2025 OrangeSlices Vanguard DOD 250

As we gain clarity on the next phase of federal priorities under the new administration, the Department of Defense (DOD) is taking center stage with an unwavering commitment to transformation, efficiency, and high-impact, results-driven outcomes. This administration is set to maintain a robust defense posture while ensuring fiscal responsibility—streamlining operations, fostering innovation, and redefining effective defense solutions. In this fast-evolving landscape, industry partners with proven expertise across the federal sector must be ready to broaden their influence and forge strategic collaborations with emerging DOD agencies.

Join us on June 16 for the 2025 OrangeSlices Vanguard DOD 250 Event, spotlighting the most impactful IT and consulting leaders shaping our nation’s defense strategy. This gathering will convene DOD Acquisition Leaders, key policymakers, and forward-thinking industry innovators to share insights on emerging priorities, operational challenges, and opportunities for growth in FY25. We’ll explore how advanced technology, strategic realignment, and budget-conscious leadership will drive critical defense objectives and transform military operations in the months ahead.

Bring your team and to be recognized and celebrate with all of the Vanguard 250 DOD HONOREES!

AGENDA

• Emerging Trends, Challenges & Opportunities for FY26
• Disruptors Accelerating Innovation & Digital Transformation
• What to Expect: Acquisitions, Procurements, Contracting Shops and Contracting Vehicles: ACC/APG, DLA JETS, GSA OASIS+, SBIRs, OTAs, CSOs, Redefining the FAR? GSA Consolidation?
• Positioning your Company for this New Administration: How do Communicate and Differentiate in this New Market
• Not Your Momma's BD Roadmap Anymore

SPEAKERS

Government Keynote Panelists

Young Bang, former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army Acquisition, Logistics & Technology

Ryan Connell, Acquisitions, Strategic Operations Chief, CDAO, Department of Defense*

Naomi Escoffery, Director, Industry Engagement, Assistant Director, Support, Defense Health Agency*

Justin Fanelli, Chief Technology Officer & Technical Director, Department of the Navy

Charles Fitzsimmons, Jr., Division Chief, J6 Enterprise Technology Services (JETS), Defense Logistics Agency

George Forbes, Director, Digital Operations, CIO & CDO, Operations Enterprise, Envision Executive Sponsor, United States Air Force*

Michael Gomes, Director of Contracting Operations, Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground

Hannah Hunt, Distinguish Technical Fellow, Metrostar, former, Chief Product and Innovation Officer, Army Software Factory, US Army

Michele Iversen, Principal and Head of Geopolitical & Regulatory Risk, Chertoff Group, former Risk Assessment & Operational Integration, DOD, CIO

Katie Thompson, Deputy Executive Director, Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground

Dr. Maria Theodotou, Competition Assessment and Analysis, CAPE, Office of the Secretary of Defense, US Department of Defense

Featured Industry Disruptors

Liz Anthony, Managing Director, Federal Market and Competition Strategy, Maximus

David Blackburn, CEO, OrangeSlicesAI

Tris Carpenter, General Manager, Strategic Growth, Red Team Consulting

Dr. Bob Frey, Successful Proposal Strategies

Katie Helwig, President & CEO, Mild Red, LLC

Stacey Piper, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Piper Strategies

Joseph Re, General Manager, Maritime Division, GWAC/IDIQ Center of Excellence, Sev1Tech, LLC

Jeff Shen, President, Red Team Consulting

Justin Siken, Founder, HigherGov

Janet Waring Co-Founder & CEO, ArtForm Business Solutions

*invited speakers

Don’t miss this chance to connect with peers, cultivate valuable partnerships, and gain an edge as new administration leaders articulate their strategic visions. Be part of the conversation that will shape the next wave of industry partnership success and redefine how we safeguard our national interests.

Interested in Sponsorship Opportunities for this event?

Reach out to Mary.Garcia@govtechconnects.com