Dustin Thomas

Air Force Boosts Space Command with $20M Data-as-a-Service Deal to Palantir Palantir wins a $20M contract to deliver a data-as-a-service platform supporting Space Command, with completion set for June 2025. https://lnkd.in/g4_NBNbE

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The One Interview Mistake to Avoid and Space Force Awards Contract to Virtualitics If you want to ace your next interview, one industry leader says to avoid this mistake. And Virtualitics lands a key Space Force contract. https://lnkd.in/gCB6gsGv

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Boosting, because your time is valuable, & Pete & Matt get right to the point with what you need to know. #acquisition #contracting

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The 2024 Defense Acquisition Workforce Writing Awards recognize original ideas and innovative approaches to tackling challenges and implementing acquisition flexibilities. The award winners showcased exceptional skill in enabling acquisition and achieving the goals set out in the National Defense Strategy (NDS) and were awarded at the event. “I’ve never seen a defense strategy that had so many phrases that tell you we need to do things differently,” noted DAU President Jim Woolsey. “Organizations don’t change easily,” Woolsey remarked. However, the acquisition community must innovate and adapt to address new challenges arising from the evolving global environment, near-peer competitors and rapid technological advancements. DoD has received “massive wake up calls” with lessons learned from evolving conflicts. These awards highlight the value Congress places on the workforces’ innovative ideas. The winners received their awards and presented their publications to program management students and guests during a ceremony at DAU on June 12, 2024. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eg7RmckU

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🤔 QUICK QUESTION: How much do you know about Federal systems integrators and the role they play in public sector sales and partnerships? If you bring tech to the public sector markets, you need to know the role they play and how to work with them. I'm referring to companies such as Leidos, Raytheon, Boeing Defense, Space & Security, and L3Harris Technologies 🙋🏼‍♂️ I'm asking because you're in luck, if you want to know more. On today's #SalesGameChangersPodcast, my guests give a masterclass on how to build, maintain, and grow your relationships and partnerships with these types of companies. 🎤 EPISODE 707: Building Strong Federal Systems Integrator Partnerships with Amazon Web Services (AWS) Leaders Michael Blake and Jillian Swenson. 📖🦻🏼 Listen to the show or read the transcription at https://lnkd.in/eS2iRwsf. 🎙️Subscribe and rate the podcast at http://bit.ly/sgcitunes ⭐ JILLIAN’S ‘TIP: “Differentiate yourselves from your peers by leveraging new #GenAI tools to reduce repetitive time-consuming tasks and gain new insights into your customers. It’s going to free you up and help you bring more unique value to your customers.” 🌟 MIKE’S TIP: “Cultivate a positive mindset and resilience. Selling to large integrators can be very challenging. Develop techniques to maintain motivation, overcome rejections, because there will be rejections, and celebrate your successes. Prioritize building those relationships and really understanding these companies. Focus on the customer’s needs, earning their trust, rather than just going for the hard sale.” ❓Have you partnered with large systems integrators in your career? #governmentcontracting #primecontractor #cloud #fedramp #fisma

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Traditionally, the US military has relied heavily on large defense contractors for developing and supplying equipment. SOCOM's move towards commercial solutions could disrupt this dynamic, potentially leading to faster innovation cycles and lower costs. Commercial tech companies are known for their rapid development cycles and focus on user experience. This could be a major advantage for SOCOM, allowing them to quickly deploy new capabilities to address evolving threats. Issues that would need to be addressed: -These modern solutions could also raise concerns about security and compatibility with existing systems. -Integrating commercial tech with existing military infrastructure and ensuring it meets rigorous security standards could be a challenge. -The fact that this news comes out on December 2nd adds another layer of intrigue. Is there a specific reason for this timing? Is SOCOM facing a pressing need for new digital capabilities? Perhaps there's a connection to a current geopolitical event that requires a more agile approach. Overall, SOCOM's embrace of commercial solutions has the potential to be a game-changer for special operations.

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As promised, I can now share the interview with SAIC 's Jay Meil and Joshua Conine . Thanks to Air & Space Forces Association for the great interview. Listen in if you are curious about data, ai and ml for national defense. https://lnkd.in/eeQ28sJd

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The Sentinel ICBM program's cost overruns highlight the need for integrated acquisition strategies that address both missile systems & infrastructure. CRG provides expertise in navigating these complex landscapes, aligning strategies with compliance & engaging stakeholders to ensure clients lead in delivering innovative, cost-effective defense solutions. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, INTERIM Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Holistic Acquisition Strategies: Prioritize a balanced approach that integrates missile systems w/ critical infrastructure. · Advice: Use digital engineering tools to simulate full system lifecycles, identifying cost drivers early. · Differentiator: CRG’s lifecycle cost analysis helps clients foresee risks, optimizing missile & infrastructure components. Opp - Open Competition for Infrastructure: Encourage competitive sourcing for infrastructure to drive innovation & cost reductions. · Advice: Advocate for modular design principles & open competition strategies for ground elements. ·   Differentiator: CRG connects clients with top-tier SMEs & suppliers for cost-effective, modular solutions. Opp - Agile Contracting Models: Use agile contracting to adapt to evolving program requirements. ·   Advice: Employ OTAs & phased contracts to incorporate new tech flexibly. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s contracting expertise balances innovation w/ compliance, speeding up project timelines. Opp - Advanced Cost Management: Employ predictive analytics for proactive cost control. ·   Advice: Use AI-driven forecasting to continuously monitor expenses & identify savings opportunities. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s cost optimization strategies ensure clients manage budgets effectively, avoiding overruns. Opp - Digital Twins Integration: Utilize digital twin tech for real-time insights into system performance. · Advice: Invest in digital twins for predictive maintenance & proactive lifecycle management. · Differentiator: CRG’s digital twin integration enhances system reliability & readiness. Opp - Collaborative Engineering: Foster government-industry collaboration to refine designs & address challenges. · Advice: Form IPTs to refine designs & address technical issues iteratively. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s collaborative approach ensures efficient, unified program outcomes. CRG’s expertise positions us as the partner of choice for defense contractors aiming to lead in the program. Engage with CRG to leverage these opportunities and drive your success in advancing national security. Connect at crgroupinc.com or [email protected]. #USAF #AirForce #DoD #Acquisition #MissileDefense #ICBM #CostManagement #InnovationInDefense #Engineering #Hardware #SDLC #Software #Procurement #NorthropGrumman #Boeing #LockheedMartin #Raytheon #GeneralDynamics #BAE #L3Harris #Leidos #Aerojet #Honeywell #Parsons #OrbitalATK #Kratos #Textron #Dynetics #SierraNevada #Teledyne #SAIC #Perspecta #JacobsEngineering #Bechtel #GeneralAtomics #CACI #ManTech #HII

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Looking to Make an Impact? Let’s Talk About DISA. In today’s complex and rapidly evolving world, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is at the forefront of innovation and national security. As the backbone of the Department of Defense’s IT infrastructure, DISA delivers secure communication, cutting-edge technology, and critical support to those defending our nation. But here’s the thing—DISA’s mission is massive, and they’re always looking for forward-thinking professionals and partners to help shape the future of defense technology. That’s where YOU come in. Here’s why you should consider working with or alongside DISA: Be a Part of National Security: Every project DISA touches directly impacts the safety and readiness of the United States. If you want your work to truly matter, this is the place. Innovate at Scale: DISA is a leader in adopting technologies like AI, cloud computing, and advanced cybersecurity protocols. If you’re passionate about driving innovation in a high-stakes environment, DISA offers endless opportunities. Collaboration Across Disciplines: Working with DISA means joining a network of dedicated professionals—engineers, analysts, strategists, and innovators—all united by a common mission. Global Impact: Whether supporting troops in the field or enabling secure communication at the highest levels of government, DISA operates on a scale few organizations can match. If you’re interested in learning more about opportunities to work with DISA—whether through a career move, contract partnership, or innovation collaboration—reach out to me! I’d love to share more about what makes DISA such a vital and rewarding organization to work with. This is your chance to make a real difference. Let’s connect and start the conversation. Please shoot me a message or comment on this post and I can reach out! #DISA #NationalSecurity #DefenseTechnology #CareersInTech #Collaboration

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Government contracting is hard, and here's the difficult truth for most product-oriented people: It is a challenge of people and money, not of technology and motivation. While the biggest prime contractors do have their own pool of business for large-scale systems integration, the theme of financial health across decades-long time horizons is something that all business leaders in this space are painfully familiar with. "[The Lockheed CFO] said factors such as 'technical milestone achievement through the balance of the year, discussions with our customers [and] visibility of funding' could all impact the size and timing of future losses, but that the company currently expects the program to become profitable on an annual basis around the 2028 timeframe." 10 years from now, will companies serving national missions face the same challenges? Or will new paradigms and tools emerge to better meld industry and government in the delivery of public sector solutions? https://lnkd.in/gDWmvr8w

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The Army recently awarded Palantir a multi-year software contract to continue support of the Army Data Platform--Army Vantage. In doing so, the Army is extending the platform’s reach to users across the Army enterprise and operationalizing data in critical areas such as human resources, prevention of harmful behaviors, logistics, and combat power. Army Vantage currently supports over 100,000 users across the Army.

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🚨 Announcing the New Implementation Plan for Strengthening America’s Defense Industrial Base 🚨 I’m honored to be an integral part of executing the Department of Defense’s (DoD) new National Defense Industrial Strategy Implementation Plan (NDIS-IP). Today, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (OASD(IBP)) unveiled this critical plan, detailing the ongoing and future actions needed to modernize and secure our defense industrial base. This initiative outlines six cross-cutting programs designed to ensure a more resilient defense ecosystem. From collaboration across DoD components and Services to vital partnerships with industry, international allies, and stakeholders, this strategy underpins the effort required to reinforce our industrial base. 📈 The NDIS-IP addresses a unified commitment to strengthening industrial capacity, building resilience, and reducing risks across the board. This will involve: • Key partnerships with private industry, academia, and international allies, • New OTAs under the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC) for rapid research, including the recently announced request for white papers on “Critical Chemicals for Defense,” • Support from Congress as a cornerstone of sustainable security. For those interested, the unclassified NDIS-IP document is available here: NDIS-IP FY2025. https://lnkd.in/dUmSt7yd I’m inspired by the opportunity to help lead this strategic vision forward, ensuring our nation’s industrial base remains robust and capable. #NationalSecurity #IndustrialBase #DefenseStrategy #Innovation #DoD

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Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor, presented the roadmap on the future of U.S. military-industrial development. What really stands out to me is his emphasis on the role of commercial technology, the importance of Silicon Valley, and the need to reform the acquisition process to ensure innovative technologies can be quickly acquired and deployed. This is a crucial step forward in bridging commercial innovation with defense needs. Key points from the roadmap: 1. Ramp Up Production of Key Capabilities: Prioritize long-range munitions, air defense systems, autonomous platforms, and critical stockpiles. A critical munitions acquisition fund could stabilize demand and stockpiling efforts. 2. Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships: Increase production capacity, invest in workforce development, and expand DoD-owned facilities for greater resilience. 3. Accelerate Defense Acquisition Reforms: Rethink traditional processes to welcome nontraditional, innovative tech providers. Collaboration with Silicon Valley and securing new acquisition authorities will be game-changers. 4. Integrate Defense Industrial Bases with Allies: Partner with allies to boost readiness, production capacity, and supply chain resilience, reinforcing deterrence through unified capabilities. 5. Invest in Talent and Leadership: The focus on recruiting and retaining top talent ensures the U.S. military remains unmatched, with personnel who can translate advanced equipment into operational strength. #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryModernization #PublicPrivatePartnerships #SiliconValley #AcquisitionReform #DefenseTech #NationalSecurity #AI #MilitaryIndustrialComplex #InnovationEcosystem #TalentDevelopment

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On YouTube: "The Dawn of Enterprise Architecture in the Air Force" Presenter: Jeffrey W. Eggers, DISL Air Force ISR Chief Architect The Air Force has long used DoDAF to document solutions architectures at the systems level while using a completely separate and ever-changing variety of documents to plan our forces and their capabilities. With the advent of UAF, the Air Force is just beginning to use model-based systems engineering principles at a truly enterprise level to analyze and define the structure of our future forces and to build genuinely integrated plans for developing new capabilities. Challenges abound with educating service members on modern architecting approaches, nurturing the seedlings of current efforts, and unifying our efforts across organizations and priorities. This talk covers the goals, challenges, and progress of Air Force enterprise architecting. Watch on our YouTube channel and subscribe: https://bit.ly/3XdjiVi #UAF #DoDAF Air Force OMG

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The DISA Next Strategy aims to transform and integrate capabilities and services to best support the #DoD aligning with the National Defense Strategy’s priorities. By enhancing information system networks, DISA Next fosters improved interoperability, security, and efficiency. #Startups that align their products with this strategy can better understand the transformation process and how to contribute to the DoD's mission. This alignment ensures that their #technology are relevant and effective, ultimately driving success in a defense environment increasingly reliant on #innovation.

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CRG’s proposed roadmap w/ milestones for leveraging the Navy's collaboration with the Army's data analytics efforts, as well as opportunities for industry to support: 1. Reciprocity Policy Implementation: -Implement the newly issued reciprocity memo to facilitate secure information sharing between the Navy and the Army. -Pilot the idea of leveraging the Army's Palantir Authority to Operate (ATO) within the Navy's data analytics ecosystem. 2. Cybersecurity Reciprocity Handbook Adoption: -Adopt the Defense Department's cybersecurity reciprocity handbook to streamline the ATO process and reduce redundant testing and documentation. -Execute reciprocity measures to accelerate software upgrades and enhance data security across the Navy's infrastructure. 3. Enhanced Data Analytics Capabilities: -Engage in conversations with the Army to leverage their existing Palantir platform and ATO, enhancing the Navy's data analytics toolbox. -Explore opportunities to diversify the Navy's data analytics ecosystem by incorporating new capabilities and platforms. 4. Information Superiority Vision 2.0 Development: -Update the Navy's Information Superiority Vision strategy with a focus on data management, including policy development for software containerization. -Emphasize the importance of standards and guardrails for secure data sharing, particularly in tactical edge environments and across commercial satellite communications. 5. Data Tagging and Management Standardization: -Develop and implement standardized procedures for tagging and managing data within the Navy's systems and networks. -Establish a holistic approach to data preparation, tagging, and utilization to enhance the Navy's ability to consume and leverage data effectively. The collaboration between the Navy and the Army's data analytics efforts presents significant opportunities for industry players to contribute to the advancement of defense technology. Companies specializing in data analytics, cybersecurity, AI, and software development can leverage their expertise to support the implementation of reciprocity policies, enhance data management capabilities, and develop innovative solutions for military applications. CRG, with its proven track record in winning and managing relevant defense contracts, invites industry partners to capitalize on this opportunity by collaborating with us to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the defense sector. CRG’s SMEs & dedicated teams excel in providing comprehensive pre- and post-award support. Visit https://crgroupinc.com/ or reach out to us at [email protected] to learn more about how CRG can empower your organization. #CRG #DefenseTech #DataAnalytics #Cybersecurity #AI #DefenseContracts #NavyInnovation #DataAnalytics #Cybersecurity #InformationSuperiority #Reciprocity #AI #Palantir #DefenseTech #InnovationLeadership #DoD #USNavy #USN #USArmy #ArmyStrong #DIB #USMIL #GovCons

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