In January, the chapter brought together government, military and industry leaders for its DISA Luncheon at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia. Centered on the theme, Supporting the Warfighter From Enterprise to Edge, the sold-out event highlighted the Defense Information Systems Agency's role in delivering resilient, secure and modernized information capabilities across the Department of War. Strong attendance from across the defense information technology (IT) community reflected sustained interest in how enterprise modernization efforts are translating into mission impact.
The program began with networking, giving attendees the opportunity to connect with peers, DISA representatives and other government officials before the formal remarks. As with all chapter events, the luncheon created space for direct engagement between government and industry, a core part of the chapter's mission to advance collaboration in support of national security.
The keynote address was delivered by Chris Barnhurst, deputy director of DISA. The keynote portion of the program provided a broad overview of DISA's responsibilities as a combat support agency operating in an increasingly complex digital environment. The conversation acknowledged the pace of technological change and the need for agility as mission requirements continue to evolve. Secure, reliable connectivity across both enterprise and tactical environments was presented as essential to maintaining continuity and effectiveness across the force.
Resilience remained a consistent thread throughout the discussion. As cyber threats grow in scale and sophistication, strengthening network defenses and reinforcing enterprise security remain top priorities. Modernization initiatives including cloud adoption, improved data management and transport enhancements were addressed as part of ongoing efforts to improve scalability, interoperability and overall mission performance.
Following the keynote, a panel of senior DISA acquisition and technology leaders explored how these priorities are being operationalized. The panel featured Caroline Bean, portfolio acquisition executive for services; Nick Creswell, portfolio acquisition executive for mission partner environment; Brian Hermann, portfolio acquisition executive; Sharon McMillon, portfolio acquisition executive; and Steve Wallace, chief technology officer for DISA. The discussion was moderated by Jason Martin, Senior Executive Service, component acquisition executive for DISA.
The conversation addressed governance alignment, procurement refinement and increased coordination across portfolios. Panelists discussed approaches aimed at accelerating delivery timelines while maintaining oversight and accountability, highlighting flexible acquisition pathways and earlier engagement with industry as mechanisms to support more responsive capability development.
The DISA Luncheon is one of several high-impact programs hosted each year by the chapter. Upcoming luncheons will continue to feature senior defense and technology leaders addressing key issues shaping the military IT landscape. In May, the chapter will host its annual Military IT Leadership Awards, recognizing individuals and teams driving innovation and mission success across the Department of War.
For more information on upcoming events, sponsorship opportunities and membership, visit the AFCEA Washington DC website and become part of the region's leading government-industry forum dedicated to advancing defense technology. |
Pictured (l-r) are Jason Martin, moderator, DISA, along with DISA panelists Steve Wallace, chief technology officer; Sharon McMillion, portfolio acquisition executive (PAE); Caroline Bean, PAE; Brian Hermann, PAE; and Nick Creswell, PAE. |
