{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Choosing to Lead","description":"From digital inclusion to AI innovation, we take a closer look at Government Technology\u2019s honorees in the 23rd year of its annual awards. In conversation with editorial staff, we focus on the work of five particular leaders. The editors of Government Technology recently released their annual Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers for this year. The class of 2024 is noteworthy for continuing a multiyear trend toward gender equity among recipients, with women making up 44 percent of the group. The cross section of public leaders is recognized for their work on digital inclusion, government modernization, innovative application of generative AI, and a collective commitment to improving government services.The episode focuses on five recipients, emphasizing their dedication and humility and underscoring their role in driving positive change at the local, state and national levels. The hosts are joined by Government Technology Managing Editor Lauren Kinkade, Associate Editor Zack Quaintance, Senior Staff Writer Thad Rueter and Data Reporter Nikki Davidson. SHOW NOTES Amy Huffman, policy director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), stands as a crucial adviser to localities in vying for slices of the federal government\u2019s historic investment of $65 billion in broadband and $2.75 billion in digital equity. The funds are now trickling down to states, where the monumental task of allocation lies. Huffman is helping to guide states in effectively utilizing the funds, facilitating coordination through NDIA\u2019s toolkit and state cohorts. Rob Mancini leads Prince William County, Va.\u2019s IT department, which topped the 2023 Digital Counties Survey, following strong placements in previous years. He helmed the county\u2019s modernization efforts and fostered an inclusive work environment. Mancini's focus is now on enhancing government services, including the implementation of a new AI-powered 311 platform, as part of ongoing efforts to transform the county\u2019s IT infrastructure. Sam Orth, chief technology officer and director of technology in Columbus, Ohio, owes his career trajectory to an early interest in personal computers and a stint at a local computer store in the 1980s. His private-sector sales background informs his current role, emphasizing customer-centricity and the understanding that technology drives change and business outcomes. Orth\u2019s approach, rooted in intrinsic motivation and a focus on trust and authentic communication, shapes initiatives like deploying body cameras for police and establishing the city\u2019s data analytics program, highlighting the importance of people alongside technological tools in building successful IT programs. Kenyatta Powers-Rucker, Maryland Department of Human Services CIO, highlights the absence of mentorship as a significant hurdle in her tech journey \u2014 emphasizing the importance of support, particularly for underrepresented groups. With more than 12 years in leadership, Powers-Rucker\u2019s commitment lies in facilitating access to tech resources for those in need while advocating for greater diversity in the industry through speaking engagements, networking and mentorship initiatives. Katy Ruckle, Washington\u2019s chief privacy officer, has spearheaded the state\u2019s privacy initiatives, establishing foundational principles and training programs while leveraging grants for workforce upskilling. In her role since January 2020, Ruckle aims to navigate the evolving landscape of technology, particularly AI, by fostering responsible data usage through collaborative partnerships and community engagement \u2014 ensuring Washington remains at the forefront of privacy standards. Related Links to items referenced in the episode: GovTech\u2019s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers 2024 Video Overview of the GT Top 25 Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3. Subscribe to TFIC for free on YouTube or the podcast app of your choice \u2014 Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audacy and Audible.[Placeholder for audio player embed.] ","author_name":"The Future in Context","author_url":"http:\/\/governingfuture.libsyn.com\/website","html":"