In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown is joined by Felipe Fernandez, Chief Technology Officer at Fortinet Federal, Inc. With over 20 years of experience in networking and cybersecurity, Felipe leads the charge in delivering mission-critical cybersecurity solutions for federal agencies. He shares valuable insights on the current state of zero trust implementation across federal agencies, as well as the challenges many still face in aligning these principles with their unique operational needs.

Felipe discusses the role of artificial intelligence in optimizing cybersecurity frameworks, and how agencies can enforce zero trust principles in multi-cloud environments. Tune in for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of federal cybersecurity and how agencies can strengthen their defenses moving forward.

If you're involved in federal cybersecurity or interested in the future of zero trust, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown is joined by Saeed Elnaj, Chief Innovation Officer at RELI Group, to discuss the role of AI in transforming the federal health industry, particularly in the Medicare system. With 30 years of experience in technology leadership and expertise in Generative AI, cloud technologies, and digital transformation, Saeed shares his insights on how AI can significantly improve customer experience (CX) and health outcomes for older, non-digital-native Medicare beneficiaries.

Saeed explores the recent investments CMS has made in AI to help improve plan selection and proactively identify patients at risk for chronic conditions. He also discusses the challenges federal health agencies face as they integrate AI, using the vast CMS data to deliver better services, and how these innovations are paving the way for the future of Medicare.

Don’t miss this discussion on the future of healthcare and the transformative power of AI in the federal health sector!

In this special episode of Keeping IT Brief, host Mary Ann Brown is joined by Ann Dunkin, former Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and recipient of the 2025 FORUM IT100 Award. With a wealth of experience in both government and private sectors, Ann reflects on her career journey and what this prestigious award means to her personally and professionally. She also shares a pivotal project or moment in her career that significantly contributed to her success.

Ann discusses her vision for the future of technology in the public sector and her hopes for how digital transformation can drive positive change in areas like energy, science, and national security. She concludes by offering valuable advice to emerging leaders looking to make a meaningful impact in the IT industry.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of technology in government!