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Senate Bill Directs DOD to Promote Competition in AI, Cloud Procurement
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Senate Bill Directs DOD to Promote Competition in AI, Cloud Procurement

Sens. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., have introduced a bipartisan bill that would require the Department of Defense to conduct a competitive award process when procuring artificial intelligence tools and cloud computing platforms.

The Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act “will make sure that as the Department of Defense keeps expanding its use of AI and cloud computing tools, it’s making good deals that will keep our information secure and our government resilient,” Warren said in a statement published Thursday.

What Would the Bill Do?

The legislation would direct DOD to consider cloud services from multiple providers and help ensure that the U.S. government keeps exclusive rights to access and use of all government data.

The proposed measure would require the DOD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office to ensure that government data supplied for the purpose of AI product development and operation will not be used or disclosed without the department’s authorization.

Under the bill, the Pentagon should publish a report every four years on innovation, barriers to entry, competition and market power concentration in the AI sector. The report should offer recommendations for administrative and legislative action.

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GSA Wants to Modernize Federal Procurement Process With New Tech
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GSA Wants to Modernize Federal Procurement Process With New Tech

The General Services Administration’s Acquisition Policy Federal Advisory Committee has convened its first public meeting of 2024, welcoming new members from various professional disciplines.

The latest committee additions include leaders from academia, industry and government, who are expected to contribute expertise in artificial intelligence, engineering and small business innovation, GSA said Thursday.

New Batch of Expert Contributors

The agency identified the new members as: 

  • Dorothea Abraham from William & Mary’s Mason School of Business 
  • Dean Alderucci from Carnegie Mellon University 
  • Tiffany Angulo from the California Department of Technology 
  • Gordon Bitko from the Information Technology Industry Council 
  • Tim Cooke from ASI Government
  • Matthew Cornelius from Workday
  • Ravit Dotan from TechBetter
  • Omid Ghaffari-Tabrizi from Google
  • Margaret Graves from IBM
  • Jared Johnson from the California Department of Technology
  • James Keagle from the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resources Strategy
  • Cari Miller from the Center for Inclusive Change
  • Lindsey Moore from DevelopMetrics 
  • and Adrianna Tan from Future Ethics

Modernizing Federal Procurement Processes 

During the meeting, GAP FAC highlighted its mission to modernize by integrating emerging technologies such as AI, data analytics, cloud computing and cybersecurity into federal procurement processes. The effort will ensure that the government can make full use of the evolving digital landscape.

The committee also discussed its other pressing priorities like the inclusion of climate-conscious strategies into acquisition processes to improve sustainability and addressing systemic challenges and risks in the acquisition ecosystem to reduce vulnerability.

According to GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan, the committee’s expertise will provide federal agencies with the advanced capabilities to drive innovation, improve efficiency and deliver better results. “GSA is ready to bring in emerging technologies and deliver solutions that meet the needs of government in this evolving landscape,” she noted.

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GlobalFoundries Receives Funding to Accelerate GaN Chip Manufacturing
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GlobalFoundries Receives Funding to Accelerate GaN Chip Manufacturing

GlobalFoundries, a manufacturer of essential semiconductors, has been awarded $9.5 million in federal funding from the U.S. government to continue the production of essential gallium nitride, or GaN, on silicon semiconductors at its Essex Junction, Vermont facility.

The company said Wednesday the additional funding, awarded by the Department of Defense’s Trusted Access Program Office, brings it closer to attaining large-scale production of GaN chips.

Gallium Nitride, or GaN, Chips

These semiconductors can withstand high voltages and temperatures. They are vital to enhancing performance and energy efficiency in different radio frequency and high-power control applications. This includes automobiles, datacenter, Internet of Things, aerospace and defense. 

GlobalFoundries Award 

With the latest investment, GF has now received over $80 million in funds since 2020. GF will utilize the latest award to accelerate the development of its 200mm GaN chips, enabling the company to boost its Gan IP portfolio, reliability testing and services to customers. The federal investment will also help the company continue manufacturing new tools, equipment and prototyping capabilities.

Nicholas Sergeant, vice president of IoT and aerospace and defense at GF, stated, “Realizing full-scale GaN chip manufacturing will be a catalyst for innovation, for both our commercial and government partners and will add resilience and strengthen the semiconductor supply chain.” 

Nicholas Martin, director of defense microelectronics activity, added, “This strategic investment in critical technologies strengthens our domestic ecosystem and national security and ensures these assets are readily available and secure for DoD utilization. In concert with key partners, this approach fortifies defense systems, empowering resilience and responsiveness.”

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DOD Strategy Seeks to Dismantle Threats of Cheap Drones
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DOD Strategy Seeks to Dismantle Threats of Cheap Drones

The Department of Defense has announced a classified Strategy for Countering Unmanned Systems. The strategy includes five “strategic ways,” one of which focuses on disrupting and degrading threat networks that drive the development and proliferation of drones that pose threats to national security and U.S. assets overseas. 

The DOD will partner with other U.S. government bodies to conduct campaigns against the drone threats, according to the strategy’s unclassified fact sheet.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who signed the strategy on Monday, noted that the rapid evolution of cheap adversarial unmanned systems has increasingly changed the battlefield, threatening U.S. forces and installations. He said the counter-drone strategy was swiftly developed to address current and future threats. 

“The character of war is changing, and we will change with it,” stressed Austin, three-time Wash100 awardee.

Complementary Countermeasures

The strategy supports other DOD counter-drone efforts, such as the establishment of the Joint Counter-Small UAS Office and the Warfighter Senior Integration Group for urgent operational requirements, as well as the launch of Replicator 2, which aims to address threats of small drones.

Under the strategy’s roadmap, the DOD will also streamline the delivery of counter-drone systems through rapid procurement approaches. Additionally, the department will seek to expand its budget’s adjustability and reduce the cost imbalance between anti-drone measures and unmanned systems.

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AFCEC Awards Leases to Expand 5G Service
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AFCEC Awards Leases to Expand 5G Service

The Air Force Civil Engineer Center Installations Directorate, with the Office of the Chief Information Officer, has granted 25-year leases to private entities to install commercial broadband networks at Department of the Air Force installations in the United States.

DAF Long Term Evolution 5G Initiative

AFCEC said Wednesday the leases are part of the DAF Long Term Evolution 5G Initiative, which aims to enhance connectivity for airmen, guardians and the rest of the workforce through secure and reliable networks. The project intends to bring strong cellular coverage to housing areas, work centers, training areas and along flightlines.

The LTE initiative is expected to provide 5G service to 84 Air Force and Space Force installations by 2028. The project, started in 2017, was initially designed as a way to improve quality of life by addressing the lack of reliable cellular coverage as reported by wing commanders.

The project is planned to have a three-phase rollout. Phases one and two of the initiative are ongoing — phase two was awarded to Verizon Communications in December 2022. Phase three is expected to begin at the end of November 2024. The third phase is split into four groups, with the first three awarded to Verizon and the fourth group to Boldwyn Networks.

“One of the biggest challenges has been finding providers capable of installing the towers while also offering cell service,” said Judi Tepperman, AFCEC real property management division chief. “During Phase 2, we learned it was more effective to invest time in finding entities that could handle both tower construction and cell service provision.”

Register now to join the Potomac Officers Club‘s 2025 5G Summit on Feb. 27 and understand everything you need to know about 5G.

AFCEC Awards Leases to Expand 5G Service
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Commerce Formalizes OICTS Operations With Final Rule
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Commerce Formalizes OICTS Operations With Final Rule

The Department of Commerce has released a final rule that formalizes the operations of the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services, or OICTS, in conducting investigations of foreign adversary threats to ICTS transactions that may impact U.S. national security.

The department said Thursday OICTS was formed within the Bureau of Industry and Security in March 2022 to advance the implementation of an executive order aimed at securing the ICTS supply chain.

“This final rule clarifies and strengthens BIS’s existing authorities to investigate, mitigate, and prohibit ICTS transactions involving our foreign adversaries. It significantly enhances our ability to protect the resilience of our national infrastructure and technology and communications sectors,” Alan Estevez, undersecretary of Commerce for industry and security.

“The further formalization of the OICTS is an important part of a pivotal year in the office’s growth as it continues to advance U.S. national security,” added Estevez, who also leads BIS.

Key OICTS Rulemakings & Investigations

In September, the office released a proposed rule that would ban the import or sale of connected vehicles integrating specific pieces of software or hardware linked to China or Russia.

In June, OICTS announced a final determination that prohibits Kaspersky Lab from selling its software within the U.S. or offering updates to software already in use.

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DHA Names Capt. Edward Dieser as Public Health Director
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DHA Names Capt. Edward Dieser as Public Health Director

The Defense Health Agency has appointed Capt. Edward Dieser as director of public health.

In a LinkedIn post published Wednesday, DHA said Dieser succeeded Rear Adm. Brandon Taylor as public sector chief and that his leadership and expertise will continue to advance the agency’s mission.

“In addition, Capt. Dieser is pending promotion to Read Admiral (Lower Half) in the coming months – a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding service and dedication,” DHA said in the post.

Dieser previously served as the chief engineer of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.

In this role, he advised the Department of Health and Human Services on policy, staffing and professional affairs for engineers and architects serving in the Commissioned Corps. He also offered advice to the Office of the Surgeon General on the recruitment, training, retention, career management and readiness of the Corps.

Dieser’s career included time as an environmental manager within the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, deputy associate director for emergency management for the National Center for Environmental Health and medical service corps officer within the U.S. Army.

Register here for the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Healthcare Summit on Dec. 11. Join this key event to explore the transformative trends and innovations shaping the future of the U.S. healthcare sector.

POC - 2024 Healthcare Summit
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NIST Issues Final Version of Special Publication on Information Security Measurement
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NIST Issues Final Version of Special Publication on Information Security Measurement

The National Institute of Standards and Technology has released the final version of Special Publication 800-55, titled “Measurement Guide for Information Security.” The NIST Computer Security Resource Center said Wednesday that the special publication forms part of NIST’s Measurements for Information Security project, which seeks to develop approaches in selecting, assessing and managing measures and metrics to help organizations manage their information security risk.

The special publication comes in two volumes, with each focusing on different stages of a cybersecurity program’s implementation, according to Nextgov/FCW.

Security Measurement and Assessment

Volume 1 of the publication, titled “Identifying and Selecting Measures,” tackles technical issues related to security measurement and assessment. Updates to the volume include an introductory guidance on statistical analysis; new information on measures documentation, reporting, data quality and uncertainty; and expanded information on selecting and prioritizing measures.

Translating Findings Into Results

Volume 2, titled “Developing an Information Security Measurement Program,” seeks to bring leadership into the findings resulting from the assessments discussed in volume 1 to translate those findings into results. Updates to the volume include a new information security measurement program development and implementation workflow; and various expanded sections, including those on measurement program benefits, the programmatic value of metrics and data management concerns.

SP 800-55 serves to complement other NIST network and information security publications.

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AIA Introduces 2025 Executive Committee Members
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AIA Introduces 2025 Executive Committee Members

The Aerospace Industries Association has announced the appointment of several industry executives to the executive committee for 2025.

In November, AIA announced the election of Christopher Kubasik, chair and CEO of L3Harris Technologies, and Phebe Novakovic, chairman and CEO of General Dynamics, as chair and vice chair of the executive committee.

Kubasik is a three-time Wash100 awardee, while Novakovic is a nine-time Wash100 Award recipient.

“These leaders have been titans of our industry, championing critical advancements and innovations. With their leadership, under the guidance of Chris and Phebe, AIA will continue to advocate for essential policies and robust investments that will maintain our global leadership for years to come,” Eric Fanning, president and CEO of AIA and a previous Wash100 awardee, said in a statement published Thursday.

Other industry CEOs and leaders who will serve on the trade group’s 2025 executive committee are:

  • Amy Gowder, GE Aerospace
  • Anne Shybunko-Moore, GSE Dynamics
  • Christopher Kastner, HII
  • Elisabeth Smith, Acutec Precision Aerospace
  • Florian Aigrain, Acutronic Group
  • Gregory Hayes, RTX
  • Jim Currier, Honeywell Aerospace
  • John Holmes, AAR 
  • Kathy Warden, Northrop Grumman
  • Mark Lee, Aero-Mark
  • Patrick Marotta, Marotta Controls
  • Rick Nagel, Acorn Capital Management
  • Ronald Lopez, Astroscale U.S.
  • Scott Donnelly, Textron Inc.
  • Sol Kanthack, Corvaer
  • Thomas Bell, Leidos
  • Tom Arseneault, BAE Systems Inc.

Arseneault, Bell and Warden are 2024 Wash100 awardees.

HHS in Focus: Exploring Leadership, Budget & Priorities
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HHS in Focus: Exploring Leadership, Budget & Priorities

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services plays a pivotal role in the nation’s healthcare framework. It is one of the largest federal agencies, with a broad mandate to enhance and protect the health of all Americans. 

For healthcare professionals and government contracting executives, understanding HHS’s history, leadership, budget priorities and overarching structure is crucial for navigating industry trends and aligning with its initiatives. This comprehensive guide will provide a detailed breakdown of HHS to give GovCon professionals a clear understanding of its impact and operations.

HHS in Focus: Exploring Leadership, Budget & Priorities

Meet HHS leaders on Dec. 11 at the 2024 Healthcare Summit hosted by the Potomac Officers Club. Register now for the Healthcare Summit before tickets run out.

History of the Department of Health and Human Services

Established in 1953 as the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, HHS emerged as a standalone department in 1979 following the creation of the Department of Education. Its mission has always been centered on improving public health, advancing biomedical research and delivering essential health and human services, particularly for vulnerable communities.

Over the decades, HHS has spearheaded many landmark initiatives, including the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965. Today, the department is at the forefront of addressing pressing healthcare challenges such as pandemic response, mental health care accessibility, health equity and chronic disease prevention.

Key Leaders of HHS

Effective leadership has always been crucial to HHS’s success. Below are some of the key officials integral to its strategic direction:

Xavier Becerra, Secretary of HHS

Xavier Becerra has served as the 25th HHS secretary since March 2021. In this role, he is the principal advisor to the president of the United States on all health-related matters.

Andrea Palm, Deputy Secretary of HHS 

Andrea Palm plays a key role in policy implementation, overseeing the department’s day-to-day operations to ensure all HHS programs align with its mission.

Jennifer Wendel, HHS CIO

Former FBI leader Jennifer Wendel serves as CIO for HHS. Wendel previously served as deputy CIO and then acting CIO before being permanently elevated to the position in November 2024.

Hear Jennifer Wendel speak at the 2024 Healthcare Summit hosted by the Potomac Officers Club on Dec. 11! Secure your ticket to the Healthcare Summit while seats are still available.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., potential incoming HHS Secretary

Chosen as HHS Secretary by President-elect Donald Trump in November 2024, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could be tasked with leading the department through critical transformations. He has prioritized combating chronic diseases and addressing deceptive practices within the industrial food and drug sectors throughout his career.

HHS Budget Priorities for FY 2025

The HHS Fiscal Year 2025 budget reflects its commitment to modernization and transformation. With $1.7 trillion in mandatory budget authority and $130.7 billion in discretionary funding, the department plans significant investments in:

Expanding Coverage and Lowering Costs 

Initiatives include lowering drug prices through enhanced Medicare negotiations, increasing Medicaid accessibility and modernizing health centers.

Research & Development 

The NIH has requested $46.4 billion, with major funding for programs like Cancer Moonshot and studies addressing health disparities.

Customer Experience 

Efforts are underway to improve accessibility, such as simplifying enrollment in federal healthcare programs and enhancing online tools like Medicare’s claims pages. 

Agencies Under HHS

HHS comprises multiple agencies, each with distinct mandates to ensure public health and safety. Below are three major agencies under its umbrella:

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 

With a staggering $1.6 trillion allocation in FY25, CMS oversees vital programs like Medicare, Medicaid and CHIP, serving as a lifeline for millions of Americans.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) 

Dedicated to health research, the NIH’s 27 institutes drive progress in areas such as cancer prevention, AI integration in healthcare and maternal health.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 

The CDC’s $9.7 billion FY25 budget helps it combat infectious diseases, prepare for bioterrorism threats and address youth violence prevention.

Other integral agencies include the Indian Health Service, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Food and Drug Administration.

Recent HHS News

The HHS continues to make headlines with its ongoing advancements and initiatives. Here’s a quick recap of recent developments:

HHS Reorganization

In June 2024, HHS announced its plan to reorganize its cyber, data and artificial intelligence policy functions. As part of the reorg, HHS renamed the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology as the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT, or ASTP/ONC.

AI Strategic Plan Coming Soon

According to HHS’ Acting Chief AI Officer Micky Tripathi, the agency expects to release a strategic plan to guide its AI activities in January 2025. Tripathi said the plan will look at areas in which AI can be useful to HHS, as well as boundaries that may be needed to guide the use of AI.

Organ Transplant IT System Cybersecurity 

The HHS Office of the Inspector General recommended tighter cybersecurity measures for the organ transplant IT system in order to ensure the security and privacy of sensitive health data. 

Meet HHS Leaders at the 2024 Healthcare Summit

With its significant budgetary investments, forward-thinking leadership and mission-driven goals, the Department of Health and Human Services is shaping the future of healthcare in America. Meet HHS leaders like CIO Jennifer Wendel at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Healthcare Summit on Dec. 11! Register for the Healthcare Summit to save your seat.

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