Speakers

Jennifer R. Franks directs the Center for Enhanced Cybersecurity within GAO’s Information Technology and Cybersecurity team. She oversees reviews that primarily focus on emerging cybersecurity issues and assessing an agency’s ability to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its sensitive data and computing infrastructure. Her multi-disciplinary teams actively review agencies’ computer security vulnerabilities across their enterprise-wide computing environment by assessing program management compliance and technical controls recommended for the agencies to follow in accordance with federal guidance and leading practices.

In addition, Ms. Franks leads reviews in the areas of IT management and operations, financial management, data protection, privacy, and cybersecurity issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ms. Franks earned a master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University in information security policy and management, and a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University in computer information systems.

Param Soni is the Chief Information Officer and Chief AI Officer for the Bureau of Economic Analysis in the Department of Commerce. Mr. Soni plans and directs the full range of information technology functions to support and improve the quality and timeliness of BEA's statistical products and bring innovation to collect, analyze, and provide services.

Before joining BEA in September 2021, he served in executive roles in the public and private sectors, developing and implementing strategies to improve IT processes, architecture, design, and services.

Beginning in 2016, Mr. Soni served as deputy director in the Department of Labor, leading IT services for the Employment and Training Administration and serving as the Labor Department’s cloud program manager. In 2020, he was on detail as acting chief engineer of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Mr. Soni joined the federal government in 2010 as the EPA’s chief architect. His private sector roles included President of an IT consulting company and Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Mr. Soni holds a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Master of Science from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Bill Roberts is the Federal Chief Technology Officer at Riverbed, where he advises government clients on optimizing their IT investments. A dedicated customer advocate, he works closely with Riverbed’s product, sales, and engineering teams to deliver tailored solutions that meet evolving mission requirements. He has over 20 years of IT expertise supporting public and private sector organizations spanning networking, integration, automation, and service management.