The August 2025 Tech Talk was presented by Matthew Jacobs and Nicole Marroquin
Abstract
This talk will analyze the critical gap between the intent and impact of Agile practices in defense and high-stakes environments. Drawing on real-world case studies, we’ll explain why many organizations struggle to realize the promised benefits of Agile. We’ll target agility at the organizational and program levels, and offer a clear path for making Agile work in practice, not just in theory. Whether you’re a leader or a practitioner, you’ll leave with practical ideas to drive real change, not just check boxes.
About the Presenters
Matthew Jacobs is the Chief Product Owner of Scrum Inc’s consulting business and has been leading Scrum Inc’s engagements across the British Ministry of Defence from the original pilot teams in Navy’s Stratpol area. Matt has led the development of Scrum Inc.’s transformation approach. His Agile Delivery and expertise includes years of running large-scale transformations and Ways of Working strategic projects across various domains from technology to automotive. He has worked as an Executing Partner and a Strategy Consultant supporting divestiture separation and post-merger integration. He provides insight, expertise, and thought partnership to senior U.S. and U.K. military leaders to support them in achieving their strategic outcomes.
Nicole Marroquin is a retired United States Marine and an Agile Transformation Consultant at Scrum Inc., where she leads complex transformation engagements across defense, government, and commercial sectors. She has served in key delivery roles across international and U.S.-based initiatives, including multi-team launches, strategic leadership workshops, and organizational operating model redesigns. Nicole is a Registered Scrum Trainer and curriculum developer. She regularly delivers high-impact trainings across a variety of domains. She has an active role in strategic Agile forums and defense-focused innovation networks. Nicole works closely with product and executive teams to ensure Agile delivery is aligned to strategic outcomes.
