Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Graham Plaster, Director of Nautilus, to discuss how emerging technologies, OTAs, and defense innovation are shaping the future of GovCon.

We explore:

• The role of Nautilus in supporting the Naval Surface Warfare Division Dahlgren.
• Why only 0.2% of small businesses participate in the federal industrial base—and how to change that.
• How Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) are creating new opportunities in GovCon.

If you’re a small business, tech innovator, or contractor looking to break into defense opportunities, this episode is full of insights on how to navigate and leverage emerging trends in federal contracting!

In This Episode:

[00:00] - Chelsea introduces Graham Plaster and the mission of Nautilus.

[04:15] - The key role Nautilus plays in defense innovation.

[08:30] - How tech scanning, webinars, and prototyping support Naval Surface Warfare.

[12:00] - Understanding Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and how they work.

[17:45] - Why small businesses are missing out on defense contracting opportunities.

[22:15] - The future of AI, cybersecurity, and dual-use tech in GovCon.

[26:00] - How emerging tech companies can join the Nautilus ecosystem.

Links and Resources:

• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile
• Graham Plaster’s LinkedIn Profile
• Nautilus Website
• Upcoming Tech Webinars and Opportunities