HSDF THE PODCAST

Latest Episodes:

Edge Computing and Tactical Communications to Support CBP and the Border Patrol PT2 Feb 22, 2024

Show notes

In this second of a two part series, learn about the communications and technology challenges on the border such as the need for hybrid connectivity, enhanced tactical communications, and edge computing. And, hear how Industry is working with CBP to rapidly deliver advanced technologies and new capabilities to border agents.
Featuring:
Luke McCormack, Former DHS CIO,
Xan Schmickel, from CBP’s Office of Information and Technology,
Bogdan Frusina, Founder of Dejero,
Mark Olson, homeland security lead at Peraton,
Erick Reese from the CBP Innovation Team, and
Michael Hardee, Red Hat’s Chief Architect for Law Enforcement & Justice
This discussion took place at the Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12, 2023.
Witness the transformation of complex operational requirements into tangible tools as we navigate the potent mix of non-FAR capabilities, Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs), and the crucial vendor responsiveness that stitches these developments into the fabric of CBP operations.
We also cast light on the communication conundrum: could smartphones redefine the future of field communication over the stalwart TACCOM radios? The importance of situational awareness resonates throughout, as we dissect the array of communication modalities at play in the high-stakes environment of border security.

Follow HSDF THE PODCAST and never miss latest insider talk on government technology, innovation, and security. Visit the HSDF YouTube channel to view hours of insightful policy discussion. For more information about the Homeland Security & Defense Forum (HSDF), visit hsdf.org.

Edge Computing and Tactical Communications to Support CBP and the Border Patrol PT1 Feb 22, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

Industry is collaborating with government to rapidly deploying new technologies and deliver new capabilities to the border. Part of the technical challenge on the border is the harsh border environment and the need for hybrid connectivity, enhanced tactical communications, and edge computing. Learn how CBP and industry are working together to fill the gaps and meet the requirements.
Featuring:
Luke McCormack, Former CIO, DHS (moderator),
Xan Schmickel, Chief Architect, Office of Information and Technology, CBP,
Bogdan Frusina, Founder, Dejero,
Mark Olson, Vice President, Homeland Security, Peraton,
Erick Reese, Innovation Team, CBP, and
Michael Hardee, Chief Architect, Law Enforcement & Justice, Red Hat
This discussion took place at 2023 HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12, 2023.

Strategic AI Deployment for Enhanced Border Patrol Efficacy PT1 Feb 22, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

In this First of a two part series, learn how Artificial Intelligence, and particularly generative AI, is sparking numerous discussions about the use of AI to support the DHS mission, and what industry is doing to support the AI transformation taking place at the Department of Homeland Security.
Featuring:
Reggie Brothers, Former DHS Under Secretary for S&T,
John Maulella, from the CBP INVNT team,
Amy Henninger, DHS’s S&T Directorate,
Wole Moses from Microsoft, and
Henry J. Powell at GDIT
This discussion took place at the Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12th, 2023.

Uncover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the Department of Homeland Security in our latest episode, where the fusion of AI and human expertise takes center stage. Explore the dynamic ways AI, particularly generative AI, is transforming Border Patrol's data analysis.
From synthesizing witness statements to scrutinizing social media activity, the power of AI to automate and refine tactical deployments is under the microscope. This candid conversation also lays bare the complexities of model training and the infrastructure demands AI deployment commands, highlighting the predictive prowess that bolsters agent safety and enhances operational precision.
Venture into the heart of the AI transformation with the establishment of the CBP AI Center of Innovation, as we navigate the intricacies of scaling AI adoption and ethical deployment. Join us to grasp how artificial intelligence is not just reshaping Homeland Security operations, but also setting the stage for a smarter, more agile future.

AI and Data Analytics for Mission Support on the Border - Part 2 Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

In this final episode of a two part series, learn how CBP is deploying Artificial Intelligence to support the border security mission and how industry is collaborating to create new solutions and respond to new technology requirements.

Featuring:

Ed Mays, at CBP's Office of Information and Technology,

David Aguilar, former CBP Commissioner

Joshua Gough, from CBP’s Planning, Analysis and Requirements office, and

Jay Meil, Chief Data Scientist, SAIC Artificial Intelligence Innovation Factory

This discussion took place at the Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12, 2023.

AI and Data Analytics for Mission Support on the Border - Part 1 Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

In this first episode of a two part series, learn how CBP is deploying Artificial Intelligence to support the border security mission and how industry is collaborating to create new solutions and respond to new technology requirements.

Embark on a journey into the high-tech frontier of border security as we discuss the transformative power of AI. Venture further into the digital realm where cybersecurity stakes are at an all-time high, as we explore the necessity of zero trust architecture with our distinguished panel.
Dive into the discussion about safeguarding our networks with robust encryption, even in the face of adversarial machine learning. This episode brings to light how government agencies and industry leaders are teaming up to reinforce our digital defenses and ensure that our security keeps pace with evolving threats.
Featuring:
Ed Mays, at CBP's Office of Information and Technology,
David Aguilar, former CBP Commissioner
Joshua Gough, from CBP’s Planning, Analysis and Requirements office, and
Jay Meil, Chief Data Scientist at SAIC’s Artificial Intelligence Innovation Factory
This discussion took place at the Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12th, 2023.

Combating the Fentanyl Crisis and De Minimis Border Security Challenges - Part 2 Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

The Fentanyl crisis creates unique border security challenges. Hear how CBP is pivoting to address these challenges and what they need from industry to succeed.
In the final episode of a two part discussion, John Wagner, Sits down with Joseph Draganac and Shane Campbell, who bring years of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) experience to the table.
Take a closer look at the challenges and strategies in place to combat the risks associated with the massive influx of de minimis shipments—those small yet significant parcels valued at $800 or less that can enter the U.S. duty-free.
As e-commerce reshapes how goods move globally, CBP faces the daunting task of screening over a billion parcels that arrived in fiscal year 23 alone. Our esteemed guests shed light on how this surge is affecting traditional retail and outlines the innovative approaches CBP employs to keep pace with this transformative period in trade.
Wagner, Draganac, and Campbell offer rare insights into the evolving landscape of international commerce and border protection, emphasizing the need for international cooperation in securing our nation against the dangers lurking within these seemingly innocuous shipments. Join us for a compelling exploration of how CBP is adapting to ensure the safety and economic security of the United States in the age of online shopping and instant gratification.
Featuring:
John Wagner, the former CBP Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner leads a discussion
Joseph Draganac, Assistant Director, National Targeting Center, Cargo Division at CBP, and
Shane Campbell, Deputy Executive Director, Cargo and Conveyance Security, with CBP's Office of Field Operations.
This discussion took place at 2023 HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12, 2023.

Combating the Fentanyl Crisis and De Minimis Border Security Challenges - Part 1 Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

The Fentanyl crisis creates unique border security challenges. Hear how CBP is pivoting to address these challenges and what they need from industry to succeed.
In the first of a two part discussion, John Wagner, Sits down with Joseph Draganac and Shane Campbell, who bring years of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) experience to the table.
Take a closer look at the challenges and strategies in place to combat the risks associated with the massive influx of de minimis shipments—those small yet significant parcels valued at $800 or less that can enter the U.S. duty-free.
As e-commerce reshapes how goods move globally, CBP faces the daunting task of screening over a billion parcels that arrived in fiscal year 23 alone. Our esteemed guests shed light on how this surge is affecting traditional retail and outlines the innovative approaches CBP employs to keep pace with this transformative period in trade.
Wagner, Draganac, and Campbell offer rare insights into the evolving landscape of international commerce and border protection, emphasizing the need for international cooperation in securing our nation against the dangers lurking within these seemingly innocuous shipments. Join us for a compelling exploration of how CBP is adapting to ensure the safety and economic security of the United States in the age of online shopping and instant gratification.
Featuring:
John Wagner, the former CBP Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner leads a discussion
Joseph Draganac, Assistant Director, National Targeting Center, Cargo Division at CBP, and
Shane Campbell, Deputy Executive Director, Cargo and Conveyance Security, with CBP's Office of Field Operations.
This discussion took place at 2023 HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12, 2023.

Real Time Industry Response to Border Chief Jason Owens' Border Patrol Mission Needs Jan 27, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

In today’s program we hear a real-time industry response to Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens’ 2024 border challenges and priorities.

This episode features :

Mark Olson from Peraton,

Ben Gianni, of GDIT,

Red Hat’s Michael Hardee

William Mayer, of SAIC and

Bogdan Frusina, from Dejero

This program was recorded at the Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium on December 12th, 2023.

Unlock the future of border security as we engage with the minds shaping the technological frontier for Border Patrol agents. Mark Olsen, Ben Gianni, Michael Hardy, William Mayer, and Bogdan Fersina, alongside Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens, confront the challenges and lay out the priorities for 2024. They bring a wealth of expertise to the table, dissecting the need for cutting-edge connectivity solutions, like 5G and low earth orbit satellites, in the inhospitable terrains where agents operate. Delve into a discussion that doesn’t just skim the surface; it tackles how robust data architecture and the crafting of resource-aware applications can make or break the safety and efficacy of those who guard our borders.
The stakes are high, and so is our commitment to investigating solutions that make a difference. This episode is about taking those critical steps towards a future where Border Patrol agents are empowered with the right tools and information, seamlessly delivered through innovative networks and interagency cooperation. With mesh networks and metadata taking center stage, we dissect the need for unified standards and efficient data usage that will not just meet but exceed the evolving demands of field operations. Join us for a conversation that is as much about the technology as it is about the tireless agents who depend on it, and stay tuned for more content that is as enriching as it is essential.

The Future of the U.S. Border Patrol with Border Chief Jason Owens - Part 2 Jan 27, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

Today’s program is the second in a two part series that features U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and former CBP Commissioner David Aguilar discussing border security threats and requirements.

In this episode, Chief Owens outlines his top border challenges and priorities for 2024. This discussion took place at the Annual HSDF Border Security Symposium in Washington DC on December 12th, 2023.

Discover the untold frontline stories as we wrap up our intense conversation with US Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and former CBP Commissioner David Aguilar. They take us behind the scenes of the complex challenges and evolving threats that agents face daily, from the strategic use of technology to combatting cartel tactics. Chief Owens sheds light on how AI and biometrics are revolutionizing border security operations and agent safety, while physical and virtual barriers aid in extending critical response times. Learn about the sobering realities of drone warfare at the border, and why sophisticated countermeasures are essential in this high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
Feel the weight of responsibility shouldered by our border patrol agents as they navigate the harsh, often isolated landscapes that are their beats. This episode goes deep into the unseen battles against violence, the harsh elements, and the dangers of fentanyl exposure. We examine the complexities and strains of detention and processing, discussing why streamlining custody transfers is vital to operational effectiveness. Plus, a special acknowledgment to our industry partners whose innovations in communication and technology are unsung yet integral to safeguarding our nation's borders and the brave men and women who protect them. Join us as we honor these heroes, both on the front lines and behind the scenes, who are dedicated to keeping America secure.

The Future of the U.S. Border Patrol with Border Chief Jason Owens - Part 1 Jan 26, 2024

Show notes

HSDF would love to hear from you!

Today’s program is the first in a two part series that features U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and former CBP Commissioner David Aguilar discussing border security threats and requirements.

Embark on a journey through the complex landscape of border security with US Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and former CBP Commissioner David Aguilar, who illuminate the profound evolution of the US Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security. Their expertise reveals a pivotal shift from traditional concerns of immigration and narcotics to the daunting challenges posed by terrorism and transnational criminal organizations. Grasp the depth of their experience as they dissect the multifaceted nature of managing migration flows from over 100 countries, emphasizing the crucial balance between enforcement and the seamless facilitation of lawful trade and travel.
Dive into the technological vanguard of border patrol operations where the safety and efficiency of officers stand at the forefront. Discover how cutting-edge communication technology and innovations like edge computing are revolutionizing the way officers navigate the perils of diverse terrains and remote areas lacking reliable communication infrastructure. In this episode, we also unravel the transformative impact of the ATAC platform and other initiatives at the Homeland Security and Defense Forum, illustrating the strides being made to equip our service members with the tools necessary to excel in an increasingly digital era. Join us for an enlightening discussion that unpacks the complexities of border security and spotlights the remarkable solutions that keep our borders—and those who guard them—safe and sound.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected