Kris Saling

US Army Talent Innovation

Director of Innovation, Army Talent Innovation Directorate, U.S. Army

COL Kris Saling is a recognized leader in people analytics, data-driven talent management, and innovation across the U.S. Army. Think of her as the Army’s "Nick Fury for HR Avengers;" she brings a bold, mission-focused approach to transforming the military’s most complex human capital challenges. Currently serving as the Director of Innovation for the Army Talent Innovation Directorate, COL Saling leads teams at the forefront of AI, data analytics, and advanced workforce technologies to modernize how the Army attracts, develops, and retains its talent.

With more than a decade of experience driving experimental initiatives in recruitment, retention, and Soldier experience, COL Saling is widely respected for bridging operational needs with cutting-edge research and innovation. Her thought leadership extends beyond the Pentagon—her work has been published in academic journals and leading industry publications. She is also the author of Data-Driven Talent Management, a practical guide for HR professionals to leverage data in building engaged, high-performing teams.

COL Saling has held several key innovation roles, including Acting Director of the Army Recruiting Innovation Directorate, Chief Analytics Officer for the Army Talent Management Task Force, and Acting Director of Army People Analytics. Whether building coalitions across sectors or navigating the complexities of emerging technology adoption, her work continues to shape the future of Army personnel.

Lauren Cappa

WIGIT

Lauren Cappa is a connector, strategist, and champion for a smarter, data-driven government. She brings a relationship-first approach to federal IT, acting as an embedded partner to agencies navigating data transformation. Known for aligning mission goals with practical, future-ready solutions, Lauren excels at connecting the right people, technologies, and strategies to drive meaningful outcomes. As founder of the EDS Collaborative, she unites leading vendors to foster synergy, streamline solution discovery, and make procurement more accessible and impactful across the Public Sector. Lauren helps federal teams cut through complexity and deliver integrated, actionable solutions that accelerate digital transformation and mission success.