Name: Irene Garcia
Title: Deputy CIO
Department of Administrative Services
Office: BITS
1. Can you share your current role and key responsibilities within the State of Connecticut?
I was recently promoted to the role of Deputy CIO in DAS/BITS. In this role, my primary focus is on agency outcomes and enterprise solutions. This includes management of our relationships with agency partners and their full portfolio of applications, project and vendor management, data, enterprise development, digital initiatives, and budget.
2. What motivated you to pursue a career with the State of Connecticut, and what has been your journey here?
My mom was working for DAS HR at the time I graduated from UConn. She shared a job opening at the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), so I decided to apply and was offered the position. Being new to the workforce, it was a difficult transition for me as there really wasn’t an onboarding or mentoring process in place. This quickly led me to pursue other opportunities outside of the state. During that time, I matured both professionally and personally and decided to return to state service when another opportunity presented itself at DEP. Soon after returning to the state I decided that either I was going to do whatever I could to help make it better or eventually leave again. I’m 30 years in and still continuously working on making it better.
3. What achievements at the State of Connecticut are you most proud of, and what impact have they had?
I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve worked up the ranks within the state. I started right out of school as an entry level programmer and I would never have imagined that I’d be Deputy CIO one day! The perspectives I’ve gained in various roles over the years learning about the state system and IT helped me get where I am today.
4. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your work, and how do they enrich your life?
I enjoy running and cooking. Both help me unwind and alleviate stress so I can navigate through the daily challenges of work and home.
5. Could you share a memorable travel experience and what made that destination special for you?
I have family in Greece so every few years we plan a vacation there. We were able to visit this summer and enjoy the beautiful beaches and time with family. As my kids are getting older now, they have a deeper appreciation for learning about their roots and it was so great to see that.
6. What advice would you give to someone considering a career with the State of Connecticut?
Go for it! The fulfillment you get from giving back is worth it. Jump in and look for your opportunities to make it better.
7. What’s your favorite spot in Connecticut, and what makes it special to you?
The trails near my home in Canton. As I mentioned, I enjoy running and I try to run on the trails whenever I can. They offer a peaceful environment with nature and wildlife present.
8. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to make a difference?
I’d probably pick super speed or duplication. I’m always on the go doing something and either would make me that much more productive!
9. Who is the person you admire, and what qualities do they possess that inspire you?
Each of my 4 kids have qualities that continue to impress and inspire me. My daughter Emily has such dedication to her learning. My son James for his lighthearted demeanor and humor. My daughter Stephanie for her strength and independence. My son Thomas for his unwavering kindness.
10. What’s an interesting or fun fact?
I once came face to face with a bear on the running trails. Luckily, we both looked at each other and went our own way. Needless to say, my pace picked up quite a bit after that!
