How One vTech Employee Helped USDA Navigate AI + Why That Matters for Federal Agencies THE POWER OF ADAPTABILITY

The federal government often starts with one goal in mind. But missions evolve, sometimes before a contract is even awarded. That’s exactly what happened at USDA.

Jermon Green came in with a job description centered on digital modernization, but his 24+ years of experience in software engineering, cybersecurity, and data science told a deeper story. As USDA leadership began grappling with AI’s rapid rise, they realized they already had the right person in the room. “Jermon, can you help us write a policy on how to use Copilot?” they asked. That small request turned into a massive organizational shift. What began as a small test group for AI tools quickly expanded into an enterprise-wide initiative, with Jermon advising on AI policy, security, and implementation strategies.

This pivot wasn’t by accident. It’s what happens when the right talent meets the right opportunity. When USDA first brought in Jermon Green, the task seemed simple: digital modernization. But within months, Jermon found himself writing USDA’s AI policy, advising top leadership, and helping shape the agency’s approach to one of the most disruptive technologies of our lifetime. His story is a case study in why agencies need adaptable, multi-dimensional talent