April 29, 2025
CDT Celebrates Wins at 2025 CIO Academy Awards
SACRAMENTO, Calif. –
Why it Matters: The recognition of the California Department of Technology (CDT) at the 20th CIO Academy signals how government is leveraging technology to better serve its residents. From redesigning the state’s digital front door to testing the boundaries of responsible public AI, CDT’s achievements show a clear commitment to future proofing state government technology.
At the 20th anniversary of the California Public Sector CIO Academy, the California Department of Technology stood out for its role in modernizing government, earning several top honors that highlight technology leadership and innovation to better serve the public.
CDT’s Office of Digital Services (ODS) received a Team Leadership Award for the successful redesign of CA.gov, the state’s flagship digital portal. Spearheaded by ODS’ Web Design & Development team, the project delivered a cleaner, more accessible user experience and improved mobile functionality, ensuring that Californians can easily access essential state services from any device.
The CIO Academy presented another Team Leadership Award to State Chief Enterprise Architect Renoir Pope and his team for their work on the Generative AI Sandbox. By building sandboxes, the team designed and produced secure environments for testing generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) applications in the public sector. With a focus on privacy and operational value, the sandboxes are helping shape the state’s AI governance framework and paving the way for future GenAI uses that will improve efficiency, expedite decision-making, and support digital equity.
Two of CDT’s standout leaders, Shera Mui and Katie Regan, were each honored with the IT Leadership Award for their participation in public service excellence. Shera has led initiatives that bridge legacy systems with modern technology, while Katie’s policy and governance leadership continues to weave trust and transparency into California government’s digital services.
The CIO Academy remains as an important part of shaping California’s public sector technology landscape. The recognition of CDT’s teams and leaders—as well as the department’s role as a technology provider and a partner—are working together to build a more inclusive, efficient, and resilient state government.
Congratulations to all the honorees whose work exemplifies the best of public service, shaping a more efficient and better-connected California for years to come.