GovCon Executive Slice

Nearly 30 years of delivery across complex federal missions doesn’t happen by accident. A-TEK has built its reputation on execution. Now, with Stephanie Cumberbatch stepping into the COO role, the focus turns to what’s next. In this conversation, we dig into how A-TEK is evolving how it operates across the federal civilian and health markets, supporting agencies like DHS and HHS, including NIH, FDA, and CMS, and continuing to deliver where mission, data, and performance intersect. This is about execution. How strategy turns into delivery, how growth stays grounded in operations, and how teams stay close to the customer while scaling. A look at where A-TEK is headed, and what it takes to get there. To connect with Stephanie, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about A-TEK by visiting their webpage here.

What does federal health transformation actually look like from the inside? In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Dr. Roshni Ghosh, a physician and former leader within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, who has spent years working at the center of care innovation, clinical strategy, and system-level change. She has seen firsthand where efforts stall, where they succeed, and what it really takes to move from ideas to outcomes in one of the most complex healthcare environments in the country. Now serving as Public Sector Industry Leader at RGP, Dr. Ghosh brings that inside perspective into a broader conversation about how agencies and partners can actually deliver results, not just plans. This is not a theoretical discussion. It is a grounded look at the real barriers leaders face today, from making data useful to navigating limited budgets, and the practical shifts required to keep momentum. If you care about how federal health modernization actually gets done, and what separates teams that move forward from those that stall, this conversation is worth your time. To connect with Roshni, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about RGP by visiting their webpage here.

CMMC has been “coming” for years. Now it is here. And the real challenge for contractors is not awareness, it is deciding how to move forward without wasting time, money, or momentum. In this episode, we sit down with David Lawrence, CEO of ISI, a firm supporting more than 900 defense contractors across CMMC and NIST compliance, FSO services, facility and personnel clearances, and managed IT and cybersecurity. ISI’s position in the market is unique. They are not just advising on compliance, they are helping companies operationalize it alongside security, which is where many efforts break down. David brings a perspective shaped by private equity, operational transformation, and scaling technology-driven businesses. From leadership roles at firms like Bain & Company and EY-Parthenon, to driving growth and performance inside portfolio companies, his lens is grounded in value creation and execution, not theory. This conversation steps back from the noise and focuses on the decisions contractors are making right now. Where companies are still waiting, where they are overcorrecting, and where they are misallocating resources in ways that will be hard to unwind later. It also reframes CMMC as more than a compliance requirement. For some, it is becoming a strategic path that shapes how they compete, grow, and position themselves in the defense market. If you are a CEO, growth leader, or operator trying to determine how CMMC fits into your business over the next 12 to 24 months, this discussion offers a clearer, more practical way to think about the path forward. To connect with David, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about ISI by visiting their webpage here. Get more information and insight into CMMC at this dedicated page, here.

The federal market is entering a new phase. Not because of a single technology shift, but because the underlying model for how innovation is funded, owned, and delivered is being challenged. In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Nick Marchand, Operating Partner at Pleasant Land, for a conversation that moves well beyond the usual discussion of modernization and AI. Nick operates at the intersection of investment, strategy, and mission execution. In his role, he helps shape portfolio strategy and market positioning to drive long-term enterprise value across technology-enabled services. His work spans identifying scalable growth opportunities, prioritizing R&D and platform capabilities, and aligning companies to evolving federal mission needs. He also leads go-to-market strategy, supports acquisition diligence, and drives integration and value creation across portfolio companies, connecting long-term vision to measurable outcomes. That vantage point shows up throughout this discussion. Together, they unpack how the relationship between government and technology investment has evolved, where traditional approaches begin to break down, and why many transformation efforts struggle to deliver sustained impact. The conversation also explores what it really means to think like a strategic owner inside a federal environment, and why that shift is becoming critical as agencies push for faster, more meaningful results. They spend time on AI as well, but from a different angle. Moving past the typical constraints and into the deeper challenges that ultimately determine whether adoption succeeds. If you are trying to understand where the federal market is heading, how investment strategy is reshaping execution, and what it takes to align mission with real outcomes, this is a conversation worth your time. To connect with Nick, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Pleasant Land by visiting their webpage here.

As pressure builds across the federal market, the difference between companies that are growing and those that are falling behind is becoming clearer. Execution. That was the center of this OrangeSlices CEO Perspectives conversation, bringing together three CEOs who are operating in some of the most critical areas of today’s GovCon landscape. Jessica Morris of Pluribus Digital is helping reshape how government delivers services through modern digital products. Al Sowers of OneZero Solutions is leading in high-stakes cybersecurity and enterprise infrastructure. And Colin Corlett of Excentium is guiding agencies through the increasingly complex world of cloud, compliance, and FedRAMP. Moderated by Tyler Stewart of The Baldwin Group, the discussion stays grounded in how leaders are actually responding to today’s environment. From tightening margins and rising expectations, to the need for stronger operational discipline and smarter investment in innovation. The group shares candid perspectives on what is changing, what is not, and where leaders need to be paying closer attention. If you want a clearer view into how CEOs are navigating complexity while continuing to deliver, this conversation is worth a listen. To connect with Jessica, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Pluribus Digital by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Al, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about OneZero Solutions by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Colin, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Excentium by visiting their webpage here. Thank you to The Baldwin Group for sponsoring this podcast.

Healthcare in this country doesn’t have a shortage of ideas. It has a shortage of execution, especially in the places that need it most. Rural communities, underserved populations, and systems that still struggle to connect. The challenges are well known. What’s less clear is who’s actually turning insight into impact, and what that really looks like in practice. This conversation gets into that. Dr. Yael Harris, founder of Laurel Health Advisors, brings a perspective shaped by more than 16 years inside the Department of Health and Human Services, with leadership roles spanning CMS, ONC, HRSA, and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health. She’s helped shape national programs around access, quality, interoperability, and health equity, and now applies that experience directly to state and community-level transformation efforts. Through her work today, including recent efforts supporting Ohio, Dr. Harris is focused on translating policy and data into real-world outcomes, helping organizations move beyond analysis and into action. In this discussion, listeners will get a grounded view of what’s actually working right now, how states are approaching transformation in a more practical way, how data can be used to drive better decisions, and what separates organizations that talk about impact from those that consistently deliver it. If you’re trying to understand where healthcare transformation is heading, and what it really takes to execute in today’s environment, this is a conversation worth your time. To connect with Yael, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Laurel Health Advisors, LLC by visiting their webpage here.

The federal market is at a turning point. The bar is higher, the pace is faster, and the companies breaking through are the ones closest to the mission, built to move, built to adapt, and built to deliver. This episode of our CEO Perspectives series, part of the OrangeSlices community, brings together three CEOs leading Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) that are operating at that level. Pinakin Patel, Kentro. Innovation-driven. Design thinking at the core. A culture of continuous improvement helping agencies cut through complexity and execute with clarity. Danielle Krakora, Ibility / Tribility. People-first leadership. Mission-focused transformation. Driving real impact across federal healthcare through integrated, outcomes-oriented solutions. Chris Larkin, LMR Technical Group. Warfighter-focused. Performance-driven. Integrating training, human performance, data, and technology to directly support Department of Defense mission success. Moderated by Tyler Stewart of The Baldwin Group, an organization built to help businesses operate with confidence through expertise in insurance, employee benefits, and long-term financial strategy. This is a group defined by execution. Leaders and companies that understand the environment, align to the mission, and deliver where it counts. If you are in the federal market, or want to understand where it is going, this is the kind of perspective you do not want to miss. These are the operators setting the pace. Listen now to stay ahead. To connect with Danielle, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Ibility by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Pinakin, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Kentro by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Chris, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about LMR Technical Group by visiting their webpage here. Thank you to The Baldwin Group for sponsoring this podcast.  

Most FCL delays are not caused by the system. They are caused by how companies prepare for it. Small gaps in documentation, unclear internal ownership, and fragmented workflows create friction that compounds over time. By the time it becomes visible, timelines have already slipped and contract opportunities are at risk.  In this episode, ⁠Cate Pearson⁠, President of FSO and Clearance Services at ISI, brings a front line view into where and why those breakdowns happen. Drawing on experience supporting hundreds of defense contractors, she unpacks what separates organizations that move through the FCL process with predictability from those that get stuck in cycles of delay and rework.  The conversation also introduces a more structured approach to the problem. ISI’s TurboFCL solution is designed to reduce variability in the process by bringing consistency to how data, documentation, and ownership are managed from the start. Not as a shortcut, but as a way to eliminate the common failure points that slow companies down.  This episode is built for executives, program leaders, FSOs, and operations teams who are navigating the clearance process or preparing to enter it. If you are responsible for timelines, eligibility, or growth in the federal space, this will give you a clearer lens on where risk actually shows up and how to stay ahead of it without overcomplicating your approach.  To connect with Cate, follow her on LinkedIn ⁠here⁠. Learn more about ISI by visiting their webpage ⁠here⁠.

What happens when a proven builder steps back into the arena and puts his own conviction behind the bet? Manish Agarwal has done it before. As a founding member and President of Attain, he helped build the company into one of the most respected firms in the GovCon market, driving significant growth and ultimately helping lead it through a successful acquisition in 2021.  Then he stepped away for more than five years. Now he is back. Not just as CEO of Inadev, but as an investor in its future. A move that indicates more than a leadership change. It indicates belief. Inadev has spent over a decade building a strong foundation. Delivering AI-driven, mission-focused solutions across federal and commercial markets. A company known for speed, technical depth, and customer-centric execution. In this conversation, Manish shares why he chose to return, what he sees in Inadev that others might not, and how he plans to take that foundation and turn it into something bigger. He also offers a candid look at where the market is headed and the big bets he is making around AI and emerging technologies. If you care to hear where this market is going from a leader who has a track record of winning big, and who is positioning to lead what comes next, this is a conversation worth your time. To connect with Manish, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Inadev by visiting their webpage here.

Winning the recompete is one thing. Proving a joint venture can operate as one and earn the right to stay is something else entirely. In this episode, we hear from two leaders who have seen firsthand what it actually takes to make that happen. Just months removed from securing a $160 million U.S. Coast Guard IDIQ, a high-stakes recompete that reinforces both trust and performance at scale, Eric Laychock of Alpha Omega and Bob Burnett of OneZero Solutions pull back the curtain on how OneOmega operated as a truly integrated team when it mattered most. They break down what changed operationally, from delivery discipline to governance to how teams execute day to day, and how those shifts translated into outcomes the Coast Guard could rely on. We also get into what the government was really buying in this decision. Not just continuity, but reduced transition risk, proven performance, and a team ready to deliver from day one. And then we go deeper into the work itself. What IA and RMF look like at enterprise scale in a maritime environment. How you stay audit-ready across shore, afloat, and deployable systems. And how you move security at mission tempo without slowing operators down. Because the reality is, most joint ventures do not make it this far. This one did. Let’s get into it. To connect with Eric, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Alpha Omega by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Bob, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about OneZero Solutions by visiting their webpage here.

OrangeSlices recently hosted a new episode in our CEO Perspectives podcast series, bringing together three exceptional leaders from across the GovCon community for a candid conversation about what it takes to compete and lead in today’s evolving federal market. Joining the discussion were ⁠Leah Sanders⁠, CEO of D&G Solutions, ⁠Naveen Krishnamurthy⁠, CEO of RIVA Solutions, and ⁠Tim Borchert⁠, CEO of Tria Federal. Each of these organizations was recently recognized as a 2026 Elev8[X] finalist, emerging from a pool of more than 1,200 companies nominated and evaluated across the federal contracting ecosystem. These are companies that have built strong reputations supporting some of the government’s most critical missions. D&G Solutions continues to distinguish itself as a people-first, mission-driven logistics and supply chain partner supporting defense and homeland security customers. RIVA Solutions has earned recognition as a leader in digital transformation, helping agencies modernize through DevSecOps, cloud, data and analytics, and cybersecurity across federal civilian, national security, and health markets. And Tria Federal, with nearly two decades of mission support experience, remains a trusted partner delivering digital services and technology solutions that help agencies better serve veterans, service members, and civilians. The conversation was moderated by ⁠Eric Mothershead⁠, Senior Partner at The Baldwin Group, whose questions helped spark a thoughtful exchange among the CEOs as they unpacked some of the most timely issues facing federal contractors today. During the session, the leaders shared how they are adapting their organizations to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving GovCon market. The conversation touched on operational shifts, changing expectations for leadership and workforce performance as efficiency pressures grow, how companies are balancing innovation investments such as AI and automation with stronger margin discipline, and the harder shifts federal contractors will need to make over the next few years that the industry is not yet talking about enough. Throughout the discussion, Sanders, Krishnamurty, and Borchert offered practical insights drawn from leading organizations that support complex missions across defense, homeland security, federal civilian, and health sectors. The exchange included thoughtful perspectives, honest reflections on current market pressures, and a bit of lively back and forth as the group explored where the market may be headed next. For CEOs, founders, and growth-minded executives across the GovCon community, this episode offers a chance to hear directly from leaders who are building successful organizations while navigating many of the same challenges others in the market are facing today. If you are looking for real-world perspective from peers who are shaping the market while keeping it honest about the opportunities and headwinds ahead, this is an episode well worth the listen. 🎙️ Connect with our guests and moderator: ⁠Leah Sanders⁠ | ⁠D&G Solutions⁠ ⁠Naveen Krishnamurthy⁠ | ⁠RIVA Solutions⁠ ⁠Tim Borchert⁠ | ⁠Tria Federal⁠ ⁠Eric Mothershead⁠ | ⁠The Baldwin Group⁠

OrangeSlices recently hosted a new episode in our CEO Perspectives podcast series, bringing together three exceptional leaders from across the GovCon community for a candid conversation about what it takes to compete and lead in today’s evolving federal market. Joining the discussion were Leah Sanders, CEO of D&G Solutions, Naveen Krishnamurthy, CEO of RIVA Solutions, and Tim Borchert, CEO of Tria Federal. Each of these organizations was recently recognized as a 2026 Elev8[X] finalist, emerging from a pool of more than 1,200 companies nominated and evaluated across the federal contracting ecosystem. These are companies that have built strong reputations supporting some of the government’s most critical missions. D&G Solutions continues to distinguish itself as a people-first, mission-driven logistics and supply chain partner supporting defense and homeland security customers. RIVA Solutions has earned recognition as a leader in digital transformation, helping agencies modernize through DevSecOps, cloud, data and analytics, and cybersecurity across federal civilian, national security, and health markets. And Tria Federal, with nearly two decades of mission support experience, remains a trusted partner delivering digital services and technology solutions that help agencies better serve veterans, service members, and civilians. The conversation was moderated by Eric Mothershead, Senior Partner at The Baldwin Group, whose questions helped spark a thoughtful exchange among the CEOs as they unpacked some of the most timely issues facing federal contractors today. During the session, the leaders shared how they are adapting their organizations to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving GovCon market. The conversation touched on operational shifts, changing expectations for leadership and workforce performance as efficiency pressures grow, how companies are balancing innovation investments such as AI and automation with stronger margin discipline, and the harder shifts federal contractors will need to make over the next few years that the industry is not yet talking about enough. Throughout the discussion, Sanders, Krishnamurty, and Borchert offered practical insights drawn from leading organizations that support complex missions across defense, homeland security, federal civilian, and health sectors. The exchange included thoughtful perspectives, honest reflections on current market pressures, and a bit of lively back and forth as the group explored where the market may be headed next. For CEOs, founders, and growth-minded executives across the GovCon community, this episode offers a chance to hear directly from leaders who are building successful organizations while navigating many of the same challenges others in the market are facing today. If you are looking for real-world perspective from peers who are shaping the market while keeping it honest about the opportunities and headwinds ahead, this is an episode well worth the listen. 🎙️ Connect with our guests and moderator: Leah Sanders | D&G Solutions Naveen Krishnamurthy | RIVA Solutions Tim Borchert | Tria Federal Eric Mothershead | The Baldwin Group

Fresh off a breakout year and a $30M Series B raise, Sean Doherty joins David Blackburn for a timely conversation about the future of AI in government contracting. As CEO of GovDash, Sean has helped scale the company from an AI native business development tool into a full scale, AI driven platform supporting capture, proposal, pricing, and contract workflows across nearly 200 contractors, including firms inside the top 100 federal market. Revenue surged 16x. The team expanded rapidly. FedRAMP Moderate Equivalency was achieved. And customers collectively won more than $5B in contracts in 2025. In this episode, Sean shares what is really happening behind that growth and where GovDash is heading next. We dig into: The launch of a new Pricer product and how it could reshape pricing strategy and competitive positioning • A major upgrade to GovDash’s opportunity identification algorithm, built to surface true good fit pursuits faster • Expanded agentic capabilities inside Dash, enabling teams to spin up and automate complex workflows across the business • One bold prediction about where GovCon AI platforms are heading and what the broader federal market could look like in 2027 If you want to understand how one of the fastest growing AI platforms in GovCon is thinking about scale, product evolution, and the next phase of the market, this is a conversation worth your time. To connect with Sean, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about GovDash by visiting their webpage here.

On this episode of GovCon Executive Slice, Shelley McGuire chats with Jim Bobeck, CEO of FHAS Inc., shares how a 30-year-old company has remained a trusted small business in the federal healthcare space while navigating constant change in government contracting. An attorney by background and a longtime leader at FHAS, Jim explains how the company built its reputation around a clear niche, medical legal reviews and coverage determinations, and a disciplined, repeatable process that delivers measurable outcomes. In today’s environment, where agencies face increased scrutiny, regulatory complexity, and a shift toward firm-fixed-price contracts, he emphasizes that the government isn’t buying hours anymore; it’s buying operational peace of mind. Jim also discusses how FHAS is adapting to evolving requirements around interoperability, security, and AI-enabled services. After decades of primarily operating as a subcontractor, the company is expanding its footprint and investing in a health intelligence platform designed to turn medical coverage data into actionable insights for federal programs. The conversation highlights what it takes to stay relevant in FedHealth: focus on your niche, build trust through outcomes, form the right partnerships, and continuously evolve without losing sight of who you are. To connect with Jim, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about FHAS by visiting their webpage here.

On this episode of GovCon Executive Slice, David Blackburn welcomes Stacey Piper, Founder and CEO Piper Strategies and host of the Branding the Beltway podcast, to talk about what it really takes to stand out at GovCon events. The conversation digs into how companies show up, get noticed, and leave a lasting impression in crowded rooms. Stacey challenges the idea that branding at events starts and ends with logoed shirts and booths, emphasizing that personal presence is often the most powerful brand touchpoint. The discussion explores how intentional details, individuality, and coordination across teams can elevate visibility, start conversations, and create memorability, whether at large-scale conferences or smaller networking gatherings. The episode offers a fresh perspective on event branding, highlighting why thoughtful, human-centered brand expression matters just as much as traditional marketing tactics in the GovCon space. To connect with Stacey, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Piper Strategies by visiting their webpage here.

In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Krystn Macomber, Founder and CEO of Summit Strategy and one of the most respected voices in GovCon growth. Krystn has spent more than twenty years transforming marketing, business development, and proposal teams into true revenue engines. She has partnered with companies from early stage to global scale, building the systems, processes, and brand alignment they need to stop reacting and start winning. She leads Summit Strategy’s work as a win studio for growth-obsessed teams while giving back as a mentor and industry leader across major organizations. Krystn is also a 2026 Engage 150 honoree and a former Division I basketball player for the University of Richmond Spiders.   Today we will dig into the fundamentals she wishes every new GovCon-curious business owner understood, how to approach proposal improvement when you do not know where to start, and the patterns she has seen across hundreds of companies that either fuel growth or hold teams back.   Click here to watch The Great Proposal Bake Off: AI Edition referenced during the interview.   To connect with Krystn, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Summit Strategy by visiting their webpage here.

In this conversation, David Blackburn is joined by Blake Harvey, the newly announced President of Red Team Consulting, one of the most trusted institutions in the GovCon market. Blake has been with Red Team since 2018, rising through the ranks and helping shape how contractors approach business development, capture, and long-term growth. Red Team Consulting has been a steady, respected voice in the federal sector for more than two decades and was recently named a 2026 Elevate GovCon honoree. In his new role, Blake is leading day-to-day execution while helping guide the firm’s strategic direction at a moment when the federal market is changing fast. This episode dives into Red Team’s leadership transition, what Blake is seeing across the GovCon landscape right now, and how contractors should be thinking about growth, resilience, and positioning as we head deeper into 2026. If you want perspective grounded in experience and real market exposure, this is a conversation worth your time. To connect with Blake, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Red Team Consulting by visiting their webpage here.

In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Tom Springer, Managing Partner at SD Capital, for a grounded, experience-driven conversation on what truly drives successful middle-market transactions.   Drawing on decades of experience as a business owner, operator, advisor, and former portfolio company CEO, Tom offers a clear-eyed look at how buyers evaluate companies and where sellers often leave value on the table. The discussion goes beyond theory and focuses on the practical realities of preparing for liquidity events, navigating buyer expectations, and aligning transaction strategy with long-term personal and business goals.   The conversation explores what buyers prioritize today, how sellers can strengthen their position before entering the market, and why preparation is as much about clarity and timing as it is about financial performance. Tom also shares perspective on working effectively with buyers, managing complexity during a sale process, and avoiding common missteps that can derail outcomes or erode value.   This episode is especially relevant for founders and executives considering recapitalization, management buyouts, family transitions, or other monetization paths. It offers thoughtful guidance rooted in real transactions and lived experience, making it a valuable listen for anyone navigating growth, transition, or exit decisions in the middle market.   To connect with Tom, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about SD Capital by visiting their webpage here.

David Blackburn, CEO of OrangeSlices AI, recently sat down with Bryon Kroger, CEO of Rise8. The conversation traces Bryon’s journey from his Air Force career to co-founding Kessel Run to now leading Rise8, a company focused on helping large enterprises deliver better software at the speed mission demands.   Bryon has been at the center of several major shifts in defense software development, including building the DOD’s first software factory and advancing modern approaches such as continuous Authority to Operate. Today, as CEO of Rise8, he leads an SDVOSB with a fully remote workforce and a growing track record of pairing strong engineering with a product mindset and human-centered design to support critical government and defense missions.   In the episode, David and Bryon dig into the gap Bryon saw in the industry, how culture influences mission outcomes, and what it really takes to push digital transformation inside complex bureaucracies. It is a clear, grounded look at the challenges and opportunities ahead for those working to modernize government software, and a conversation worth catching.   To connect with Bryon, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Rise8 by visiting their webpage here.

In this podcast, David Blackburn connects with ⁠Christian Ferreira⁠, CEO of Procurement Sciences AI. The company is reshaping how government contractors operate in a market that grows more competitive every day. Procurement Sciences AI is the team behind Awarded AI. The first AI native operating system built specifically for GovCon. A platform that unifies opportunity discovery, bid decisions, proposal automation, compliance reviews, and post award delivery inside one secure environment. It is already trusted across the industry, including by nearly a quarter of the Top 100 contractors, and it recently secured a thirty million dollar Series B to accelerate what comes next. Christian’s background in engineering, strategy, and mission focused leadership, shaped in part by his service as a Marine Corps Sergeant, informs the way the company approaches this work. Built by people who have lived the GovCon pain points, Procurement Sciences AI is targeting the core inefficiencies that slow teams down and limit their ability to compete. In this episode, Christian joins to explore the questions every GovCon leader is asking. What is the biggest friction point in the lifecycle and why is AI positioned to change it. Why generic tools like ChatGPT or Copilot cannot carry the depth and compliance needs of federal contracting. What it means to build an AI platform for GovCon rather than retrofit one. And where AI is headed across the lifecycle in the next twelve to twenty four months. If you want a clear, grounded look at how AI will reshape the future of federal contracting, this conversation is one worth your time. To connect with Christian, follow him on LinkedIn ⁠here⁠. Learn more about Procurement Sciences AI by visiting their webpage ⁠here⁠.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the fireside chat between Adam McNair and Bryon Kroger. Click here to view the entire event.

In this episode, David Blackburn catches up with Corey Solivan, founder of Data Room AI. The company is building tools that take the flood of open federal data and turn it into something growth and strategy teams can actually use. Clear insight, faster planning, and a more connected view of the GovCon landscape. We dig into three main areas. First. The core problem that led to the creation of Data Room AI and the gaps in today’s GovCon research and planning process that many teams still struggle with. Second. The growing conversation around AI and why it matters to distinguish between tools built for chatting and tools built for real decision support. Third. A look at several new Data Room AI capabilities rolling out now and how they reflect the larger shift toward more intelligent, automated workspaces. If you want a sharper sense of where GovCon data and decision-making are heading, this is a conversation worth hearing. To connect with Corey, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Data Room AI by visiting their webpage here.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Ted Rose of Rose Financial. Click here to view the entire event.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Matt Vean of JP MorganChase. Click here to view the entire event.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Marty Brennan of The Baldwin Group. Click here to view the entire event.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Eric Mothershead of The Baldwin Group. Click here to view the entire event.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the fireside chat between Sharon Heaton and Gautam Ijoor. Click here to view the entire event.

On November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the fireside chat between Sarah Djamshidi and Mehul Sanghani. Click here to view the entire event.

GovCon firms are being challenged to compete like never before. To win, they must be faster, leaner, and more efficient, delivering outcomes that drive measurable value for both customers and shareholders. For CEOs, that means focusing on growth, efficiency, and strategic positioning while minimizing distractions that do not add value. This urgency is heightened by the new administration’s evolving priorities, tightening budgets, and the growing demand for impact-driven solutions, alongside the rapid advance of AI that is reshaping every corner of the market. The firms that strengthen operational discipline, invest in efficiency, and plan for long-term value creation today will be the ones positioned to lead tomorrow. This forum is designed exclusively for C-level executives and will deliver practical insights on how to: • Run leaner, smarter, and stronger organizations • Balance short-term efficiency with long-term enterprise value • Prepare for M&A well before an exit is on the horizon OrangeSlices AI is bringing together GovCon leaders, investors, and advisors for an online discussion that explores both sides of the efficiency equation: how to streamline operations for growth and how to position for value creation in a changing market. Featured Speakers - GovCon CEOs Some of the most respected leaders in the market will share what it takes to lead through change, sustain growth, and stay ahead in a competitive environment. • Mehul Sanghani, CEO, Octo (acquired by IBM) • Bryon Kroger, CEO and Founder, Rise8 • Gautam Ijoor, CEO, Alpha Omega Industry Perspectives These industry voices will bring practical insights on how firms can optimize operations, manage risk, and drive value through stronger financial and strategic alignment. • Matt Vean, Vice President | Commercial Relationship Manager | Aerospace, Defense and Government Services, JP MorganChase • Marty Brennan, SVP & Managing Director, Transaction Advisory Services, Deep Water Point & Associates (DWPA) • Eric Mothershead, Senior Partner, Baldwin Group • Ted Rose, President and CEO, Rose Financial M&A and Strategic Advisors Top M&A experts will provide perspective on current market trends, what drives valuations, and how executives can position now for success in the next wave of GovCon consolidation. • Sharon Heaton, CEO & Founder, sbLiftOff • Adam McNair, GovCon Advisor, FedTrends • Sarah Djamshidi, President & Managing Partner, Speedshift Advisors • Naina Leo, President & Founder, Mosaic Technologies

In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Joshua Skule, Founder and CEO of Bow Wave LLC, a HUBZone and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned small business making its mark across the national security community. After a distinguished 21-year career with the FBI, where he rose to serve as Executive Assistant Director for Intelligence leading a global team of 5,000 and managing a $3 billion program, Joshua turned his focus to building something of his own. At Bow Wave, he has brought together a team of experts in cybersecurity, counterintelligence, and data science who share his commitment to mission, innovation, and resilience. Together, they are helping government partners tackle complex national security challenges in a fast-changing world. In their conversation, Joshua shares what inspired him to launch Bow Wave, how he defines success, where he sees the market heading, and how he balances short-term needs with a long-term vision for impact. If you want a front-row look at how one of the nation’s top intelligence leaders is shaping the future of national security from the private sector, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. To connect with Joshua, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Bow Wave by visiting their webpage here.

David Blackburn, CEO of OrangeSlices, sat down with Eric Laychock, the newly recruited Chief Operating Officer at Alpha Omega. With more than 17 years in consulting, including his leadership as a Managing Director at KPMG, Eric brings the kind of experience and vision that match Alpha Omega’s rapid rise as one of the fastest-growing firms in the federal sector. Alpha Omega isn’t just scaling - it’s investing in the future. From digital modernization and AI to cybersecurity, the company is pushing transformation that delivers real impact across national security, federal finance, space and science, and healthcare missions. With Eric onboard, the company is doubling down on building solutions, culture, and innovation that will shape how federal agencies meet tomorrow’s challenges. In this conversation, we explore: What it means for Alpha Omega to evolve into a true solutions firm. How people-focused initiatives like staff councils and coaching playbooks strengthen talent and customer outcomes. Why building incubators for IP and accelerators is central to long-term innovation. How Alpha Omega is delivering ROI through proprietary tools like DELTA AI - and what sets it apart in a crowded marketplace. To connect with Eric, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Alpha Omega by visiting their webpage here.

Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting. Nine months ago, one of the biggest headlines in federal health IT dropped: Tria Federal acquired Softrams. The deal combined two rising players and positioned Tria and its leadership team as one of the powerhouse companies shaping the future of federal health On this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Tim Borchert, CEO of Tria Federal, and Atchut Kanthamani, President of Tria Federal to look at what’s happened since. Under their leadership, Tria has returned billions of dollars in savings and recoveries to Medicare and the VA, while expanding expertise in AI, cloud, data, and human-centered digital services. That push is strengthened by Tria Labs, the company’s technology innovation group led by engineers, developers, and technologists who proactively test emerging solutions for some of the government’s toughest problems – from applying AI and intelligent automation to low-code development and cybersecurity. At its heart, the company is focused on bridging capability gaps and helping government move with more focus, agility, and impact. This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how a company built on service and innovation is preparing to tackle the government’s toughest challenges in health and public safety. Tune in to learn how Tria is reshaping federal health IT, leading with mission, and driving innovation at scale. To connect with Tim, follow him on LinkedIn here. To connect with Atchut, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Tria Federal by visiting their webpage here.

Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting. Listen in as David Blackburn sits down with Katrina and Chris Koomey, CEO and COO of Thorben Consulting, an SBA-certified woman-owned small business that has been a trusted SAP and ERP partner to the federal government for more than two decades. Thorben helped lead the Department of Interior’s pioneering FBMS project, the first federal SAP implementation, and has since supported major modernization efforts at USDA, NASA, the Army, and many other agencies. In this conversation, Katrina and Chris reflect on how Thorben has evolved from an SAP integration firm to a leader in cloud-based ERP and AI-driven enterprise performance. They discuss the challenges agencies face in modernizing legacy systems, the opportunities ahead for leveraging proven technology and enterprise AI, and why their trademarked approach, Mastering Innovation Together®, continues to guide the company’s work with both government and industry partners. With a track record of delivering on some of the government’s most ambitious ERP initiatives, Thorben remains a passionate advocate for helping agencies think bigger, move faster, and unlock new value through modern enterprise solutions. To connect with Katrina, follow her on LinkedIn here. To connect with Chris, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Thorben Consulting by visiting their webpage here.

T Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting. This episode features Jena Jones, CEO of PGT Solutions, a woman-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned IT and strategic modernization partner serving government agencies and healthcare organizations. From her early career as a U.S. Army psychological operations specialist to leading enterprise modernization initiatives at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Jena’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a relentless focus on mission success. Under her leadership, PGT Solutions quickly grew from tactical training roots into a trusted IT and enterprise architecture prime contractor for the VA, known for delivering measurable impact for veterans and beyond. Jena shares how her path—marked by early risks, rapid maturity as a prime, and a commitment to culture and quality—shaped the company’s values and long-term vision. Outside of government contracting, Jena’s passion for animal welfare has led her to serve on multiple sanctuary boards and launch a new foundation dedicated to giving back. With 2025 ahead, she discusses how PGT is positioning itself for growth, opportunity, and continued service to its clients and community. To connect with Jena, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about PGT Solutions by visiting their webpage here.

Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting. In this episode, host David Blackburn sits down with Gurpreet Singh, CEO of Infotrend, to unpack the journey that led him to helm a company at the intersection of mission, innovation, and public service. With a background that spans both government and industry, Gurpreet offers perspective on what it takes to build a meaningful career in GovCon—and how a people-first mindset can shape not just leadership, but legacy. The discussion moves into the realities of growth, as Infotrend’s evolution over the past several years sets the stage for a conversation about culture, scaling with intention, and staying rooted in core values while adapting to new demands. David and Gurpreet explore how client service models shift as organizations mature, and what it looks like to build systems, teams, and relationships that can scale without losing their soul. Finally, the two dig into what it means to stay competitive in a shifting landscape. With a new administration and fresh federal priorities on the horizon, the conversation turns to strategy, innovation, and differentiation. Gurpreet introduces CoreSuite AI, Infotrend’s proprietary platform aimed at transforming data management and e-discovery through early validation and automation—highlighting the kind of forward-leaning capability that defines companies preparing not just for the moment, but for what’s next. Listen below to hear why Gurpreet’s people-first approach, cross-sector experience, and forward-thinking leadership make him a standout voice for anyone navigating the future of GovCon. To connect with Gurpreet, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Infotrend by visiting their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.