Streamlining Federal Hiring | Navigating Zero Trust | Exploring Generative AI

September 22, 2024

Presented by Akamai Technologies & Carahsoft

Streamlining Federal Hiring: OMB's Push for Efficiency and Better Outcomes

Loren DeJonge Schulman, Associate Director for Performance at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), discusses the recent efforts by OMB and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to improve the federal hiring process. The new guidance is designed to address common challenges in federal hiring, aiming to simplify and accelerate the process for applicants, hiring managers, and HR professionals. By leveraging existing tools and resources, such as position descriptions and talent pools, the guidance encourages agencies to use a more unified approach. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of clear communication with applicants and the use of data to monitor and improve hiring practices. Ultimately, the goal is to make federal employment more accessible, attract top talent, and ensure a more efficient public service delivery.

Key Takeaways:

1. The guidance aims to streamline federal hiring by utilizing existing tools to make the process faster and less burdensome.
   
   
2. Agencies are encouraged to draw from existing talent pools and standardized job descriptions to improve efficiency and reduce duplication.
   
   
3. Regular training, communication, and a framework for measuring success will ensure that the new practices lead to improved hiring outcomes and retention rates.

Rob San Martin, Assistant Vice President for Public Sector at Akamai Technologies, discusses the complexities of implementing zero trust solutions within the federal government, particularly focusing on identity management and edge computing. He highlights the challenges that agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD), face in adapting to evolving security landscapes. A significant focus is on the use of Identity, Credential, and Access Management (ICAM) systems as a critical "front door" to zero trust frameworks. San Martin also emphasizes the dynamic nature of edge computing and its impact on identity management, noting that the definition of "the edge" is continuously evolving, adding layers of complexity to securing information. Lastly, he identifies API security and network segmentation as crucial next steps after establishing strong identity management protocols.

Key Takeaways:

1. Managing identities in a constantly changing environment, especially with varying user roles and locations, is a significant challenge for federal agencies working towards zero trust.
   
   
2. Edge computing introduces additional complexity to zero trust strategies, as the definition of "the edge" can change depending on operational context and geographic location.
   
   
3. After securing identity management, agencies should focus on API security and network segmentation to further enhance their zero trust posture.

Exploring Generative AI in the Army for Enhanced Operational Efficiency

Leonel Garciga, Chief Information Officer for the Army, elaborates on the Army's initiative to experiment with generative AI capabilities through a pilot program involving 400 users. This project aims to assess the application of AI in diverse areas such as logistics, medical operations, and soldier health management. The goal is to explore how large language models can reduce cognitive burden, improve operational efficiency, and support decision-making. A key focus is on understanding the business models for delivering AI as a service and determining the best practices for centralized and decentralized data handling. Garciga highlights the importance of establishing a governance model to avoid uncontrolled AI implementation, ensuring a systematic approach to expanding AI use across the Army. Additionally, this initiative will provide insights into resource allocation and shape future AI acquisitions. Collaboration with other service branches is a priority, fostering a unified approach to leveraging AI and sharing knowledge for better outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Army is conducting micro proofs of concept with 400 users to identify the most effective applications for large language models and generative AI, covering areas from legal support to analyzing soldier health records.
   
   
2. Establishing a clear governance framework and predictable cost model is crucial to manage AI deployment effectively, avoiding unregulated sprawl while ensuring AI use is scalable and beneficial across different Army sectors.
   
   
3. The Army is actively working with other service branches, such as the Air Force and Navy, to share insights and best practices, aiming for a cohesive strategy in AI adoption and Agile software development to achieve common defense objectives.