The Government Technology Insider Podcast

​As federal agencies continue to invest in, and deploy, AI solutions, the physical infrastructure needed to support mission-enabling use cases is top of mind for agency leaders. But the way these solutions will be acquired, implemented, and used significantly impacts the design of AI systems. Trust, security, and procurement all play a role in the value agencies get from AI and therefore must be considered from the onset. ​In part one of our podcast series, Michael Montgomery, President of Chenega Architecture and Design Solutions, explained how federal agencies can power and cool the systems enabling AI use cases and capabilities. In today’s episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, we take a deeper dive into the operational challenges agencies need to keep in mind as they invest in AI.

​The increasing presence of AI in federal buildings is reshaping how the federal government works. From predictive AI that solves previously intractable challenges, enables digital twinning, and supports decision-advantage and operational superiority on the battlefield to generative AI that enables vital service delivery improvements, AI is the focus of federal agency investments. ​While there is little doubt about the value that AI can deliver to federal agencies, there are some very practical obstacles standing in the way. Before they can reap the benefits, agencies must confront the challenges of powering the vast AI infrastructures they are building and cooling the racks of servers that form the backbone of an AI-powered federal government. ​In this two-part series on the Government Technology Insider Podcast, we invited Michael Montgomery, President of Chenega Architecture and Design Solutions, to discuss how federal facilities managers and their teams are addressing these mission-critical challenges, as well as the ubiquitous power and cooling issues that agencies will encounter as they move into the AI age.

​At the end of last year, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) released new Android 16 and iOS 26 Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) designed to provide military organizations with the guidance they need to better secure their mobile endpoints against modern adversaries. ​ ​One of the most significant new requirements in the latest Android and Apple STIGS is for all managed mobile devices to have a mobile threat defense (MTD) solution deployed to remain compliant – a major undertaking for an organization with hundreds of thousands of mobile endpoints. ​ ​In this episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, host, Matt Langan, is joined by Farhan Saifudin of Ivanti, and Alex Froede of DISA to define STIGs, explain their importance for mobile device security, and discuss the new STIG changes and how they’ll impact military organizations. ​ ​Farhan Saifudin, is Ivanti's sales engineer manager for the public sector. Alex Froede, a senior mobile cybersecurity architect and principal author of DISA’s mobile technology STIGs at the DISA Cyber Standards and Analysis Branch, also known as the DISA STIG Office. ​ ​During their detailed discussion on the changes to Apple and Android device STIGS, they explore the current threat landscape for mobile devices in the U.S. DoD explain why MTD solutions are necessary in today's threat environment, provide considerations for DoD decision-makers looking to choose an MTD solution, and the importance of marrying an MTD solution to a mobile device management (MDM) solution.

​In today’s highly volatile geopolitical environment, being able to communicate and operate securely is a vital strategic advantage for the warfighter and command. With multivariant threats targeted at United States assets at the core and the edge, on land, in space, and at sea, investment in robust and resilient secure facilities has never been more important. The challenges of balancing effective communication with secure operations will surely be top of mind at the Rocky Mountain Cyberspace Symposium 2026, taking place this week in Colorado. ​In this episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, we invited Michael Montgomery, who leads Chenega Architecture and Design Solutions and is President of Chenega Worldwide Support, and Jeff Kronewitter, Director of Strategic Solutions at Chenega MIOS, to discuss best practices in building a secure operations and communications environments in an era of disruption.

​Modernizing the technology that supports government services is a primary way state agencies are working to deliver services more efficiently and meet constituent demand. But while implementing new technology is a significant milestone, the challenge of ensuring that systems are capable of delivering on the mission extends far beyond launch day. A perpetually adaptive system—and a mindset to match—are critical to keep systems functional and relevant. ​In our previous podcast, Amber Shultz, Kansas’s Secretary of Labor, shared the four keys to successfully delivering a complex digital transformation project. In today’s episode, we welcome Secretary Shultz back to share her insights on ensuring that the new unemployment insurance system in Kansas can adapt to user needs, evolving policies, and ever-changing technology.

​​Today, technology is a critical part of delivering state services like unemployment insurance, but many states still rely on decades-old systems that struggle to meet demand. Like many agencies, the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) reached a turning point when unemployment claims surged at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The legacy system, created in the 1970s, was unable to support the volume of claims and calls, causing delays in service and overburdening state staff. KDOL needed to not only stabilize its current unemployment insurance system but modernize it so it could become more agile and perpetually adaptive. ​In today’s episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, guest host Monica Mayk spoke with Amber Shultz, Secretary of Labor for the State of Kansas, about the state’s unemployment insurance modernization program. The landmark transformation, which now enables the state to better support Kansans during critical and vulnerable times, was honored with a 2025 State IT Recognition Award for Digital Experience: Agency and Program Solutions by the National Association of State CIOs (NASCIO). Secretary Shultz shares the story of KDOL’s transformation effort, the outcomes for constituents and state staff, and the four key factors that led her department to success.

The potential for data to power government systems and transform service delivery has made maximizing the value of their data a top priority for many state agencies. But states still struggle to transform raw data into actionable insights that can drive economic growth and social benefits. Solving this conundrum may depend on data sharing: pooling information and insights among state agencies to optimize resources and support staff and citizens. In today’s episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, guest host Dale Smith, Director of Labor and Workforce at TCS – Tata Consultancy Services, speaks with Rick Maher, CEO of Adaptive Human Capital, about how state agencies can become data sharing organizations and put that data to use for constituents.

The pressures that are reshaping the broader business environment also affect government contracting. These shifts reflect major trends impacting government contracts, and according to Cohn Reznick and Unanet’s 2025 GAUGE Report, 57 percent of GovCon firms cite finding new revenue streams as their biggest challenge, and 79 percent of them are having trouble winning new contracts. While demand and funding cycles become more unpredictable, resource management continues to be one of the most persistent operational challenges, with firms reporting persistent understaffing, increasing compliance hours, and growing pressure to improve efficiency. In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker discusses the latest GAUGE findings on resource planning, competitive resilience, and project execution with Kim Koster, Vice President of GovCon Strategy at Unanet. They explore why hybrid PMO structures are becoming more popular, where AI is delivering measurable value, and how GovCons can improve forecasting and reduce dependency on spreadsheets to successfully navigate a more competitive and complex market.

​​​​​​​In the second half of this ​​two-part Government Technology Insider podcast, Bryan Schromsky, Managing Partner for 5G Public Sector at Verizon, and Todd Maxwell, Director of Regulated Business Development at Samsung Electronics America, explore how artificial intelligence (AI), IoT, and next-generation wearables are reshaping the military’s mobile ecosystem. In this new era, mobile devices are not just communication tools but intelligent hubs that enhance awareness, simplify workflows, and protect the warfighter in every environment. ​

From field radios to ruggedized tables, mobile devices have been an integral part of military communications for decades. But today, the Department of ​War​ (Do​W​) is moving beyond simply using mobile devices and investing in placing mobility at the forefront of training, planning, and tactical operations. This emerging mobile-first model is reshaping readiness and accelerating the pace of operations at a moment when speed, flexibility, and secure data are the most critical. ​​​​What emerges is a new vision for mobile capabilities in the field. Instead of carrying multiple devices or specialized gear, service members can rely on a single, secure endpoint that transitions seamlessly across environments like training ranges and command environments. Devices can now deliver a full desktop experience for mission planning in a vehicle, then shift into situational awareness mode during operations, and finally integrate with wearables or IoT sensors for team coordination. This consolidation improves efficiency while reducing the physical and cognitive load on warfighters. ​​​ In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, Bryan Schromsky, Managing Partner for 5G Public Sector at Verizon, and Todd Maxwell, Director of Regulated Business Development at Samsung Electronics America, join host, Matt Langan, to explore the forces driving this shift and the innovations making it possible. As they explain, the modern military is now dominated by service members who grew up as mobile natives. That cultural readiness paired with more affordable devices, expanded commercial 5G coverage on military installations, and rapidly improving security frameworks set the stage for mobility to move from niche use cases to full-scale operational adoption.

Quantum computing is no longer a distant frontier, a reality recently reinforced by the 2025 Physics Nobel Prize winners. While Professor John Clarke, one of the three new laureates, described the recognition as the “surprise of his life” few in the technology community were caught off guard. Their work forms the backbone of the breakthroughs driving quantum research forward today. Clarke explained, “This is something that leads to the development of the quantum computer. Many people are working on quantum computing, our discovery is in many ways the basis of this.” With this recognition, the conversation has shifted from if quantum computing will reshape industries to when, and most importantly, how leaders can prepare for its impact with post-quantum cryptography (PQC). For decades, encryption algorithms have safeguarded sensitive data across government and industry. Experts, however, warn that once quantum computers reach full capability, those same protections could be rendered obsolete. In the latest episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, Cloudflare’s Anish Patel, Head of Federal Sales, and Dr. Sharon Goldberg, Product Director and cryptography expert, explore what a “post-quantum” world looks like and what it means for government systems that hold decades of sensitive and mission-critical data. Patel and Goldberg emphasize that the threat isn’t science fiction; it’s about readiness. Data being created and stored today could remain relevant for 10, 20, or even 50 years from now. If that information is intercepted and stored, it could be decrypted later once quantum capabilities mature. The challenge, then, goes beyond future-proofing to protecting the present against future threats. That’s where post-quantum cryptography (PQC) comes in. PQC represents a new generation of encryption designed to withstand quantum-level attacks. Transitioning to these standards will take time, planning, and collaboration across agencies and technology partners. As Patel and Goldberg note, this isn’t a “flip the switch” moment. Instead, it’s an opportunity for strategic transfor

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already touched nearly every corner of the public sector. Agencies are using it to power chatbots that answer citizen questions and predictive analytics that help leaders anticipate failures and issues. These early applications are reshaping how government operates, improving efficiencies, and opening the door to new innovations. Yet according to experts, the story is only just beginning. A new wave of AI is emerging in government that is taking operations beyond automation. This is agentic AI. The questions facing leaders now are critical. What does agentic AI mean for agencies? And how can government move from small-scale experiments to mission-driven outcomes that deliver lasting value? In the latest episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker speaks with Katie Tierney, Area Vice President of the Americas at BMC Helix. Drawing on more than three decades in technology, Tierney unpacks both the opportunities and the roadblocks that lie ahead for government AI. Despite having a presence in most agencies, the extent of AI adoption is uneven. While some agencies are experimenting with automation or deploying chatbots, others are only beginning to explore AI’s potential. Success often comes down to skills, governance, and data readiness, and without those, many projects fall short. Tierney cited a recent MIT study that found 95 percent of AI initiatives fail to deliver measurable value. Too often, AI is treated as a shiny tool rather than part of a broader shift in technology and society. For agencies determined to be in the successful five percent, Tierney highlights several essentials. Start with purpose. Ensure data is prepared and governed. Keep humans in the loop. And build momentum with incremental projects rather than chasing sweeping initiatives that rarely succeed. The payoff is significant. Agentic AI can free employees from repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on higher-value, mission-critical work. It can also help agencies become more resilient and adaptive, while making government more attractive to the next generation of talent. Citizens stand to gain as well, through faster services,

Government is not an exception to the growing adoption of AI across industries. The Government Accountability Office reported that federal agencies’ use cases for AI more than doubled in one year, from approximately 571 in 2023 to 1,110 in 2024, with generative AI use cases increasing by nearly nine times, from 32 to 282. This massive growth is opening the door for agentic AI, which goes beyond automation to scale efficiency across government IT and proactively address problems. In this episode of Government Technology Insider podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker dives deeply into how government IT teams are utilizing automation and AI to improve service delivery and streamline operations with Nate Riley, Field Sales Manager for Public Sector at BMC Helix. They discuss how agencies are using AI-powered self-service tools, knowledge management systems, and agentic digital assistants to reduce ticket volume, expedite resolutions, and free up IT staff to focus on higher-value work. The conversation also delves into hot-button strategies like the ‘bring your own large language model (LLM)’ model and how leaders can transform small-scale pilots into secure, mission-critical initiatives.

​​On June 6, 2025 a new cybersecurity executive order (EO) was signed, reshaping federal priorities and adjusting past mandates. With so much at stake when it comes to preventing critical systems and information from cyber attacks, agencies are seeking further clarity and direction. For federal CISOs, the question is not only what the order requires, but how it will influence their strategies and day-to-day responsibilities. In the latest Government Technology Insider podcast, cybersecurity leaders Paul Blahusch, former federal agency CISO, and Larry Potts, senior client partner at Verizon, joined host Lucas Hunsicker to unpack what the new directive means for federal cyber leadership. ​This EO reflects a broader move away from one-size-fits-all mandates to instead prioritize the protection of digital infrastructure, encourage private sector AI innovation, and combat waste, fraud, and abuse in cybersecurity programs. For CISOs, that shift presents an opportunity to align investments more closely with agency mission needs while still adhering to long-standing priorities. ​Core elements of federal cybersecurity strategy remain firmly in place. With Zero Trust principals guiding agency choices, identity and access management, multi-factor authentication, and endpoint detection continue to be the bedrock of defense. At the same time, the administration has reinforced its emphasis on efficiency, urging agencies to make decisions that support efficiency and cost management when they choose how to safeguard systems and data. ​But technology continues to outpace policy. From concerns about “steal now, decrypt later” quantum attacks to the role of generative AI in both defense and adversarial operations, CISOs are contending with an increasingly complex threat environment. To keep pace, collaboration, including interagency partnerships, work with industry, and guidance from NIST and CISA, is critical.

By enabling real-time anomaly detection, adaptive access control, and more secure digital environments, AI is reshaping how state, local, and education (SLED) organizations approach cybersecurity. However, as adoption grows, leaders are learning that implementing AI-powered cyber defenses isn't just about technology; it also involves user education, evaluating vendors wisely, and fostering a culture of trust and transparency. In part one, Government Technology Insider podcast, host Luas Hunsicker spoke with Aaron McAllister, Principal Solutions Architect for SASE at Cloudflare, and MT Robertson, Director of Cybersecurity at Presidio about the foundation of AI-powered Zero Trust solutions. They covered topics like the role of explainable AI, the significance of data ethics, and how automation can strengthen defenses in understaffed environments. In part two, their discussion shifts from theory to application. The guests look at the human aspect; how to explain the practical applications of AI to administrators, educators, and IT teams without overwhelming them with technical terms. Robertson emphasized the need for engaging and scalable user training, saying: “There’s an element of gamification that goes into it... leaderboards, that type of thing can be powerful in helping train on what to be looking out for, what not to do, and what to do.” They also explore key questions that SLED organizations should consider when evaluating AI and Zero Trust vendors, such as how well AI can integrate into existing systems and how transparent and accurate they are. For vendor partnerships to deliver true value, McAllister emphasized that they must go beyond industry buzzwords.

By 2030, AI is expected to boost the global economy by more than $15.7 trillion, but as its adoption in the public sector grows, so do the cyber threats. This transformation demands both innovation and caution from state, local, and education (SLED) organizations. SLED leaders are increasingly turning to Zero Trust systems, that prioritize continuous verification and strong access controls to establish secure, ethical, and scalable environments for AI integration due to sensitive data, regulatory mandates such as Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and limited resources. In this episode of Government Technology Insider podcast, host, Lucas Hunsicker, spoke with Aaron McAllister, Principal Solutions Architect for SASE at Cloudflare, and MT Robertson, Director of Cybersecurity at Presidio. Together they looked at how AI is transforming Zero Trust architectures, from automated anomaly detection that improves real-time security to explainable AI models that boost accountability. Their conversation emphasized how crucial privacy-first design, governance, and data transparency are establishing users’ long-term trust. As Robertson said: “Exposure and transparency goes a long way with trust. And I think these practices that we see out in the market… lead to success and trust.”

“Driving under the influence” often suggests alcohol is the source of impairment, but many substances can affect a person’s ability to drive safely and increase the risk of accidents. With use of drugs such as cannabis, opioids, prescription and over-the-counter depressants, and stimulants growing more prevalent among drivers, driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) has become a major concern not only for law enforcement, but for public health experts as well. While drug-impaired driving is less understood than alcohol-impaired driving, standardized toxicological testing of drivers has shown promise as a strategy to help inform stakeholders of dangerous driving behaviors. Incorporating forensic testing into DUID investigations can help to form a more accurate account of an impaired driving case. Testing results can be used as evidence in civil and criminal litigation, and the results may also impact potential substance use intervention and treatment. Over time, routine, standardized DUID testing can help raise awareness of the frequency and danger of drug-impaired driving for law enforcement, policy makers, and drivers. In this episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, we spoke to Donna Papsun, Forensic Toxicologist and NMS Labs, to learn more about how forensic testing may help reduce drug-impaired driving and increase public safety.

In part one, Government Technology Insider podcast host Lucas Hunsicker explored how agencies are putting this technology into action with insights from Knightscope CEO, William Li, Knightscope Senior Vice President of Client Development Jason Gonzalez, and Verizon Associate Director of Federal Healthcare Tom Long. In part two they continue the conversation by discussing real world results. What’s become evident in just a short time is that autonomous robots are improving public safety including incident prevention, theft reduction, and improving response times. The guests emphasized how these tools are cost-effective and easy to deploy, while also extending situational awareness in under-resourced areas like VA campuses. As Li noted, “We need to move beyond the fear that ‘robots are coming to take over jobs or harm people.’ Instead, we should focus on how technology can empower security personnel, giving them the tools they need to perform their duties more effectively and efficiently.” Finally, part two wraps up with advice for agencies exploring how to pilot or scale this technology.

In this episode of Government Technology Insider podcast, host Luas Hunsicker spoke with William Li, Chairman and CEO of Knightscope; Jason Gonzalez, Senior Vice President of Client Development at Knightscope; and Tom Long, Associate Director of Federal Healthcare at Verizon. In the conversation they explore the growing impact of autonomous security robots and the role of connectivity in modern public safety. Despite limited funding and high cybersecurity demands, federal agencies are leveraging AI-driven machines to enhance situation awareness, address staffing shortages, and modernize legacy systems. As Li shared, “these are smart eyes, ears and voice on the ground for the officers and guards to be in multiple locations at the same time.’

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Matt Langan sat down with Chris Russell, Distinguished Architect at Verizon, and Narendra Tilwani, Sales Development and Customer Solutions at Nokia Federal Solutions, to discuss how private 5G is changing military communications. While debunking common misconceptions about its adoptions, their conversation also highlighted the real-world impact of this developing technology, from replacing aging infrastructure to supporting mission-critical applications like smart warehousing, simulation training, and edge intelligence. As Tilwani pointed out: “one misconception we’ve seen is that deploying 5G is expensive and only meant for large organizations…That’s not true anymore.”

In a recent podcast with Olivia Spain and Monika Mathur from the Global Innovation Consulting practice at TCS – Tata Consultancy Services, parent company of Tata America International Corporation, we asked them to explain why a culture of innovation is so important for government today. What we learned in that conversation is that a culture of innovation is essential for ​​driving efficiency in government. To build a culture of innovation government agencies need to address three pillars: technology, people, and process. If any one of the three remains unchanged, the culture of innovation ​will ​falter, and the agency can’t move forward with delivering on the mission in a way that meets constituent needs in ever-changing circumstances. We asked Spain and Mathur to join us for another conversation in which we develop a better understanding of the pathway from innovation to efficiency and how government agencies can turn theory into practice to deliver results for their constituents and stakeholders.

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, we talk with Monika Mathur, Business Consultant, and Olivia Spain, Engagement Manager, from the Global Innovation Consulting practice at TCS – Tata Consultancy Services, parent company of Tata America International Corporation, about how government agencies can build a culture of innovation and leverage it to deliver on the mission more efficiently.

Federal government agencies are taking steps to prepare for the impact of quantum computing, especially in the area of cybersecurity. In August 2024, the National Institute of Standards and Technology released the first three finalized post-quantum encryption standards, a major step toward protecting digital infrastructure from quantum threats. This initiative aligns with the National Security Memorandum 10 and is supported by agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, which have developed roadmaps to direct the shift to quantum-resilient systems. Lamont Copeland, Senior Director of Federal Solutions Architecture at Verizon, and Jim Westdorp, Chief Technical Officer at Ciena Government Solutions Inc., spoke with the Government Technology Insider podcast host, Matt Langan, to unpack how quantum technology is evolving and its effects on cybersecurity for both military and civilian agencies. Additionally, they explored the urgency of implementing post-quantum cryptographic standards, strategies for quantum readiness, and the growing role of edge computing and IoT in securing data.

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Matt Langan spoke with Jeanne Gentry, DISA Business Development Manager from Verizon, and Adam Clement Jones, Solutions Architect for Verizon’s Defense Business in EMEA about DISA’s integration of AI into their 2025-2027 strategic vision. Their discussion also covers how technologies like AI-powered predictive maintenance, cyber threat detection, and edge computing are being deployed to enhance operational continuity and decision-making at the tactical edge.

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Matt Langan spoke with Dominic Bonaduce, Senior Manager for Product Strategy at Verizon and Greg Puschnigg, Chief Executive Officer at BOSS Controls about how IoT and 5G technologies are transforming the DoD’s energy management and resilience. Their discussion also focused on the unique energy challenges faced by military bases as well as how 5G makes it possible for real-time grid edge visibility, control, and optimization. From integrating renewable energy sources to facilitating demand response programs and performing predictive maintenance on individual devices, the conversation focuses on how next-gen connectivity solutions are helping the DoD in increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing mission readiness.

In the latest episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host, Lucas Hunsicker is joined by Josh Finke, Senior Vice President for Public Sector at Lumen and Mark Pittman, Founder of Blyncsy and Senior Director of Transportation AI at Bentley Systems, to discuss how AI can make our highways and byways safer, but also why the right backbone and infrastructure need to be in place first to deliver success.

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Matt Langan spoke with Verizon’s Dale Butterworth, Senior Solutions Partner and Dave Stepp Associate Director of Federal Connected Solutions-Federal to unpack how Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology is becoming a cornerstone of the military's modernization efforts. During their conversation they shared how deployment strategy is being shaped by site surveys, how environmental factors affect network design, and why rapid, secure connectivity is fundamental to operational readiness. Butterworth explained why FWA is such a game-changer: "Military installations have broad, spread-out buildings, and as technology evolves, it's expensive to replace coax cables or old fiber connectivity. FWA eliminates the need for construction costs, providing a simple, easy, and agile solution."

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast Lucas Hunsicker hosts a dynamic conversation with Granicus’s Charlotte Lee, Director of Growth Strategy, and Luke Norris, Vice President of Platform Strategy and Digital Transformation, to explore the impact of a digital-first approach to government. For decades, governments have relied heavily on paper-based systems for tasks ranging from record-keeping to correspondence. This dependence adds unnecessary costs—estimated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reported at nearly $40 billion annually for the federal government—while hindering efficiency and transparency. In the push for digital transformation across the government, digital-first strategies are a winning solution. Lee and Norris share real-world examples of how shifting to digital processes not only enhances key government operations but also aligns with the way society functions today. People expect the same level of convenience from government services as they do from food delivery services or online interactions—immediate, seamless, and accessible. At the same time, this shift eliminates inefficiencies by digitizing records, automating workflows, and integrating cloud-based systems, streamlining operations and reducing waste while saving money. A digital-first approach also strengthens transparency and accountability by enabling real-time data collection, improving spending oversight, and reducing the risk of fraud. Of course, transitioning to a digital-first government isn’t without challenges. Investing in the right technology, training staff, and fostering a culture of digital adoption all require time and effort. However, the long-term benefits—including cost savings, improved service delivery, and user satisfaction—make the shift well worth it.

From hardware-focused supply chains to cloud-based service models, the distribution landscape has undergone significant changes. Over the past decade, the role of IT in government operations has evolved significantly and public sector IT distribution has adapted to meet these new demands and complexities. In the latest episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker sat down with former public sector CEO, Art Richer. With decades of experience leading organizations through shifting market dynamics, Richer offered unique insights into the trends shaping government technology procurement and some of the key ingredients to creating successful partnerships in this space. Richer traced the evolution of public sector distribution back to its hardware-centric origins, where the focus was on logistics, breaking down pallets of computers, printers, and peripherals for resellers and end users. As software entered the scene, distribution models grew more complex, requiring tailored approaches to sales and support. Today, with the rise of cloud services, managed solutions, and as-a-Service solutions, distributors must pivot once more to align with new procurement and consumption trends. Throughout the conversation, Richer emphasized the growing sophistication of partnerships, the ongoing importance of compliance, and the benefits of both broadline and specialized distribution approaches. He emphasized the critical importance of aligning strategies with the unique requirements of public sector procurement and remaining agile in response to advancing technologies. Looking ahead, Richer identified two key trends that are poised to define the future of public sector IT distribution: the continued dominance of cloud and marketplace-based technology delivery and an increasing focus on compliance. With procurement regulations becoming more stringent, distributors must prioritize adherence to maintain trust and ensure long-term success. From the rise of cloud marketplaces to the increasing scrutiny around compliance, this discussion offers valuable perspectives for IT vendors, distributors, and public sector leaders navigating a rapidly shifting landscape.

Established in 2011 by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) was designed to “safely accelerate the adoption of cloud computing products and services by federal agencies.” By providing a consistent and reusable authorization process, FedRAMP enables agencies throughout the U.S. government (USG) to avoid duplicating efforts while prioritizing security and efficiency. As federal agencies face increasing pressure from Executive Orders and rising cyber threats, today FedRAMP certification has become a critical enabler of modernization. It allows agencies to adopt innovative solutions that meet stringent security standards without sacrificing agility. In the latest Government Technology Insider podcast, host Lucas Hunsaker sat down with James Imanian, Senior Director of the U.S. Federal Technology Office at CyberArk, to explore how FedRAMP-certified solutions are driving modernization and enhancing security in government environments.

In this podcast Dale Smith of TCS will be talking with Andrew Stettner, who is the Director of the Office of Unemployment Insurance Modernization at the United States Department of Labor. Recently, Stettner attended the 2024 NASWA Summit and has joined us to discuss the current state of unemployment insurance and where state workforce agencies are going.

In our newest podcast, Scott DeViney, a business development executive at SolarWinds, explained that observability offers agencies a modern approach to updating their IT infrastructures by going beyond traditional monitoring. Unlike monitoring, which only tells you what is happening, observability provides insights into why an issue occurs, whether it is related to network activity, cloud infrastructure, or application code. For federal government agencies overseeing some of the world’s most intricate networks, this shift is especially valuable. Observability allows agencies to proactively identify issues before they become outages or security breaches by correlating data from across the IT environment. In the most recent episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, DeViney and host Lucas Hunsicker explore the challenges civilian agencies face when updating their IT infrastructure and how observability can provide much-needed solutions. Civilian agencies tasked with delivering secure and reliable digital services to the public often struggle with complicated infrastructure and aging legacy systems. The ongoing need to balance security, compliance, and efficiency puts a strain on resources and creates major operational hurdles. Some of the key challenges discussed included managing thousands of users spread across multiple regions, and the growing complexity of hybrid cloud environments. DeViney pointed out that observability is particularly helpful in handling these complexities because it allows IT teams to transition from reactive to proactive operations by interpreting and correlating vast amounts of data. This improved resource optimization helps to ensure compliance with constantly changing regulations and helps agencies maintain safe and efficient services. One interesting real-world example DeViney shared was how observability assisted an agency in identifying and resolving a configuration issue that had affected user experience. Although individual IT tools reported no issues, they were able to identify the root cause and promptly restore service quality by comparing performance metrics.

What if you could cut information search times by 35 percent or boost customer satisfaction by 20 percent, all thanks to the power of AI? In this episode, Ruben Dedman, DevNet technical consultant and AI developer at TD SYNNEX, reveals how AI is business operations and fueling innovation. With 90 percent of top businesses investing in AI, Dedman outlines a clear roadmap for implementing AI, including no-code tools that prove even non-technical teams can harness AI. Tune in to discover how AI can revolutionize your business and supercharge your operations.

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Langone, Global AI Lead at Nutanix to discuss how agencies can jumpstart their cloud-free AI journey to deliver new capabilities and efficiencies while preserving their data sovereignty.

Imagine you’re working with a key customer, and they urgently need a specific file to move forward with their project. You spend hours digging through countless folders, but you never find what you’re looking for. Frustratingly, it turns out that the file was there the entire time, but someone had named it in a completely different way, making it impossible to find. This is a common challenge, especially in large organizations like TD SYNNEX and Cisco, where managing many documents can be “difficult.” Decision making can be affected by this challenge, which can include duplicating documents, relying on outdated information, or just now knowing here the most accurate data is kept. Keeping documents organized and easily accessible is a common challenge we all are familiar with, especially as business and the number of saved files grows over time. The enormous amount of data kept in multiple wikis and databases is a major challenge partners face, causing inefficiencies and delays when retrieving current, relevant data. Ruben Dedman, TD SYNNEX Net DevOps Consultant - Cisco DevNetGovernment Technology Insider podcast to discuss how WikiBot, an AI-powered tool, is set to revolutionize how partners and teams manage documentation. aims to address these challenges head-on by streamlining documentation processes and transforming team operations. By integrating with existing systems, WikiBot increases efficiency for partners by providing tailored access to knowledge that enhances client services and internal operations. It also helps sales teams locate product documentation and recommends solutions based on past purchases, enabling them to focus on high-value tasks. Dedman highlights WikiBot’s impact to democratizing knowledge and increasing productivity. Routine tasks can be automated to improve collaboration, reduce errors, and ensure that documentation is current and easily accessible. Ultimately, WikiBot empowers partners to manage documentation more effectively and provide better results. As Dedman said, “Wikibot... provides real-time wiki integrations with LLM AI models... it's a game changer. It's really been an awesome solution that we've been able to apply." For more into how WikiBot and AI are transforming documentation and boosting success, tune into the full podcast below.

In the latest episode of the Government Technology insider podcast, Joseph E LoCurto, Federal Senior Solutions Specialist at Verizon Business, joined Lucas Hunsicker to explore the transformative benefits of Fixed Wireless Access.

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Dixon, Senior Principal of Military Health Technology Consulting Services at Maximus, to discuss how the Defense Health Agency (DHA) can take a digital first approach to improve military health service delivery.

In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker deliberates these themes with Bryan Schromsky, Managing Partner of 5G Public Sector at Verizon Business Group. In their conversation, Schromsky highlights how 5G technology offers the DoE a ubiquitous infrastructure, capable of supporting dynamic use cases across its vast facilities. The robust coverage and low latency of 5G can enhance both day-to-day operations and advanced research initiatives. The discussion explores the practical adoption of fixed wireless access as a versatile solution for both remote and backup connectivity, enabling crucial activities like meter reading and scientific research. Furthermore, the shift from BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) to GID (Government Issued Device) underscores the importance of agency-owned devices in ensuring operational efficiency and security. Schromsky emphasizes the critical role of collaboration between industry, academia, and government in continuing to drive wireless innovation forward.

In this episode, we sit down with Bob Ainsbury, Chief Product Officer at Granicus, to discuss how data can be a powerful driver for transforming federal customer experiences.

In the ongoing discourse surrounding the use of AI, the world stands at a crossroads. While some herald AI as a transformative force, poised to revolutionize various domains, others harbor concerns about its potential to replace human roles. Amidst this debate, a profound realization emerges: the most impactful advancements in AI arise from a fusion of human ingenuity with machine learning (ML), embodying a human-centric approach. Rather than viewing AI as a threat to human relevance, forward-looking innovators recognize its potential as a tool for augmenting human capabilities. By prioritizing the development of human-centric AI/ML solutions, the federal government is working toward a future where technological progress harmonizes with human intellect and judgement the power of AI lies not in its capacity to render humans obsolete, but in its ability to amplify and enhance our collective potential. In the second part of this Government Technology Insider podcast, Amir Bagherpour, PhD, Managing Director at Accenture Federal Services, rejoined host Lucas Hunsicker to further explore the dynamic world of cybersecurity, focusing this time on the symbiotic relationship between human expertise and AI/ML tools. Bagherpour highlighted the critical role of AI and ML in automating repetitive tasks, enhancing threat detection, and accelerating the cognition process for cybersecurity professionals. As agencies explore the human-centric AI/ML solutions currently available, industry partners play a vital role in driving innovation and facilitating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies within the federal government. As cybersecurity continues to be a primary concern, collaboration between government agencies and industry partners is essential in fortifying defenses to ensure the resilience of critical systems against evolving cyber threats.

The October 2023 Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence marked a significant milestone in the federal government’s embrace of AI technology in combating cyber threats. As the cyberthreat landscape continues to evolve, attackers are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics, including stealth operations, identity theft, social engineering, ransomware, and supply chain attacks. In response to these challenges, agencies are using AI and ML-powered cyber tools to triage threats and simplify the decision-making process, supporting enhanced judgement and actions recommended by SOC engineers. By harnessing the power of AI-driven analytics, agencies can transition from reactive firefighting to proactive threat anticipation. Identifying better ways to harness AI and ML technologies and improving data intelligence applications are crucial steps in this endeavor. In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker delves into the realm of proactive cyber defense with Amir Bagherpour, PhD, Managing Director at Accenture Federal Services. Together, they explore how advancements in AI and ML not only empower agencies to anticipate, understand, and mitigate cyber threats more effectively but also enhance the judgment capabilities of cybersecurity professionals. The discussion underscores the urgency for agencies to move beyond conventional defense mechanisms, especially as geopolitical tensions add complexity to the threat landscape.

Growing support for worker’s rights, including work-life balance and improved access to healthcare, has led state governments to consider the ways in which they support workers and how those services can be improved. 13 states plus the District of Columbia have taken steps to support community health by adopting and implementing Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) programs, which allow workers to take protected paid leave to care for a family member or address their own medical concerns. Data from the states with active programs has demonstrated their efficacy and necessity, but their unique design and implementation requirements mean that many states are unsure of how to move forward.In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, we spoke with Admira Makas, Director, Paid Family and Medical Leave at TCS – Tata Consultancy Services, to discuss PFML’s potential health and economic outcomes, the benefits it can have for employers, and how more states can take the next step toward PFML implementation.

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was designed to provide citizens with transparency into government operations and play a critical role in maintaining public trust. However, government agencies face many challenges fulfilling FOIA requests, which often undermine trust in government even further. How can government agencies overcome these challenges – from cybersecurity concerns to siloed data infrastructures – to simplify the fulfillment of FOIA requests quickly and accurately? To answer that, Government Technology Insider talked with Amit Dungarani, Vice President of Growth Enablement and Amy Hilbert, Executive Vice President of Government Solutions at Casepoint to discuss how federal agencies can navigate legacy challenges using innovative technology to simplify FOIA requests.

Federal healthcare agencies have been working diligently over the last few years to modernize service delivery to improve patient outcomes and experiences. Before health agencies can modernize, they must first overcome challenges around data interoperability to improve the future of patient care. Government Technology Insider talked with Monica Rosser, Health Market Lead at Maximus, to discuss how agencies can navigate the challenges of public health to modernize successfully.

Federal government agencies, academic institutions, and industry partners have dedicated time, resources, labor and funding to keeping ahead of an increasingly complex technical landscape. The Federal 100 Awards, considered the most prestigious awards for the federal IT community, present an opportunity to recognize the leaders driving that innovation forward. For this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast, we invite a guest host, Dale Smith, Director of UI and Workforce Programs at TCS – Tata Consultancy Services, to speak with Andrew Stettner, Director of the Office of Unemployment Insurance Modernization at the United States Department of Labor. In February, Stettner was recognized for his work at the Department of Labor with his induction into the Fed 100 Class of 2024. In today’s conversation, Smith and Stettner discuss the significance of the Fed 100, developments in the unemployment insurance (UI) space, and the work Stettner is doing to continually improve how states can deliver UI programs, support their constituents, and mitigate fraud, waste, and abuse.

AI implementations not only revolutionize network functionalities but also play a pivotal role in elevating employee morale and help create the elusive unicorn employee. In part three of the AI and DevNet podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker once again comes together with Ruben Dedman, Technical Consulting Manager for Cisco DevNet at TD SYNNEX, to discover real-world examples of how AI-driven automation within networks empowers teams, fostering a sense of purpose and satisfaction, especially during challenging times. The benefits this creates for partners showcase the unique ways AI contributes to the development of unicorn employees—individuals with unparalleled skills and a profound sense of purpose.

Local government agencies have worked diligently to transform and modernize how services are delivered. But delivering unique experiences that streamline and personalize interactions with agencies isn’t always as easy as it might appear. To better understand what makes local government modernization successful, Government Technology Insider sat down with Josh Fruecht, Senior Sales Leader at Granicus, who has over 17 years of experience working in, and for, public sector organizations. In the interview, Fruecht explains how agencies can integrate technology solutions in a strategic way using human-centered design to realize their vision to provide these unique experiences seamlessly to their key stakeholders.

Increasingly, nation-state sponsored cyberattacks are leveraging the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve their chances of successfully compromising an organization. But federal government agencies can also put the power of AI to work to bolster their cyber defenses. The advantage that AI brings to cybersecurity and defense is that it can analyze vast amounts of data, identify unusual patterns, predict potential security incidents, and enable cybersecurity teams to focus on verified threats instead of false positives. In a recent podcast with Government Technology Insider, Jon S Kim, Vice President of Solutions and Services at Presidio Federal shared the potential applications of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity for federal agencies. Despite all the benefits it may bring, there are potential ethical issues when it comes to using AI. Federal cybersecurity leaders must consider algorithmic bias and the potential to unfairly target or discriminate against groups.

For years – if not decades – federal government agencies have been facing a quartet of cyberattacks – phishing, supply chain attacks, ransomware, and DDoS. Now, in addition to these, agencies must deal with new threats including deep fakes. Deep fakes are a type of synthetic media that utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) to impersonate government officials and other trusted individuals to spread disinformation. Now, however, they’re also becoming an emerging tactic that cyber-criminals are taking advantage of to launch highly effective cyberattacks. Government Technology Insider sat down with Jon S Kim, Vice President of Solutions and Services at Presidio Federal to discuss new cybersecurity threats that federal agencies are tackling in 2024. In the conversation he highlights how critical it is for agencies to stay ahead of deep fakes and other emerging threats, as well as traditional attacks, through continuous training, investing in advanced threat intelligence, conducting regular security audits, and implementing a Zero Trust architecture.

Jeff Colburn, Enterprise Networking Solutions Architect at Presidio Federal, discusses the importance of incorporating Zero Trust architecture in cybersecurity practices, including multi-step verification processes for users. Due to the increase of cloud services, mobile devices, and remote work among federal agencies, there are more opportunities for data to be breached. Compromised systems have led to the loss of confidential and personal data and have even caused economic damage from industrial shutdowns and shortages. In conjunction, security approaches must evolve to ensure secure networks. Zero Trust architecture revolves around the assumption of compromise. Instead of allowing verified users access to an entire network - segmenting networks into smaller, more isolated zones, barricades high level access for all users. As security threats become more sophisticated, defenses around identity and access must be a top priority. Agencies must adopt an identity-centric approach with continuous verification of trust, shifting from traditional security approaches that assume everything inside the network is trusted.