Rebuilding Government: AI, Acquisition, and the Post-Shutdown Comeback

Описание: In this episode of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose, government and industry leaders discuss how the federal landscape is evolving after the government shutdown — with major focus on defense acquisition reform, artificial intelligence, and technology modernization.
The program opens with Nick Guertin, former Assistant Secretary for Research, Development, and Acquisition for the Navy, analyzing the Pentagon’s new Acquisition Transformation Strategy. He praises the Department of Defense’s push toward modular open systems, problem-based requirements, and portfolio management — calling it a bold step toward more agile and effective acquisition outcomes. Guertin emphasizes the need for collaboration between leadership, Congress, and the workforce to ensure the transformation’s success, noting that progress will depend on aligning technology, people, and mission needs.
Next, Terry Halvorsen, IBM’s Vice President for Federal Client Development and former DOD CIO, explores how AI is accelerating post-shutdown recovery efforts. He explains that AI helps agencies analyze data faster, reduce backlogs, and make quicker decisions — provided the data is properly curated and structured. He also highlights the need to balance short-term recovery with long-term modernization goals.
Finally, Gary Washington, former USDA CIO and now Chief Strategy Officer at ACT-IAC, discusses opportunities for CIOs to modernize systems, reduce technical debt, and strengthen cybersecurity. He calls for focused priorities, collaboration with business leaders, and leveraging tools like the Technology Modernization Fund to jumpstart innovation.