things differently; but now we need to focus forward. That means investing in our people through technical education, mid-career reskilling, and creating clearer pathways that connect industry, government, and academia. At IDB, we partner with institutions like East Carolina University and DAU to help bridge these gaps. Workforce development must be shared across sectors and treated as foundational to our future readiness. Q We’ve read some research recently about the indus- trial base shrinking due to a large number of mostly smaller businesses that experience frustration working with the government. Are there ways that you know of to reduce the friction and frustration sometimes involved there? A. It’s not easy, but it starts with trust. Our system isn’t always built to foster it. Competition is healthy, but with- out transparency and constructive communication, it can also create barriers. From the DoD side, we need to make it easier for smaller companies to engage. Many of them bring tremendous value but face obstacles larger organizations don’t face. It’s about leveling the playing field and encour-
aging open com- munication. That’s something groups like IDB can support and help facilitate.
Q In terms of the Regional Sustainment Framework being built under the current administration, how important do you consider the future interchangeability among allied arms and equipment? I mean, if the allied nations begin making more of their own equipment, is that apt to hinder or create a lack of interoperability? A. It’s a critical issue. We often want to maintain domes- tic capability and self-reliance while also expecting full in- teroperability with our allies. But we don’t operate alone anymore. Whether it’s operations, logistics, or industrial support, interchangeability is becoming essential. There are things we must protect, of course, but platforms like the F-35 show the value of shared processes and capabilities. DoD already is doing more of this—particularly through our Five Eyes partnerships (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States)—and that kind of collaboration needs to expand.
July-August 2025 | DEFENSE ACQUISITION | 7
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