Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech) advanced innovation, cybersecurity, and data accessibility across the state during 2024. From supporting state agencies to bolstering services for residents, WaTech drove innovation in serving the needs of Washingtonians through technology.
“As we move into 2025, it’s important to reflect on the progress we’ve made in building a more connected and efficient government,” said WaTech Director and State CIO Bill Kehoe. “Through the hard work and dedication of every division at WaTech, we’ve advanced initiatives that strengthen collaboration across state agencies and improve services for the people of Washington. This momentum sets the stage for continued innovation and impactful results in the year ahead.”
2024 highlights
Innovation and modernization
The Architecture & Innovation Division (AID) spearheaded efforts to modernize the state’s technology. The Geographic Information System (GIS) team improved data-sharing platforms and explored artificial intelligence applications, coordination with the enterprise data platform, enhancing agencies abilities to use geographic data to determine natural hazard locations and protect public health.
Additionally, AID launched the state’s cloud training program, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to leverage cloud technologies.
Under Governor Inslee’s executive order on AI, AID identified generative AI opportunities and crafted guidelines to promote ethical use, data transparency, and security. The division also advanced the Open Data Modernization project by developing a comprehensive roadmap and supported over a dozen agencies through the Innovation and Modernization Fund, aiding their transition to modern technologies.
Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
The Office of Cybersecurity (OCS) made significant strides in protecting Washington’s digital infrastructure. Hosting Cybersecurity Awareness Month, OCS engaged over 1,000 participants from 60 agencies through 24 interactive sessions. It also allocated millions in federal grants to enhance local government cybersecurity under the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program.
The Office of Data & Privacy Protection (ODPP) introduced Washington’s first Enterprise Privacy and Data Protection Policy, setting a standard for responsible data handling. The office also developed AI Procurement Guidelines to aid legislative decision-making.
Internal operations and support
The Administrative Services Division (ASD) focused on internal growth and efficiency. By digitizing thousands of HR files, the division transitioned from paper-based processes to a streamlined online system, improving service delivery. Additionally, ASD trained 65 employees in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) initiatives, reinforcing WaTech’s commitment to a welcoming workplace.
The division’s Communications team produced a dynamic recruitment video to attract top talent, while its Risk and Emergency team successfully relocated Small Agency IT Services to a new space.
Technology and infrastructure
WaTech’s Technology & Operations Division (T&O) completed several high-impact projects. The Telephony Infrastructure Modernization project decommissioned outdated data enclosures and implemented measures to enhance cybersecurity and operational efficiency. The division also finalized a Zero Trust white paper, guiding state agencies on adopting this cybersecurity model.
The State Data Center marked a milestone by conducting a critical power system confidence test, ensuring reliable utility and disaster recovery services. The center also managed 232 equipment changes, a 46% increase from the prior year.
T&O’s website services team developed 16 new government websites and received 16 awards for the redesigned Parks.wa.gov website. It also launched a Resident Portal roadmap to improve digital accessibility for Washingtonians.
Strategy & Management Division (SMD)
The Strategy & Management Division (SMD) introduced initiatives to enhance agency support and governance. Its Project Management Office reduced project intake time from 104 days to just 4.5 days and implemented Agile best practices. The division also conducted IT consultations for 28 agencies and onboarded four new governance groups, including a Community of Practice for Artificial Intelligence.
Meanwhile, the Computer Services Division (CSD) enhanced Secure Access Washington (SAW), averaging over 6.1 million monthly logins and launching features for low- and no-vision users. CSD also facilitated the migration of critical state systems, such as ACES and DSHS’s mainframe, to more secure and efficient platforms.
Watch the video summarizing WaTech’s accomplishments.