Benjamin Bryant

🌟 A Veteran's Perspective: How Data-Driven Support Transforms My VA Experience 🌟 As a proud veteran and beneficiary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services, I am continually inspired by the transformative power of data-driven support in enhancing my total business experiences within the VA ecosystem. 🇺🇸💼 The personalized care and seamless journey I have experienced at the VA are a direct result of their strategic use of data analytics. From streamlined healthcare access to tailored educational benefits and career guidance, every interaction is optimized to meet my unique needs as a veteran. 📊💡 Through data-driven insights, the VA ensures that my benefits are processed efficiently, my appointments are scheduled promptly, and my overall well-being is prioritized. The commitment to leveraging data to improve services has not only made my experience as a veteran more convenient but also more meaningful and impactful. 🌟🤝 I am grateful for the VA's dedication to empowering veterans like myself through data-driven support. By continuously refining their services based on data analysis, the VA exemplifies a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for those who have served our country. 🙌🎖️ #VeteranVoices #DataTransforms #CustomerExperience #VAExcellence

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Embracing uncertainty as a catalyst for growth. Change is never easy, but it’s inevitable—and it often holds the keys to our greatest opportunities. Across the federal government, we find ourselves at the cusp of a new chapter. While transitions may bring questions and challenges, they also open doors for innovation, fresh perspectives, and breaking down barriers that once seemed insurmountable. In times like these, it’s vital to approach uncertainty with a mindset of growth. Change challenges us to rethink old frameworks, adapt to new realities, and forge stronger connections across teams and organizations. Whether you're in the public or private sector, this is a moment to lean into the possibilities. Let’s ask ourselves: What new paths can we pave? What untapped ideas can we bring forward? And how can we collaborate to build something even better for the future? Transitions may test us, but they also give us the chance to lead with courage, curiosity, and a commitment to progress. What opportunities do you see on the horizon during this season of change?

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Today, I’m proud to announce the launch of our collaboration with the Partnership for Public Service to enhance their Agency Performance Dashboard.   This critical tool now provides a comprehensive snapshot of more than 30 major federal agencies, offering insights into workforce composition, employee experience, budgetary resources, and information-technology maturity. By powering these dashboards, we're enabling agency leaders, congressional offices, and other stakeholders to accurately identify areas of focus, better inform management goals and decisions, and assist new political appointees in learning more about their agencies on day one.   As we navigate the current presidential transition, this tool becomes even more vital. We're honored to play a role in fostering data-driven decision-making and organizational health across government.   Check out the Agency Performance Dashboard today: https://lnkd.in/exAjjerG

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Just back from the Federal Executive Institute and still processing all the revelations and growth. So many amazing government workers doing good works for citizens world wide. Some key nuggets: 1. Pause. 2. Embrace discomfort over resentment 3. Change is progressive. 4. Know thy self 5. Be fully engaged in all aspects of life I highly recommend for personal and professional growth. https://lnkd.in/enf66kkk

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I was thrilled to learn that the U.S. Department of State plans to establish three Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (#FFRDCs): public-private partnerships that conduct innovative R&D for their USG sponsors on topics that cannot be effectively met by the government or the private sector alone. FFRDCs are required to have a long-term strategic relationship with the agency that supports them, allowing the FFRDC to recruit and retain scientific and technical expertise, conduct R&D to meet the needs of the sponsoring agency; and offer independent scientific and technical advice. From my days as an FSO at State and as a consultant on national security and technology for the past five years, I’ve strongly advocated for State to join its Executive Branch brethren – Commerce, NIST, DOD, NSA, Energy, HHS, DHS, NIH, Treasury, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, NASA, NSF, the Social Security Administration, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission – in establishing an FFRDC. This was a recommendation I encouraged the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence to include in its 2021 Final Report to the White House and Congress, so it’s heartening to see State finally proceed.  Better late than never! State wants to create three FFRDCs to conduct R&D on: (1) Operational support for acquisition planning and development for new technologies; and operational analysis to identify institutional and capability gaps and how to fill them; (2) Emerging threats, concept exploration, and experimentation and evaluation, developing new concepts, models, prototypes, and proof-of-concept demonstrations, and test-beds, and (3) #IT and #Cyber Operations. I hope this important step, when implemented, will facilitate two more steps that State should take to be a global leader on technology for diplomacy for the rest of the 21st century: (1) Establish an in-house “Technology for Diplomacy” R&D lab that builds off of the FFRDC's work, to conduct internal R&D, prototyping, scaling, and deploying of #AI and other emerging technologies that empower American diplomats, and (2) Fund "Small Business Innovation Research" (#SBIR) Grants to leverage the innovative and entrepreneurial talents of U.S. small technology companies to offer their own innovative tech ideas to bolster US diplomacy and build a private sector constituency for the State Department in America’s vibrant tech startup ecosystems. All of this in due time. The immediate next step is for innovation stakeholders (like FedTech) to give feedback on the proposed scope of the work to be performed by the FFRDCs and on already-existing capabilities in these areas that the Department should consider. Exciting to see State make a long-term commitment to #innovation #technology #entrepreneurism #startups #diplomacy #natsec #leadership.

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📢 Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering office unveils latest #APFIT winners. US Army partnered projects lead with ~$46M, USSOCOM partnered projects land $36.1M. "The purpose of the APFIT pilot program is to expeditiously transition technologies into production, and to accelerate the fielding of needed technologies to the warfighter, with priority given to technologies developed by small businesses and nontraditional defense contractors." #defenseinnovation #defensetechnology #defensefunding

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The FY25 NDAA has now passed the House & Senate is headed to the President to be signed into law. There are dozens of notable provisions for AUVSI — Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International members in the bill, but I’ll call out a few of particular interest here: -- Funding for Drone Detection & Mitigation is increased by $336.442M across multiple budget lines (Army, USAF, USN, etc.) for homeland defense and OCONUS investments, totaling more than $1.7B. There are also multiple sections (Sections 353, 925, 1073, 1089, & 1090) in the bill related to DoD cUxV policy changes, largely demanding better coordination and planning. Of note, no expansion of federal authority or delegation of cUAS authority to SLTT. FY25 CR has an extension of existing authorities until March '25. Expect action on expansion of authorities in early 2025. -- There is support for the development of a more robust, secure, and resilient supply chain for critical technologies and the bill bolsters U.S. competitiveness acknowledging the threats posed by PRC drones and ground robotics and advances efforts to transition the U.S. away from such dependencies. -- Much needed AUVSI-backed language requiring industry and government cooperation on Unmanned Maritime Autonomy Architecture is included. -- Key initiatives and program offices supporting the rapid integration of UxS technologies to the warfighter, including DIU, AFWERX Prime, Replicator acquisition and others are funded at or above requested levels. Now we just need the defense appropriations bill to pass, which looks like it'll be in March 2025. AUVSI’s full statement, released when the bill text dropped on Dec 7, can be found here: https://lnkd.in/gHdAVeur The future of defense will be driven by autonomous systems, and AUVSI, as the tip of spear for our members, is committed to leading the way. Looking forward to a very busy, very exciting 2025.

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Greatful for the opportunities DoD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office has given me to learn and grow as a professional!

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Small Business Webinar Series!

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Exciting news for our Maryland’s Defense Tech Sector. Today, Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland congressional delegation announced a powerful collaboration between the Maryland Department of Commerce and TEDCO to expand the Defense Technology Commercialization Center (DefTech), further solidifying Maryland’s position as a leader in defense innovation! This partnership aims to provide Maryland startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses with the tools and expertise needed to partner with Department of Defense (DoD) labs, driving growth in both the defense and innovation sectors. Through DefTech, Maryland-based companies will gain access to an array of resources, including: *DefTech Academy & Certification – Comprehensive training on working with federal labs *Pre-Lab Engagement Training – Preparing for effective collaboration *DoD Funding Opportunities – Unlock the financial support your business needs *Private DoD Lab Engagements – Direct connections with DoD labs and personnel *DefTech Executives in Residence – Mentorship and strategic guidance Private Office Hours – Personalized support and consulting DefTech has already made a significant impact, with over 100 federal lab researchers trained on the benefits of working with businesses on technology and product development. The program is now poised to support 30 active startups and small businesses with technology transfer and commercialization opportunities, helping them turn cutting edge innovations into real-world solutions. This expansion is a game changer, strengthening our defense industrial base and creating endless opportunities for collaboration, growth, and innovation. We’re excited to see Maryland's defense tech ecosystem thrive as more companies join DefTech and build partnerships that will shape the future of defense technology. #DefTech #MarylandInnovation #DefenseTech #TechCommercialization #SmallBusiness #DoD #MarylandBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #GovMoore #TEDCO #TechTransfer Troy Stovall Tammi Thomas John Gilstrap Stephen Rice Jerel Registre Ricardo Benn Kimberly Mentzell

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We have the opportunity to collaborate with some of the best technology companies in the industry to match capabilities to critical government needs. In discussion with government, one of the common questions that you will hear is, "What TRL is the technology." Technology Readiness Level, or TRL, determines whether a technology in mature enough to include in a larger system. In 1999, the GAO published an influential report called, Best Practices: Better Management of Technology Can Improve Weapon System Outcomes. This report concluded that using immature technology increased program risk and recommended wider use of TRLs. The revised and reissued report is a great reminder of best practices for evaluating the readiness of technology for use in acquisition programs and projects. The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering also published a Technology Readiness Assessment Guidebook in June 2023. C5BDI Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering NavalXDoD SBIR/STTR Program Office Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Marine Corps Systems Command

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Excellent podcast, Scott J. Allen, Ph.D. Every engagement with our Teams is an opportunity to exercise, practice, promote, improve & empower our teammates towards agency, efficacy & belonging (A, E & B). ❤️🤍💙 the reminder that well-being is subjective & tips on “micro-exchanges”, “resetting” when we make mistakes & ways to connect or overcome our differences/barriers that may be impeding A, E & B. Favorite lines: tend the garden, deposit into our Teammates’ emotional bank accounts, fill their cups, how Teams can thrive when we tend the field together & how able we are to give grace when our own banks 🏦 are full, but how easily we jump to conclusions or spare grace when they’re not. Well done, Change Agents Dave Levy 👏Matthew Horner Matthew Orlowsky Daphne DePorres

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🚨 🚨 🚨 I want to share a recent report for FY23 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs expenditures. 🚨 🚨 🚨   The National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics (NCVAS) publishes the annual Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures (GDX) Report. The GDX report provides a breakdown of VA expenditures for each major VA program at the state, county, and Congressional District levels. Of note:   #Texas is the #1StateInTheUS for total Veteran population with 1,534,356 (CA is #2 with 1,487,167).   Bexar County moved ahead of Cook County Government (@Chicago) to #5CountyInTheUS for total Veteran population with 156,023 Veterans (behind #1 Maricopa, AZ; #2 Los Angeles, CA; #3 San Diego, CA; and #4 Harris, TX; I believe we will surpass Harris County in the next 5yrs).   #BexarCounty was the #1CountyInTheUS for total VA expenditure to residents with a total of $2,400,929,000 (that's #BILLIONS; that's across all organizations that process claims for Bexar County residents, so includes us, VA, Texas Veterans Commission, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), etc.)   Bexar County brought in #MoreCompensationAndPension** (see below) money than 33 states / territories in the US!!!   Needless to say, I'm proud of the work this team at Bexar County Department of Military and Veterans Services does for the great people we support in the great community where we live.    Much thanks to the County leadership for the support you provide to us on a recurring basis, and kudos to the great community partners we get to work with on a daily basis! None of this happens without y'all!! #GetBexar #StayBexar #BexarVets #HaveFunMakingADifference #LetsGetToWork **NOTE: The Compensation and Pension (C&P) category includes expenditures for the following categories: compensation payments, pension payments, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, and burial allowances. Most expenditures reported in this category reflect monthly payments made to individuals. Retroactive payments and one-time payments are also included. U.S. Army Soldier For Life | Marine For Life Network | Texas Workforce Commission | Texas Veterans Land Board | Texas Veterans Network Powered by Combined Arms | City of San Antonio | City of San Antonio Military and Veteran Affairs Department | Thomas | Shawn | Charles | Mike | Steven | Calvin | Lloyd | Nancy | Eymi

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WHAT CONTRACTORS CAN EXPECT FROM THE ELECTION The Presidential and Congressional elections will definitely re-shape the federal market in ways both immediate and longer-term. Here are the top five things contractors and their government customers can expect: 1.     Expect FY’25 appropriations to be moved into calendar year 2025. The incoming Senate and White House will want to have a say on how money is allocated from day one. A Republican-controlled House with new members will want the same thing. Expect another CR, perhaps lasting into March, to give them time to do that. This is not an ideal outcome for government agencies or contractors but is similar to what happened in FY’24. That could actually be a “best case” scenario, however, as another possible outcome is a year-long CR.     2.     Expect New Priorities:  President Trump campaigned on improving American infrastructure, curtailing illegal immigration, and improving the economy. He has also supported tariffs for overseas goods and his first term was marked by efforts to drive increased domestic manufacturing. These priorities could present opportunities and challenges to government contractors. Any companies with secure domestic supply chains may find themselves at an advantage, as would any that have technology or other solutions to clamp down on illegal border crossings.    3.     Expect New People: Existing appointees, such as GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan and de facto OFPP Administrator Christine Harada will be leaving their posts between now and January 20th. Thousands of other appointees, including most civilian DOD officials and even some CIO’s, will be joining them. A new team, with the priorities of the new administration, will be coming in. Getting to know these people and their missions will be important.   4.     Expect Rules to Change: The Biden Administration’s use of the federal acquisition system to address socio-economic and other goals will now largely come to a halt. This could mean an end to new Greenhouse Gas, sustainable acquisition, and related rule makings. Recently implemented rules in this area may also be repealed or halted. President Trump, however, may want to use the acquisition system for other purposes, such as national security and Buy American campaigns. Watch this space.   5.     Expect Career Federal Workers To Be On Edge:   During his first term, President Trump proposed a “Schedule F” for some federal workers that would essentially make them “at will” employees.  The President has also said that he wants to try again to decentralize the federal workforce by moving more jobs out of Washington, D.C. This all matters to federal contractors because it creates stress and uncertainty among those they’re trying to work with. This could slow the pace of both business and operations actions.

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New Hub-and-Spokes post! 🚀 Capitalizing on Critical Technologies: DoD's Office of Strategic Capital and its Plan to Secure America’s Strategic Edge Three key stories shaping U.S. defense and Indo-Pacific alliances this week: 1️⃣ DoD's Office of Strategic Capital Unveils 2025 Investment Plan Focused on supporting critical technologies and national security priorities, OSC's new strategy aims to catalyze private investment in sectors crucial to America’s edge. 2️⃣ $3.6B Sale of Air-to-Air Missiles to Japan A significant step in bolstering U.S.-Japan defense cooperation with the sale of AMRAAMs, ensuring the security of U.S. personnel and regional stability. 3️⃣ NSA Jake Sullivan’s Capstone Trip to India Sullivan's visit underscores the growing U.S.-India relationship, focusing on space cooperation, nuclear collaboration, and emerging technologies. #Defense #NationalSecurity #Technology #USIndia #USJapan #Investment #StrategicAlliances https://lnkd.in/euN3a_Bb

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