Legacy, Leadership, and the Leap Beyond Government with Calvin Mitchell

On this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros and Shelley McGuire catch up with Calvin Mitchell, Senior Director, Acquisition Strategy and Engagement, GDIT, shares how an unexpected push from his mom launched a 20-year federal career that spanned weapons systems, disaster response, Capitol Hill, and the Department of Education, ultimately rising to Deputy Assistant Secretary. Along the way, he reveals the pivotal moments, bold decisions, and leadership lessons that shaped his path. Now on the industry side with GDIT, Calvin offers a candid look at the realities of transitioning out of government, debunks common misconceptions about federal procurement, and shares why relationships, not just resumes, are the key to success. He also opens up about what surprised him most on the other side, including the pace, the empathy, and the mission-driven mindset that still carries through. To connect with Calvin visit him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about GDIT by visiting their website here.