Vermont's Top Technology Official to Leave State Government
Denise Reilly-Hughes, who has led Vermont's Agency of Digital Services and served as state CIO since January 2023, will depart on Oct. 16. She intends to go back to a private-sector job after nearly four years in state government. Deputy Secretary Andrea DeLaBruere will take over as interim secretary.
Denise Reilly-Hughes took charge of Vermont’s Agency of Digital Services in January 2023 after a private-sector career. She also held the state CIO role. Her last day is scheduled for Oct. 16, and she plans to return to business. Deputy Secretary Andrea DeLaBruere will lead the agency temporarily.
During her tenure, the agency pursued updates to aging systems, promoted design centered on people, and tested AI for early prototypes to shorten planning work. Her efforts earned recognition this spring as one of Government Technology’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers. She has said that making technology human helps reveal its real effects.
The transition may affect Vermont agencies and residents who depend on state digital services, as leadership changes can slow or redirect ongoing modernization and AI experiments. Andrea DeLaBruere’s interim appointment could provide continuity, though long-term priorities may remain uncertain until a permanent CIO is chosen. Vendors and state technology staff may also watch for shifts in project direction and workplace culture.