Navigating the Evolving Data Landscape and Breaking Down Barriers

The digital landscape is changing rapidly, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the federal government to leverage the power of data and analytics. As data science evolves, new technologies are emerging that impact how governments and industries manage and analyze data.

Government agencies and industry leaders must adopt comprehensive AI solutions, including data collection and model deployments, as well as other innovative technologies, to develop capabilities that meet government and industry standards and compliance requirements, while staying ahead of the curve.

Strong data governance policies and practices are crucial for preventing data breaches and misuse, as well as safeguarding the integrity and security of sensitive information. Looking ahead to 2025, data trends will continue to influence the future of data collection, analysis, and security. Generative AI will facilitate more advanced data analysis, while collaboration and innovation will speed up the development of new solutions.

On June 25th in Reston, VA, I had the honor of emceeing the "Data & Analytic Forum 2025 - From Data to Outcomes: Enhancing Government Efficiency Together", sponsored by the American Council for Technology - Industry Advisory Council. This event brought together experts and thought leaders to discuss the vital role of advanced data analytics, data migration, and a skilled data workforce in shaping the future of government and industry.

Check out some Snippets below ⬇️

Keynote Speakers

The day kicked off with a fireside chat featuring Chad Rowan, Research Scientist, Computational Science & Engineering at the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL). Rowan highlighted the Energy Data eXchange impact on fulfilling the R&D mission across Government, Industry, and Academia, stating, "We are in the midst of a data revolution and an AI revolution."

The day concluded with a fireside chat featuring Kayla Gunter, Associate Chief Information Officer, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Gunter underscored the importance of data sharing collaboratively and securely, emphasizing "the mission of NNSA is unique and staying ahead of emerging trends/technologies while preventing breaches and misuse of data is critical."

In addition to the Keynote addresses, the forum featured several insightful sessions, including:

Thought-Provoking Fireside Chats

Session 1: From Silos to Insight: Breaking Down Data Sharing Barriers

This session featured Maya Choudhry, Fredy Diaz, Kshemendra Paul, and William Watkins, who explored strategies for effective data sharing by addressing legacy systems, siloed data, and fragmented governance. The discussion emphasized the importance of striking a balance between data security and collaboration, while also promoting data literacy. Key takeaways included:

•  Strategies for efficient data sharing and teamwork
• The significance of data literacy for making data-driven decisions
• Insights on boosting efficiency, innovation, and impact with advanced analytics

Session 2: Empowering Efficiency: Essential Data Skills for Modern Government Workforce

This session featured Ken Rogers, Jon Stehle, Kevin Cooke, Will Haller, and Beckie Koonge, focusing on the essential data skills needed in the government workforce to improve efficiency, cut costs, and support strategic goals. The discussion highlighted the importance of cultivating a data-literate environment to enhance government operations, boost productivity, and promote a culture of continuous improvement. Key takeaways included:

• Key data skills required in the government workforce
• Methods for applying data-driven strategies and analytics to deliver measurable results
• Strategies for Building a Data-Driven Culture in Government

Session 3: Advanced Analytics Using Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Other Cutting-Edge Tools

This session featured Beth Martin, Isabel Metzger, and Martial Michel, who explored the potential of Generative AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP) to automate document processing, extract insights from unstructured data, and turn information into actionable intelligence. The discussion highlighted the advantages of utilizing AI to enhance transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in government, while also sharing expert insights on how AI can inform policy decisions and improve citizen services. Key takeaways included:

• How Generative AI and NLP can enhance sentiment analysis and automated reporting
• Strategies for leveraging AI to enhance transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in government
• Insights on how Generative AI can produce interactive and dynamic visualizations of complex data

The keynotes and sessions offered valuable insights into addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing government agencies and industry leaders.

By attending the "Data & Analytics Forum 2025" event, government agencies and industry leaders can gain a deeper understanding of how to harness the power of data and analytics to drive mission-critical decisions, stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies, and develop the skilled and talented data workforce needed to support data-driven decision-making.

Parting Shots

As we reflect on the insights and discussions from the "Data & Analytic Forum 2025" event, several thought-provoking takeaways emerge.

• Data is the new currency: The event emphasized the crucial role of data in enhancing government efficiency, innovation, and impact. Looking ahead, it is evident that data will become increasingly vital in shaping the future of government and industry.
• Collaboration is essential: The forum highlighted the importance of teamwork and data sharing across government agencies and industry leaders. By working together, we can unlock the full potential of data analytics and achieve meaningful results.
• AI is transforming government: The event highlighted the potential of AI to enhance transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in government. As AI continues to advance, it’s evident that it will play a vital role in shaping the future of government services.
• Data literacy is crucial: The forum emphasized the importance of data literacy for making data-driven decisions. As government agencies and industry leaders, we must focus on improving data literacy to ensure our workforce can effectively utilize data.
• Security is paramount: The event underscored the crucial importance of data security, emphasizing the need for robust data governance and security protocols to prevent data breaches and misuse.

As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, it is clear that data will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of government and industry. By harnessing the power of data and analytics, we can promote innovation, increase efficiency, and create impact, while enhancing citizens' lives and supporting economic growth.

Pete Tseronis is the Founder and CEO of Dots and Bridges LLC, a two-time Cabinet-level CTO, a Villanova University and Johns Hopkins University Alumnus, a Forbes Business Council Member, and a Bourbon Steward.