As managing director for the federal civilian market at Google Public Sector, Teddra Thomas Burgess is unrelentingly upbeat amid the current Washington upheaval. She emphasizes a positive approach, focusing on how Google can empower the government to fulfill its mission.
“We are focused on what we can impact and influence, and how we can continue to help the government do its work,” she said. “We are committed to driving innovation in the public sector by delivering end-to-end IT services as a global platform. This includes cloud platforms at all classification levels and a robust global network.”
Through this infrastructure, Google securely provides artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity solutions to drive efficiency gains and deliver on digital transformation.
“We’re fully committed to mission,” Burgess said, highlighting Google Public Sector’s focus on helping agencies meet the new administration’s priorities.
A key part of Google’s strategy is leveraging AI to enhance government efficiency and improve citizen experiences, “we are delivering on modernization, efficiency and accelerating digital transformation—all are critical to mission. And we’re focused on what really sets us apart, including our AI-powered solutions, implementing AI in a way that empowers federal agencies,” she explained.
She described Google’s generative AI solutions as an “always-on AI collaborator,” fostering collaboration, creativity and productivity within agencies. These services are designed to be secure, easy to adopt and deliver a high return on investment.
Burgess recognizes the challenges facing the GovCon world. Many are uncertain about engaging with the government amid workforce changes. Her advice?
“Don’t lose momentum,” she said. “I don’t think we can afford to pause. We have to keep moving,” and remain mission-focused. To this end, Google uses its strong partner ecosystem, collaborating with system integrators to open doors and share strategies.
Google’s commitment extends to building trust through transparency and responsible AI development, Burgess said, noting that ethical AI deployment and promoting public good are critical areas of focus.
“Google is dedicated to helping customers navigate the future by providing education, upskilling and investing in the next generation of public sector AI leaders,” she said.
Burgess noted the increasing interest from the government in commercial sector innovations.
“In the current environment, the government is very interested in what is happening in the commercial sector, and we’re going to see that accelerate tremendously,” she said, adding that this synergy allows Google to bring its commercial relationships and expertise to the public sector.
While many in GovCon may be struggling to find their footing, Burgess expresses confidence. She has served in the public sector for over 25 years, so this isn’t her first encounter with disruption.
“I’ve led go-to-market teams through shutdowns, sequestration, changes of administration, all of it,” she said. “I have made a career of finding opportunity in periods of time where others may have perceived only chaos. I’m sure of my own abilities and those of my team, and I am super confident in what Google brings to the table for government.”
She reiterated that “the mission of government hasn’t changed,” emphasizing Google’s commitment to supporting that mission and driving positive outcomes for citizens.
And it’s the mission that gives her ongoing job satisfaction. Burgess started out working in the commercial sector, “but the light really went on for me many years ago, when I moved into supporting the public sector — seeing the tangible impact that we can have on key priorities and on real people,” she said.
“I am enamored with technology, but my real love is the outcomes that we’re able to drive,” Burgess said. Through her work with Google, “I have the opportunity to truly see the results, the outcomes that we’re achieving in partnership with the government,” she said. “For me, that’s the driver.”