Name: Naveen Prathikantam
Title: IT Manager 3, Customer Success Manager
Department of Administrative Services
Office: 55 Farmington Ave, Hartford, CT
1. Can you share your current role and key responsibilities within the State of Connecticut?
I currently serve as a Customer Success Manager within the Bureau of Information Technology Solutions at DAS, supporting the Department of Social Services. My work focuses on connecting business needs with the right technology solutions across large programs. I collaborate closely with internal teams, agency leadership, and vendor partners to ensure major initiatives, including modernization efforts, run smoothly, meet both state and federal requirements, and improve the experience for staff and the public. I also lead the State AI High Risk Use Case Subcommittee, which allows me to stay close to emerging AI technologies and help agencies adopt AI responsibly.
2. What motivated you to pursue a career with the State of Connecticut, and what has been your journey here?
Although I joined the State by chance, I quickly realized how meaningful the work could be. I saw that my efforts had a direct impact on people’s lives, and that motivated me to stay. Along the way, I discovered I had a natural ability to communicate with business leaders about how technology can solve problems and create positive changes for staff and the public. My journey has taken me from IT Director roles at DMV and DCJ to now supporting the Health and Human Services agency, DSS. Every step has reinforced the value of building systems that make government more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly.
3. What achievements at the State of Connecticut are you most proud of, and what impact have they had?
I am proud of the modernization and transformation projects I have been part of across the agencies I have served. From improving customer service processes to advancing system modernization at DMV to helping introduce a Digital Evidence Management System at DCJ, each effort has played a role in simplifying work, increasing efficiency, and improving the experience for staff and the public. Seeing real improvements like shorter processing times, better system reliability, and smoother workflows makes the work incredibly rewarding.
4. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your work, and how do they enrich your life?
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, exploring new restaurants, and staying up to date with technological trends. These activities help me recharge, stay curious, and bring fresh ideas and energy back into my professional life.
5. Could you share a memorable travel experience and what made that destination special for you?
One of my favorite travel experiences was taking college tours with my son. It gave us the chance to bond during an important moment in his life while exploring different places around the country. My favorite stop so far has been Bloomington, Indiana. It is a small college town with a great atmosphere, friendly energy, and a charm that fits my style perfectly. It probably feels even more special because I know my son is there, building his own path.
6. What advice would you give to someone considering a career with the State of Connecticut?
Be patient, stay curious, and be ready to collaborate. The State offers stability, great benefits, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact, but it also involves navigating complex processes and working closely with many different teams. If you come in with an open mind and a willingness to learn, there is plenty of room to grow and contribute.
7. What is your favorite spot in Connecticut, and what makes it special to you?
I really enjoy the Connecticut shoreline, especially towns like Mystic and Old Saybrook. The calm atmosphere, beautiful views, and the mix of history and local charm make them great places to unwind. Even a short walk along the water can reset your whole day.
8. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to make a difference?
I would choose the ability to simplify complexity. Whether it involves technology, processes, or communication, many challenges come from things being more complicated than they need to be. With that superpower, I would help make systems and processes easier for staff and the public to understand and use.
9. Who is a person you admire, and what qualities do they possess that inspire you?
I have a few role models I truly admire, including my dad and Lynn, a business leader I had the chance to work with. Though they are no longer with us, the lessons they left behind stay with me every day. They stayed grounded, supported their teams and their families, communicated with clarity, and made thoughtful decisions even during challenging times. Their ability to lift others up continues to inspire me, and I try to carry those qualities forward in my own work and life.
10. What is an interesting or fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me is that I am on a mission to solve most problems with a whiteboard, a conversation, and a cup of coffee rather than jumping straight into code. Keeping things simple often leads to the best solutions
