A River Rat's Journey in Government IT ft. Chris Mertens

IT Leaders

In this episode, Chris Mertens, CIO of Hamilton County, Indiana, shares his remarkable journey from rural Missouri to a leadership role in government IT. Growing up in the tiny town of Bonnets Mill, Chris's early fascination with technology set the stage for his future career.

Chris recounts his transition from a small, tight-knit community to Lincoln University, where he embraced diversity and broadened his perspectives. His career in government IT began as an intern, and he quickly advanced through various roles, gaining exposure to cutting-edge technologies and leadership opportunities.

Now at Hamilton County, Chris discusses his achievements, including implementing project management teams, enhancing cybersecurity, and transitioning to remote work. He emphasizes the importance of hiring passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference.

Key Takeaways:

• Embracing diversity and new opportunities fuels professional growth.
• Building dedicated teams and fostering supportive work environments is crucial.
• Proactive cybersecurity and project management significantly enhance government operations.

Tune in to hear Chris Mertens' inspiring story and gain valuable insights into effective IT leadership in government.