Agenda & Speakers

Check out who will be at the 2024 GITEC Conference and what topics we will be discussing!

Opening Ceremonies – April 14

Kimpton Forum, Charlottesville, VA at 5:30pm ET

Day #1 – April 15

Kimpton Forum, Charlottesville, VA

8:10 AM

Opening Remarks

8:35 AM

Keynote Briefing

Alexis Bonnell

Alexis Bonnell

Chief Information Officer and Director, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, U.S. Air Force (Pending Agency Approval)

9:00 AM

Charting the Future: How Federal Leaders are Reshaping their Agencies

In the evolving technological landscape of the federal government, Chief Information Officers (CIOs) play a pivotal role in driving transformative change across agencies. These CIOs, in strategic collaboration with Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and Chief Data Officers (CDOs), are leading initiatives that extend beyond IT management to include comprehensive organizational reform.

Their collective efforts focus on aligning technological advancements with broader agency goals, addressing key challenges such as cybersecurity, data management, and infrastructure modernization. This united front is essential for navigating the complexities of digital governance, ensuring that innovative IT strategies are balanced with security and data integrity, thereby setting new standards for efficiency and responsiveness in government services.

Don Bauer

Don Bauer

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

Gerald Caron III

Gerald Caron III

Chief Information Officer, International Trade Administration

Jason Bonander

Jason Bonander

Deputy Chief Information Officer, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Steven Brand

Steven Brand

Deputy Chief Information Officer, Resource Management, U.S. Department of Energy

Frank Indiviglio

Frank Indiviglio

Deputy Director (Acting), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Tom Sasala

Tom Sasala

Deputy Director, Office of Business Transformation, U.S. Army

Bruce Begnell

Bruce Begnell

Principal Deputy Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of State

James Fitch

James Fitch

Sales Director, Federal Science and Legislative, Red Hat

Moderator: Frank Konkel

Moderator: Frank Konkel

Editor-in-Chief, GovExec

10:28 AM

Emerging Technology Talk

What’s Lurking in Your Phone? Navigating the Risks in Mobile Apps

Where does that file scanning app actually share my PDFs? Does that new game your kid downloaded harvest more info than their high score? As cyber threats continue to evolve and mobile usage continues to increase, a robust and proactive security approach is essential.

This presentation delves into the unique challenges of mobile app security, shedding light on the various ways in which mobile apps can intentionally or unintentionally expose sensitive information. Attendees will hear real world examples of security risks discovered in mobile apps and gain actionable insights and best practices for app vetting.

Chris Gogoel

Chris Gogoel

Vice President, Business Development and Program Management, Quokka

10:35 AM

Smart Governance: Navigating the AI Frontier in Government Work

This panel promises an engaging exploration into the transformative influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the landscape of public service. This discussion will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and experts to delve into the complexities of AI integration in government operations. From enhancing efficiency in bureaucratic processes to redefining citizen-centric services, the conversation will navigate the vast and evolving frontier of AI in the public sector.

Participants can expect insightful discussions on the ethical considerations, challenges, and opportunities that arise as governments adopt smart technologies. Join us for a compelling dialogue that unpacks the potential of smart governance powered by AI, shaping the future of how governments serve and interact with their citizens.

Tammy Hornsby-Fink

Tammy Hornsby-Fink

Executive Vice President and System Chief Information Security Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Omar Bouaichi

Omar Bouaichi

Data Technology Director, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Anthony Boese

Anthony Boese

Interagency Programs Manager, Ethics Officer, and Associate Researcher, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Suman Shukla

Suman Shukla

Data Management Section Head, Library of Congress, U.S. Copyright Office

Greg Carl

Greg Carl

Principal Technologist, Pure Storage

Moderator: Jason Miller

Moderator: Jason Miller

Executive Editor, Federal News Network

11:25 AM

AI Reskilling: Revolutionizing the Workforce

Reskilling the workforce for the AI revolution has become a critical focus in educational and professional training programs. As AI technologies rapidly reshape various industries, there is an increasing need for current professionals to adapt and acquire new skills relevant to AI applications. This shift involves integrating AI-focused modules into existing curricula, emphasizing machine learning, data analysis, and ethical AI deployment.

These programs are designed not only for new students but also for working professionals seeking to update their skill set in response to the evolving technological landscape. Partnerships between universities, industries, and government agencies are also vital in this reskilling initiative. They provide opportunities for real-world application of AI skills through internships, apprenticeships, and collaborative projects. This practical exposure is essential for understanding the nuances of AI in different sectors and for developing the ability to innovate and apply AI solutions effectively.

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.

Eric Sanders

Eric Sanders

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

Jamie Holcombe

Jamie Holcombe

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

Karen Howard

Karen Howard

Executive Director, Office of Online Services, Internal Revenue Service

Rajeev Dolas

Rajeev Dolas

Chief Technology Officer, Office of the Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Transportation

Edward McLarney

Edward McLarney

Digital Transformation Lead, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Tony Holmes

Tony Holmes

Practice Lead for Solutions Architects Public Sector, Pluralsight

Moderator: Frank Konkel

Moderator: Frank Konkel

Editor-in-Chief, GovExec

12:15 PM

Lunch in Emerging Technology Showcase

Breakout Sessions

Session 1

1:30 PM

Keynote Briefing

Ann Dunkin

Ann Dunkin

Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Energy

1:55 PM

The AI Frontier: Revolutionizing Federal Agencies with GenAI

The integration of Generative AI (GenAI) within the federal government signifies a transformative leap in how governmental agencies operate and innovate. This utilization of GenAI spans various domains, including public service delivery, policy formulation, and national security. By harnessing the power of GenAI, federal agencies are able to analyze vast datasets more efficiently, simulate complex scenarios for better decision-making, and enhance citizen engagement through more personalized and responsive services. However, this integration is not without challenges.

It necessitates stringent measures for data privacy, ethical use of AI, and addressing potential biases in AI-generated outcomes. Additionally, the federal government faces the critical task of balancing technological advancement with regulatory frameworks to ensure that GenAI is used responsibly and effectively for the public good. The strategic implementation of GenAI within the federal sector also underscores the importance of developing AI literacy and expertise among government employees, emphasizing the need for ongoing training and collaboration with industry and academic experts in the field.

Sheena Burrell

Sheena Burrell

Chief Information Officer, National Archives and Records Administration

Dr. Hala Nelson

Dr. Hala Nelson

Professor, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, James Madison University

Anil Chaudhry

Anil Chaudhry

Associate Administrator, Office of Planning & Analytics, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation

Kimberly Himes

Kimberly Himes

Director, Strategic Acquisition Innovation Lab, Office of Acquisitions, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Mike Sanders

Mike Sanders

Director, Solutions Expert Team, NetDocuments

Moderator: Natalie Alms

Moderator: Natalie Alms

Staff Reporter, NextGov/FCW

2:45 PM

Navigating the New Wave: AI and Cybersecurity in the Remote Work Era

Emerging technologies, particularly in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI), are rapidly evolving, reshaping the way we approach data security and IT solutions. In the post-pandemic era, with an increasing number of people working remotely, the demands for robust cybersecurity and accessible data solutions have surged. AI and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront of this transformation, offering innovative protections against a myriad of cyber threats. The synergy of AI and ML is proving more effective than their individual use, leading to their widespread adoption in safeguarding information and data.

This session’s panel discussion will dive into the critical need for policies that support these emerging technologies. It will explore how AI, data security, and cybersecurity are pivotal in IT modernization, particularly within Federal Agencies. The panelists will discuss the most effective applications of these technologies, providing insights into how they can be leveraged to meet the unique challenges of modern IT infrastructure and data protection in the government sector.

COL Travis Hartman

COL Travis Hartman

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

Sarah Pearson

Sarah Pearson

Co-Lead Portfolio Manager, AI & Machine Learning, Defense Innovation Unit, U.S. Department of Defense

Hemant Baidwan

Hemant Baidwan

Chief Information Security Officer, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Johnson Wu

Johnson Wu

Cyber Portfolio Leader, Defense Innovation Unit, U.S. Department of Defense

Peter Colombo

Peter Colombo

Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity Division, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Steven Boberski

Steven Boberski

Public Sector Field Chief Technology Officer, Genesys

Moderator: Jason Miller

Moderator: Jason Miller

Executive Editor, Federal News Network

Session 2

1:30 PM

Keynote Briefing

Don Bauer

Don Bauer

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

1:45 PM

Emerging Technology Talk

“Never trust, always verify.” The Importance of Mobile Attestation in a Zero Trust Architecture

In today’s contemporary cybersecurity landscape, Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) has emerged as a paramount strategy to mitigate the evolving threat landscape to safeguard organizational assets. ZTA operates under the assumption of perpetual distrust, mandating strict verification and validation of every user and device attempting to access critical resources. However, the increasing prevalence of mobile devices in enterprise environments poses significant challenges to traditional ZTA implementations, due to the lack of knowledge and proper solutions implemented.

Join this session to learn how mobile attestation plays a pivotal role in fortifying Zero Trust Architecture against emerging threats and vulnerabilities associated with mobile devices. Its integration not only bolsters security measures but also fosters a resilient and agile cybersecurity framework capable of meeting the dynamic challenges of the digital age.

Steve Kruse

Sales Engineer, Zimperium

2:00 PM

Quantum Leap in Security: Integrating Zero Trust and Quantum Encryption in Federal Networks

The Zero Trust model, a key concept in modern cybersecurity, forms the cornerstone of this panel discussion. Recognized as a blend of security principles and coordinated strategies, Zero Trust operates on the principle that threats can originate from within and outside of traditional network boundaries. This paradigm shift has become increasingly pertinent, especially with the adoption of remote and hybrid work environments.

Federal Leaders will delve into the integration of Zero Trust in existing infrastructures, highlighting the complexities and challenges in implementing this model across diverse and expansive government networks. Tune in to this panel to understand how federal leaders are applying Zero Trust principles within their agencies, addressing its significance and discussing strategies for strengthening cybersecurity in an era where the nature of work and the scope of threats are constantly evolving.

Dr. Daniel Corbin

Dr. Daniel Corbin

Deputy Chief Information Officer & Technical Director, U.S. Marine Corps

Rudolf Rojas

Rudolf Rojas

Information Technology Manager, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Ross Foard

Ross Foard

Senior Engineer and ICAM Subject Matter Expert, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

Joseph Henry

Joseph Henry

Solutions Engineer, Akamai Technologies

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Cybersecurity Reporter, Nextgov/FCW

2:45 PM

Securing the Future: Navigating the Intersection of AI and Cybersecurity

In an increasingly interconnected world, the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity stands as a pivotal frontier in shaping the future of digital security. This panel invites you to a thought-provoking panel discussion where experts delve into the dynamic relationship between AI and cybersecurity. Listen in as they explore how AI technologies, ranging from machine learning to predictive analytics, are reshaping traditional cybersecurity paradigms, and navigate the intricate landscape of cyber threats and vulnerabilities, unveiling the potential of AI as a powerful ally in fortifying our digital defenses.

The panelists will share insights on innovative strategies, emerging trends, and the collaborative efforts required to navigate the complex challenges at the forefront of securing our digital future. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the symbiotic relationship between AI and cybersecurity and its profound implications for the evolving landscape of information security.

Louis Eichenbaum

Louis Eichenbaum

Zero Trust Program Manager, Office of the Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of the Interior

Ian Anderson

Ian Anderson

Lead DevSecOps Engineer, Naval Systems Engineering Resource Center, Naval Surface Warfare Center, U.S. Navy

Alyssa Feola

Alyssa Feola

Senior Cyber Advisor, Innovation Portfolio Division, General Services Administration

Andrea Greene-Horace

Andrea Greene-Horace

Senior Advisor, Cybersecurity, Program Manager, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, U.S. Health and Human Services

Ty Brown

Ty Brown

Section Chief, Cyber Security Incident Response Center, Internal Revenue Service

Derek Mueller

Derek Mueller

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

Don Hewatt

Don Hewatt

Director of Marketing Demand Solutions, Oracle

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Cybersecurity Reporter, NextGov/FCW

Day #2 – April 16

Kimpton Forum, Charlottesville, VA

8:35 AM

Keynote Briefing

Cheri Pascoe

Cheri Pascoe

Director, National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce

9:00 AM

Fireside Chat: GITEC and AI in NASA

In an era where social engineering poses a pervasive threat to organizations worldwide, this panel explores the universal applications of artificial intelligence in bolstering defenses against human-centric cyber attacks.

Join our panel of experts, featuring distinguished figures from government, industry, and academia, as they delve into the transformative potential of AI in mitigating the risks associated with social engineering. Explore cutting-edge strategies and technologies that transcend sector boundaries, offering attendees insights into building a resilient cybersecurity posture against human manipulation.

The discussion will not only dissect the current state of social engineering threats but also showcase successful case studies where AI-driven solutions have proactively thwarted malicious attempts across diverse sectors. Attendees will gain practical insights into implementing AI-powered defenses, ensuring a robust cybersecurity framework applicable to various agencies, companies, and organizations.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of a cross-sectoral dialogue that explores the transformative potential of AI in mitigating social engineering risks and strengthening the cyber resilience of organizations across different domains. Join us for an engaging discussion that transcends boundaries and shapes the future of cybersecurity defenses.

John Sprague

John Sprague

IT Chief Engineer, Service Management Office, National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Moderator: Kiersten Patton

Moderator: Kiersten Patton

Consultant, ATARC

10:15 AM

Navigating Cyber Threats: Protecting Data and Intellectual Property

In the dynamic landscape of today’s digital era, safeguarding sensitive information and intellectual property is paramount for the federal government. As cyber threats continue to evolve, posing significant challenges to data security, a robust and proactive approach is essential.

This panel will explore the imperative of navigating cyber threats and outlines strategies to protect critical data and intellectual property. From implementing advanced cybersecurity measures to fostering a culture of awareness and compliance, the federal government must stay vigilant in the face of emerging threats.

Dr. Sean T. Cortopassi

Dr. Sean T. Cortopassi

Division Director, Defense Manpower Data Center, U.S. Department of Defense

Hengyi Hu, Ph.D.

Hengyi Hu, Ph.D.

Chief Data Analytics Officer, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Davon Tyler

Davon Tyler

Chief Information Security Officer, Enterprise Technology Directorate, Federal Student Aid, U.S. Department of Education

Tom Harrell

Tom Harrell

Senior GRC Policy Advisor, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health

Trevor Bryant

Trevor Bryant

IT Cybersecurity Specialist, FISMA and Risk Management, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Moderator: David DiMolfetta

Cybersecurity Reporter, NextGov/FCW

11:10 AM

Modernizing IT Recruitment in the Federal Sector: Challenges, Initiatives, and Future Directions

The hiring process for Information Technology (IT) professionals within the federal government is currently laden with complexities and outdated practices. This presents significant challenges in an era where technological expertise is increasingly critical for national and administrative efficiency. In an effort to address these challenges, various federal agencies are actively working to overhaul their hiring processes. Key initiatives include revamping job descriptions to better reflect a diverse range of IT skills, simplifying the application procedures, and integrating digital tools for more effective candidate evaluation. Despite these efforts, the pace of IT hiring in the federal government continues to be a point of concern.

This panel will delve into the intricacies of these issues, offering a platform to discuss innovative approaches for improving the hiring process including adopting agile practices, enhancing collaboration with key stakeholders, and prioritizing the growth of professional development opportunities. By exploring these viable strategies, the panel aims not only to bridge the current hiring gap but also to position the federal government as a leading, competitive employer for IT professionals.

LaMarr Daniels

LaMarr Daniels

Chief, Acquisition/Contracting Branch, Human Resources, Defense Logistics Agency

Rahul Mittal

Rahul Mittal

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

Adrian Lanspeary

Adrian Lanspeary

Information Technology Manager, IT Acquisitions Office, U.S. Department of State

Sam Michael

Sam Michael

Director, Automation and Compound Management, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health

Kevin Duvall

Kevin Duvall

Chief Technology Officer, Administration for Children and Families, Department of Health and Human Services

Moderator: Natalie Alms

Moderator: Natalie Alms

Staff Reporter, NextGov/FCW

12:00 PM

Closing Remarks