Mock IT

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.

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.

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

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 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 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

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 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.

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 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.

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

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.

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: Register for #IWD Event: https://bit.ly/3T4y6Vb + 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

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

So, you're interested in Research and Development (R&D)? This is the episode for you. We chatted with Johhny Bouder about how he landed in the world of R&D and his work on open-source projects. Beyond talking about his techy prowess, we learned that you might find him in a mosh pit, or if you're having a dinner party, he may just bring you homemade cheese. + METROSTAR: Website: https://mss.fyi/428WRCG LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/495aYuZ + PEOPLE: Johnny: https://mss.fyi/3UbCDWP Rachel: https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5 Liz: https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6 + UPCOMING EVENTS: IWD 2024: https://mss.fyi/3u1mFnL

Hannah Hunt, a Distinguished Technical Fellow, joined Mock IT to discuss her passion for government and how she had known since sixth grade that she wanted to be a part of the industry. If you're curious about government start-ups, navigating the fast-paced trajectory of your career, and the fascinating idea of data as a product, then this episode is a must-listen. But it's not all serious business; We also chat about what Taylor Swift-era Hannah has chosen for herself and a little (okay, a lot) about Harry Potter. More MetroStar: https://mss.fyi/3tMp3OY - Follow Rachel: https://mss.fyi/3tJWWA5 Follow Liz: https://mss.fyi/3tPobt6 Follow Hannah: https://mss.fyi/3U1OQxc

Social media is not easy! Brooke B. Sellas, founder and CEO of B Squared Media, shares tips and tricks to make your social media and the digital customer journey and experience shine. Listen to learn more about her "Think Conversation, Not Campaign" approach. - Follow Brooke + B Squared: https://mss.fyi/3RXWwiH Download The State of Social Care 2023: https://mss.fyi/3RDt6Fp Read Conversations That Connect: https://mss.fyi/3RBAgK3 - Explore MetroStar: https://mss.fyi/3NGYEZE

Dale is the CEO and Founder of Fire&Spark - where he helps e-commerce and B2B brands compete against established competitors for search traffic. With a unique focus on content marketing and analytics, Dale shares his insights into the wonderful world of SEO and how AI plays a factor. See more about Dale: https://mss.fyi/46R90go Follow MetroStar: https://mss.fyi/41i9BXf

Ryan Lewis is a Partner at SRI Ventures, a global leader in research and development. As a co-founder of tech companies and a member of several boards, Ryan shares his immense knowledge of startups and what makes them work. Don't forget to follow along: + MetroStar LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/47BfL71 + MetroStar Instagram: https://mss.fyi/47VZKs2 + Ryan's LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/3N74jYR

Pamela Aimee Leins, the Executive Director of the Boston Education Fund (BEDF), is a Bostonian, leader, strategist, connector, public servant, and barbershop owner (to name a few). In this episode, she shares her personal journey from being a first-generation Latina to becoming an Executive Director. We also gained insight into her recent project, EdQuity Boston, an initiative to transform educational equity through the fusion of participatory grantmaking and philanthropy. About BEDF: The Boston Education Fund is a 501(c)3 K-12 education fund, serving as the fiscal sponsor and fundraising partner of Boston Public Schools. Explore Pam's LinkedIn: https://mss.fyi/49zOS50 Follow BEDF's Progress: https://mss.fyi/47Ajph0 Follow Pam's Barbershop: https://mss.fyi/3MHCRAs Follow MetroStar: https://mss.fyi/47tGFgK Find a Career at MetroStar: https://mss.fyi/49FhTfq

This week we welcome special guests from Ladies That UX (Rachel Max and Emilie Romero). As DC chapter co-leads for the global organization, the duo shares what members can gain from joining and what they've gained by leading. We also talk about being the only woman in the room, what it means to shift careers, and how to tackle feeling like an imposter. MetroStar Links: ♢ Careers: https://mss.fyi/3zNHSRg ♢ MetroStar's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3zNxCbR ♢ MetroStar's Instagram: https://bit.ly/3moIERB Ladies That UX Links: ♢ Ladies That UX Website: https://www.ladiesthatux.com/washington-dc/ ♢ Ladies That UX, DC Chapter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladies-that-ux/ ♢ Emilie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilie-romero-31717b63/ ♢ Rachel's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelmax/

In this jam-packed episode, guest Taylor Crow, an Associate Systems Engineer, joins Liz and Marie. The trio discusses Chat GPT-4 and the thoughts behind how inclusive can AI really be? They also discuss how we are shaping a more diverse tech culture and what it means to build inclusive spaces. Links: + Careers at MetroStar: https://mss.fyi/3nwONeZ + ODU Blog: https://mss.fyi/3TV6Zen + Taylor's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3lWe69x + Civvies Podcast: https://mss.fyi/3njs1XB

Matt Chwat is an accomplished product & experience design leader. On this episode of Mock IT, he shares his career at ThinkGeek (later GameStop) and discusses the path and skills he needed to go from the world of gaming to government. CSG: http://bit.ly/3Fpbh7J Careers: https://mss.fyi/404GyEP Find Matt: http://bit.ly/3FnF7ct Follow Civvies: https://mss.fyi/3mRTShA

International Women's Day (#IWD) theme this year is Embracing Equity. Ashley Brush and Navi Samra share what MetroStar's annual IWD event means to them, what to expect at the panel, and their thoughts on the theme. Join us for our hybrid event as our moderator facilitates an engaging discussion among speakers to share their journeys as women in technology, how we can work together for a brighter future, and advice to other aspiring women in technology. Register for IWD Panel: https://mss.fyi/3IKBwaE Stay Connected: + Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Tmi4mx + LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3WbxnRz + Listen to Ashley's episode: https://bit.ly/3pYDGcs + Careers: https://mss.fyi/3lSO2vM