DevOps, culture, and the battlefield converge in this compelling episode of Defense Unicorns as host Rebecca Lively speaks with Dr. Noe Lorona, a platform engineer at the Army Software Factory. Together, they explore the nuances of DevSecOps, unraveling its critical role in the defense sector, where software isn’t just a tool but a lifeline. Dr. Lorona delves into how the Department of Defense has elevated security to the forefront, embedding it into every phase of the development process to ensure reliable and secure systems that protect both lives and missions.

Beyond the technical jargon, this episode shines a light on the human side of DevSecOps. Dr. Lorona emphasizes trust, transparency, and a blameless culture as the foundation of agile teams that thrive under pressure. From the necessity of shifting security left to fostering psychological safety in hierarchical environments, his insights offer a roadmap for cultivating innovation in even the most complex and high-stakes organizations.

If you’re passionate about the intersection of technology, leadership, and national defense, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Lorona and Rebecca Lively bring the mission of Defense Unicorns to life: showcasing thought leaders and experts driving transformational change in DevSecOps. Whether you're in the DoD or simply curious about the future of secure and agile software development, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed.

Key Quote:

“ DevOps is not about the tools. DevOps is, it's the way that we work together, the way that we accomplish things. And. A funny thing, I actually say DevOps as a way of life. When they say, well, what is DevOps? I say, it's a thing you live by. It's the thing you show up to do. It's not a thing. It's not an object. It's a culture. It's the thing you live to do. It's a reason why we wake up so we can go do the DevOps.”

• Dr. Noe Lorona

Time Stamps:

(00:26) DevOps vs DevSecOps: What's the Difference?

(03:53) Implementing DevOps in the Department of Defense

(06:05) Building a Blameless Culture in the Military

(14:21) Education in DevOps

(24:47) Bringing Open Source Software in the DoD

(30:07) Future of DevOps: Exciting Trends

(30:42) Community and Collaboration in DevOps

(42:07) Career Advice for Aspiring Developers

(43:43) Sci-Fi Tech and Futurism

Links:

Connect with Dr. Noe Lorona

Learn more about Army Software Factory

Connect with Rebecca Lively

Learn more About Defense Unicorns