Martinez has decades of experience in tech, having worked in both the public and private sectors in various IT administrator, engineering and management roles. He most recently served as chief operations manager in state government.
Martinez told Industry Insider — California that he pursued the CIO position because he wanted “to further build on the great work done by leaders before me.”
The new CIO said he has two key priorities:
- Use “existing resources efficiently and effectively in order to meet the needs of our partners.”
- “Innovate the way we do business by boosting IT skill sets.”
Martinez noted the collaborative nature of government as it relates to the technology industry. Asked what he would like vendors to know about him and CAL FIRE before they offer solutions or services, he said: “As a state department, no one person makes all the decisions on contracts, products or services.”
He added, “When not focused on work, I enjoy spending time with my family.”
Martinez’s predecessor at CAL FIRE, Jay Song, held that position for three years until moving in January to the California Highway Patrol, where’s he now the chief technology and innovation officer.
CAL FIRE’s deputy director for technology, Scott Gregory, is the first person to hold that position in the agency. He oversees CAL FIRE’s Information Technology Services, Telecommunications, and Research and Development programs.
This year, the department is updating its strategic plan, and it’s offering an online survey for those who engage with the agency to assess their needs and desires. The plan’s final version is expected to be unveiled in July 2024.
