Press Release —
Joanna Avery to Lead New Artificial Intelligence Practice Group
Alexandria, VA, December 17, 2024 — Akiak Technology, LLC is pleased to announce that Joanna Avery joined the company as the Director of Artificial Intelligence Solutions. In this role, Ms. Avery will spearhead the company’s AI practice to lead its new artificial intelligence business service further strengthening Akiak Technology’s AI capabilities to meet the growing demand in the federal sector for practical AI solutions that enhance public services across diverse citizen-focused applications.
“Government has achieved significant progress toward digitization, yet agency leaders still face difficult decisions—and risk—when it comes to standing-up and integrating generative AI solutions,” said Kevin Hamer, Chief Executive Officer, Akiak Technology, LLC. “With the establishment of our dedicated AI practice group, we are committed to providing focused expertise and highly skilled resources to help agencies enhance AI governance, drive innovation, and manage risks effectively. Joanna is an exceptional addition to our team, bringing an unparalleled combination of deep GovCon professional services experience, IT expertise, and leadership skills essential to scaling our AI initiatives and we are excited to have her join our team.”
Ms. Avery’s leadership will support Akiak Technology’s mission to assist government agencies in deploying safe, secure, and trustworthy AI. Currently, the company is delivering cutting-edge generative AI model evaluation, governance frameworks, MVP prototyping, and mission-critical use case analysis for a major Federal Bureau. The newly formed AI practice group will expand Akiak Technology’s suite of specialized AI services, tailored to meet the unique needs of federal agencies. This effort will also enhance access to Akiak Technology’s extensive network of AI technology partners, ensuring agencies benefit from innovative solutions and top-tier talent in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
“I’m excited to build Akiak Technology’s AI technology services practice and contribute to Akiak Holdings’ rapid market growth through its family of SBA 8(a) certified tribal owned businesses,” said Avery. “This new role will continue my decades-long commitment to deliver value-driven solutions to help government Agencies better serve their mission through transformative IT services.”
Ms. Avery will grow Akiak Technology’s foundational AI capabilities, including: GenAI model evaluation, integration, and governance; cloud technology platforms and data foundations; product prioritization, risk management, and regulatory compliance; neural networks and set bias. “The initial focus will be to build and expand our strong and scalable AI technical and service delivery foundation to provide our existing and new clients with the full suite of AI solutions to meet their evolving needs. This is a unique opportunity to build a new practice that will harness the infinite opportunities offered through the AI revolution to serve our government, commercial and tribal clients.”
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Picture: Joanna Avery, Director of Artificial Intelligence Solutions
Avery has more than 20 years of experience providing professional and management consulting services to public sector clients at federal, state, and local levels. She has a proven track record of successfully leading large transformation programs, focusing on data management and information sharing to drive mission effectiveness. Avery received an Executive MBA from the MIT Sloan School and BS and MISM degrees from Carnegie Mellon University. She is passionate about cultivating high-performing teams and is committed to delivering innovative strategies that address complex mission challenges. She lives in Virginia with her husband and two children.