Art Thompson has been the CIO of the city of Detroit since 2021, leading the department of Innovation & Technology. Originally starting as an IT Manager for Mobile Technology in 2016, he quickly advanced to the role of CIO.
Learn more about the Detroit CIO community here.
Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
After leading major projects for Detroit's Public Safety, I received the opportunity to do more in Detroit and change its trajectory. This exciting opportunity led me to want to do more and change excellence for the City of Detroit.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
Communication is key, whether it is the strengths or weaknesses of a plan, it benefits all.
What is the greatest challenge technology leaders face today, and how are you addressing it?
AI and cybersecurity are rapidly growing and creating opportunities. Creating a culture that wants to grow and adapt to those exciting challenges is difficult.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CIO?
Be curious and speak with others. It is often the ability to listen that leads to success.
How do you measure success as a leader?
Metrics are key to telling the story of success and data always backs that. But creating a culture of people who want to work and plan to share your vision is where I find the most satisfaction.
What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?
It is valuable to have peers that can share best practices and ideas that are unique.
Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.
By CIOs, For CIOs
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