Mock IT

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NASA's Evolution & SEWP's Success: Joanne Woytek Shares Insights | Mock IT Podcast Oct 30, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Joanne Woytek, one of the leaders behind the NASA's Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) Program, a U.S. Government-Wide Acquisition Contract. Joanne shares how she's witnessed NASA's technological evolution over the decades, from her early days as a NASA mathematician to leading the SEWP Program.

Joanne reflects on the early days of SEWP, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how a pilot project grew into a major procurement vehicle. She also discusses the program's future direction as technology continues to advance and offers insights for those looking to take on leadership roles in tech and government.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Joanne opens up about her personal journey—balancing her career with advocacy work and reconnection with the LGBTQIA+ community.

LINKS:

+ MetroStar: https://bit.ly/3NhtasC

+ Rhino Ramblings Blog: https://bit.ly/4eJp9Jt

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Hustling in Georgetown to leading at the Department of Defense (DOD) | Mock IT Podcast Oct 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we meet Danielle Metz, a leader who moved to Washington DC at 24 with just a car full of belongings and a determination to make it. She shares her inspiring story of hustling for her first job, knowing when to walk away when she wasn't valued, and battling imposter syndrome in high-stakes leadership roles. We explore her leadership style as Director of Information Management and Technology, her key influences, and the challenges of leading diverse teams. Plus, we discuss digital modernization at the DoD and the delicate balance of budgeting for innovation. LINKS: + MetroStar: https://bit.ly/3ZWsS1F + Follow Danielle: https://bit.ly/3U47BiN The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Driving Gov't Change with Acting Deputy Chief Digital and AI Officer for Acquisitions | Mock IT Podcast Oct 02, 2024

Show notes

We sat down with Bonnie Evangelista, a trailblazer in government acquisitions and digital innovation. As the Acting Deputy Chief Digital and AI Officer for Acquisitions at the Department of Defense (DoD) Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office, Bonnie shares insights into how she navigates the complex world of government acquisitions, leveraging emerging technologies to drive modernization. Bonnie walks us through her career journey, from her early days studying at Virginia Tech (#Hokies) to becoming one of the driving forces behind initiatives like the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace—a digital platform that connects the DoD with cutting-edge solutions from industry, academia, and individuals. She also reflects on her time as the host of Defensive Mavericks, the CDAO podcast, and how you never know what experiences will pop up in your career. But Bonnie isn't all government—we chat about her family's winery and what it's like to have a life in the vineyard. Enjoy! LINKS: + Bonnie: https://bit.ly/4dsnbf5 + MetroStar: https://bit.ly/3TNSTMQ + Tradewinds: https://bit.ly/3zHx7n5 The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. 0:00 Intro 1:54 Hosting CDAO's Podcast 9:55 Talking about AI 12:48 Resistance to Tech 15:22 Recruitment in Acquisitions 17:39 Getting a Job in Government 23:00 Asking Questions as a Skill 26:29 Cost Analysis for the TSA 29:44 Mentorship 34:16 Your Sphere of Control 38:24 Tradewinds 46:37 Protests in Tradewinds 50:17 Contract Vehicles in Tradewinds 54:15 Owning a Winery

Thoughts with Director of Missile and Space Intelligence Center and the Defense Intelligence Agency | Mock IT Podcast Sep 18, 2024

Show notes

We're joined by Steven Rush, the Director of the Missile and Space Intelligence Center (MSIC) at the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). With an impressive tenure at the DIA and a career that spans both military and government roles, Steven shares his career journey from military service to leading one of the most technically advanced centers in the intelligence community. Steven offers his perspective on current global threats and advises on leading in a high-stakes environment. And when the stress of the job builds up? He explains how he unwinds after long days safeguarding national security. And, for a fun twist, Steven talks about his love for Buc-ee's, the beloved roadside destination. Tune in for a mix of leadership insights, global security, and a touch of Southern charm!

LINKS:

+ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3MO4mIn

+ Steven Rush's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4eJMPx9

00:00 Welcome to Mock IT!

01:28 Steven Rush's Career Journey

05:02 Leadership as a Veteran

12:57 Responsibility in Troubled Times

15:02 Translating Tech Topics

18:42 Policy vs. Practice

21:37 From CFO to Director

25:38 Adapting after the Pandemic

28:03 Recommended Training/Skills

31:08 Culture and Soft Skills

32:42 Mentorship in the IC and DoD

38:58 Balancing Bureaucracy

44:04 Public Service and Higher Purpose

46:47 Decompressing and Managing Stress

51:22 Buc-ee's

54:12 Work/Life Balance

Insights on Diversity, Innovation, and Future Public Service Leaders with Brian Whittaker | Mock IT Podcast Sep 04, 2024

Show notes

Join us for a conversation with Brian Whittaker, the visionary behind Humans of Public Service. Brian shares his insights on navigating a career in government, helping listeners understand how to determine the right path and role within public service. We chat about the critical conversations around diversity and inclusion, highlighting their importance in fostering innovation across various job sectors.

Brian also touches on the generational shifts within the workforce, discussing the crucial aspect of understanding and meeting the unique wants and needs of the next generation of public servants. As a dedicated public servant himself, Brian created Humans of Public Service to shine a light on the positive impact of those working in government, offering a platform to celebrate their contributions and share their stories. This episode is a deep dive into the heart of public service, innovation, and the future of government work.

LINKS:

+ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4dNdF7k

+ Humans of Public Service: https://bit.ly/4ganltZ

+ Humans of Public Service Instagram: https://bit.ly/47avRFo

Mastering Government Careers | Soraya Correa on Job Changes, Innovation, and Purpose-Driven Work Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Soraya Correa, a seasoned leader in government service and current President and CEO of National Industries for the Blind, to explore strategies for building a fulfilling career in the public sector. Soraya shares her expert advice on thoughtfully changing jobs within the government, ensuring a career path with no regrets. She also delves into the intricacies of navigating the federal job application process and offers insights into launching an innovation lab within a bureaucratic environment. If you're interested in a procurement, nonprofit, or government service careers, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration.

LINKS:

+ MetroStar's Innovation Lab: https://bit.ly/4cvGT9l

+ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4dtgJW2

+ Soraya Correa's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3X8RyCg

Roundtable: Execs Share Insights from 25 Years of Leadership May 01, 2024

Show notes

Don't miss out on this exclusive episode of Mock IT, dedicated to celebrating MetroStar's 25 years of business. Five Executives from different backgrounds share their insights in this fast-paced episode. What are their personal mantras? How do they define leadership? Tune in to hear the answers and more.

More MetroStar:

Careers: https://mss.fyi/3UCjkGa

LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/3UE8EH1

Lately.AI CEO Chats Career and Making GenAI Personal Apr 03, 2024

Show notes

Kate Bradley Chernis is the Founder & CEO of Lately.AI, which identifies the makeup of the highest possible performing social media messaging for your target audience and generates posts that contain that content in your unique voice. AKA, her team is making GenAI personal for your brand.

We're serving up piping hot information on pitfalls of working in Corporate America, this new age of AI, and how to find your the right career. All guaranteed to keep you entertained from start to finish! From hilarious anecdotes to thought-provoking discussions, buckle up for a rollercoaster ride of an episode with Kate.

MORE METROSTAR

+Website: https://mss.fyi/4aXoZMv

+LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/49jN26R

PEOPLE

+Kate: https://mss.fyi/43MibPq

+Rachel: https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5

+Liz: https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6

LINKS

+ Lately.AI: https://mss.fyi/3vKjoKb

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Content Warning: Episodes of Mock IT Podcast and YouTube channel may, at times, cover sensitive topics including but not limited to sexual harassment and more. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be adversely impacted by these topics.

"I felt Unqualified" | Redefining the Path to Leadership with HR Leader Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

Meet MetroStar's Leslie Knope. From a six-week contract a decade ago to the Sr. Vice President of People and Culture, Debbie Peterson knows the ins and outs of her company. In this episode, Debbie shares when to be vulnerable with your employees and coworkers and when to "girl boss." We discuss navigating COVID-19 mandates, becoming a hybrid company, keeping culture alive while experiencing growth, and more.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

METROSTAR:

Work with us: https://mss.fyi/42IxbgB

Explore MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49y5fOQ

PEOPLE

More with Rachel: ⁠https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5⁠

More with Liz: ⁠https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6⁠

More with Debbie: https://mss.fyi/3T4yh2N

Inspiring Inclusion on International Women's Day Feb 07, 2024

Show notes

It's International Women's Day Season! Last year's panelist Essye Miller and host Ashley Brush joined Mock IT to dish out all the details on what's in store for this year's event. We also chatted about everything from mastering those tricky office chats (because, let's face it, sometimes you owe it to yourself and others to have those tough conversations) to navigating the wildness that comes with being a woman in the tech/gov industry. And hey, we even had a heart-to-heart about knowing when to give yourself a little sprinkle of self-love and when to roll up your sleeves and dive headfirst into the hustle. So, our fierce listeners, let's strut into IWD with our heads held high, our hearts open wide, and our spirits shining bright. We're unstoppable, we're fabulous, and together, we're rewriting the script of success. Join us on March 8 in person in Reston and virtually HERE on YouTube. Register now! https://mss.fyi/4bvuJ0L + UPCOMING EVENTS: IWD 2024: ⁠https://mss.fyi/4bvuJ0L + METROSTAR: Website: ⁠https://bit.ly/3w7cYVw LinkedIn: ⁠https://mss.fyi/495aYuZ ⁠ + PEOPLE: Essye:⁠ https://mss.fyi/481ioi4 Ashley: https://mss.fyi/3HPXYhm Rachel: ⁠https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5⁠ Liz: ⁠https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6⁠

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