Larry Allen is the Associate Administrator for the Office of Government-wide Policy at the General Services Administration (GSA), a federal agency that provides centralized procurement, real estate, and technology services and shapes government-wide acquisition policy. In his role at GSA, he leads efforts to strengthen efficiency, transparency, and innovation. With over 30 years of federal procurement experience, Larry led Allen Federal Business Partners and served as President of the Coalition for Government Procurement, helping organizations navigate federal contracting and compliance.

Transforming federal procurement to be more inclusive, efficient, and mission-driven requires both deep expertise and a clear commitment to public service. In this episode, Larry Allen, Associate Administrator for the Office of Government-wide Policy at the General Services Administration, joins host Soraya Correa to explore how federal acquisition can be a powerful tool for broader access, innovation, and impact.

Larry shares insights from his more than 30 years in federal procurement, including his long-standing connection to the AbilityOne Program and his belief that procurement is not just about buying goods and services, but about enabling mission outcomes and creating meaningful employment opportunities. He discusses ongoing efforts to demystify government acquisition, lower barriers to entry for nonprofits and businesses, and modernize systems through regulatory reform, cultural change, and emerging technologies like AI.

Throughout the conversation, Larry emphasizes the importance of trust, education, and leadership — particularly the need for senior leaders to support acquisition professionals as they take informed risks and embrace new approaches. Together, Larry and Soraya reflect on how thoughtful policy, collaboration with industry, and a focus on service and solutions can reshape federal procurement into a more accessible and impactful system for agencies, nonprofits, and the people they serve.

Kevin Webb is Head of Sustainability and Social Impact for Mitsubishi Electric in the Americas and Executive Director of the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation. He leads the foundation's mission to empower young people with disabilities through corporate philanthropy, celebrating its 35th anniversary and supporting initiatives across 45 states. With a background in international relations and public administration, Kevin focuses on building inclusive communities and expanding access to technology and trade careers for young people.

Creating accessible career pathways for people with disabilities depends on intentional collaboration among educators, employers, and advocates who are committed to inclusive opportunities. For Kevin Webb, this work is both a professional mission and a deeply personal commitment rooted in community, dignity, and long-term impact.

In this episode, Kevin shares his journey into sustainability and social impact leadership at Mitsubishi Electric in the Americas and as Executive Director of the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation. He explains how the foundation focuses on empowering young people with disabilities through access to technology, workforce training, and employer readiness, particularly in high-demand IT and technical careers.

Kevin Webb, a leader in corporate philanthropy and social sustainability, reflects on how partnerships with organizations are transforming lives by connecting training, credentials, and inclusive employers. He emphasizes that true success is measured not just by programs or numbers served, but by individuals gaining confidence, independence, and meaningful careers.

Joannah Harris is a digital accessibility specialist working with Level Access and Dell, where she helps ensure technology and online platforms are usable for people with disabilities. With a background that includes a master's degree in Applied and Computational Mathematics from Johns Hopkins University and experience teaching high school math while visually impaired, Joannah has overcome significant personal and professional challenges to excel in her field. She leverages her expertise in computer science, mathematics, and assistive technology to break down digital barriers, and her journey highlights the importance of resilience, networking, and adaptability in the modern workforce.

Reclaiming professional ambitions and personal independence after a significant loss of vision is challenging, especially since it requires redefining one's career and purpose. For Joannah Harris, a data science professional and former high school teacher, this transformation was both challenging and empowering.

In this episode, Joannah shares her inspiring story of resilience and career reinvention. She highlights the importance of mentorship and vocational coaching, which helped her navigate the job market and refine her skills. Joannah also discusses how her professional journey shifted from teaching to pursuing a master's degree in applied and computational mathematics, and ultimately embracing opportunities in digital accessibility.

Joannah Harris, a dedicated advocate for accessibility and technology, reflects on her path to landing a fulfilling role in digital accessibility. She emphasizes how strategic networking, continuous learning, and the support of professional communities empowered her to overcome challenges and thrive in her new career.