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Agenda & Speakers

Check out who will be at the 2025 GITEC Conference and what topics we will be discussing!

Day 1

Opening Ceremonies – Sunday, March 30th

Thank you to our GITEC Social Engagements Committee for putting together our ceremonies and events! For more details/pricing about our add-ons, please see the registration link above.

Monticello Highlights Tour

Monticello Highlights Tour

1:30PM @ Monticello House

This 45-minute guided experience includes first floor spaces in Thomas Jefferson’s home, the West Lawn, and the South Wing. You’ll learn about Jefferson and his vision for America, the realities of slavery on the Monticello plantation, and the mountaintop’s iconic architecture. This popular pass includes access to our gardens, grounds, walking tours, family-friendly activities, and exhibits.

Exclusive Bourbon Tasting

Exclusive Bourbon Tasting

3:30PM @ Lower Garden in Kimpton Forum Hotel

Join us for an exclusive bourbon tasting at GITEC, led by Greg Mundell, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample a curated selection of premium bourbons. Your ticket includes an entry into our raffle to win an Elijah Craig Single Private Barrel 8 Year bottle to take homeSip, savor, and discover the rich flavors of these exceptional bourbons in a relaxed setting. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your GITEC experience!

Exhibitor Set-Up

Exhibitor Set-Up

4:00PM @ Grove Ballroom in Kimpton Forum Hotel

Exhibiting partners can set-up in the Grove Ballroom (lower level).

Opening Reception

Opening Reception

5:00PM @ Lower Garden & Patio in Kimpton Forum Hotel

Join us for an evening of drinks, heavy appetizers, and great company as we kick off GITEC 2025 in style! Mingle with fellow attendees, enjoy music, and make meaningful connections while celebrating this year’s outstanding GITEC Award Nominees. This exclusive networking event sets the stage for an exciting conference ahead—don’t miss it!

Day 2

Cyber and AI – Monday, March 31st

Kimpton Forum, Charlottesville, VA

8:15 AM

Opening Remarks

8:30 AM

Keynote Briefing

Jim Tunnessen

Jim Tunnessen

Chief Information Officer & Chief AI Officer, National Endowment for the Arts (Pending Agency Approval)

8:50 AM

Advancing the Future of Technology Policy

The future of technology policy is shaped by a commitment to innovation, security, and efficiency. With a shared goal of fostering emerging technologies, strengthening cybersecurity, expanding digital infrastructure, and modernizing IT systems, policymakers and industry leaders have a unique opportunity to drive meaningful progress. This discussion will explore the key objectives guiding the future of federal IT, emphasizing collaboration, investment in emerging technologies, and strategies to build a more secure, efficient, and forward-thinking digital landscape.

Frank Indiviglio

Frank Indiviglio

Chief Technology Officer, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Donald Bauer

Donald Bauer

Chief Technology Officer, Bureau of Global Talent Management, U.S. Department of State

Deborah Guadalupe Duran, PhD

Deborah Guadalupe Duran, PhD

Senior Advisor- Data Science, Analytics, and Systems, National Institute of Health

John Dvorak

John Dvorak

Chief Technology Officer, Public Sector, Red Hat

Moderator: Tom Temin

Moderator: Tom Temin

Anchor, The Federal Drive, Federal News Network

9:35 AM

Break in the Emerging Technology Showcase

10:05 AM

Emerging Technology Talk

Benefits of Moving Windows to the Cloud

The ability to run Windows desktops in the cloud or virtualized locally can provide many advantages for Federal customers. Using the native Microsoft stack can drive dramatic costs savings while supporting flexibility and scalability through secure access. Nerdio provides a solution to quickly deploy Windows desktops, easily manage the environment and optimize both performance and cost.

Pete Langas

Pete Langas

Senior Director, Enterprise Sales, Nerdio

10:15 AM

Emerging Technology Talk

Modernizing GRC and Accelerating FedRAMP Through Continuous Controls Monitoring

Federal agencies are drowning in manual compliance processes while trying to modernize their IT infrastructure and adopt emerging technologies like AI. The traditional approach to RMF compliance and ATOs creates bottlenecks that can delay critical projects by months or years, costing agencies millions in lost productivity and preventing them from achieving their modernization goals. This session will demonstrate how RegScale’s Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM) platform is using intelligent automation to transform public sector GRC from a hindrance into a force for innovation.

We’ll show how RegScale is revolutionizing the federal compliance landscape by enabling continuous ATO through real-time monitoring and compliance-as-code. We’ll also explore how leading agencies are using our platform to reduce their ATO processing time from 2 years to 30 days, automatically generate and maintain FedRAMP documentation, and shift their focus from paperwork to actual security improvements. Join us to discover how your agency or organization can transform compliance from a checkbox exercise into a competitive advantage that enhances your security and risk posture.

Travis Howerton

Travis Howerton

Co-Founder and CEO, RegScale

10:25 AM

Driving Efficiency: IT Modernization Efforts Across the Federal Government

IT modernization remains a critical priority across the federal government as agencies strive to enhance efficiency, security, and service delivery in an increasingly digital world. Efforts are focused on replacing outdated legacy systems, adopting cloud-based solutions, leveraging artificial intelligence, and improving data management to meet the demands of modern governance. These initiatives aim to reduce costs, strengthen cybersecurity, and improve citizen-facing services, while navigating challenges such as budget constraints and workforce readiness. Join us as experts discuss the state of IT modernization in the federal government, offering insights into successes, obstacles, and the path forward for transforming public sector technology.

The objective of these reskilling programs is not merely technical proficiency, but a comprehensive understanding of how AI can be used responsibly and effectively across various domains. This holistic approach is crucial in ensuring that the workforce is not only capable of using AI but also adept at addressing the ethical, legal, and societal implications of its integration into our daily lives and work environments.

Dave Raley

Dave Raley

CX Digital Program Manager, Marine Corps Community Services

Raymond Romano

Raymond Romano

Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Threats and Investigations, U.S. Department of State (Pending Agency Approval)

Ian Anderson

Ian Anderson

Lead DevSecOps Engineer, Secure Cloud Architecture & Automation, U.S. Navy

Steve Pitcher

Steve Pitcher

Senior Cyber Survivability Analyst, Joint Staff J6, U.S. Department of Defense (Pending Agency Approval)

Devanand Shenoy, Ph.D.

Devanand Shenoy, Ph.D.

Principal Director for Microelectronics, Microelectronics Common Executive Director, OUSD (R&E), U.S. Department of Defense

Travis Howerton

Travis Howerton

Co-Founder and CEO, RegScale

Moderator: Amber Corrin

Moderator: Amber Corrin

ATARC Consultant, ATARC

11:10 AM

Emerging Technology Talk

Cyber Attack Survival – Recovery Quickly & Avoid Mission Disruption
As cyber threats evolve, federal agencies must shift their focus from prevention to resilient recovery from incidents like ransomware attacks. Our Tech Talk will explore strategies for recovering compromised data, minimizing downtime, and ensuring your agency mission continues. Join us to learn how federal agencies can build cyber resilience and protect sensitive data in an increasingly adverse digital landscape.
 
Chris White

Chris White

Senior Sales Engineer, Rubrik

11:20 AM

Special Presentation

After 60 days – On the Ground with Federal IT Influencers and Decision makers
Results from March focus groups including tech influencers at Treasury, HHS, DOD, DISA, GSA and DOJ focused on agency environment, priorities and challenges in the new administration. Also will include findings from federal IT polling in February and March 2025. 
 
Aaron Heffron

Aaron Heffron

President for Research and Forecasting, GovExec

11:30 AM

The Future of Federal Cybersecurity: Staying Ahead of Emerging Threats

As cyber threats grow in sophistication and scale, federal agencies must continually evolve their cybersecurity strategies to protect critical infrastructure, sensitive data, and public trust. The federal cybersecurity landscape is shaped by factors such as increasing ransomware attacks, the proliferation of IoT devices, and the integration of artificial intelligence into both offensive and defensive measures. This panel will explore how agencies are adapting to emerging threats through innovative technologies, cross-agency collaboration, and evolving policy frameworks. Join us for a discussion on the latest cybersecurity trends, the challenges of staying ahead in an ever-changing threat environment, and the future of securing the federal enterprise.

Rebecca McWhite

Rebecca McWhite

Technical Lead, Cybersecurity Supply Chain Risk Management, National Institute of Standards and Technology (Pending Agency Approval)

Rahul Mittal

Rahul Mittal

Cybersecurity Advisor for Washington D.C. Region III, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security (Pending Agency Approval)

James Palumbo

James Palumbo

Deputy Command Information Officer, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command

Moderator: Shaun Waterman

Moderator: Shaun Waterman

Freelance Journalist

12:15 PM

Lunch in the Emerging Technology Showcase

Announcement of our GITEC 2025 Award winners! 

Breakout Sessions

Session 1

2:00 PM

Shaping the Future Workforce with AI in Federal Agencies

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the federal workforce, offering new opportunities for innovation and efficiency while presenting unique challenges. By fostering transparency in AI systems and establishing strong governance policies, federal agencies can ensure ethical and trustworthy integration of AI into workforce operations. Join our session to explore how AI can enhance workforce capabilities, reduce bias in decision-making, and build trust in AI-driven systems. Panelists will share tangible examples and best practices, empowering attendees to navigate the evolving role of AI in transforming workforce strategies and operations within the Federal IT domain.

Karen Howard

Karen Howard

Director, Office of Online Services, U.S. Internal Revenue Service

Patrick Johnson

Patrick Johnson

Workforce Innovation Director, Office of the CIO, U.S. Department of Defense

Anil Chaudhry

Anil Chaudhry

Senior Advisor, Artificial Intelligence at U.S. Department of Transportation

Noah Ringler

Noah Ringler

Artificial Intelligence Policy Lead, Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Josh Goldenberg

Josh Goldenberg

VP of Product Management, Pryon

Brian Mayer

Brian Mayer

Research Manager at Virginia Tech Sanghani Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics

Tony Boese

Tony Boese

ATARC AI and Data Policy Working Group Chair

Moderator:          Amber Corrin

Moderator: Amber Corrin

ATARC Consultant

2:45 PM

Enhancing Efficiency: AI’s Role in Federal IT Modernization

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing IT modernization in federal agencies by enhancing efficiency, decision-making, and service delivery. By automating routine processes, AI reduces operational costs and frees up resources for higher-priority tasks. It supports advanced data analytics, enabling agencies to derive actionable insights from vast datasets, improving policy formulation and public services. AI is also playing a growing role in workforce management and human resources, helping agencies streamline recruitment, personalize training, and better support employee development.

Join us for this panel discussion to hear insights from participants at federal agencies as they embrace AI, and address challenges such as ethical considerations, workforce readiness, data privacy, and the evolving role of AI in human resources functions like recruitment, training, and employee support.

Landon Shaw

Landon Shaw

Senior Enterprise Architect, Enterprise Operations Center, Department of Technology Services, Administrative Office of the US Courts

Mike Prado

Mike Prado

HSI Deputy Assistant Director, DHS Cyber Crimes Center, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Daniel Buchholz

Daniel Buchholz

RED Cell Unit Chief, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, U.S. Department of State

Wole Moses

Wole Moses

Chief AI Officer, Microsoft Federal

Moderator: Tom Temin

Moderator: Tom Temin

Anchor, The Federal Drive, Federal News Network

Session 2

1:50 PM

Emerging Technology Talk

Modern Cyber Resiliency for Data

In the digital age, data is an organization’s most valuable asset, and protecting it from cyber threats is paramount. Modern cyber resiliency goes beyond traditional security measures, ensuring that data remains secure, accessible, and reliable despite the evolving cyber landscape. With the rise of sophisticated cyber-attacks, it is crucial to adopt a proactive approach to data protection.

Ashish Gandotra

Ashish Gandotra

CTO, Federal Civilian Solution Engineering, Government, Defense & Intelligence, Oracle

2:00 PM

Zero Trust Implementation in 2025

In 2025, zero trust architecture continues to take center stage in federal government cybersecurity strategies, driven by the imperative to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure from sophisticated threats. Zero trust principles—”never trust, always verify”—are being integrated into agency networks to enhance authentication, enforce granular access controls, and improve visibility into system activity. Federal mandates and frameworks, such as those outlined by CISA and NIST, are guiding agencies in adopting these models, though challenges remain in legacy system integration, resource allocation, and workforce training. Join us as experts explore the progress, hurdles, and future of zero trust implementation efforts across the federal government, emphasizing its role in safeguarding national security.

Sean Starnes

Sean Starnes

Chief Information Security Officer, Space CAMP, Catalyst Campus for Technology & Innovation, U.S. Spaceforce

Hussein Johnson

Hussein Johnson

Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, U.S. Army

Henry Houle

Henry Houle

Information Systems Security Manager, COSMOS, Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, U.S. Navy

Jeffrey Voivoda

Jeffrey Voivoda

Federal IT Expert

Rudolf Rojas

Rudolf Rojas

Information Technology, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Tanyi Cyrille

Tanyi Cyrille

SCA-A Lead, U.S. Coast Guard

David Voelker

David Voelker

Zero Trust Lead, Office of the Department of Navy Chief Information Officer, U.S. Navy (Pending Agency Approval)

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Cybersecurity Reporter, NextGov/FCW

2:45 PM

Data Protection and Automation: Safeguarding Data in the Cyber Space

Data protection and encryption are foundational pillars of cybersecurity for federal agencies, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information. With the increasing adoption of low-code platforms and automated workflows to enhance operational efficiency, federal agencies must address the unique cybersecurity challenges these technologies introduce. Robust encryption methods are critical to safeguarding data against cyber threats and unauthorized access, particularly as agencies rely more heavily on cloud computing, mobile devices, and interconnected systems. Federal leaders must also navigate compliance with stringent regulations and frameworks while managing challenges like key management, performance trade-offs, and evolving encryption standards in the face of quantum computing. Join us as cybersecurity and automation experts discuss strategies, technologies, and best practices shaping the future of data protection and automation in federal agencies.

Patrick Gould

Patrick Gould

Director, Cyber & Telecommunications Portfolio, Defense Innovation Unit, U.S. Department of Defense

Derek Mueller

Derek Mueller

Cybersecurity Advisor and Cyber State Coordinator, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Manuel Medrano

Manuel Medrano

Director, Office of Cyber Monitoring and Operations, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, US Department of State

Dr. Yixin Sun

Dr. Yixin Sun

Assistant Professor, Computer Science & Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Virginia

Carmeshia Miller

Carmeshia Miller

Senior Cybersecurity Policy Analyst, Office of the Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Justice

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Cybersecurity Reporter, Nextgov/FCW

5:00 PM

GITEC Awards Reception

Grove Ballroom Patio. 

Join us in celebration of our GITEC 2025 Award winners and nominees! 

Day 3

Federal Leadership – Tuesday, April 1st

Kimpton Forum, Charlottesville, VA

9:20 AM

Opening Remarks

9:25 AM

Leading Through Change: Executive Insights on Federal Modernization

As the federal government continues its journey toward modernization, agency leaders are setting bold visions to guide their organizations through rapid technological change. From CIOs to CDOs and CAIOs, these executives are driving strategic priorities that span digital transformation, cross-agency collaboration, cybersecurity, and workforce evolution. This discussion will explore how federal leaders are shaping the future—balancing long-term mission goals with the realities of implementation. Panelists will also share insights on how emerging technologies like AI and advanced data analytics are supporting smarter, more responsive government operations.

David Bottom

David Bottom

Chief Information Officer, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

Jamie Holcombe

Jamie Holcombe

Chief Information Officer, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Montae Brockett

Montae Brockett

Chief Information Officer/Chief Information Security Officer, DC Department of Healthcare Finance

Renata Spinks-McNeal

Renata Spinks-McNeal

Former Chief Information Security Officer, U.S. Marine Corps

Mark Krzysko

Mark Krzysko

Principal Deputy Director, Acquisition Policy and Analytics, U.S. Department of Defense

Landon Shaw

Landon Shaw

Senior Enterprise Architect, Enterprise Operations Center, Department of Technology Services, Administrative Office of the US Courts

Moderator: Jason Miller

Moderator: Jason Miller

Executive Editor, Federal News Network

10:00 AM

Break in the Emerging Technology Showcase

10:25 AM

Emerging Technology Talk 

Future of Work: AI and Automation in Federal Agencies

Discover how Copilot Agents can revolutionize the way Federal employees work. This session will explore how advancements in AI and automation are driving efficiency and enhancing mission impact, empowering teams to achieve more with innovative tools and technologies.

Wole Moses

Wole Moses

Chief AI Officer, Microsoft Federal

10:35 AM

Emerging Technology Talk 

Enhancing Legal Operations in Federal Agencies with AI: Efficiency, Transparency, and Compliance

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the legal sector, offering federal agencies and non-profit organizations unprecedented opportunities to enhance efficiency, transparency, and compliance in legal operations. This Tech Talk will delve into how AI technologies can be harnessed to streamline legal workflows, from document management to case analysis and regulatory compliance. We will examine real-world use cases where AI has been successfully integrated into legal teams, addressing common challenges such as data security, adherence to legal standards, and bias mitigation. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on deploying AI to improve legal processes while upholding the highest ethical standards and meeting regulatory requirements.

Reid Cram

Reid Cram

Senior Product Marketing Manager, NetDocuments

10:45 AM

Cybersecurity in 2025: A Discussion with Federal CISOs

At the forefront of cybersecurity within the U.S. federal government, Chief Information Security Officers anticipate the challenges and innovations that will shape the field of cybersecurity in 2025 and beyond. The conversation will center around the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, including state-sponsored attacks and advanced persistent threats, and the need for federal agencies to adopt proactive, adaptive security strategies. Join us to listen to Federal CISOs highlight the urgency of strengthening cybersecurity frameworks to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive data in an increasingly interconnected and complex digital environment.

Paul Blahusch

Paul Blahusch

Director of Cybersecurity and the Chief Information Security Officer, Office of the Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Labor (Pending Agency Approval)

COL Travis Hartman

COL Travis Hartman

Chief Technology Officer, Army Forces Command, U.S. Army

Timothy Amerson

Timothy Amerson

Former Acting Chief Information Security Officer, Acting Associate Commissioner, Social Security Administration

Eric Sanders

Eric Sanders

Chief Information Security Officer, Director, Office of Intelligence and Analysis, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Moderator: Shaun Waterman

Moderator: Shaun Waterman

Freelance Journalist

11:30 AM

Closing Remarks