The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Jessica Maloney, general manager of the civilian division at Sev1Tech, and finalist in the DHS Executive of the Year, Private Company, category. Here, she talks about primary focus areas going forward, shares career advice and more.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
As General Manager of Sev1Tech’s Civilian Division, I collaborate closely with my team to support federal partners in their IT modernization and zero trust security initiatives. We provide advanced solutions that enhance user experience, uphold the highest security standards and execute critical missions and national security tasks.
My team recently helped establish CISA’s IT network enterprise services, positioning CISA OCIO as a leader in innovative, high-quality services. This modernization effort includes enterprise cloud, mobility, network, ICAM, TIC, zero trust architecture, learning platforms, monitoring tools, AI/ML and DevSecOps.
As federal civilian agencies modernize IT and adopt cloud and AI/ML, they rely on industry partners like Sev1Tech for high-quality services. Sev1Tech is aiding CISA and other agencies in developing essential future technologies crucial for mission success and we hope to support more federal partners with innovative, secure and functional network and mission-support technology.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
There are two pieces of great career advice I’ve received. The first is to surround yourself with inspiring people, as your environment can play a key role in your growth.
Second, as a leader – it’s very important to empower your employees. Delegating, mentoring, training and guiding can advance the team and provide future growth opportunities.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know?
Most people don’t know that I was an extra on a movie called “Fast Food Nation.” It was a great experience, and I was able to meet Bruce Willis and Greg Kinnear.