Porat served as the state CTO from June 2023 until just recently and previously served as the chief technology innovation officer for the California Department of Technology. He also served as the technology client engagement manager for the city of Seattle from 2018 to 2022.“Jonathan’s deep public-sector experience and demonstrated leadership in AI make him uniquely suited to lead Code for America’s technology strategy during a transformative moment,” CfA CEO Amanda Renteria said in press release.
CfA was founded more than 15 years ago and works directly with governments at all levels to close their technology and innovation gaps in critical areas such as public assistance, health and human services and more. That includes, notably, working on the process of applying for benefits from California's GetCalFresh.
“As innovation evolves across everything from government service delivery to the promise of agentic AI, Code for America will continue to work with our government and community partners to develop the resources, tools and solutions needed to ensure technology delivers real outcomes for people,” Renteria added.
Porat closed his chapter on CDT April 21, after playing a key role in the development of the statewide Digital Strategy, the CloudSmart principles and broader innovation work such as AI pilots and digital identification development.
“I’m proud to join Code for America at a pivotal time for government service delivery,” Porat said in the release. “As states grapple with shifting policies, new requirements and reduced resources, AI offers a path forward to making government services more effective and human-centered. I look forward to working alongside Code for America’s partners to build solutions that truly meet people where they are.”
