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Chandler Treon

Chandler Treon is an Austin-based staff writer. He has a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s degree in literature and a master’s degree in technical communication, all from Texas State University.

  • shutterstock_website design
    News
    DIR Launches Website Modernization Hub for State Agencies
    What to Know:
    • DIR has launched a new website modernization webpage that centralizes resources for state agencies and institutions of higher education.
    • Information collected from agencies through a statewide technology review will be used by DIR to help report on digital modernization efforts required by House Bill 5195.
    • That bill requires DIR to report to the Legislature on the status of state agencies’ digital modernization efforts.
    Insider
    February 10, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Dallas College
    News
    Dallas College Names Michael Anderson as CISO
    What to Know:
    • Dallas College has named Michael Anderson as its new chief information security officer.
    • Anderson said his focus will include digital and IT transformation, with an emphasis on the convergence of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
    • He brings more than 27 years of technology and cybersecurity leadership experience, including prior senior roles in public-sector education and local government.
    Insider
    February 06, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Cyber Security Operations New Jersey
    News
    DIR Prepares Security Operations Solicitation for Shared Technology Services
    What to Know:
    • DIR plans to issue a solicitation for security operations services supporting its Shared Technology Services program.
    • The forthcoming RFO will seek a vendor to manage, modernize and evolve SecOps services across DIR’s data center environments.
    • Vendors will be expected to integrate with DIR’s existing Shared Technology Services environment and coordinate with other service component providers.
    Insider
    February 06, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Wendy Barron - Banner.jpg
    News
    TxDMV CIO Talks Digital Transformation and the Future of Vehicle Services
    Wendy Barron, who has led IT for the department since 2021, discusses high-level priorities, personal preferences and how a major modernization project will drive procurement in the next year in an exclusive interview — now with video and text.
    Insider
    February 05, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Closeup of a person working on the inside of a computer.
    News
    DIR Prepares Cooperative Contract for End-User IT Hardware
    What to Know:
    • DIR plans to issue a cooperative contract solicitation for desktops, laptops, tablets and related hardware, software and services used by state and local entities.
    • The forthcoming RFO is expected to move away from branded contracts and may result in one or more indefinite quantity awards with no purchase minimums.
    • Manufacturers and resellers will be eligible to respond, with software and services offered in conjunction with hardware.
    Insider
    February 05, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • People sitting and standing in groups on grass next to a bridge in Austin.
    News
    City of Austin Proposes $2M Contract to Expand Park Surveillance
    What to Know:
    • Austin City Council is considering a $2 million contract to expand mobile surveillance trailers in public parks.
    • City staff say a pilot launched in 2022 reduced crime, particularly vehicle burglaries in park parking lots.
    • The proposed system would exclude facial recognition and audio capture, with city-owned video deleted after 60 days.
    Insider
    February 03, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • new_new_DIR Logo 1.png
    News
    Texas Launches Search for New State Chief Information Officer
    What to Know:
    • DIR is seeking a new executive director, who also serves as Texas’ state chief information officer, with applications due Feb. 27.
    • The search follows the departures of former state CIO Amanda Crawford and Deputy Executive Director Steve Pier.
    • The executive director leads statewide IT strategy, major procurements and shared services for an agency of about 325 employees.
    Insider
    February 03, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A person seated at a table wearing headphones smiles and waves at a person on their laptop as part of a virtual meeting.
    News
    Texas Opens AI Training Program Certification Process to Vendors
    What to Know:
    • DIR is now accepting vendor applications to certify AI training programs for use by Texas government employees.
    • Starting in FY 2026, annual AI training will be mandatory for most state and local government workers under House Bill 3512.
    • Certified programs must meet seven standards focused on responsible AI use, risk mitigation, accessibility and relevance to public-sector work.
    Insider
    January 30, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • businessman hand working with modern digital tablet computer in modern office with virtual icon diagram
    News
    DFPS Outlines Broad Tech Modernization in 2026 Strategic Plan
    What to Know:
    • DFPS is replacing its legacy IMPACT system with a federally compliant case management platform, supported by business process redesign and expected to improve data quality and usability.
    • The agency is piloting generative AI and developing an AI governance framework, with more than 75 use cases identified and an evaluation report due in early 2026.
    • New systems such as SEMARC and CGMS aim to streamline interagency background checks and contract oversight, while a Data Governance Program will guide data accuracy and security across DFPS.
    Insider
    January 30, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • houston2
    News
    Houston Council Approves Tech Upgrades and Legal Settlement
    What to Know:
    • Houston approved more than $1.6 million in tech-related contracts, including SAP system upgrades and airport navigation system services.
    • Precision Task Group Inc. was awarded a $435,000 contract to support enhancements to the city’s enterprise service management system.
    • A $2.6 million legal settlement with EPI-USE America Inc. closed out a lawsuit tied to prior SAP-related services.
    Insider
    January 29, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A hand in the foreground holding holographic images of cogs, a laptop and a wrench. In the background are rows of servers in a data center.
    News
    UT Seeks Advisory Partner for Automation Strategy
    What to Know:
    • The University of Texas at Austin is seeking a strategic advisory partner to guide the integration of automation and robotics in its new academic medical center.
    • The RFQ focuses on early-stage planning and design readiness with a near-term need to define workflows for robotic material transport.
    • The selected firm will help develop an automation road map, functional requirements and procurement-ready documentation to support future design and vendor selection.
    Insider
    January 29, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • gold bars rising from a shiny black floor like a cityscape on a blue background
    News
    Texas Explores Digital Payments Backed by Gold and Silver
    What to Know:
    • The Texas Comptroller is seeking industry input on a digital payment system backed by gold or silver stored in the state’s bullion depository.
    • The system must comply with constitutional limits on state-issued currency and may involve digital tokens or other technologies.
    • The RFI requests input on system architecture, settlement workflows, regulatory compliance and public-private partnership models.
    Insider
    January 27, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A circuit board overlayed on the Chinese flag.
    News
    Governor Expands Texas’ Ban on Foreign-Linked Technologies
    What to Know:
    • The list targets AI firms, hardware makers and apps linked to the Chinese government and other foreign adversaries.
    • Newly banned companies include AI developers such as SenseTime, iFLYTEK and Yitu, alongside major tech and hardware providers such as Alibaba, Baidu, TP-Link and DJI.
    • Texas Cyber Command is now the lead agency for identifying and assessing tech threats, with enforcement support from DIR and the Department of Public Safety.
    Insider
    January 27, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Texas Tech University Logo Phone.png
    News
    Texas Tech Awarded $12M for Semiconductor Cleanroom Facility
    What to Know:
    • Texas Tech University’s grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund will help build a nanotechnology cleanroom facility in Lubbock.
    • The project supports advanced semiconductor research and hands-on workforce training through the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering.
    • The award is part of a broader effort under the Texas CHIPS Act to expand semiconductor research and technician training statewide.
    Insider
    January 23, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Elevated broadband lines in a rural area.
    News
    Lower Colorado River Authority Wins $29M for Broadband, Flood Monitoring
    What to Know:
    • The Texas Broadband Development Office awarded the funds to expand rural broadband and flood-monitoring infrastructure.
    • The project will improve ISP access to LCRA’s fiber network, upgrade flood-monitoring sites and extend fiber into underserved Central Texas communities.
    • This grant follows Texas’ $1.27 billion BEAD plan approval and supports dual goals of digital equity and public safety.
    Insider
    January 23, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • new_new_DIR Logo 1.png
    News
    Michael Myers Joins DIR as Director of Digital Transformation
    What to Know:
    • Myers spent nearly 14 years at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
    • He announced the move in a LinkedIn post, where he expressed gratitude for mentors and emphasized a continued commitment to public service.
    • Myers joins DIR during a leadership transition, with Amanda Crawford appointed insurance commissioner and Tony Sauerhoff now serving as interim CIO.
    Insider
    January 22, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A freeway overpass with technology displays overlayed on the image.
    News
    TxDOT's 2026 Spending Plan Includes Nearly $400M for IT
    What to Know:
    • TxDOT’s 2026-2027 budget includes $394 million for IT modernization, cybersecurity and connected infrastructure.
    • Capital funding supports facility upgrades and embedded tech to improve operations and data collection.
    • Recent AI strategy shifts TxDOT from pilot projects to agencywide deployments in automation and analytics.
    Insider
    January 22, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • online training
    News
    Texas Formalizes Certification Standards for AI Training Programs
    What to Know:
    • AI training will be mandatory for state and local government employees starting in FY 2026 under House Bill 3512.
    • DIR will certify at least five training programs that meet new criteria focused on responsible AI use, risk mitigation and accessibility.
    • Submission guidance is expected by the end of January.
    Insider
    January 20, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Digital illustration of a hand moving markers on a map from point A to point B
    News
    TxDOT Transforms AI Strategy Into Agencywide Implementation
    What to Know:
    • TxDOT has completed more than a dozen AI projects and is actively developing more than 20 others, with 200-plus use cases identified.
    • The updated plan aligns with new state law and introduces a formal scoring system to prioritize AI initiatives based on readiness, risk and impact.
    • Key deployments include automated invoice processing, traffic incident detection and the rollout of generative AI tools to staff.
    Insider
    January 20, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Blue-tone image of a security camera in a public place.
    News
    Sugar Land Approves $2.8 Million in Public Safety Tech Upgrades
    What to Know:
    • Sugar Land City Council approved $2.8 million for autonomous drones, real-time crime center software and expanded license plate recognition cameras.
    • Axon Enterprises will provide two drones and FUSUS software subscription under a $594,000 contract.
    • Flock Group’s LPR camera contract was amended to add two cameras and consolidate leases, raising the total contract value to $2.3 million.
    Insider
    January 15, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The Texas Health and Human Services logo superimposed in front of the agency's building.
    News
    Texas HHS Signals Stricter Procurement Standards
    What to Know:
    • Texas HHS is requiring secure, accessible and interoperable technology solutions, with upfront compliance on cybersecurity and Section 508 accessibility standards.
    • Vendors using AI must follow strict state guidelines, including bans on using HHS data for training and expectations to share cost efficiencies.
    • HHS is in the early stages of a 10-year modernization plan and is preparing to request funding from the Legislature for upcoming projects.
    Insider
    January 15, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • View of downtown Austin, Texas
    News
    Tony Sauerhoff Named DIR Interim Executive Director and State CIO
    What to Know:
    • Sauerhoff previously served as DIR’s chief AI and innovation officer and was recently named president of the GovRAMP Board.
    • He succeeds Amanda Crawford, who was named as head of the Texas Department of Insurance.
    • Steve Pier, DIR’s deputy executive director, was recently appointed to lead the Texas Workforce Commission.
    January 14, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Dustin Haisler, Amanda Crawford, Steve Pier.png
    News
    DIR Deputy Director Steve Pier Named Head of Workforce Commission
    What to Know:
    • DIR Deputy Executive Director Steve Pier has been appointed executive director of the Texas Workforce Commission.
    • Pier's move comes amid broader leadership changes at DIR, including the departure of Executive Director Amanda Crawford.
    • At DIR, Pier has played a key role in agencywide initiatives, including government relations, risk management and strategic planning.
    Insider
    January 13, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A shopping cart made of bright red lines surrounded by bright red and blue lines like a data highway. Dark background.
    News
    Texas DIR Ends Branded Contracts to Open Vendor Access
    What to Know:
    • Texas DIR will no longer award cooperative contracts based on specific brands, focusing instead on solutions and specifications.
    • The new model is intended to increase vendor competition, reduce brand lock-in and improve pricing for agencies.
    • Vendors can still submit offers if their products meet the functional requirements outlined in future solicitations.
    Insider
    January 13, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Consultant
    News
    Former Texas Court CIO Casey Kennedy Joins Mission Critical Partners
    What to Know:
    • Casey Kennedy, former CIO of the Texas Office of Court Administration (OCA), has joined Mission Critical Partners as a project manager.
    • He brings more than 30 years of IT and public-sector experience, including 15 years leading statewide judicial technology initiatives.
    • Texas OCA has not named his replacement as of this writing.
    Insider
    January 13, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Texas State Technical College.png
    News
    Texas State Technical College Wins $3.5M for Semiconductor Training
    What to Know:
    • Texas State Technical College will receive $3.5 million from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund to expand its Accelerated Semiconductor Technician Training Program in Hutto.
    • The program will prepare students for semiconductor fabrication careers in just 10 weeks, with training in wafer processing, gas control systems and cleanroom environments.
    • This is the latest in a series of awards issued under the Texas CHIPS Act to grow the state’s semiconductor workforce and infrastructure.
    Insider
    January 09, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Jorge Cardenas 2.jpg
    News
    Brownsville CIO Discusses Smart City Growth, AI Factory, 5G Plans
    As part of Industry Insider — Texas’ ongoing efforts to educate readers on state and local government, their IT plans and initiatives, here’s the latest in our periodic series of interviews with departmental IT leaders.
    Insider
    January 09, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A person typing on a laptop with one hand while holding up their smartphone with the other, with a lock symbol and concealed password hovering above the phone.
    News
    Texas Seeks Applications for Local Cyber Mitigation Grants
    What to Know:
    • Eligible applicants include Texas local governments and federally recognized tribes seeking to reduce cyber risk.
    • Projects must align with the state’s cybersecurity plan and focus on one-time mitigation activities such as MFA, encryption or threat detection.
    • Applications are due Feb. 12, with a minimum grant of $10,000 and a 30 percent local cost share.
    Insider
    January 09, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Silhouette of a human face made from light blue dots and connected lines. A soundwave is coming from the mouth to indicate speech, also in light blue. Dark blue background.
    News
    World Cup Drives North Texas Investment in AI for 911
    What to Know:
    • A local 911 authority approved $300,000 for AI-powered translation, transcription and quality control services ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
    • Contracts were awarded to GovWorx, Prepared and RapidDeploy through a cooperative purchasing agreement.
    • The system is expected to identify caller languages automatically and streamline interpreter access during emergency calls involving non-English speakers.
    Insider
    January 08, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Texas CIO Amanda Crawford 2024.jpg
    News
    Texas CIO Amanda Crawford Appointed Insurance Commissioner, Plans Exit From DIR
    What to Know:
    • Amanda Crawford has been appointed Texas Insurance Commissioner and will depart her role as executive director of the Department of Information Resources and state CIO.
    • DIR confirmed Crawford’s exit and said leadership transition plans are forthcoming.
    • As insurance commissioner, Crawford will oversee regulation of the state’s insurance industry, including consumer protection, rate review, licensing and disaster response coordination.
    January 08, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
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