC at 24 with just a car full of belongings and a determination to make it. She shares her inspiring story of hustling for her first job, knowing when to walk away when she wasn't valued, and battling imposter syndrome in high-stakes leadership roles. We explore her leadership style as Director of Information Management and Technology, her key influences, and the challenges of leading diverse teams. Plus, we discuss digital modernization at the DoD and the delicate balance of budgeting for innovation.

We sat down with Bonnie Evangelista, a trailblazer in government acquisitions and digital innovation. As the Acting Deputy Chief Digital and AI Officer for Acquisitions at the Department of Defense (DoD) Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office, Bonnie shares insights into how she navigates the complex world of government acquisitions, leveraging emerging technologies to drive modernization.

We're joined by Steven Rush, the Director of the Missile and Space Intelligence Center (MSIC) at the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). With an impressive tenure at the DIA and a career that spans both military and government roles, Steven shares his career journey from military service to leading one of the most technically advanced centers in the intelligence community. Steven offers his perspective on current global threats and advises on leading in a high-stakes environment. And when the stress of the job builds up? He explains how he unwinds after long days safeguarding national security. And, for a fun twist, Steven talks about his love for Buc-ee's, the beloved roadside destination. Tune in for a mix of leadership insights, global security, and a touch of Southern charm!

LINKS:

+ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3MO4mIn

+ Steven Rush's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4eJMPx9

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service

00:00 Welcome to Mock IT!

01:28 Steven Rush's Career Journey

05:02 Leadership as a Veteran

12:57 Responsibility in Troubled Times

15:02 Translating Tech Topics

18:42 Policy vs. Practice

21:37 From CFO to Director

25:38 Adapting after the Pandemic

28:03 Recommended Training/Skills

31:08 Culture and Soft Skills

32:42 Mentorship in the IC and DoD

38:58 Balancing Bureaucracy

44:04 Public Service and Higher Purpose

46:47 Decompressing and Managing Stress

51:22 Buc-ee's

54:12 Work/Life Balance

Join us for a conversation with Brian Whittaker, the visionary behind Humans of Public Service. Brian shares his insights on navigating a career in government, helping listeners understand how to determine the right path and role within public service. We chat about the critical conversations around diversity and inclusion, highlighting their importance in fostering innovation across various job sectors.

Brian also touches on the generational shifts within the workforce, discussing the crucial aspect of understanding and meeting the unique wants and needs of the next generation of public servants. As a dedicated public servant himself, Brian created Humans of Public Service to shine a light on the positive impact of those working in government, offering a platform to celebrate their contributions and share their stories. This episode is a deep dive into the heart of public service, innovation, and the future of government work.

LINKS:

+ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4dNdF7k

+ Humans of Public Service: https://bit.ly/4ganltZ

+ Humans of Public Service Instagram: https://bit.ly/47avRFo

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

In this episode, we sit down with Soraya Correa, a seasoned leader in government service and current President and CEO of National Industries for the Blind, to explore strategies for building a fulfilling career in the public sector. Soraya shares her expert advice on thoughtfully changing jobs within the government, ensuring a career path with no regrets. She also delves into the intricacies of navigating the federal job application process and offers insights into launching an innovation lab within a bureaucratic environment. If you're interested in a procurement, nonprofit, or government service careers, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration.

LINKS:

+ MetroStar's Innovation Lab: https://bit.ly/4cvGT9l

+ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4dtgJW2

+ Soraya Correa's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3X8RyCg

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Don't miss out on this exclusive episode of Mock IT, dedicated to celebrating MetroStar's 25 years of business. Five Executives from different backgrounds share their insights in this fast-paced episode. What are their personal mantras? How do they define leadership? Tune in to hear the answers and more. 

More MetroStar:

Careers: https://mss.fyi/3UCjkGa

LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/3UE8EH1

Kate Bradley Chernis is the Founder & CEO of Lately.AI, which identifies the makeup of the highest possible performing social media messaging for your target audience and generates posts that contain that content in your unique voice. AKA, her team is making GenAI personal for your brand.

We're serving up piping hot information on pitfalls of working in Corporate America, this new age of AI, and how to find your the right career. All guaranteed to keep you entertained from start to finish! From hilarious anecdotes to thought-provoking discussions, buckle up for a rollercoaster ride of an episode with Kate.

MORE METROSTAR

+Website: https://mss.fyi/4aXoZMv

+LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/49jN26R

PEOPLE

+Kate: https://mss.fyi/43MibPq

+Rachel: https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5

+Liz: https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6

LINKS

+ Lately.AI: https://mss.fyi/3vKjoKb

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Content Warning: Episodes of Mock IT Podcast and YouTube channel may, at times, cover sensitive topics including but not limited to sexual harassment and more. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be adversely impacted by these topics.

You have to meet Gary White! Lucky for you, we interviewed him and got all the information for you. Gary's long list of accomplishments includes sitting on several nonprofit boards, co-founding and leading several federal and military innovation offices, and serving as a senior advisor, chief of staff, and consultant to C-suite executives.

His academic prowess shines with graduate degrees from Harvard and Georgetown, complemented by elite programs at Harvard Kennedy School and NREL.

Gary is the founder and principal of Mapportunity, where they envision a world where every startup has a clear, illuminated path to thrive and innovate. Learn what it takes to make your passions a reality.

MORE METROSTAR:

+Website: https://mss.fyi/3TG8u1m

+LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/3PsH9NI

PEOPLE:

+Gary: https://mss.fyi/3IJcojE

+Rachel: https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5

+Liz: https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6

LINKS:

+ Mapportunity: https://mss.fyi/3VG2Bmr

Meet MetroStar's Leslie Knope. From a six-week contract a decade ago to the Sr. Vice President of People and Culture, Debbie Peterson knows the ins and outs of her company. In this episode, Debbie shares when to be vulnerable with your employees and coworkers and when to "girl boss." We discuss navigating COVID-19 mandates, becoming a hybrid company, keeping culture alive while experiencing growth, and more.

+

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Register for #IWD Event: https://bit.ly/3T4y6Vb

+

METROSTAR:

Work with us: https://mss.fyi/42IxbgB

Explore MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49y5fOQ

+

PEOPLE

More with Rachel: ⁠https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5⁠

More with Liz: ⁠https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6⁠

More with Debbie: https://mss.fyi/3T4yh2N