Georgia Governor Brian Kemp selected Shawnzia Thomas as the executive director of Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) and state CIO. The GTA Board of Directors recently affirmed Thomas’ selection.
For more than 13 years, Thomas worked for Georgia, integrating technology in all government sectors to improve constituent services and better serve Georgians. Thomas is the first Black woman to hold the position of CIO. Previously, Thomas served as the assistant deputy commissioner at the Georgia Department of Human Services. Thomas will replace Calvin Rhodes, who is retiring after ten years as executive director and CIO.
The Governor also announced Jessica Simmons’’ appointment as deputy CIO for broadband and special projects at GTA, effective July 15.
In her new role, Simmons will oversee broadband development as Georgia continues to invest in infrastructure and expand broadband access. Simmons recently served as deputy commissioner for the revenue department, overseeing the division for legal affairs and tax policy, law enforcement divisions, and the department’s communications and legislative programs.
“Each of them brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will allow Georgia to remain a leader in combating wasteful spending, streamlining government, keeping Georgia the top state for business, and creating new opportunities for hardworking Georgians,” said Gov. Kemp in a statement.
