Networking

Federal Employee Support Groups

• GovTech Talent Exchange LinkedIn Group - A supportive space for federal employees impacted by recent layoffs
• Former U.S. DOT Staff Job Matching LinkedIn Group - For USDOT staff who were fired in February 2025
• Federal IT Professionals - Network of IT professionals working in or with the federal government

Government Contracting Groups

• Government Contracting Network - For professionals in government contracting
• GovCon Club - Government contracting professionals sharing insights and opportunities

Government-Focused Associations

• GovLoop - Knowledge network for government with events, resources, and networking opportunities
• ACT-IAC - American Council for Technology and Industry Advisory Council
• AFCEA - Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association
• Digital Services Coalition - Community of digital service companies working with government

Industry-Specific Associations

• Project Management Institute (PMI) - For project management professionals
• CompTIA - For IT professionals
• ISACA - For information security, audit, and governance professionals

Government and Contracting Events

• FedScoop Events - Government IT events and conferences
• GovEvents - Comprehensive calendar of government-related events
• Meetup - Government Technology - Local meetups focused on government technology

Virtual Networking Events

• Eventbrite - Government Contractor Events - Virtual events for government contractors
• GovLoop Training and Events - Virtual training sessions and networking opportunities

Effective Networking Tips

• Update your LinkedIn profile with current skills and experience
• Reconnect with former colleagues and supervisors who can provide references
• Join industry-specific groups and actively participate in discussions
• Attend virtual and in-person events to expand your network
• Consider informational interviews to learn about new opportunities
• Offer help and support to others in your network (networking is a two-way street)

F2I Networking GPT - AI tool to help with networking strategies specifically for federal employees transitioning to industry