Taking Fear Out of Innovation: How NITAAC University Educates Federal Leaders

Overview

When most federal agencies thought of NIH, they associated it with medical research — not digital transformation. To change that, NITAAC University was launched: an online learning platform designed to teach federal acquisition professionals how to leverage IT solutions to modernize systems, streamline procurement, and deliver mission results.

Challenge

Federal agencies recognized NIH as a leader in science and medicine, but few understood NITAAC's IT capabilities or how its Best in Class GWACs could improve federal health systems. NITAAC needed a scalable way to teach, certify, and engage federal employees nationwide in smarter IT acquisition practices.

Role & Approach

As marketing lead, I oversaw brand development, public relations strategy, and launch communications for NITAAC University.

• Brand Strategy: Positioned NITAAC University as the trusted educational arm of NIH's IT acquisition programs.
• Public Relations: Led awareness campaigns securing coverage in outlets including FedScoop.
• Content and Training: Guided production of video series, webinars, and online training modules offering Continuous Learning Points (CLPs) for course completion.
• Platforms covered CIO-SP3, CIO-CS, and CIO-SP4 GWAC portfolios.

Results

• Launched NITAAC University — an accessible digital platform for federal employees to learn and earn certifications.
• Created a new communication channel reaching health and IT decision-makers across civilian and defense agencies.
• Supported the goal to educate over 500 federal employees within the first program cycle.
• Strengthened NITAAC's position as both a contracting authority and a knowledge partner.