Krista Kinnard currently serves as the Culture & Communications Lead for NASA Digital Transformation. In her role, she shepherds the refinement and integration of NASA’s digital transformation strategy, plans and policies and helps coordinate the implementation of transformation activities across the NASA enterprise in several strategic areas including data, inclusive teaming, intelligent automation, artificial intelligence/machine learning, process transformation, and culture and workforce. Prior to joining NASA, Krista served in several roles in government including as the Director of Innovation and Engineering at the Department of Labor (DOL) and as a director at GSA’s Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence.

Ryan Palmer is the Senior Technical and Strategic Advisor for the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) team within the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). He joined GSA in October 2023, bringing with him a wealth of technical knowledge, data, automation, and cybersecurity experience.

Ryan started in federal service with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a dynamic and eager student intern within their IT department. Demonstrating a natural affinity for technology, he rapidly transitioned to more intricate IT responsibilities. Ryan’s tenure at USDA was marked by a diverse array of roles, each enriching his skill set and contributing to his professional growth. From customer support to supervision, and from application development to operations and integration, his career path was characterized by continual growth and versatility.

In 2021, Ryan seized an opportunity to further specialize his expertise by joining GSA as an Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) and FedRAMP Joint Authorization Board Technical Reviewer (JAB-TR). This role represented his first venture into a dedicated security and compliance position where he applied his diverse background as subject matter expert in cloud computing and cybersecurity.

Ryan’s approach to work has consistently been data-driven and automation-supported. This methodology not only enhances efficiency but also ensures that the solutions are grounded in tangible evidence and innovative practices. Ryan is driven by a commitment to service and a passion for advancing the use of technology within the federal government

Ryan’s educational background underpins his skillset and approach to work and includes a B.S. in Computer Engineering and a B.S. In Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University. These qualifications have been pivotal in shaping his technical capabilities and strategic approach to complex IT challenges within the federal government.