Jay Alalasundaram
Deputy Assistant Commissioner & Deputy CIO of U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Jay Alalasundaram’s software applications and services team provides comprehensive technical support for software application development, operations and maintenance across various areas, including border enforcement, passenger and cargo processing, targeting and analysis, and management systems.
A recent highlight for Alalasundaram is the focus on seamlessly delivering new technology solutions that facilitate legitimate trade and travel, while simultaneously enhancing CBP’s enforcement capabilities. The systems his teams develop and maintain support CBP officers and agents screening travelers and cargo at U.S. ports of entry and checkpoints, operating around the clock to protect the nation’s borders.
“Ensuring users have the right IT software capabilities and data available anywhere and anytime at the speed of CBP’s 24/7 mission,” is Alalasundaram’s top priority.
Why Watch
Alalasundaram has led several major achievements. He developed and deployed the Unified Immigration Portal, improved interagency coordination, provided data-driven insights, reduced manual processes for credible fear and expedited removals, integrated health and criminality data and created dashboards for key DHS agencies, cutting processing times by digitizing the notice to appear process.
He also led a pilot program using facial biometrics to speed up passenger processing for U.S. citizens and improve vetting accuracy. The “Enrollment on Departure” rollout at Washington Dulles International Airport allowed conditional Global Entry applicants to complete their interview and enrollment pre-flight. He developed CBP One, reducing infrastructure costs and improving risk assessment with a consistent user interface. His team also enhanced Global Entry Mobile and Mobile Passport Control, improving the traveler experience and streamlining processes.
Fun fact: Alalasundaram is a big D.C. sports fan and follows the Commanders, Wizards, Capitals and Nationals. He also plays pickleball with friends and in a competitive league.