Gov Tech Today

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha delve into the evolving landscape of AI regulation. Analyzing California's legislative actions, they discuss major bills such as SB 53 (Wiener) and AB 316 (Krell) that impact AI transparency and liability. They provide insights into the federal and state regulatory approaches and predict future legislative trends, offering a nuanced perspective on the balance between innovation and regulation.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:14 Overview of Legislative Process01:12 California's AI Legislation Landscape03:21 Specific AI Legislation: SB 53 Wiener06:34 Other Notable AI Bills10:11 Future of AI Legislation14:43 Impact on Technology Procurement17:01 Conclusion and Future Episodes

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha sits down with Amy Tong, Senior Counselor to the Governor of California, to discuss groundbreaking efforts in government efficiency and transformation. Tong shares insights about her role and the state's 'E3' initiative, which stands for Efficient, Effective, and Engaged government. With a focus on challenges ranging from budget constraints to the integration of cutting-edge technology, this conversation unveils how California aims to create a lasting legacy of innovation and efficiency in public service. Key themes include the role of middle management in driving change, the necessity of grounding technological solutions in everyday operational needs, and the importance of industry partnerships. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Amy Tong's Role and Responsibilities01:01 Government Efficiency and Challenges07:01 Middle Management and Innovation09:56 Tech Solutions and Proof of Concept15:10 Philanthropy and State Budget16:40 California's Budget Challenges and Opportunities17:36 Creativity in Times of Financial Strain18:53 The Role of Industry Partners21:32 Personal Reflections and Future Plans25:20 Favorite and Least Favorite Jobs in Government29:36 Efficiency and Modernization in Government30:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha welcomes Mike Hussey, former state CIO of Utah, who shares his transition from 30 years in state government to a pivotal role in the private sector with Oracle. Mike discusses the intricacies of balancing public service exigencies with private sector dynamism, especially in the context of emerging AI technologies. Listen in as they delve into the unique challenges of AI regulation, the evolving roles of state CIOs, and the cooperative competition among states aiming for technological advancements. Key timestamps include insights into the working dynamics in government (10:12), the transformative impact of AI (25:30), and the nuanced differences in state vs. federal AI regulations (40:47). 00:00 Welcome to Gov Tech Today00:30 Meet Mike Hussey: From State CIO to Private Sector01:19 Navigating Government Transitions03:00 The Role of State CIOs and the Power of Community06:35 Challenges and Innovations in Government Technology09:59 Public vs. Private Sector: A Unique Perspective15:38 The Impact of AI in Government16:43 The Excitement of AI in Government Work17:32 Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities17:57 Efficiency and Compliance in State Governments18:46 Public Service Through Private Sector Work20:03 State-Level Innovations and Success Stories21:02 The Complexity of Large-Scale Implementations25:04 AI Regulation: State vs. Federal Perspectives30:19 The Rapid Evolution of AI Legislation32:06 Conclusion and Future Outlook

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha speaks with James Regan, a recent transitioner from the public to the private sector. Regan shares insights from his extensive career in various roles in California state government, focusing on data management, pandemic response, and talent development in the age of AI. Now at Clutch Consulting, he discusses the importance of human-centered design and effective change management in modernizing government services. The conversation also delves into the integration of generative AI in the workforce and how public-private partnerships can drive innovation. Key themes include the necessity of risk-taking leadership in government, addressing regulatory constraints, and the importance of preparing the future workforce for AI. 00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today00:23 Meet James Regan: From Public to Private Sector00:40 James' Journey in Government01:39 Transition to Clutch Consulting02:10 The Importance of Human-Centered Design03:10 Challenges and Realities in Government Services04:54 Organizational Change Management (OCM)11:33 Navigating Policy and Regulatory Changes14:54 Generative AI in the Workforce17:59 Harnessing AI in Education and Training19:10 The Evolution of AI in the Workforce19:58 AI's Role in Government Efficiency20:25 Cybersecurity and AI Integration20:53 Future Workforce and AI Integration21:26 Simplifying AI for Everyday Use23:59 Generative AI and Government Challenges24:33 Leadership and Risk in AI Implementation26:19 The Need for Long-Term Planning in Government29:58 Addressing the AI Skills Gap33:28 Conclusion and Call to Action

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, we welcome Adam Silver, chair of the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). Adam explains the role of the FPPC as the state's political and ethics watchdog, overseeing campaign finance, lobbying rules, and conflicts of interest. We explore how the FPPC is pioneering the use of emerging technologies, from early adoption of Salesforce to current initiatives incorporating AI to promote transparency and efficiency. Adam also discusses the practicalities of filing requirements, the impact of making data public, and leveraging university partnerships and interstate collaborations for AI advancements. Plus, insights into ensuring human oversight in AI processes and maintaining meaningful transparency for the public.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:52 Understanding the FPPC01:47 FPPC's Technological Innovations02:18 Form 700 and Public Officials05:30 Data Transparency and AI Integration08:26 AI in Enforcement and Efficiency11:26 Human Resources and Change Management17:07 Collaborations and Future Plans23:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss a new executive order issued by the governor aimed at enhancing government operations' efficiency and effectiveness. They explore the role of AI in streamlining processes such as hiring and procurement, and the formation of a committee of business leaders, known as the California Breakthrough Project, to advise on these initiatives. The discussion delves into the realities and challenges of implementing these efficiencies, the potential political motivations behind the executive order, and the importance of including small businesses in state contracts. 00:00 Introduction to Govtech Today00:32 Understanding the Executive Order02:12 Efficiency in Government Hiring03:33 Procurement Process Improvements04:22 Departmental Efficiency Proposals05:21 Challenges and Opportunities07:42 The Role of Business Leaders12:02 Shared IT Contracts16:35 Small Business Participation21:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, we delve into the critical intersection of government and private sector efforts in cybersecurity. Jennifer Saha speaks with Bailey Bickley, Chief of Defense Industrial Base at NSA Cybersecurity Collaboration Center, and Snehal Antani, CEO of Horizon3.ai, about how they're transforming the landscape of pen testing and threat intelligence sharing. Learn about NSA's unique insights into nation-state actors, Horizon3.ai's autonomous pen-testing solutions, and the continuing efforts to enhance cybersecurity capabilities across both the public and private sectors. Plus, hear about the exciting developments on the horizon, including early-warning networks and automated remediation. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Lineup01:24 Bailey Bickley on NSA's Cybersecurity Efforts05:20 Snehal's Insights on Horizon3.ai09:15 AI and Automation in Government Cybersecurity14:34 Challenges in State and Local Cybersecurity21:30 The Future of Cybersecurity Collaboration27:52 Exciting Developments on the Horizon

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the fast-moving advancements in AI technology and the concurrent legislative and regulatory efforts attempting to keep pace. They discuss a mysterious federal provision to preclude state regulation of AI that was swiftly eliminated by an overwhelming 99 to 1 vote. The episode also delves into California's proactive stance on AI regulations, including recent amendments and ongoing projects, providing insights on how other states may follow suit. They highlight key concerns around risk, transparency, and the practical integration of AI in government operations.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:14 Federal AI Legislation Controversy01:17 State vs. Federal Regulation Debate03:23 California's AI Regulatory Landscape05:10 AI in State Government Operations07:52 AI Risk Management and Implementation10:16 AI Proof of Concepts and Budgeting14:41 Adoption and Skepticism of AI16:39 Conclusion: The Future of AI

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha dive deep into the nuances of initial meetings between vendors and state agencies. They discuss the importance of thorough preparation, the significance of understanding and addressing specific pain points, and techniques for building trust through personal connections. Key insights from experienced professionals, including Director Baumann Kruse and Director Bailey Crooms, provide valuable perspectives on making these engagements productive. Whether you're from the .com or .gov side, this episode will equip you with practical tips for successful government technology interactions.00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today00:14 The Importance of Initial Meetings01:29 Common Pitfalls in Meetings03:22 The Role of Discovery Sessions05:13 Preparation for Effective Meetings12:25 Building Personal Connections19:54 Concluding the Meeting21:38 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha dive into the California Department of Technology’s (CDT) new Security Operations Center (SOC) as a service offering. They discuss how this centralized security operation aims to support state departments and local agencies with 24/7 monitoring and threat detection. The conversation explores the competitive landscape for SOC services, the potential role of AI in cybersecurity, and the importance of inter-departmental collaboration. Special mention is made of how this initiative can enhance the state’s overall cybersecurity framework while offering new opportunities for the vendor community. 00:00 Introduction to Govtech Today00:14 Centralized Security Operations in Nevada00:27 CDT's SOC as a Service00:57 Benefits of a Centralized SOC01:25 CDT's Approach to Service Offering02:13 Details of CDT's SOC Services04:26 Vendor Community Considerations06:51 Comparing CDT and Private Sector Offerings12:25 AI in Security Operations13:17 Federated Model and Data Sharing15:47 Statewide Contract and Purchasing Power16:46 Cybersecurity Maturity and Compliance17:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha delve into the complexities of the California state budget, addressing its implications for technology and state workers. They discuss the potential paradox of a budget deficit alongside increasing technology investment, emphasizing the critical need for tech advancements in a fiscal downturn. Key topics include the ongoing labor negotiations about state worker salaries, return-to-office mandates, and the budgetary focus on cybersecurity and federal funding uncertainties. Special attention is given to the hybrid work model's impact on government operations and the opportunities it presents for tech vendors. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:13 Understanding the California State Budget00:56 Impact of Budget on Technology02:40 Federal Government's Role and Cybersecurity03:45 Legislative and Vendor Community Engagement10:49 State Worker Concerns: Salaries and Return to Office19:35 Hybrid Work and Cybersecurity Opportunities24:09 Strategic Approaches for Vendors25:50 Conclusion and Future Updates

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, we dive deep into the innovative approaches CAL FIRE is taking to manage wildfires. Jennifer Saha sits down with Ben Rogers, Chief Technology Officer at CAL FIRE, as he shares his unique journey from the UK private sector to his pivotal role in California's firefighting efforts. They discuss the department’s strategic focus on technology, data management, and public safety, highlighting initiatives like the RFI Squared process, 3D mapping, and AI-driven solutions. Ben explains the challenges of balancing rapid technological change with the necessity for accurate, real-time information and the importance of cross-departmental and vendor collaborations to drive transformative change in wildfire management. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:38 Ben Rogers' Background and Career Journey02:33 Transition to CAL FIRE and Initial Challenges05:58 Innovation and Technology at CAL FIRE14:12 Future Plans and Technological Advancements21:33 The Importance of Data in AI22:24 Overwhelmed by Technological Advancements22:51 The Role of Business Analysts23:32 Data Governance and Stewardship24:02 Breaking Down Departmental Silos25:22 Generative AI and Full-Stack Professionals28:05 Challenges in Recruitment and Retention29:23 Balancing Speed and Accuracy in Information33:00 Engaging with Vendor Community39:15 Concluding Remarks and Safety Message  

On this episode of Gov Tech Today, we sit down with Tim Galluzi, the Chief Information Officer for the State of Nevada, for an in-depth discussion about the landscape of government technology in Nevada. Galluzi shares his 20-year journey from the United States Marine Corps to becoming Nevada's CIO, outlining the state's hybrid IT structure, the critical role of cybersecurity, and the ongoing modernization efforts within various state departments. The conversation also covers the adoption of AI in enhancing cybersecurity and improving government efficiency. Galluzi emphasizes the importance of collaboration, continuous improvement, and the dedication of public servants in making governmental processes more efficient and effective. 00:00 Welcome to Govtech Today00:20 Meet Tim Galluzi: Nevada's CIO01:26 Nevada's IT Structure03:38 Cybersecurity Initiatives08:40 AI in Government18:54 Modernizing IT Infrastructure24:23 The Rise of 'As a Service' Models in Government24:51 Return on Vote: Measuring Success in Government Projects25:41 Challenges and Strategies in Government Technology Implementation26:26 The Importance of Citizen Experience27:02 The Tangibility Challenge in Government Tech28:40 Personal Insights: The Worst Part of the Job30:24 Speed and Bureaucracy in Government Projects33:04 Innovative Approaches to Procurement37:03 Modular Transformation at Nevada DMV39:40 Future Legacy and Podcasting Plans

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, we welcome Liana Bailey-Crimmins, California's Chief Information Officer and Director of the California Department of Technology. Jennifer and Liana discuss the intersections of government and technology, focusing on lessons learned from a 30-year career, the challenges of bridging the digital divide, and how California is leading the way in AI adoption and cybersecurity. Key insights include the importance of partnerships in vendor relationships, the role of generative AI in modernizing public services, and the significance of putting people first in technological advancements. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:45 Liana Bailey-Crimmins' Career Journey01:03 Lessons Learned in Government IT02:07 Broadband and Security Initiatives03:15 Vendor Relationships and Partnerships10:19 Innovation and Change Management12:05 California's Federated IT Model14:27 Local Government Outreach15:11 Navigating California's Complex Policies15:48 Service Provider Collaboration16:54 State-Level Support and Community Impact18:32 Challenges and Opportunities in Public Service19:20 Innovative Procurement Strategies23:17 AI and Cybersecurity Initiatives24:38 Generative AI in Government Operations32:39 Future Vision and Legacy

In this episode of Govtech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha delve into the pressing issue of efficiency in government services. They explore how inefficiencies in federal contract management impact state and local governments, particularly in California. Topics include license overselling, cloud storage waste, and the consolidation of HR systems. The discussion also touches on the challenges and implications of the return-to-office mandate for state employees and its broader effects on vendors and the workforce. Expert insights and real-world examples, such as Amazon's cost-saving strategies, highlight the opportunities for improvement in government tech utilization. 00:00 Introduction to Govtech Today00:17 Government Efficiency Challenges00:55 Impact of Federal Policies on State and Local Levels02:58 Overselling and Overbuying in Government Contracts06:40 Cloud Utilization and Efficiency11:01 Consolidation of Government Systems18:25 Return to Office Mandate28:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

In this episode of Govtech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss the significant shift from California's Project Approval Lifecycle (PAL) to the Project Delivery Lifecycle (PDL).  Jen provides initial insights and critiques, emphasizing the hurdles and inefficiencies of the PAL process, which often led to prolonged project timelines. Russell and Jen explore the potential improvements and persistent challenges of the new PDL process, highlighting its iterative approach, consideration for modern technologies like generative AI, and alignment with state goals. They also touch upon the varying expertise across different departments and the importance of stakeholder feedback in refining the procurement process.00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today01:05 The Problems with the PAL Process04:05 Introducing the Project Delivery Lifecycle (PDL)05:27 Evaluating the PDL Process15:55 Generative AI in Government Projects18:23 Aligning Projects with State Goals20:58 Conclusion and Future Outlook

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha welcomes Becky Albin, Senior Director of Systems Engineering at Software AG. They dive into the enduring relevance and evolving role of mainframes in today’s technology landscape. Becky shares her extensive experience and insights on the challenges and benefits of mainframe modernization, the importance of maintaining a skilled workforce, and the vital role these systems play in both commercial and government sectors. This episode is packed with valuable information on how mainframes can coexist with modern cloud solutions and the critical importance of user experience in tech transformations.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:54 Becky's Background and Career Journey02:05 Women in Tech: Challenges and Opportunities03:16 The State of Mainframes Today04:18 Mainframes vs. Cloud: Cost and Performance08:52 Modernization and Hybrid Solutions14:13 Future of Mainframes and Workforce Challenges17:39 Training the Next Generation of Mainframe Experts26:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha interviews Doug Robinson, Executive Director of the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO). Doug discusses his background and the role of NASCIO in representing state CIOs and IT leaders across the public sector. The conversation covers a broad range of topics including NASCIO's top 10 priorities for state CIOs, the rising importance of cybersecurity, the rapid ascent of generative AI, and the evolving role of CIOs in state government. They delve into challenges like AI policy and data management, the impact of legislative actions, and the importance of good governance in technology implementation. Doug shares insights on how states can navigate these complex issues while striving for innovation and efficiency in government technology.00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today00:26 Meet Doug Robinson: Executive Director of NASCIO02:31 NASCIO's Top 10 Priorities for 202504:21 The Rise of AI in Government Technology11:14 The Evolving Role of State CIOs25:33 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Legislation33:50 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsApple Podcast: https://shorturl.at/1HUDU Spotify: https://shorturl.at/nOA4K

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the groundbreaking steps taken by the State of California in adopting AI technology for government operations. They discuss the state's unique approach to procurement through Request for Innovative Ideas and its collaborative projects with major firms like Accenture and Deloitte. Key projects include traffic mobility insights, tax center call productivity, language tools for health services, housing plan reviews, economic predictions, and legislative analysis. The episode also highlights the importance of data hygiene and readiness, with a look at how various state agencies are preparing their data for AI integration. Finally, the hosts reflect on the role of AI in making government processes more efficient without displacing workers, as well as the broader implications of AI adoption in public services.00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today00:46 California's AI Implementation Journey01:42 Innovative Procurement Process02:38 Generative AI in Action: Caltrans Case Study03:52 Expanding AI Projects Across State Departments07:24 Labor's Role and Concerns with AI09:39 Data Hygiene and AI Readiness16:50 Future of AI in State ServicesLinkedIn: https://shorturl.at/AhaitYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6e_hPDZFbEY

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha speaks with Dan Kent, Field CTO at Cloudflare, about his extensive career in public sector IT and cybersecurity. Dan shares insights on the importance of securing the internet, the role of DNS, legislative efforts to enforce security measures, and the impact of AI in the cybersecurity landscape. He also emphasizes the urgency of adopting AI advancements in government to stay ahead of cyber threats. Tune in for a deep dive into modern cybersecurity strategies and the future of government technology. 00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today 00:36 Dan Kent's Career Journey 02:17 The Importance of Securing the Internet 05:42 AI in Cybersecurity 08:22 Government Adoption of AI 12:44 Top Technology Priorities for State CIOs 17:58 Combating AI-Driven Cyber Threats 21:51 Advice for State Government Employees 24:21 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7300958302484471808YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZdIfSsoSB4