Gov Tech Today - Russell Lowery, Jennifer Saha

Latest Episodes:

E30: Bridging the Gap: Women in Data and Government Tech with Sadie St. Lawrence Jun 25, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode of GovTech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha welcome Sadie St. Lawrence, a leading expert in data and AI, to discuss her journey into the data field, the importance of women in data, and her global nonprofit organization Women in Data. Sadie shares her unconventional path from piano performance to data science, the mission of Women in Data to increase diversity in data careers, and her latest initiatives including data education and AI strategy. They also touch on the unique challenges and opportunities for women in the public sector and the evolving role of data in government decision-making.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

00:30 Sadie St. Lawrence's Journey into Data Science

03:25 Jen Sayha's Background and Transition to Tech

06:02 Overview of Women in Data Organization

10:34 Challenges and Strategies for Women in Data

13:34 Government Sector and Data Leadership

22:04 Future of Human-Machine Collaboration

25:06 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts

E29: Bridging the AI Gap: Insights from Michael Sekamanya on AI and Data Security in Gov Tech Today Jun 04, 2024

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In this special episode of Gov Tech Today, host Russell Lowery speaks with Michael Sekamanya, CEO of Ametnas, about the company's innovative approach to orchestrating business applications with a focus on privacy and security. They discuss the implications of AI technology, including ChatGPT, for both the private and public sectors. Michael Sekamanya explains how Ametnas helps businesses deploy, maintain, and secure applications in private environments, catering to complex data governance and regulatory needs. He also delves into the challenges and solutions of integrating AI while maintaining data security and outlines how non-tech experts can effectively utilize these tools. Finally, they explore the importance of preparing and cleaning data to leverage AI capabilities efficiently.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:05 Overview of Ametnas and Its Services

03:49 Applications in the Public Sector

05:25 AI and Data Management Challenges

11:08 Deploying AI Solutions in Business

18:18 Security and Privacy in AI Deployment

26:52 The Future of AI and Getting Started

28:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

E28: Navigating California's Budget Challenges in Gov Tech Today May 28, 2024

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In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss the recent legislative budget revisions for the State of California, which projects a $45 billion budget shortfall for the 2024-2025 budget year. Despite initial fears of larger deficits, early governmental actions have mitigated some of this gap. The episode further explores the implications of these budgetary decisions on technology projects and state workforce, highlighting how the tech sector might navigate these fiscal constraints. Special attention is given to AI initiatives and significant modernization projects that will continue despite cuts, such as those at the Employment Development Department and Department of Motor Vehicles. The discussion also covers the strategic importance of advocacy in budgeting for technology and potential impacts on public health initiatives due to budget cuts. Additionally, the hosts delve into the mechanics of the budget process, the strategy around member requests in the legislature, and the potential for adjustments during the 'budget bill junior' phase.

00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today: Bridging the Gap

00:10 Analyzing the Legislative Budget and May Revision

02:04 The Impact on Technology Projects and AI Initiatives

03:40 Engagement and Advocacy in the Tech Community

06:05 Statewide Implications and Budget Cuts

08:34 Navigating Spending Freezes and Contract Challenges

11:06 Future of Big Modernization Projects and Public Health Concerns

13:24 The Legislative Process and Budget Negotiations

14:47 Looking Ahead: Budget Bill Junior and Advocacy Opportunities

E27: The Impact of Banning Non-Compete Clauses on Businesses and Employees in Gov Tech Today May 14, 2024

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This episode of GovTech Today with hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha examines the recent FTC ruling that prohibits most non-compete clauses, which previously restricted employees from joining a competitor post-employment. Traditionally unenforceable in California, this change has a significant national impact. The hosts discuss the implications for businesses, which have relied on these clauses to protect investments in customer relationships and employee development, leading to potential increased litigation and reevaluation of business models. Conversely, the ban could enhance mobility and opportunities for employees, fostering an environment where companies might need to focus more on retaining talent through positive work conditions rather than legal restrictions.

00:00 Introduction to GovTech Today: Bridging Com and Gov

00:20 Exploring the Impact of the FTC's Non-Compete Clause Ban

02:21 The Legal Battle Begins: Understanding Both Sides

07:02 The Broader Implications for Businesses and Employees

15:55 Navigating the Future: Strategies for Employers and Employees

E26: Closing the Digital Divide: California's Broadband For All Initiative in Gov Tech Today May 07, 2024

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In this edition of GovTech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss the importance of broadband access for all Californians, emphasizing the state's efforts to bridge the digital divide. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity of reliable internet access as students had to rely on broadband to attend school remotely, highlighting inequities in access. The state of California has initiated a large-scale effort, involving significant investments from both federal and state levels, to ensure every Californian has access to broadband. This initiative, spearheaded by the state's Department of Technology, Public Utilities Commission, and Department of Transportation, aims to make broadband accessible even in rural or economically disadvantaged areas by leveraging public infrastructure and funding to make it viable for private carriers to extend their services. The program also considers the role of the federal government and the complexities of implementing such infrastructure, including regulatory and equity issues. The initiative is in progress, with planning and grants for the 'middle mile' already under way, and efforts to address the 'last mile' to ensure comprehensive coverage.

00:00 Introduction to Bridging the Digital Divide

00:22 The Urgency of Broadband Access in California

01:32 Understanding the Need for Massive Broadband Investment

02:56 Government's Role in Subsidizing Broadband Infrastructure

06:15 The Complexities of Public and Private Broadband Partnerships

08:11 Equity and Accessibility: The Core of Broadband Initiatives

10:51 The Process and Progress of Broadband Infrastructure Development

14:54 Innovative Procurement and Future Plans

17:05 Exploring New Solutions with RFI 2 Process

E25: Exploring the Pros and Cons of Enterprise Approach in Government Technology Apr 30, 2024

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In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss the enterprise approach to procurement in government departments and agencies, highlighting its impact on technology decisions and operations. They dive into the concept of enterprise infrastructure, using personal technology choices as an analogy, and explore how a unified system can offer interoperability, volume discounts, and simplified staff training. However, they also point out the downsides, such as reduced competition and vulnerability risks. The conversation covers examples like the state of California's email system and the Department of Public Health's efforts to consolidate data systems for better interoperability. The hosts debate the balance between pursuing volume discounts through enterprise contracts and the need for flexibility to support small and diverse businesses, acknowledging the complexities of government procurement and suggesting a potential middle ground.

00:00 Introduction to GovTech Today

00:19 Exploring the Enterprise Approach in Government Procurement

02:41 Pros and Cons of an Enterprise Approach

09:19 Case Study: Department of Public Health's Enterprise Strategy

13:33 Challenges and Opportunities in Enterprise-Wide Contracts

17:08 Security and Efficiency in Government Technology Contracts

21:18 Concluding Thoughts on the Enterprise Approach

E24: Bridging the Gap with AI in Government Services in Gov Tech Today Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

This episode of Gov Tech Today features hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha in conversation with Justin Brown, former Secretary of Human Services for Oklahoma, about the use and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in government services, particularly in health and human services. Brown discusses his experiences and insights gained from serving during the pandemic, his role in spearheading conversations about AI across states, and the foundation of the Center for Public Sector AI. The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities AI presents in enhancing client and workforce experiences, reducing regulatory burdens, and improving systemic efficiency within government services. The episode highlights the importance of ethical considerations, education, and creating operational guardrails for AI deployment, alongside exploring how AI can address critical issues like the benefits cliff, and improve decision-making, workforce processes, and cultural accessibility. A future outlook for the Center for Public Sector AI and its role in fostering collaboration across sectors to leverage AI for societal benefits is also discussed.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging Com and Gov

00:41 Introducing Justin Brown: Insights from a Public Service Leader

02:12 The Genesis of AI Focus in Public Service

03:16 Forming the Center for Public Sector AI: A Collaborative Effort

05:19 Educating Leaders and Setting Ethical Guardrails for AI

09:38 Exploring AI's Potential in Health and Human Services

10:36 California's Role and Comparisons in AI Adoption

12:46 Addressing Data Quality and Governance in AI Applications

14:54 Unpacking AI Use Cases and the Future of Public Sector AI

30:53 The Center for Public Sector AI: A Vision for the Future

E23: Navigating the Evolution of Coding in Government with AI with GitLab Apr 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Govtech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the transformative landscape of coding and development, especially within the state government sector, with insights from an experienced GitLab developer. The conversation covers the developer's journey from QA to coding for product and sales consulting, emphasizing the rapid evolution of coding languages and methodologies over the decades, including the shift towards Agile development. The focal point of the discussion is the impact and integration of AI in coding, highlighting its role in enhancing efficiency, automating processes, and the potential for AI to revolutionize code refactoring, making it faster and more accessible. Additionally, the episode delves into how GitLab's culture, openness, and user-driven expansion have positioned it as a vital tool for developers. The significance of AI in government, the challenges of adapting old code with modern technologies, and the ways GitLab supports transparent, efficient coding practices in the public sector are also examined. This conversation sheds light on the ongoing changes in the coding world, the pivotal role of AI, and the importance of platforms like GitLab in bridging the gap between traditional and modern coding environments.

00:00 Introduction to Govtech Today

00:25 Bridging the Gap: From Coding Novice to Expert Insights

01:09 The Evolutionary Journey of a Developer

02:25 Navigating the Shifts in Technology and Career Paths

03:50 AI: Hype or Game Changer?

06:09 AI in State Government: Opportunities and Challenges

06:48 Embracing DevSecOps and Agile in Government

08:03 The Cult of GitLab: Security, Development, and AI

11:07 AI's Role in Refactoring and Code Efficiency

14:06 Bridging the Skills Gap with AI and GitLab

21:31 AI Transparency and Ethics in Government

24:42 Generative AI: Definitions, Applications, and Transparency

28:59 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Coding

E22: Navigating Gen AI Legislation and California Regulation in Gov Tech Today Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of GovTech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jen Saha discuss the ongoing efforts in California to legislate and regulate Generative AI (Gen AI). They delve into key legislative proposals from Senator Wiener and Assemblywoman Bauer Kahn, focusing on their intent to provide clear guidelines and protections concerning the use of AI. Amidst discussions on the complexities and challenges of regulating Gen AI, the episode highlights concerns about potential federal preemption, the necessity for state action, and the implications of EU's AI regulations. The hosts also tackle the new Gen AI guidelines issued by California's Department of Technology, aimed at informing state departments on procuring and utilizing Gen AI technologies responsibly. The conversation covers the breadth of public, legislative, and regulatory responses to Gen AI's rapid development and its societal, ethical, and employment implications within the state's governance framework.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging the Gap Between Commerce and Government

00:22 Diving Into Legislation: The Battle Over Gen AI Bills

01:15 The Legislative Debate: Unworkable Bills and Federal Preemption

04:00 Finding Middle Ground: Protecting the Public and Navigating AI Legislation

04:51 The Governor's Influence and Addressing Bias and Labor in AI

09:28 Navigating the Complexities of AI Regulation and Procurement

15:16 The Paradox of Innovation in Government: Balancing Risk and Opportunity

22:13 The Future of Gen AI in Government: Challenges and Opportunities

27:59 Conclusion: The Urgent Need for Clarity and Efficiency in AI Governance

E21: Navigating the Hurdles of GovTech Procurement Reforms in Gov Tech Today Mar 26, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the ongoing reforms in government technology procurement, focusing on the complexities and frustrations within the terms and conditions of procurement contracts. They discuss a specific comment period and a significant hearing where industry professionals and government representatives attempt to address these issues, highlighting the need for changes that benefit both parties. Key areas of concern include liability limits, cybersecurity, data handling, and intellectual property rights. The episode reveals differing opinions on liability, the challenges of data protection in a global workforce, and how current terms may stifle innovation and limit small business participation in government contracts. By examining other states' approaches and advocating for clearer, more adaptable terms, the episode underscores the importance of continued dialogue and reform to foster better government-vendor relations and encourage technological advancement in government services.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging the Gap Between .Com and .Gov

00:28 The Ongoing Effort for Procurement Reform

02:01 Navigating Terms and Conditions: A Vendor's Perspective

03:10 Streamlining Documents for Clarity and Efficiency

04:21 Addressing Liability Concerns in Government Contracts

09:05 The Impact of Unlimited Liability on Small Businesses

12:07 Exploring Intellectual Property and Data Rights Issues

14:47 Balancing Security, Accessibility, and Cost in Data Management

18:26 The Challenges of Security Definitions and Notifications

26:21 The Future of Government Procurement: A Call for Engagement