Aloha ManTech with Byron Leong and Ian Kitajima
In this inaugural Aloha ManTech series, Ian Kitajima, the host, interviews Byron Leong, the executive director for ManTech Hawaii. They discuss ManTech's mission to create high-tech jobs in Hawaii and support the local community. They also highlight ManTech's focus on AI and cyber technology and their plans for the future.
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Topics Discussed:
1. Introduction and Background [00:00 - 03:00]
- Ian welcomes everyone to the podcast and introduces Byron Leong as the executive director for ManTech in Hawaii.
- Byron shares his background and how he joined ManTech 16 months ago
- They discuss their initial meeting and the alignment of their goals to create high-tech jobs in Hawaii.
2. Hawaii's Strategic Importance [03:01 - 07:00]
- Ian asks Byron to describe Hawaii beyond its beauty and tourism.
- Byron explains Hawaii's strategic importance in the Pacific region for national and homeland security.
- He mentions the growing threats in the Pacific and the need for investment in Hawaii.
3. Talent Pool in Hawaii [07:01 - 12:00]
- Ian and Byron discuss the talent pool in Hawaii and the need to grow local talent.
- Byron mentions the talent coming out of the University of Hawaii and other local universities.
- He highlights the importance of skills like AI and data science in growing the workforce.
4. ManTech's Role and Projects [12:01 - 19:00]
- Byron explains that ManTech is a government contractor supporting major government organizations.
- He mentions ManTech's expertise in cyber and AI technologies.
- Byron shares examples of ManTech's projects, such as supporting Customs and Border Patrol with AI technology.
- He emphasizes ManTech's commitment to being close to the mission and supporting the military.
5. Career Opportunities and Culture at ManTech [19:01 - 26:00]
- Ian and Byron discuss career opportunities at ManTech and the qualities they look for in young professionals.
- Byron emphasizes the importance of self-motivation, eagerness to learn, and adaptability.
- He mentions ManTech's hybrid work model and the support provided to employees.
- Byron highlights ManTech's culture of supporting the mission and the presence of experienced professionals and veterans.
6. Future Outlook and Challenges [26:01 - 33:00]
- Byron discusses the trajectory of the Pacific region and the increasing focus on national security.
- He mentions the growing presence of foreign partners in the region.
- Byron highlights the challenge of retaining talent in Hawaii due to its small size and high cost of living.
- He mentions the need for creative staffing solutions and partnerships to support the mission.
7. Future Episodes and Closing Remarks [33:01 - 37:00]
- Byron shares his plans for future episodes, including guest speakers from ManTech's leadership and AI and cyber leads.
- Ian expresses excitement about working with ManTech and showcasing the talent in Hawaii.
- They wrap up the meeting and express their enthusiasm for the upcoming events and collaborations.