Katy Ruckle, Washington State’s Chief Privacy Officer, has been named one of the nation’s inaugural AI 50 honorees by the Center for Public Sector AI, recognizing her leadership in shaping ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence in government.
Ruckle has been at the forefront of Washington’s AI efforts, playing a key role in developing guidelines for how the state adopts generative artificial intelligence into its own systems to ensure its ethical and transparent use. Katy also co-founded the state’s Artificial Intelligence Community of Practice, which brings together experts from state and local agencies, as well as academia.
Since being appointed in 2020 to lead WaTech’s Office of Privacy and Data Protection, Ruckle has developed foundational privacy principles, launched statewide training programs, and issued guidance on procuring automated decision-making systems. She also represents WaTech on the state’s AI Task Force.
Her latest honor adds to a growing list of accolades, including recognition as one of GovTech’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers & Drivers in 2024, a StateScoop Top 50 award, and the Governor’s Outstanding Leadership Award in 2023.
The AI 50 program highlights individuals and organizations advancing AI adoption in the public sector through innovation, collaboration, and responsible governance. The 2025 list marks the program’s first year.