WashingtonExec is proud to recognize five federal leaders whose careers reflect what public service is really about: showing up, sticking with the mission and doing the hard work — year after year.
These officials spent decades defending the country from cyberattacks, making government services more efficient and user friendly, and protecting national interests at home and abroad. Their roles vary, but their focus is the same: a deep, unwavering commitment to mission.
Whether leading high-stakes modernization efforts, securing critical infrastructure or building systems the public relies on every day, these leaders have earned reputations not for flashy headlines — but for results. For staying focused. For delivering results. For making government better and safer for the people it serves.
The WashingtonExec Public Service Awards highlight those who’ve made public service a career, not a stepping stone. Their work often goes unseen, but its impact is felt everywhere.
This year’s honorees represent what federal leadership should look like: steady, accountable and driven by something bigger than themselves. We’re proud to honor them — and to say thank you. These esteemed govies will be honored at this year’s Chief Officer Awards on June 4.
The awardees are:
Gregory Barbaccia, Federal Chief Information Officer, Office of Management and Budget
Barbaccia, a U.S. Army intelligence veteran with deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, brings more than 15 years of experience in finance, government and defense technology. A Palantir alumnus, he led intelligence and investigations work focused on national security missions and data-driven decision-making. As federal CIO, he sets technology policy and cybersecurity strategy across the executive branch, with a focus on secure, high-performing systems that support mission execution and defend against evolving threats.
Katie Arrington, Acting Chief Information Officer, Department of Defense
Arrington leads one of the federal government’s largest and most complex IT environments, managing modernization and cybersecurity for the Department of Defense. She played a central role in creating the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, which raised accountability and security standards for defense contractors. With a background in both public policy and private-sector cyber strategy, she is known for her mission-driven approach and focus on securing national defense infrastructure.
Michael Kratsios, Assistant to the President for Science & Technology and 13th Director of the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy
Kratsios, recently reappointed to lead OSTP, has served as both U.S. CTO and director of the White House science and technology office. He has advanced national strategies on artificial intelligence, quantum computing and emerging technologies critical to economic and national security. His cross-sector leadership has positioned the U.S. to remain competitive and secure in the global tech landscape.
Melinda Rogers, Chief Information Officer, Department of Justice
Rogers oversees DOJ’s multibillion-dollar IT portfolio, managing enterprise services and the department’s cybersecurity program. Under her leadership, DOJ earned its first-ever “A” on the FITARA scorecard and made major strides in zero trust, cloud adoption and AI integration. Her career reflects a deep commitment to strengthening national security systems and improving mission delivery through secure, modern technology.
David Shive, Chief Information Officer, General Services Administration
Shive has led GSA’s IT strategy since 2012, guiding efforts to modernize federal infrastructure and improve digital service delivery. As vice chair of the Federal CIO Council and a board member of the Technology Modernization Fund, he helps drive governmentwide tech priorities, including cybersecurity and customer experience. Before joining GSA, he served as CIO for the District of Columbia and held senior roles in the private sector, where he led large-scale federal IT operations.
Visit ChiefAwards.com for the full list of industry finalists and event information.