Former Director, Defense Digital Service | Tech Modernization and Policy

<aside> 🇺🇸 I am a seasoned leader at the intersection of defense technology, policy, and digital transformation. With a proven track record in high-stakes, fast-paced environments, I have led Department of Defense software modernization efforts and shaped policies impacting military readiness, personnel, and intelligence.

My career spans executive roles in academia, government and the tech industry. I thrive in cross-functional collaboration—whether delivering applied national security scientific research, guiding software development teams, or engaging with senior leaders across the Executive Branch, Congress, international allies, think tanks, and the private sector.

Interested in having me advise your organization, speak at your event, or just want to chat about opportunities? Please email me at [email protected].

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About Me

Professional Journey

I bring together technology, policy, and national security to solve complex challenges. I currently lead the Program Management Office at the Kostas Research Institute, Northeastern University’s applied national security research institute. Prior, I led the Defense Digital Service (DDS), guiding a cross-functional team to deliver rapid software solutions for critical Department of Defense challenges. Before that, I shaped global policy on responsible AI at DataRobot and supported federal adoption of AI solutions. I began my career as an intelligence analyst at the Defense Intelligence Agency and have held key roles across the federal government, including at the National Security Council and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, building deep expertise in strategy, innovation, and leadership.

Core Values

Innovate for Impact

Turning ideas into solutions that solve real-world challenges

Lead with Integrity

Acting ethically, responsibly, and transparently in every decision

Empower Teams

Inspiring collaboration and bringing out the best in people


Experience

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Kostas Research Institute at Northeastern University 🔗

**Defense Digital Service** 🔗

National Security Council

Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense

DataRobot 🔗

U.S. House of Representatives

Office of the Under Secretary of

Defense for Intelligence & Security


Awards

**DefenseScoop 50 Award for Defense Leadership** 🔗 - August 2024

GovCIO Defense IT Leaders Flywheel Award for Emerging Tech Innovator 🔗- February 2024

Secretary of Defense Meritorious Civilian Service Award - December 2016


Education

Harvard University

Harvard Kennedy School

National Security Fellow

The George Washington University

The Elliott School of International Affairs

M.A., International Affairs

Pepperdine University

Seaver College

B.A., Political Science


Voices & Views

Speaking Engagements

AI in Action

GovCIO Media & Research AI Summit - January 2026

Panel discussion about real-world examples of how AI is being applied across government to improve mission delivery, enhance decision-making and streamline operations.

Building AI and Data Readiness in DoD

MITRE Data & AI Summit Summer Webinar Series - July 2025

Moderated webinar with Dr. Diana Gehlhaus, Principal Federal Policy Strategist at MITRE, exploring critical lessons learned and forward-looking insights on building data and AI readiness across the Department of Defense


Hacking the Pentagon: A conversation with Jennifer Hay, former director of the Defense Digital Service

SummerCon 2025 - July 2025

Fireside chat moderated by Colin Ahern, New York’s Chief Cyber Officer, on my experiences driving modernization in the Department of Defense.

Op-Eds & Media

Podcast: **Why Defense Digital Service Died — And What DOGE Can Learn** 🔗

Model Citizen with Glenn Parham - August 2025

Discussion on shutting down the Defense Digital Service and what the Department of Government Efficiency can learn from DDS.


Podcast: Doing Tech Better in Government with Jennifer Hay, Director, Digital Service 🔗

ATARC Federal IT - March 2025

Discussion on the Defense Digital Service’s mission to build better technology and digital solutions.