Tushar Agrawal is a passionate advocate for applying artificial intelligence to enhance everyday experiences and drive meaningful operational efficiency at scale. He champions the responsible use of AI, grounding his work in strong ethical principles while partnering closely with clients to design and deliver innovative solutions that accelerate business transformation. Tushar plays a key role in driving adoption of hybrid cloud and AI platforms to unlock new value across organizations.
An experienced enterprise architect, Tushar specializes in large-scale data processing and event-driven architectures. He has successfully designed and delivered more than 50 complex solutions across a wide range of industries, helping organizations modernize and scale their digital capabilities.
A prolific innovator, Tushar has filed over 200 patent applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He continues to explore emerging technologies, co-creating intellectual property and advancing cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of AI and cloud computing at IBM.

Evonne Amundson drives the vision and execution of innovative IT solutions—providing efficient and secure services for state, local, and educational entities. She joined NDIT in 2020 as a Business Analyst Manager, was promoted to Chief Customer Success Officer in 2021, and became Chief Business Applications Officer in 2023.
Evonne is passionate about creating user-friendly, reliable digital tools that enhance the citizen experience with state government. She strongly believes in empowering staff, supporting their professional growth, and taking pride in serving the people of North Dakota by developing solutions that make government more accessible and engaging.
Before joining NDIT, Evonne spent nearly 30 years in the health insurance industry, including 23 years in IT and 16 years leading IT teams. A lifelong North Dakotan and University of North Dakota alum, she currently resides in Casselton, ND.
In her free time, Evonne enjoys being with her husband, children, and grandchildren—especially at the lake, cherishing every stage of their growth.

Jason Anderson leads statewide AI initiatives for the State of North Dakota because he believes AI is a workforce transition, not a technology transition. He builds the operating model that paces government AI adoption against what the work demands and what accountability can hold.

Scott Anderson is the Chief Communications Officer for the City of Fargo, where he leads the City’s strategic communications, media relations, and community engagement efforts. With more than a decade of experience across municipal government, nonprofits, and the private sector, he brings a practical, listen-first approach to public communication. Scott has a background in storytelling, crisis communications, and building transparent relationships between organizations and the communities they serve.

Tony Aukland has been in Information Technology for 30 years. He is employed by the ND Information Technology Department and has served many roles including Email Admin, Desktop support, System Administration, Unified Communications, AI, and Cybersecurity. The first in the state to serve as cyber analyst for the North Dakota State and Local Intelligence Center. Tony is now the state’s Technology Outreach, Awareness, and Education Director, he has several certifications in Cybersecurity and IT, and claims three hometowns, Valley City, Reynolds, and Devils Lake. A graduate of Valley City State University with degrees in Math Education and Computer Science. He recently received an MBA from the University of Mary and a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. He is a Scout leader, Motorcycle Enthusiast, and dog trainer. His favorite thing is to be with his wife, children, and Bailey, the Black Lab Wonder.

With more than 20 years leading client digital transformations, Ivan is a Lead Solution Architect in CGI's Strategy and Operations team public sector practice, working on with some of CGI's largest, most strategic and complex public sector opportunities.
Ivan architected and executed complex partnership engagements working closely with clients, leading application providers and industry experts to create the best of breed, award-winning solutions.
Ivan leads program marketing and strategy briefings for industry analysts, as well as the CGI team at national conferences and symposiums where he shares his thought leadership, industry best practices and represents CGI and its Advantage ERP program.

Shila Blend, PhD, MSN, RN-BC, is currently serving as the Health Information Technology Director for the North Dakota Information Technology Department. In this role, she oversees the North Dakota Health Information Network and the implementation of a statewide interoperable health infrastructure. Her extensive experience in public health includes serving as the Hospital Preparedness Director for the North Dakota Department of Health and as a Deputy Chief of Staff during the state’s COVID-19 response. Dr. Blend’s background is rooted in clinical excellence as a board-certified cardiac-vascular nurse and former State Stroke & Cardiac System Coordinator. Dr. Blend holds a PhD in Nursing with a concentration in Health Care Systems from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, as well as a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Mary. Her academic contributions include serving as adjunct faculty for graduate nursing informatics and research courses. She actively contributes to national health IT initiatives through the Federal Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC) and other national groups. Her dedication to advancing rural health and interoperability is further evidenced by her extensive record of research and national presentations

Jaden’s path in state government began in 2017 at the Bank of North Dakota, where he first discovered how much he enjoyed solving complex problems with technology and critical infrastructure. When IT unification brought him to the North Dakota Information Technology Department in 2021, he joined the Network Engineering team, an experience that deepened his understanding of the core infrastructure that keeps the state running.
In 2022, Jaden found his true niche on NDIT’s security team as a Cybersecurity Automation Engineer. Now a Senior Automation Engineer, he focuses on building systems that help the Cybersecurity Operations Center move faster, respond smarter, increase overall security posture, and reduce the manual work that slows teams down. He also helps shape the architectural design of these automation systems, ensuring they’re scalable, resilient, and aligned with long‑term organizational goals.
What drives Jaden’s work is a mix of curiosity and a passion for making things better. With experience spanning software development, security engineering, networking, and general IT, he thrives on collaborating with teams cross-functionally and connecting systems in ways that create real impact.

As Chief Technology Officer, Craig Felchle is responsible for the vision and strategic direction for technology that enables and empowers North Dakota's state government, local government, educational entities, public safety, and broadband programs in our State.  His varied experience includes everything from the foundational core services that enable connectivity to hundreds of thousands of endpoints in our State to our advanced data, cloud, and citizen impacting platforms and services.  Craig has been a member of NDIT since 2007 and has been actively involved with North Dakota State Government since 2004.  
Craig is passionate to continue leading North Dakota in its transformational journey to ensure we have the most effective and efficient technologies for our customers and our citizens. He believes strongly in leading by example and being a true servant leader to the State of North Dakota.

North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) is proud to announce the hiring of Chris Gergen as the state’s new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Gergen has served in key leadership roles within NDIT’s cybersecurity division, most recently as Interim CISO, where he has led critical efforts to strengthen the state’s security posture and build a culture of resilience and collaboration.
In his new role, Gergen will continue to lead NDIT’s cybersecurity strategy with a people-centered focus, advancing the organization’s mission to deliver secure, reliable technology services that safeguard the digital infrastructure of North Dakota’s citizens, government agencies, and partners.
“We’re incredibly proud to promote one of our own to this vital leadership role,” said Corey Mock, Chief Information Officer for the State of North Dakota. “Chris is not only a highly capable cybersecurity leader—he’s a mentor, a trusted voice, and a strong advocate for every individual on his team. He understands the value of lifelong learning and leads with humility, curiosity, and a steady commitment to service.”
With nearly two decades of experience in cybersecurity, risk management, and information technology, Gergen brings deep expertise and a steady, collaborative approach to the role.
“It’s an honor to serve the state I’ve proudly called home for nearly my entire life,” Gergen said. “I’m eager to build on the strong foundation already in place, and I’m deeply committed to safeguarding the digital government services that North Dakotans rely on. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me to help lead this important work.” 
Gergen joined NDIT in 2019 as the Cyber Analysis and Response Lead, where he played a crucial role in establishing a state-of-the-art Cyber Operations Center for the State of North Dakota. He has since held a leadership role as Director of Cyber Operations, where he led teams responsible for delivering critical cybersecurity services.
A North Dakota native, Gergen grew up in Jamestown and now lives with his family in rural Bismarck. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accountancy with a minor in information systems from the University of North Dakota. Outside the office, he serves as an elder at Bethel Lutheran
Church and enjoys fishing, hunting, camping, and spending time outdoors with his family and friends.
Gergen’s appointment reflects the state’s commitment to developing talent from within and investing in leadership that reflects North Dakota values of innovation, integrity, and public service.

Bob Henderson is an IT leader with Cass County Government in North Dakota, where he spends his time keeping systems secure, networks running, and problems from becoming headlines. His work focuses on cybersecurity, infrastructure, and the practical reality of making technology actually function in the public sector.
He’s spent years navigating everything from legacy systems to modern cloud and security challenges, usually with a healthy mix of caution, curiosity, and just enough skepticism to keep things interesting. When he’s not dealing with alerts, outages, or “quick questions” that aren’t quick, he’s thinking about how to make IT simpler, more resilient, and a little less painful for everyone involved.
Bob also enjoys digging into emerging tech, automation, and the occasional ambitious idea that may or may not make it past a whiteboard.

Greg Hoffman has been with NDIT since 2005 and has helped lead the agency since 2014. He holds bachelor’s degrees in accounting and business administration, as well as a master’s in business management. He’s also a certified technology business manager and certified change practitioner.  
Greg was the first rate analyst ever hired by NDIT and has enjoyed building strong administrative teams to support the agency’s needs.
In his spare time, Greg enjoys spending time with family and friends while staying active. Fishing, hunting, and playing softball are among his main passions, with cooking, listening to music, and playing cards filling any remaining time. 

Jason Horning is the Next Generation 9-1-1 Program Manager at the North Dakota Association of Counties. Over the past 12 years, he has worked with local and state government representatives and 911 centers across North Dakota to modernize the state’s 911 systems and support the adoption of new and emerging technologies. In recognition of his contributions to advancing emergency communications, Jason received the 2025 Government Leader Award from the NG9-1-1 Institute, an annual national award presented to an individual government leader or agency for outstanding contributions to 911 advancement.

[LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kadrmas-b3647433/

Josh is a Governance, Risk, and Compliance Sr. Manager at North Dakota Information Technology and has been with the State of North Dakota for 19 years.  He leads a team of security experts that drive the approach to deliver whole-of-state cybersecurity support.  Josh previously served as an information security officer for Health and Human Services and Bank of North Dakota.
Josh is a member of the Executive Leadership Team Advisory Group, GovRAMP service provider approvals committee, and holds certifications in: CRISC, CISM, and CGRC.  In his free time, Josh enjoys the expansive North Dakota outdoors with his wife and two children, along with fishing, golfing, traveling, and storm chasing.

Petrea Klein is an IT Program Manager with the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, where she leads cross-agency technology and data initiatives supporting public safety and rehabilitation. Her work focuses on system modernization, data strategy, and improving how data is used to inform operational and policy decisions. She partners closely with the North Dakota Information Technology Department and other stakeholders to advance data governance, reporting, and analytics across the state.

As the lead of the Domain Enterprise Architecture team for NDIT, Ryan is responsible the direction and strategy of all infrastructure technologies within the state, including networking, compute, cloud, storage, and unified communications.  Ryan also wears the Security Architect hat, and takes a strong interest in securing the State of ND from bad actors through zero trust and strong defense strategies, which serves as a model to other states.   Ryan has been a member of NDIT in various roles since 2005, and has served in his current role since 2015.

Jared Lemieux is the Statewide Interopable Radio Network (SIRN) Program Administrator for NDIT with the State of North Dakota. Jared has been an employee with the State of North Dakota for 2 years, previously serving as a Logistics Chief with the Department Operations Center, Emergency Preparedness and Response with NDHHS. Prior to working for the State of North Dakota, Jared was a deputy with the Burleigh County Sheriff’s Department for 8 years and a police officer with the Mandan Police Department for 3 years. In that decade of law enforcement experience, he has held titles of Corporal, Criminal Investigator, and Sergeant.
Jared holds over 2,000 hours of law enforcement training, holds FEMA certifications in IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800, and Measures for CBRNE Incidents.
Jared and his wife, Kayla, are blessed with two wild-at-heart daughters Anabelle (12) and Raelyn (3); and a brave son Morgan (10). In Jared’s free time, he likes to: weightlift, read books, play video games with his son, and spend time with his family.

Jeff Maclean is a Manager of Solutions Consulting at Palo Alto Networks. With a strong background in cybersecurity and technology architecture, he specializes in helping organizations design, evaluate, and implement comprehensive security strategies to protect their digital environments.

Michael Miller is the IT Coordinator for Dunn County, ND, managing web systems, technical operations, and cybersecurity across county departments. He is also a leading voice in the County’s ADA Title II digital accessibility efforts, helping staff build clear, compliant, and inclusive online services. 

Corey Mock serves as North Dakota’s Chief Information Officer, leading the state’s technology efforts to make government services more secure, efficient and easy to use. He works closely with all state agencies to improve digital tools, strengthen cybersecurity and ensure technology is helping – not hindering – how government serves the people of North Dakota.
Before joining Gov. Kelly Armstrong’s cabinet in December of 2024, Corey spent 16 years in the North Dakota House of Representatives, representing Grand Forks and focusing on state budget reform, digital modernization and public-sector innovation. As chair of the Legislative IT Committee, he helped shape major technology initiatives that continue to impact how state government operates today.
Corey has been nationally recognized for his leadership and commitment to public service, including honors such as the Council of State Governments 20 Under 40 and Prairie Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40. He is a graduate of several respected leadership fellowships, including those from the American Council of Young Political Leaders, the Council of State Governments and the American Jewish Committee.
Originally from Minot, Corey has built a personal and professional journey that threads through Grand Forks, Fargo and Bismarck – communities that have shaped his passion for service, innovation and building a better North Dakota. As CIO, he is committed to delivering a digital government that is responsive, forward-thinking and built around the people it serves. 

Emily Riedman is the ADA Digital Compliance Communications Specialist for North Dakota Health and Human Services, where she leads training, education and preparedness efforts supporting the agency’s compliance with U.S. Department of Justice WCAG 2.1 AA digital accessibility standards. She works with communications professionals and teams across the agency to strengthen accessibility practices, improve communication standards and promote equal access to digital information and services for North Dakotans.
Following a traumatic brain injury in 2013, Riedman developed a passion for accessibility and disability advocacy that now guides her work. Her career has included communications and outreach roles with the Abused Adult Resource Center, Easterseals Goodwill North Dakota and Job Service North Dakota.
Riedman holds bachelor’s degrees in Mass Communications and Multimedia Design from Black Hills State University, with minors in photography, marketing and journalism.

Michael Selburg is a seasoned technology leader and educator based in Dunseith, North Dakota, where he currently serves as the IT Director and Esports Coach at Turtle Mountain College. His professional foundation is built upon an advanced academic background, including a degree in Information Technology and a Masters of Business Administration. Currently, he is further expanding his expertise by pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration, a move that reflects his commitment to high-level strategic leadership and institutional growth.
With a career defined by a focus on student success, Michael bridges the gap between complex server infrastructure and innovative educational experiences. At the college, he oversees critical digital storage practices and long-term technical strategy while simultaneously pioneering collegiate athletics as an Esports Coach, leveraging competitive gaming to build community and engagement within the student body. His professional reach extends into educational innovation and entrepreneurship through the management of Selburg IT Solutions, where he applies his business acumen to technology consulting.
Michael has a proven track record of developing AI-integrated curricula and cybersecurity training programs, including specialized defense modules for K-12 students. His work is deeply rooted in strategic research, specifically regarding educational outcomes at Tribal Colleges and Universities. By examining the variables that influence student matriculation to mainstream institutions, he seeks to understand and lower the barriers to academic achievement. A dedicated advocate for student advancement, Michael frequently contributes to academic excellence through mentorship and professional support. Outside of his professional roles, Michael is a father of three who finds balance through his interests as an avid video game collector and an acoustic guitar player, as well as a worship leader at his local church.

Born and raised in North Dakota, Dain Sullivan is a seasoned communications professional with broad experience in public relations, marketing, journalism and brand management. A storyteller at heart, he thrives on crafting impactful, authentic narratives that resonate with audiences.
There are many things Sullivan loves about North Dakota—its rich history, breathtaking beauty, innovative spirit and uplifting culture, to name a few. But what he appreciates most, what makes this place truly special in his eyes, are its people. He sees the residents of this region as tenacious, forward-thinking and kind. They’ve shaped him into who he is today, and he cherishes the opportunity to serve them.
Sullivan has also found an unexpected home in the world of information technology. What began as a curiosity has evolved into a genuine passion—one fueled by the endless opportunities technology creates to improve lives, strengthen communities and better serve the people of North Dakota.
Originally from Oakes, ND, Sullivan currently resides in Davenport, ND, about 20 miles southwest of Fargo. He attended North Dakota State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and minored in business administration.
Whenever he can find a bit of free time, Sullivan enjoys fishing, camping, reading, riding his motorcycle and spending time with his English bulldog, Winston. Above all, though, he cherishes the moments filled with bedtime stories, adventure walks, church trips and golf cart rides with his wife, Kristen, and their three children—Henry (5), Parker (3) and Madelyn (18 months).

Kimberly Weis became the Chief Data Officer (CDO) for North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) in January 2024. In this role, she is responsible for shaping how NDIT and State Agencies leverage data to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and achieve better outcomes for stakeholders.
Weis was born and raised in Bismarck, ND. She earned an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology and a Master of Public Health degree in Epidemiology in Minnesota before returning to ND in 2004. She has worked in ND state government—across three state agencies—for 22 years, starting her career as an epidemiologist with the Department of Health.
Weis has a passion for all things data and is committed to using data to help enhance the health and well-being of the people of North Dakota. Outside of work, Weis values spending time with her family. A favorite pastime is weekend day trips to hidden gems throughout North Dakota. She also loves “National Lampoon”-style trips with her family, to explore and experience the (back) roads less traveled!