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DevSecOps in Practice Across Defense and National Security | Yolanda Clarke

Introduction

DevSecOps in defense and national security is discussed constantly, but far fewer leaders have experience implementing it in real mission environments. In this episode of Mission Critical: Defense Recruiting, Katherine Jerald sits down with Yolanda Clarke, Founder and CEO of Powder River Industries, to discuss how DevSecOps works when the stakes are real and failure is not an option.

Drawing on more than 20 years of military service and experience supporting defense programs, Yolanda explains why security must be designed into systems from the very beginning. When security is treated as a core design requirement rather than an afterthought, organizations can move faster while maintaining trust, accreditation, and mission readiness.

“If security is siloed, you’re not doing DevSecOps.”

Why DevSecOps Matters in Defense Programs

DevSecOps changes how defense organizations develop and deliver secure systems. Instead of separating development, security, and operations into different stages, DevSecOps integrates these responsibilities across the entire lifecycle.

Yolanda explains how successful DevSecOps programs depend not only on tools and automation pipelines, but also on leadership, accountability, and the way teams are structured. When implemented correctly, DevSecOps can reduce rework, accelerate approvals such as ATOs, and improve mission reliability across complex defense environments.

Inside this episode

– What DevSecOps actually means in defense and national security programs
– Why security must be integrated at the start of system design
– How DevSecOps reduces schedule risk, rework, and failed ATOs
– The fastest way to tell if an organization is really doing DevSecOps
– How team structure and accountability determine DevSecOps success
– Lessons from military leadership that translate into secure system delivery
– What leaders should ask when outsourcing DevSecOps support
– How Powder River Industries scales DevSecOps while maintaining mission trust

The Future of DevSecOps in National Security

As defense systems grow more complex and software-driven, DevSecOps will continue to play a critical role in how government and industry deliver secure capabilities. Organizations that successfully integrate development, security, and operations will be better positioned to build resilient systems and adapt to rapidly evolving mission requirements.

For leaders working in defense technology, government IT, or national security programs, this conversation provides a practical perspective on what it takes to implement DevSecOps where the consequences of failure are real.

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Connect with Yolanda Clarke

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yolandaclarke/
Website: https://www.powderriverindustries.com/