Opportunities to Advance “Industry First” Goals for Government | Auditorium
In this session—a fireside chat with the new under secretary for science and technology at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security—attendees will learn about emerging needs and opportunities for collaboration on research, development and operationalization of technologies for critical missions throughout the homeland security enterprise.
Speakers
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Jake ParkerSenior Director of Government Relations
Security Industry AssociationAs senior director of government relations for the Security Industry Association (SIA), Jake Parker leads the development of the association’s legislative and regulatory programs.
Jake came to SIA with more than 12 years of experience on Capitol Hill, most recently as legislative director for U.S. Rep. Tom Latham (R-Iowa), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Tennessee Temple University, a master’s degree in international relations from Salve Regina University and a graduate diploma in national security studies from the U.S. Naval War College.
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Pedro AllendeUnder Secretary for Science and Technology
U.S. Department of Homeland SecurityPedro M. Allende joined the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in December 2025 as the Under Secretary for Science and Technology. In this capacity, he leads a multidisciplinary team of experts focused on delivering innovative science and technology solutions to support DHS missions. He also serves as the science advisor to the Secretary and oversees the primary research and development arm of the department.
Before returning to DHS, Mr. Allende served as the Florida Secretary of Management Services. In that role, he led enterprise procurement, state telecommunications—including the fiber network and State Law Enforcement Radio Network (SLERS)—and the Florida Facilities pool, which includes the Governor’s Mansion and the State Capitol. His oversight also extended to the state vehicle fleet, the state health insurance plan, human resources policy, and the state retirement plan. Additionally, he directed the Florida Digital Service and oversaw the work of the State Chief Information Officer, Chief Information Security Officer, and Chief Data Officer.
Mr. Allende previously held various roles within the U.S. Departments of Homeland Security, Energy, and Labor during the first administration of President Donald Trump.
Before entering government service, Mr. Allende worked at an international law firm where he handled high-stakes litigation matters, cross-border disputes, and helped launch the firm’s data privacy and cybersecurity practice. He graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in law, decision and information science, and economics.
