Managing the online environment is increasingly complex, particularly for government contractors who must maintain stringent standards for confidentiality and compliance. Margarita Howard, the sole owner, CEO and president of HX5, understands this complexity.
With a robust background in both military service and business, Howard leads HX5, a government contracting company with a workforce of over 1,000 employees in 34 states and 90 government locations. Under her leadership, the company has landed substantial government contracts and primarily supports federal operations for the Department of Defense and NASA. Its projects include research and development, engineering, IT, and mission operations support.
Howard’s strict approach to social media practices stems from the unique challenges faced by government contractors and the critical importance of maintaining confidentiality and compliance. “Social media is a concern to us because of the work that we do, and it’s something that we’re always cautioning our employees about,” she says. The potential risks associated with employees of government contractors oversharing on social platforms can jeopardize the security and integrity of the respective government contractor’s operations.
For example, it’s essential to be careful of what’s mentioned on LinkedIn profiles. According to Margarita Howard, anyone connected to HX5 must “be very mindful not to post details of the work they do or places they may be going.” This caution extends beyond individual employees to the company’s broader digital footprint. The firm’s social media policies are designed to align with federal regulations, ensuring that the company remains compliant with governmental standards and avoids any inadvertent breaches of confidentiality.
The Integration of AI in Government Contracting at HX5
In addition to its focus on social media practices, HX5 is also at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into its operations. The enterprise’s commitment to staying ahead of technological advancements is evident in its proactive approach to AI and machine learning.
“We are very much involved in AI already and try to stay ahead of those changing technologies,” Margarita Howard notes. The company’s efforts in AI are twofold: enhancing internal business processes and supporting DoD and NASA operations. “We’re actually developing AI tools internally that we’re using and seeing benefits from,” added Howard.
This internal development includes creating AI systems that improve efficiency and streamline operations. The company collaborates with consultants and in-house experts to ensure its AI initiatives are developed in a manner that efficiently and effectively align with its internal operational needs and objectives.
HX5 recognizes that embracing new technologies, particularly AI, is beneficial and essential for survival in the current business landscape. The firm understands that organizations must adopt these innovations to avoid obsolescence. With this insight, HX5 has taken a proactive approach, implementing AI solutions early in its development cycle. This forward-thinking strategy aligns with its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the government contracting sector.
Importantly, HX5 is already reaping the rewards of this investment. The company has observed tangible benefits from its AI initiatives, reinforcing its belief in the technology’s potential to drive efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage. This early adoption positions the firm favorably in an industry where technological prowess can be a crucial differentiator.
Maintaining Operational Security and Compliance in the Digital Age
Margarita Howard‘s extensive experience in government contracting have shaped her understanding of the critical need for stringent social media practices. Having served in the Air Force, Howard appreciates the importance of operational security. “When we talk to business entrepreneurs or new staff, we remind them: We know that what we do is not easy to do, and it’s very expensive to ensure it’s done right,” she says.
HX5’s advisers are knowledgeable in government policies and regulations and play a crucial role in maintaining these high standards. “We have built and keep a team of advisers that specialize in the government industry,” Howard states. These experts assist with navigating complex regulatory matters, such as legal issues, accounting, and audits, ensuring that HX5 always remains compliant.
The company’s dedication to compliance extends to the handling of government audits. “As a government contractor being paid with tax-payer dollars, it is the government’s job to audit every single area of what we do for them, from the labor department evaluating our human resources policies to the financials that we bill to the government for services provided being audited by multiple agencies,” says Margarita Howard
“Additionally, our security department goes through an annual security audit as well, making sure that we’re doing the proper security training and providing everything needed for the people that are cleared. So it may seem like there’s always an audit going on, but that’s just part of the business of being a government contractor.”
The challenges of securing and maintaining government contracts are significant, but HX5 has developed effective strategies to navigate these complexities — the company strategically develops strong relationships with government agencies and other contractors.
“Building relationships with government procurement officers, government customers, prime contractors, and other stakeholders can enhance the chances of winning prime contracts,” Howard notes. These relationships provide valuable insights into government clients’ specific needs and challenges, enabling the company to tailor its proposals and services accordingly.
The company’s focus on continuous improvement and professional development also plays a crucial role in its success. It invests in training programs and encourages employees to pursue advanced education and certifications. “Advanced education in the work that we do is just extremely important,” says Howard. This emphasis on education and development ensures that HX5’s workforce remains highly skilled and capable of meeting the evolving demands of government contracting.
Margarita Howard’s leadership approach offers valuable insights for government contractors navigating industry complexities. Her strategies demonstrate the importance of adaptability, compliance, and technological innovation in this sector. As HX5 continues its growth trajectory, the company exemplifies how effective leadership, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence can drive success in the competitive landscape of government contracting.
