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Ginnie Mae Awards CGI BPA to Establish Digital Transformation Strategy; Stefan Becker Quoted
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Ginnie Mae Awards CGI BPA to Establish Digital Transformation Strategy; Stefan Becker Quoted

CGI has been awarded a one-year blanket purchase agreement (BPA) by the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support the Digital Asset Management Solution (DAMS). The BPA has included four option years.

“DAMS will enable Ginnie Mae to digitally transform its document and records management operations and prepare for future technology platforms,” said CGI Federal SVP Stefan Becker.

Under the BPA, CGI will help Ginnie Mae establish an enterprise-wide strategy for document, record and content management to support the digital transformation of the agency’s operations and enhance the user experience of its stakeholders, as part of Ginnie Mae’s overall systems modernization strategy.

CGI will help build a strategic roadmap that will drive the technical direction and integration of the organization’s document, records and content management capabilities. CGI’s support will enable data to be more easily searchable, discoverable, and accessible across enterprise systems.

In addition, the roadmap also will support Ginnie Mae’s ongoing use and evolution of cloud services and data ingestion automation. In addition, it will enhance the agency’s ability to control document and data access in accordance with security and data privacy requirements, such as the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) guidelines.

“CGI is proud to help Ginnie Mae modernize its digital asset management operations. This work will help its stakeholders better manage risk and deliver capital to housing markets servicing first time homebuyers, veterans and those in rural America,” Becker added.

About CGI Federal

CGI Federal Inc. is a wholly-owned U.S. operating subsidiary of CGI Inc., dedicated to partnering with federal agencies to provide solutions for defense, civilian, healthcare and intelligence missions. Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world.

With 77,500 consultants and other professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. With Fiscal 2019 reported revenue of C$12.1 billion, CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB).

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Lockheed Martin Wins Contract to Deliver LUSV Study for US Navy; Joe DePietro, Richard McCreary Quoted
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Lockheed Martin Wins Contract to Deliver LUSV Study for US Navy; Joe DePietro, Richard McCreary Quoted

The U.S. Navy has awarded Lockheed Martin a $7 million contract to deliver a study for a proven, integrated and capable payload ship that will be able to patrol for extended durations, under the U.S. Navy’s Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (LUSV) competition, Lockheed Martin reported on Thursday.

“The Lockheed Martin team brings together nearly 200 years of combined experience in shipbuilding, integration, automation and autonomy,” said Joe DePietro, vice president and general manager of Small Combatants and Ship Systems for Lockheed Martin. “Our team is energized by and focused on delivering the Navy what they’ve asked for – a design for an affordable, low-risk ship capable of bringing the Navy’s Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) vision to life.”

As prime contractor, Lockheed Martin will manage the program, deliver platform integration, systems engineering, combat management, automation and cyber solutions. Lockheed Martin has partnered with Vigor Works, who will serve as the shipbuilder.

The company’s design will use a proven commercial ship that will be augmented with automation, autonomy and cybersecurity elements to house a payload. The design will leverage Lockheed Martin’s autonomy and automation experience, including the proven platform-agnostic Sikorsky MATRIX technology and AXIS control technology.

Sikorsky MATRIX has been used to fly a helicopter from a wireless tablet. AXIS control technology has been used in more than half of the U.S. Navy surface ships to manage engineering and machinery controls.

“We are honored to be part of the Lockheed Martin team and to leverage our extensive fabrication expertise, including previously building 16 USVs of various designs and sizes,” said Richard McCreary, Vigor vice president of Business Development. “We are ready to deliver a concept design that will help the Navy deploy a safe, efficient and affordable LUSV fleet for the future.”

Lockheed Martin will deliver the study within 12 months in advance of the next phase of the competition, the Navy’s LUSV Detailed Design & Construction competition.

Lockheed Martin Wins Contract to Deliver LUSV Study for US Navy; Joe DePietro, Richard McCreary Quoted

Potomac Officers Club will host its 2020 Navy Forum on September 30th. Click here to register for the event.

James Geurts
James Geurts

James Geurts, Assistant Secretary for Research, Development, and Acquisition with the U.S. Navy and 2020 Wash100 Award recipient will serve as a keynote speaker during the event. Geurts will discuss how the U.S. Navy has continually worked to decentralize, differentialize and digitize the service branch’s work as well as develop its talent in the field. 

The Navy has also accelerated acquisition channels, modernized emerging technologies and increased research and development to become more effective in warfare. As the Navy continues to evolve to meet the growing demands, challenges still remain. 

Join Potomac Officers Club’s 2020 Navy Forum to hear notable industry and federal leaders discuss the initiatives, efficiencies and challenges the service branch faces as well as how to join together to improve the future of warfare. Click here to register for the 2020 Navy Forum.

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DVS Appoints Douglas Boufford as EVP of Federal Civilian Programs; Michael McHugh Quoted
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DVS Appoints Douglas Boufford as EVP of Federal Civilian Programs; Michael McHugh Quoted

DirectViz Solutions (DVS) has appointed Douglas Boufford as the company’s executive vice president of Federal Civilian Programs, effective immediately, the company reported on Wednesday.

“As part of his support to DVS’ growth team, Mr. Boufford will help expand our existing federal civilian footprint,” said Michael McHugh, DVS CEO. “This new role supports DVS’ transition from a small business into a large systems integrator. His experience and background will help us target new agencies for expansion and identify where we can extend our services in agencies where DVS currently operates.”

Boufford will join DVS with more than three decades of experience in providing mission critical Information Technology (IT), professional and technical services to customers across the government sector.

Throughout his career, Boufford has gained experience in developing and implementing strategic plans necessary to promote and meet corporate business development goals. He has a long track record of using effective management practices to focus on maximizing organizational profit and cash goals.

Prior to joining DVS, Boufford served as senior vice president with Sev1Tech. He has also served in senior management positions with Digital Management (DMI), Martin Marietta Services and TECHMATICS Inc.

In the roles, he developed and implemented strategic plans for business development, financial performance and service delivery. During his 21-year tenure with General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), Boufford most recently served as vice president of Justice and Border Security Programs.

“Mr. Boufford has experience developing and implementing the strategic plans necessary to promote and meet corporate business development goals,” added McHugh. “We are excited to have him joining DVS at this critical juncture in our growth, where his established track record will aid our successful transition as DVS graduates from a small business status.”

About DirectViz Solutions

DVS, founded in 2012 as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, started with the vision of delivering innovative technology solutions and high-quality services to meet the federal government’s toughest IT and cybersecurity challenges.

The company recognized a growing demand for technology services in federal civilian and Department of Defense agencies and sought to provide value by responding to customers’ needs in an agile, efficient, responsive, and timely manner while reducing costs normally associated with larger companies.

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Boeing Names Marc Allen as Chief Strategy Officer, Chris Raymond as Chief Sustainability Officer; David Calhoun Quoted
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Boeing Names Marc Allen as Chief Strategy Officer, Chris Raymond as Chief Sustainability Officer; David Calhoun Quoted

The Boeing Company has appointed Marc Allen as chief strategy officer and senior vice president of Strategy and Corporate Development. The company has also named Christopher Raymond as chief sustainability officer. Both appointments will go into effect on Oct. 1.

"Marc is a creative, inclusive and forward-thinking leader whose strategic vision will help Boeing navigate the challenges facing the global aerospace market and position us for long-term success in the future," Boeing president and CEO David Calhoun said. "I'm confident in Marc's ability to help us get right to the key decisions in front of us during this unique time.”

Allen joined Boeing’s Executive Council in 2014 as president of Boeing International. In his new role, he will be responsible for the company’s strategy, including long-term planning; global business and corporate development; and strategic investments, acquisitions and divestitures. 

He most recently served as president of Embraer Partnership and Group Operations, where he led the business and integration teams. Before joining Boeing’s Executive Council, Allen served in leadership positions across the enterprise as president of Boeing Capital Corporation, president of Boeing China, vice president for Global Law Affairs and general counsel to Boeing International.

Raymond will be responsible for further advancing Boeing's approach to sustainability that is focused on environmental, social and governance priorities, stakeholder-oriented reporting and company performance in his newly appointed position. 

He will work within the Enterprise Operations, Finance and Sustainability organization, leading a team that will collaborate across Boeing's commercial, defense and services businesses and its enterprise functions in support of the company's commitment to responsible and inclusive business practices and positive global impact.

Previously, Raymond has led integration efforts for the potential strategic partnership between Boeing and Embraer. He also served as vice president and general manager of Autonomous Systems within Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) among others, and led BDS business development and strategy. He has held leadership assignments in engineering, supply chain management, program management and operations.

"Chris will partner with Dave, myself and the entire Executive Council to bring together our efforts toward environmental stewardship, social progress and values-driven governance from across the enterprise and deliver a truly integrated focus on sustainability… as we continue to elevate and sharpen our focus on sustainability in partnership with our customers as well as across Boeing's operations,” said EVP of Enterprise Operations and CFO Greg Smith. 

About Boeing

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As a top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. 

Boeing employs more than 160,000 people worldwide and leverages the talents of a global supplier base. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.  

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Mark Esper: 5G Key to Pentagon’s Joint All-Domain C2
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Mark Esper: 5G Key to Pentagon’s Joint All-Domain C2

Mark Esper, secretary of the Department of Defense (DoD) and a 2020 Wash100 Award winner, said the development of 5G will play a key role in DoD’s Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) concept, National Defense reported Wednesday.

“This technology can enhance something as simple as virtual reality training or as ambitious as the connectivity of systems for JADC2,” Esper said of 5G during his speech at the Air Force Association’s virtual Air, Space & Cyber Conference on Wednesday.

He said 5G-backed JADC2 will enable the military to share and synchronize data across systems and ground, air, maritime, space and cyber domains. He noted that 5G could help meet one of the goals of the National Defense Strategy by advancing the development of a joint warfighting concept needed to facilitate operations across all domains.

Esper told conference attendees that the U.S. Air Force is leading modernization initiatives for JADC2 and 5G through the Advanced Battle Management System.

“The Air Force is … leading the way with a number of 5G experiments that will assess spectrum sharing, improve aircraft mission readiness and enable air, space and cyberspace lethality,” Esper added.

Mark Esper: 5G Key to Pentagon's Joint All-Domain C2

Hon. Ellen Lord
Hon. Ellen Lord acquisition head DoD

Join Potomac Officers Club for its 5G Summit on Oct. 27, 2020 to learn about the impact that innovative technologies and 5G integration have on the private and public sectors, the steps the federal agencies have taken to remain up to speed with the rapid advancement of technology, and the future programs, plans and priorities as the nation aligns with emerging technology.

Hon. Ellen Lord, undersecretary for acquisition and sustainment at the Department of Defense (DoD) and four-time Wash100 Award recipient, will be featured as the keynote speaker.

Don’t miss out on this must see event! Register here for the 5G Summit on October 27th.

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Treasury Advances Financial Mgmt Shared Services Modernization; David Lebryk Quoted
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Treasury Advances Financial Mgmt Shared Services Modernization; David Lebryk Quoted

The Department of the Treasury is working on governmentwide standards for shared services and financial management platforms after it was designated as a quality services management office in June 2020, FedScoop reported Wednesday.

David Lebryk, fiscal assistant secretary of the Treasury, said one of the challenges the department needs to address as a QSMO is the integration of core financial management systems to facilitate data sharing.

“Today each agency is really pretty much on their own in this process and therefore, not surprisingly, there have been various outcomes,” Lebryk told the publication. “Some have been successful, and some have not been so successful implementing core financial systems or replacing core financial systems.”

The Treasury QSMO currently operates with six personnel and Lebryk said the fully staffed office will have about 12 employees.

“Hopefully by 2022 we’ll have a fully functional marketplace where agencies actually have the opportunity to select,” Lebryk added.

According to the report, Treasury is coordinating with the General Services Administration (GSA) to come up with a schedule of modern platforms to help agencies automate financial data sharing and access.

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GAO: VA Should Address Cybersecurity, IT Modernization Challenges
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GAO: VA Should Address Cybersecurity, IT Modernization Challenges

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has recommended that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) implement security controls, manage information technology supply chain risks and establish elements of its cybersecurity risk management program as it pursues IT modernization efforts.

GAO said in the report published Wednesday VA has faced challenges when it comes to implementing three IT modernization programs: Veterans Health Information Systems and Technology Architecture (VistA); a system for the Family Caregiver Program; and the Veterans Benefits Management System.

VA has made strides when it comes to achieving data center consolidation goals and improving software licensing but has taken limited actions to enhance chief information officer’s authorities and improve risk management of IT investments in compliance with the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA).

“Until the department implements the act’s provisions, Congress’ ability to effectively monitor VA’s progress and hold it fully accountable for reducing duplication and achieving cost savings will be hindered,” GAO said.

Secret Service Conducts Ransomware Simulation Event
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Secret Service Conducts Ransomware Simulation Event

The U.S. Secret Service held a virtual training activity that sought to help state and local government officials prepare against cyberattacks. USSS said Tuesday it simulated a cyber incident to help the participants understand how to handle ransomware attacks.

"Today’s simulation gives us a chance to learn about each other’s processes, strengths and successes, and capitalize on each other’s lessons learned so that we can move more effectively when the time comes to respond," said  James Murray, director at USSS.

The event also showcased discussions on various topics such as cyber-threat environments and USSS' investigative processes. Ransomware refers to a type of malware that prevents users to access a system or data until a specific "ransom" has been paid.

DOE Picks 12 Projects Under Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Dev’t Effort
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DOE Picks 12 Projects Under Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Dev’t Effort

The Department of Energy will award $34M in funds to 12 projects that will cover the development of small-scale solid oxide fuel cell systems that employ solid oxide electrolyzer cell technologies.

DOE said Tuesday it aims to drive the usage of SOFC hybrid systems for power generation and hydrogen production through the funding opportunity.

“SOFCs are electrochemical devices that convert the chemical energy of a fuel and oxidant directly into electrical energy," said Steven Winberg, assistant secretary for fossil energy at DOE. 

"They are unique in that they produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction and not through a combustion process,”  Winberg added.

The awardees achieved top scores in their respective areas of interest to join the selection. 

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DHS Agencies Launch Toolkit for IPAWS Alert System Planning
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DHS Agencies Launch Toolkit for IPAWS Alert System Planning

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology (DHS S&T) Directorate have published a new toolkit intended to help local and state communities implement a certain warning system. 

The “Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) Program Planning Toolkit" is designed to guide authorities in using IPAWS, a FEMA-supported local alerting system, DHS said Tuesday.

IPAWS sends alerts and emergency-related information to notify the masses about ongoing catastrophes. The system uses other platforms, such as Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System, to send notifications to televisions, radios and mobile phones.

FEMA and S&T based the toolkit on the latest technologies applicable to alerting systems and public safety.

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