Hi! I’m Erika Heeren-Moon.

Professional Background

My interest in emerging technologies in federal government data use stems from my experience as a boutique communications agency owner serving multiple government contractors in the technology sector. In this capacity, I developed a deep understanding of public-private partnerships and the processes involved in government procurement and sustainability. 

In 2021, I transitioned from industry to academia, earning my master’s degree from Georgetown University. The program was fully interdisciplinary and prepared me to pursue my Ph.D. at the School of Public & International Affairs at Virginia Tech. My combined professional experience and ongoing work as a research assistant at Georgetown and Virginia Tech has illuminated the deep, complex issues related to data for policy success.

I am committed to contributing to my field by applying considerations in emerging technology to better balance the issues related to federal agency data use and the efficacy of programs designed to serve the public.

It is my ultimate career objective to leverage my experience, leadership skills, and academic background in a public service capacity at the federal agency level. I have a strong interest in pursuing this objective in the realm of telecommunications and/or national security policy.