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The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced March 28, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person May 10.
Next is Nathan Rogers, chief information officer at SAIC, and finalist in the Private and Public Chief Information Officer category. Here, he shares key achievements, focus areas going forward, career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2023?
In 2023, Rogers successfully developed and implemented a mission-focused performance excellence program management tool, streamlining operations and enhancing overall management efficiency. He spearheaded the establishment of an enterprise artificial intelligence council, bringing together key stakeholders to drive strategic decision-making, responsible AI usage, governance and foster a culture of innovation.
Rogers also led multiple successful AI working groups, such as launching a new virtual technology assistant and improving SAIC’s talent acquisition abilities, both resulting in the successful implementation of AI initiatives.
Rogers and his team consolidated the organization’s real estate portfolio, optimizing space utilization and reducing costs while maintaining operational effectiveness. His team implemented robust security measures to strengthen the organization’s security posture, ensuring the protection of sensitive data and mitigating potential data-exposure risks.
In partnership with his high performing team, Rogers converted 70% of his interns to full-time employees, increased participation in the SAIC mentoring program and influenced many leaders to participate in employee resource groups.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Rogers’ primary focus areas are achieving 100% migration to the cloud to enable greater scalability, flexibility and cost-efficiency in delivering services to employees and customers; standing up a cloud native data platform to allow seamless data integration, data sharing and real-time analytics and upskilling employees; and modernizing the company’s zero trust posture to ensure the protection of sensitive data and systems in an increasingly complex threat landscape.
These focus areas are essential for the U.S. government, federal and civilian agencies as they align with the government’s digital transformation initiatives, improve operational efficiency, enhance data security and enable the delivery of innovative and citizen-centric services. By successfully executing these focus areas, the SAIC team meets mission requirements and is a trusted partner in their clients’ digital transformation journeys.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
Working hard is undoubtedly important, but it is equally crucial to understand your priorities and strive for balance in your life. In my journey, I have found that establishing clear priorities has been instrumental in maintaining a fulfilling and successful career. In following these priorities — Family First Always, Team, Customer, Community and Self — I believe one can cultivate a fulfilling and successful career.
Work hard, but always strive for balance. By understanding and aligning your priorities, you can build a career that not only brings professional achievements but also personal fulfillment and happiness.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know?
I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail and am now the vice chair of the ATC’s board of directors. I also play ultimate frisbee on a co-ed team in the Boston Ultimate league, the Stonecutters, and am on the Boston Men’s Masters team Rusted Metal.