Two GTA leaders are named Government Technology's Top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers of 2025

The Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) is pleased to announce that Shawnzia Thomas, State CIO and GTA Executive Director, and Nikhil Deshpande, GTA Chief Digital and AI Officer, have been named Government Technology's Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers of 2025 for their visionary leadership of critical work in government technology innovation that keeps the public sector operating efficiently in service of residents throughout Georgia.

"I'm truly grateful and honored to be named as one of the Top 25 Doers, Dreamers & Drivers of 2025. Being recognized is a reflection of all the support and inspiration I've received from this community and being allowed to work with the BEST TEAM IN GEORGIA. I am inspired daily by their passion, dedication and unwavering commitment to make a real impact in our great state. This award belongs to all of us, and I am grateful to be part of a team that turns vision into reality," Shawnzia Thomas said. "As we look ahead, I'm reminded that when we work hard, dream big and believe in what's possible, we don't just move Georgia forward, we transform it. Thank you to all the staff at Government Technology and e.Republic for selecting me for this award."

Government Technology's Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers annual award recipients include CIOs, agency leaders and education executives who are innovators, collaborators and transformers driven to improve technology. They are chosen based on their record of using technology to solve problems, improve services for residents and transform internal operations in state and local governments.

"This recognition stands as a testament to the meaningful contributions of the GTA team. It takes a collective effort to drive impact, and it has been a privilege to serve alongside such dedicated and hardworking professionals," Nikhil Deshpande stated.

For a full list of winners of the Top 25 honorees, visit the GovTech website and the digital edition of Government Technology Magazine.