Derrick Pledger
Chief Digital and Information Officer, Maximus
Maximus has been at the forefront of AI-driven technology change across the federal government in 2025. The strategic direction and business expansion has been led by Chief Digital and Information Officer Derrick Pledger.
Since joining Maximus in January 2024, Pledger integrated innovative AI, data analytics and customer experience solutions into the company’s enterprise technology strategy. His leadership has been central to Maximus’ continued success in helping government agencies modernize systems, enhance cybersecurity and deliver more efficient citizen services.
Supported by Pledger’s executive leadership, Maximus recently secured two major U.S. Air Force contracts: an award valued up to $77 million to deliver advanced cybersecurity and cloud-based services, and a Joint Cyber Command & Control Readiness contract worth up to $86 million to enhance interoperability and readiness across critical defense systems. These wins underscore Maximus’ growing role as a trusted technology partner for the Defense Department, providing secure, scalable and mission-focused digital capabilities.
“As cyber threats continue to evolve, the Air Force and the broader Department of Defense need partners who can keep pace with innovation,” Pledger said. “This new work represents a significant expansion of our technology footprint and highlights our ability to deliver engineering excellence, software modernization, and data-driven mission outcomes.”
Why Watch
As CDIO, Pledger is responsible for shaping the company’s technology strategy, leading modernization efforts, and ensuring digital and operational alignment across Maximus’ global portfolio. A U.S. Army combat veteran with more than 20 years of technology leadership experience, he brings a deep understanding of mission-driven digital transformation.
Pledger’s focus for 2025 and beyond is clear: leveraging AI, automation and data to create more responsive and efficient systems that meet the evolving needs of government partners. As one example, Pledger has emphasized with agency leaders how AI-powered CX can transform government services by connecting citizens to the right resources faster and more effectively.
“By combining intelligent AI agents with human expertise, we can help agencies deliver outcomes that truly make a difference,” he said.
Pledger is also advancing Maximus’ role in fostering innovation through collaboration. In partnership with the National Defense Industrial Association, Maximus sponsored a major defense hackathon over the summer that was designed to accelerate rapid capability development and align government, industry, and academia in solving real operational challenges.
“At Maximus, our mission is to help government agencies modernize and deliver services that improve lives,” Pledger said. “Technology, when used with purpose, becomes a force multiplier for efficiency, readiness, and impact.”