Tom Lash assumed his current role as CEO of Vibrint in February 2023, bringing three decades of experience in the technology sector and a long history of serving national security and intelligence-focused clients to the company. At Vibrint, he is responsible for driving innovation and cultivating technology partnerships to advance the company’s growth strategy.
Lash has held leadership positions at several government contracting organizations, beginning at SAIC, where he spent nearly 20 years. He then assumed the role of vice president and group chief technology officer at Leidos before taking on his previous position as general manager of national security and federal delivery at Amazon Web Services. In addition to his current role, he is an adjunct faculty member at Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies.
In a recent Executive Spotlight interview with GovCon Wire, Lash explored the critical implications of cloud technology and quantum for the public sector. He also shared his thoughts on how Vibrint’s culture contributes to successful service delivery.
What are the top challenges you see as federal agencies migrate to the cloud, and how can we overcome them? What are some of the most significant opportunities?
Tom Lash: One of the top challenges we’re witnessing as federal agencies migrate to the cloud involves the transition process itself. Many customers are understandably challenged by the prospect of turning off their legacy systems and inadvertently paying to run them in parallel with cloud services. There’s also a degree of risk aversion within federal agencies fueled by legitimate uncertainties surrounding cloud adoption. In addition, agencies need to determine how they reform and measure workforce performance as cloud adoption accelerates, which isn’t straightforward. Also, as we modernize IT infrastructure using cloud platforms, there’s a significant need to modernize key performance indicators, or KPIs, for workforce performance management.
The cloud offers a myriad of opportunities, particularly in the realm of multi-cloud utilization. At Vibrint, leveraging offerings from multiple cloud providers, we empower customers with choice and access to the best solutions available. We architect hybrid and multi-cloud solutions to optimize cloud and on-premises capabilities, actively assist customers in managing their cloud environments and help achieve a more efficient transition process. We use the agility that cloud computing enables, allowing us to rapidly experiment with solutions and select the most suitable options.
What are the most pressing national security threats we’re facing today? How is your organization addressing these threats?
Tom Lash: One of the most pressing national security threats today is the emergence of quantum technology. The rapid evolution of quantum computing demands urgent attention, akin to historical races for technological dominance. Vibrint is actively raising awareness and training our workforce to develop solutions that facilitate the adoption of quantum computing. Furthermore, we’re aiding customers in creating a quantum-ready workforce to tackle this critical challenge.
Where are you seeing opportunities for quantum technology to be applied in the public sector?
Tom Lash: Quantum technology presents numerous opportunities in the public sector, particularly post-quantum cryptography and quantum algorithm development. Federal agencies should prioritize implementing strategies to safeguard against quantum attacks by integrating quantum-safe hardware into existing infrastructure. Vibrint just recently announced that we’re co-developing solutions with an innovation partner and quantum technology pioneer, QED, which will allow federal agencies to ensure quantum safety in critical infrastructure, defense and intelligence. Additionally, investing in quantum workforce development now positions us to capitalize on the practical applications of quantum computing in the near future. We have already started hosting professional development programs at our Collaboration Lab in Annapolis Junction, Maryland. Our innovative work underscores our commitment to advancing quantum technology for enhanced security and efficiency.
What is your strategy for attracting and retaining top-level talent amid ongoing talent shortages in today’s highly competitive market? How do the changes presented by a post-pandemic work environment play into your strategy?
Tom Lash: Our talent strategy focuses on fostering an inclusive, opportunity-driven environment where diverse expertise thrives. Our team, composed of top industry experts, innovative thinkers and skilled professionals, excels in solving critical challenges with tangible impacts on national security. Our leadership is dedicated to nurturing a culture that drives rapid innovation for customer-focused solutions while supporting our people — developing careers and prioritizing family. Our talent stays because they know they are valued. We empower our employees to push boundaries and reward excellence, creating a tight-knit community driven by a collective dedication to the mission.
In response to evolving post-pandemic work requirements, we’re flexible in accommodating in-person and remote work preferences. At Vibrint, we understand the importance of meeting federal agency needs while ensuring employee safety and satisfaction. Our adaptable approach allows us to seamlessly transition between on-site and remote work as necessary, maintaining productivity and collaboration.
