Callye Keen sits down with Matt Zimmermann and John McCrea from Beast Code to dive into the evolving landscape of defense technology. They explore the integration and interoperability of systems, and opportunities for startups entering defense. Their discussion touches on the power of digital twins, the challenge of siloed data, and the possibilities opened up by breaking down informational barriers. The trio reflects on the present and future impacts of Beast Code's innovations.

Topic Highlights:

00:00 - The Unseen Challenges of Legacy Systems

John highlights the ongoing reliance on outdated software systems and the challenges they pose for modern operations.

02:45 - Bridging the Gap between Industry and Defense

Keen pinpoints the challenges in defense with respect to data aggregation and how industries are often a step ahead in dealing with massive data influxes.

09:40 - Clarifying 'Digital Twin'

Callye underscores the need to define and explore use cases for the term 'Digital Twin'. Matt addresses the multifaceted nature of the term, discussing its range from a mere digital model to more complex manifestations.

18:39 - Integrating Old with New Tech

Keen brings up the challenges and excitement of integrating old and new tech within the DoD. He also explores the difficulties of modern system interoperability, especially when it has to work with old equipment.

24:12 - Emerging Mega Trends in Defense

Matt and John discuss the transformation in defense, emphasizing the integration of new tech like digital twin and sensor technology. They share the importance of adopting emerging trends to stay ahead.

29:18 - Tech Evolution and Vendor Diversity

They discuss avoiding vendor lock and embracing vendor diversity to combat complacency and stimulate continual innovation, ensuring that organizations remain on the cutting edge of technology development.

Callye Keen - Kform

https://kform.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/

Matt Zimmermann - CEO, Beast Code

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zimmermann-83196921/

Matt Zimmermann is the CEO at Beast Code. As a cofounder, Matt has helped grow the company to over 200 employees focused on digital transformation in DoD and commercial markets. Matt has a background in software engineering and began his career as a C++ developer. He has helped build tech used across the DoD and continues to grow Beast Code’s world class workforce.

John McCrea - Account Manager, Beast Code

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpatmccrea/

John McCrea is Account Manager, Air Force and Space Force, for Beast Code. John’s experience spans acquisitions and sustainment, but has a consistent theme of digital transformation. While active duty Air Force and Space Force, John supported numerous system program offices and also helped co-found SpaceWERX and the DAF Digital Transformation Office.