Episode 12: Working in GovTech: What’s Different?

From AI to compliance, modernization to mission-critical infrastructure, working in the public sector versus government tech can look similar on the surface… but the reality is often worlds apart. In this episode of The IT Guy Show, Eric welcomes Joel Krooswyk, a former colleague at GitLab and a seasoned technical leader navigating a major life shift. Together, they unpack the differences between public sector and government work, from regulations and red tape to values, velocity, and what “transformation” really means when the stakes are national. Whether you’re a tech pro curious about working with the government or just someone watching the blurred lines between public, private, and hybrid tech work—this episode offers clarity, stories, and inspiration for navigating the spaces in between. Welcome to The IT Guy Show, your go-to destination for all things tech with Eric, your friendly neighborhood IT guy! Join Eric as he shares his wealth of knowledge, insights, and experiences gained from years of working in the IT industry. From troubleshooting common tech issues to exploring the latest trends and innovations, each episode is packed with practical tips, skilled advice, and engaging discussions. Connect with me! https://linktr.ee/itguyeric Join our: Discord: https://itguyeric.com/discord Matrix: https://matrix.to/#/#podcast-itguyeric:matrix.org Joel Krooswyk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelrkrooswyk/ Chapters: 00:00 Stream Start 00:13 Welcome 01:33 Joel Krooswyk 02:57 What is Public Sector 13:08 IT in PubSec 16:49 AI’s Evolving Role 33:40 Changing Technology Landscape 39:35 Career Shifts 50:09 Closing Thoughts 54:00 Wrap up Graphics and bumpers by Free Hive Agency Photo by Elijah Mears on Unsplash Special Guest: Joel Krooswyk.