
Alexandria, VA
Please note, all times are EST
Sunday, February 26
3:00 – 6:00 pm
Maple
Registration is open
Please note, all times are EST
Monday, February 27
7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Maple
Registration is open
8:00 – 8:45 am
Arbors
Government & Industry Meeting: GovTravels 101 (open to all participants)
Description: NDTA and DTMO provide new attendees with an overview of the GovTravels Symposium so that they can take full advantage of the event. Participants will learn about symposium sessions, understand the different content tracks and various networking opportunities, and meet representatives of the host organizations.
8:00 – 9:15 am
Terrace East
Government Meeting: DoD Passenger Services Advisory Group Meeting (by invitation only)
Description: Members of DoD’s Passenger Services Advisory Group meet for their quarterly meeting.
9:00 – 10:00 am
Exhibit Hall
Exhibitor Move-in
9:30 – 11:30 am
Juniper
Government Meeting: Defense Lodging Council Meeting (by invitation only)
9:30 – 11:15 am
Aspen
Government Meeting: DoD Service Transportation Office Breakout Sessions (by invitation only)
Description: Passenger Service Advisory Group representatives lead service-specific meetings for Transportation Office personnel.
Poplar
- U.S. Air Force
Walnut A (Upper level)
- U.S. Army
Chestnut
- U.S. Marine Corps
9:30 – 11:30 am
Aspen
Government/Industry Meeting: DoD & GSA Meet with Bus Industry
Description: The Defense Travel Management Office and the General Service Administration invite members of the bus industry to learn how to arrange bus moves for both Federal Agencies and DoD. Also, the U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command and U.S. Transportation Command will go over the annual moves for 2023 and updates in GOPAX. Our experts will be on hand to answer your questions about moves, billing and other topics.
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Juniper
DTMO MyTravel Demonstration for Travel Industry
Description: Industry attendees will get a first-hand look at MyTravel, the new DoD booking system that will replace the legacy Defense Travel System. See how flight, rental car, and hotel options display and are booked.
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Part 1: GSA – 45mins
Part 2: DoD – 45mins
Arbors
Government/Industry Meeting: GSA & DoD Meet with Hotel Industry
Description: Part 1: Representatives from FedRooms will review last year’s successes, provide an overview of the 2023 program, and provide insight into what is to come for the FedRooms program.
Part 2: The Defense Travel Management Office invites hotel representatives to join a conversation about DoD Preferred. We will review program successes, see how the program benefits both DoD travelers and participating hotels, and gain insight into what is to come in 2023 and beyond.
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Juniper
Government/Industry Meeting: DoD Meets with U.S. Government Rental Car Program Industry Partners (Industry only)
Description: The Defense Travel Management Office meets with rental car vendors who participate in the U.S. Government Rental Car Program. During the session, vendors will discuss various topics pertinent to program participation, with an emphasis on the draft U.S. Government Rental Car Agreement #5.
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Magnolia (Upper Level)
DoD Meeting: DTMO MyTravel Demonstration for Department of Defense
Description: DoD attendees will get a first-hand look at MyTravel, the new DoD booking system that will replace the legacy Defense Travel System. See how travel is booked, approved, and paid.
11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Upper Level Foyer outside Magnolia
Lunch (Grab & go)
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Willow Boardroom
Government Passenger Travel Advisory Council (GPTAC) – Committee Meetings (Open to all attendees for observation)
Description: The GPTAC holds individual Committee meetings to review industry and government issues and actions. Meetings are open to all participants and a good way to learn more about how NDTA, industry and the government work together.
Cherry
- Airline Committee
Evan Koppel, United Airlines, Chair
Beech
- Bus Committee
Lauren Gibson, StarForce National Inc., Chair
Aspen
- Lodging Committee
Jake Paine, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Chair
Juniper
- Long Term Lodging Committee
Jason Moore, RESIDE Worldwide, Inc., Chair
Birch
- Rental Car Committee
Michael DeRosa, The Hertz Corporation, Chair
Arbors
- Travel Management Companies Committee
Marlene Sexton, OMEGA World Travel, Chair
2:15 – 3:15 pm
Terrace East
Government Meeting: U.S. Government Rental Car Program Meeting for Federal Government Representatives (Government only)
Description: The Defense Travel Management Office meets with federal government points of contact who oversee the U.S. Government Rental Car Program at their agencies and government personnel interested in understanding more about the program.
2:15 – 3:15 pm
Magnolia (Upper Level)
Government Meeting: Integrated Lodging Program Overview for DoD attendees (Government only)
Description: Program managers from the Defense Travel Management Office, Military Community & Family Policy (MC&FP), and the Services will discuss the various types of lodging included in the Integrated Lodging Program (ILP): DoD Preferred commercial lodging, Public-Private lodging including Privatized Army Lodging, and DoD Lodging. These lodging experts will discuss recent changes to their respective programs and how the ILP impacts travelers.
3:30 – 4:30 pm
Terrace East
Government Meeting: DoD Bus Program Overview for DoD Attendees (Government only)
Description: The Defense Travel Management Office invites transportation office personnel and others to learn more about the DoD Bus program, including new requirements, program changes that will affect how bus moves are arranged, updates to the Group Operational Passenger System (GOPAX), and policy guidelines from the Defense Transportation Regulation Part 1, Chapter 104, Buses.
3:30 – 5:00 pm
Arbors
Government/Industry Meeting: DTMO & GSA Meet with Travel Management Companies
Description: Join the Defense Travel Management Office and the General Services Administration for a discussion on issues related to Travel Management Company contracts.
5:15 – 6:30 pm
Exhibit Hall
GovTravels Opening Reception – All attendees are welcome
Tuesday, February 28
7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Maple
Registration is open
7:00 – 8:15 am
Beech
Young Leaders Professional Development Breakfast hosted by NDTA and led by Garrett McGregor, NDTA Young Leaders Chair
Description: Engage with a diverse panel of experienced professionals to have an open discussion on mentorship, networking, and career growth. Connect during the networking session and get to know GovTravels participants.
7:00 – 8:15 am
Exhibit Hall
Breakfast/Networking
7:15 – 8:15 am
Terrace East
DoD Connect Breakfast with Director, Defense Travel Management Office (invitation only)
8:30 – 9:00 am
Plaza Ballroom
Opening remarks by VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.), President & CEO, NDTA, Mr. Bryan Scott, Chair, GPTAC, and Ms. Jennifer McPherson-Todd, Director, Defense Travel Management Office
Color Guard: Armed Forces Color Guard
9:00 – 9:30 am
Plaza Ballroom
Keynote Speaker #1: The Honorable Gilbert R. Cisneros Jr., Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness
Topic: Personnel and Readiness in a Post Pandemic World
9:30 – 9:45 am
Plaza Ballroom
Short In-Place Break
9:45 – 11:00 am
Plaza Ballroom
Panel #1: “Hot Passenger Travel Topics”
Moderator: Mr. Tony D’Astolfo, Senior VP North America, Serko, Ltd.
Members:
- Mr. J. Matt Gilkeson, Executive Director, Capability Management and Innovation (CM&I), Requirements and Capabilities Analysis, Transportation Security Administration
- Mr. Josh Butler, Head of Business, U.S. and Canada, Uber
- Mr. Lee Curtis, CEO, 3Sixty
- Ms. Gloria Bohan, President and CEO, Omega World Travel
11:00 – 11:30 am
Exhibit Hall
Break and Networking
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Plaza Ballroom
Keynote Speaker #2: Mr. Scott Moser, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, Sabre Corporation
Topic: Passenger Travel Cybersecurity Solutions
Description: Cybersecurity risks continue to grow in 2023, impacting governments and businesses. The continually evolving threat environment poses particular challenges for the partnership between private information technology suppliers and government agencies. These challenges encompass protecting government traveler personal information as well as ensuring availability of critical travel information technologies that government travelers need. Our mutual success in protecting government travelers depends on strengthened information sharing and innovative Cyber solutions. This session focuses on examining innovation and reliable solutions for the government traveler.
12:30 – 1:30 pm
Exhibit Hall
Lunch and Networking
1:30 – 2:30 pm
Plaza Ballroom
Government Meeting: DoD Connect – State of the Defense Travel Enterprise (DoD Attendees only)
Description: The Director of the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) invites DoD stakeholders to a State of the Defense Travel Enterprise presentation incorporating some little-known facts about some DTMO programs. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions about issues affecting their organizations.
1:30 – 2:30 pm
Travel Academy Session A
Aspen
Track: Travel Partner Programs
Topic: City Pairs – Travel Policies and Procedures (GSA)
Description: During this course, the City Pair Program (CPP) Management Office (PMO) will provide an update on the FY21 contract closeout, current status of FY22 awards, and review the FY23 Solicitation Items.
Arbors
Track: Travel Compliance
Topic: Ethics Training for Industry and Government (DHRA)
Description: Learn how you can avoid the ethical landmines of government-industry relationships and ensure you are ready to do what is right when ethical dilemmas arise. The Department of Defense is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards for all of its employees. To do that, DoD has support systems in place to help government employees determine what is ethically appropriate or legally required of its workforce. Not your stereotypical attorney, Tom Serrano will provide both an informative and entertaining presentation of applying ethical principles from both perspectives—government and industry.
Juniper
Track: Travel Experience and Safety
Topic: The Future of Government Ground Transportation (Uber)
Description: In this session, Uber will discuss how government agencies are utilizing rideshare in their daily lives. Ranging from standard TDY and local travel to supporting agency missions, Uber is helping agencies create cost effective programs while helping the government modernize.
Terrace East
Track: Travel Compliance
Topic: Sustainability in Government Business Travel (GSA)
Description: During this course GSA, will discuss sustainability and how it has and will continue to be an important part of GSA’s Government-wide Travel and Transportation Programs as well as procurement strategy and how our air, lodging and ground transportation programs are starting to address sustainability.
2:30 – 3:00 pm
Exhibit Hall
Break and Networking
2:30 – 3:00 pm
DTMO TED Talks (Open to all attendees)
Description: Learn from the subject matter experts at DTMO as they share information in their own versions of the popular TED Talk format. Learn about:
- DoD Dine Smart
- Realizing the Benefits of E-Receipts for Travelers and Industry
- Customer Support Resources
2:30 – 3:00 pm
Upper Level Foyer (Outside Magnolia)
DoD Connect: Program Managers Tabletops (Open to all attendees)
Description: Join the DTMO for an exhibition hall style session where you will have direct access to DoD travel program managers and subject matter experts from areas such as MyTravel, DTS, DoD Travel Policy and Compliance, U.S. Rental Car and Truck, DoD Dine Smart, DoD Lodging Programs, and more. Learn more about the programs and ask your most pressing questions about initiatives impacting the Defense Travel Enterprise.
2:30 – 4:00 pm
Cherry Room
GPTAC Committee Chairs Meeting – NDTA, DTMO, GSA & GPTAC Chairs (By invitation only)
3:00 – 4:00 pm
Travel Academy Session B
Juniper
Track: Travel Experience and Safety
Topic: VISA Virtual Travel Service
Description: Discover a better way to pay for air and lodging. Come and talk to us about how you can benefit from:
- Automated reconciliation
- Rich consistent data/reporting
- Reduced misuse/fraud
Arbors
Track: Travel Partner Programs
Topic: Government-wide Lodging Solutions (GSA)
Description: FOR GOVERNMENT TRAVELERS, a GSA-led session discussing its government-wide lodging solutions: FedRooms, Long Term Lodging, and Emergency Lodging Services. Learn about the programs’ benefits, how to use, and real-life scenarios.
Juniper
Track: Travel Technology
Topic: Gaining visibility into simple or small meetings (CWT)
Description: For most organizations, as much as half of their meeting spend is focused on managing small meetings. Tracking the spend for these meetings and understanding their scope poses a significant challenge. Even organizations with mature and centralized meetings management programs don’t always have visibility into small or simple meetings. Simple or small meetings technology may be the answer.
Terrace East
Track: Travel Compliance
Topic: Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) Post Payment Audits for Travel and the DTMO Compliance Program
Description: This session is designed to inform travel management professionals on how DFAS conducts its Travel Post Payment Review and the Defense Travel Management Office’s DoD Travel Compliance Program.
3:00 – 4:00 pm
Government Meeting: Recruit Assistance Program Meeting for Government Representatives (By invitation only)
Description: The Defense Travel Management Office meets with U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command and Accession community to collaboratively discuss various topics pertinent to program operations, requirements, processes, and future actions.
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Exhibit Hall
NDTA President’s Reception (Open to all attendees)
5:30 – 6:30 pm
Clyde’s at Mark Center
Young Leaders Social: Hosted by the NDTA Washington DC Chapter and NDTA Young Leaders Chair
Description: A Young Leader event open to all Young Leaders in the early phases of their careers interested in networking and meeting others across government and industry.
Wednesday, March 1
7:00 am – 4:30 pm
Maple
Registration is open
7:00 – 8:15 am
Terrace East
Senior Leader Government & Industry Breakfast (Invitation only)
7:00 – 8:15 am
Exhibit Hall
Breakfast and Networking
8:30 – 8:45 am
Plaza Ballroom
Administrative Remarks: VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.), President and CEO, NDTA
8:45 – 9:30 am
Plaza Ballroom
Keynote Speaker #3: Mr. Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer, Southwest Airlines
Topic: Turning the Page: What is next for Air Travel
Description: Hear how the airline industry has changed since 2019 and what is next. Learn about the impacts of the global pandemic on the industry, how the airlines worked through it and today are rebuilding and preparing for growth. Andrew Watterson, Southwest Airlines EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, discusses the early days of the pandemic and what the future holds for air travel.
9:30 – 9:45 am
Plaza Ballroom
DoD Excellence in Practice Awards – Presented by Defense Travel Management Office
Presenting: Ms. Jennifer McPherson-Todd, Director, Defense Travel Management Office
9:45 – 10:00 am
Plaza Ballroom
NDTA Corporate and Board Awards
Presenting: Mr. William Woodhour, Vice Chairman, NDTA Board of Directors and President and CEO, Maersk Line Limited; and VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.), President and CEO, NDTA
10:00 – 10:30 am
Exhibit Hall
Break and Networking
10:30 – 11:45 am
Plaza Ballroom
Panel #2: Post-Pandemic Industry Challenges
Moderators:
- Mr. William R. Mansell Jr., SES, Director, Defense Support Services Center (DSSC)
- Mr. Tim Burke, SES, Director, Office of Travel, Employee Relocation and Transportation, Federal Acquisition Service (FAS), U.S. General Services Administration
Members:
- Mr. Nick Vournakis, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, CWT
- Ms. Trisha Fridrich, VP, Business Development and Marketing, All Aboard America! Holdings, Inc.
- Mr. Steve Sear, Executive Vice President, Global Sales and Distribution, Delta Air Lines
Description: This panel will explore the challenges the passenger travel industry is experiencing coming out of the pandemic including labor shortages (staff, driver, pilot), passenger wait times, cancelations and its impact on government travel. We will discuss bright spots and if there is enough capacity to meet surge requirements.
11:45 am – 1:15 pm
Exhibit Hall
Lunch and Networking
1:15 – 2:15 pm
Travel Academy Session C
Terrace East
Track: Travel Compliance
Topic: System for Award Management (SAM) Basics (GSA)
Description: During this course, representatives from GSA’s Center for Travel and Transportation Acquisition will give an overview of the System for Award Management (SAM). Topics will include the purpose of SAM.gov, how to register, and how it impacts a potential offeror’s ability to do business with the Federal Government.
Juniper
Track: Travel Technology
Topic: Looking towards an era of personalized travel (SABRE)
Description: Weathering many crises over the decades, travel has always proved resilient. The industry has now the opportunity to rebound even stronger. Technology is playing a major role in facilitating recovery, ushering in a new era of personalized travel that presents more opportunities for businesses and a better experience for travelers.
Aspen
Track: Travel Experience and Safety
Topic: Understanding and Overcoming the Challenges of Traveling with Military/Government Working Dogs (Government and Industry)
Description: Join government and travel industry experts for an interactive discussion about the importance of working K9s to the government mission, and the formidable challenges experienced by working dog teams when reserving and executing official travel for and with their K9 colleagues.
Arbors
Track: Travel Innovation
Topic: GSA SmartPay Travel Card Innovation
Description: This course will cover several new and innovative travel program offerings provided under the GSA SmartPay 3 Master Contract. Attendees will learn about new tools available to maximize and expand their travel card programs.
2:15 – 2:45 pm
Exhibit Hall
Break and Networking
2:45 – 3:45 pm
Travel Academy Session D
Arbors
Track: Travel Compliance
Topic: Responsible Travel – a better approach for a better future (CWT)
Description: The COVID-19 pandemic has put employee and traveler wellbeing at the top of every organization’s priority. At the same time, the environmental impacts of travel have also come into the spotlight. As commercial and government organizations return to travel, we have an opportunity and responsibility to do it right. This means taking a more balanced approach to travel management, one that incorporates employee well-being, climate protections and a focus on organizations’ financial objectives to achieve a truly sustainable program that is fit for purpose now and into the future.
Terrace East
Track: Travel Innovation
Topic: Best Features Demo of MyTravel (DTMO)
Description: MyTravel uses a commercial Software as a Service to book travel, manage travel related expenses, and initiate travel-related financial transactions. We will demonstrate a few of the best features offered to support the department’s Travelers, Approvers, and Travel Managers.
Aspen
Track: Travel Partner Programs
Topic: GSA Rideshare/Ride-hail Program Update (GSA)
Description: This course is a GSA led session discussing the 5-year Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) for Ridesharing and Ride-hailing services. GSA’s Government-wide Rideshare/Ride-hail BPAs modernizes official travel and will make it easier, and less expensive, to use rideshare services for official travel, augment fleet and shuttle services.
Juniper
Track: Travel Partner Programs
Topic: Pet Relocation (GSA)
Description: Panelists from GSA, DoD/DTMO, Department of State and the relocation industry will discuss the policies and resources that affect traveling and relocating Government and Military personnel and their pets. They will share best practices and challenges pet owners will face.
3:45 – 5:00 pm
Exhibit Hall
Farewell Reception and Raffle
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