Orbie Awards recognize excellence in technology leadership
Olympia, Wash. — Callie Goldsby, the chief information officer (CIO) at the Washington State Department of Commerce, is a finalist for the 2026 Seattle CIO Orbie Awards. Goldsby is the only state agency CIO finalist this year.
Orbie Awards honor leaders who create value and drive meaningful change in their organization. Goldsby is a finalist in the “Large Enterprise” category, which includes five other nominees from the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
“Callie leads with curiosity and a people-centered approach that brings our teams along in the ‘why’ behind change,” said Commerce Interim Director Sarah Clifthorne. “Her remarkable leadership has strengthened our IT operations, reduced inefficiencies, and helped us better serve communities across Washington. Her impact goes far beyond Commerce: she’s an inspiring role model and dedicated mentor to technology professionals and public leaders throughout Washington.”
Goldsby joined Commerce in March 2025. Her steady leadership and sound judgment have led to significant advancements in the agency’s technology use, including improvements in governance and sustainability, which enhances the agency’s service to the public. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, she helps guide nearly every step the agency takes when it comes to technology.
“I’ve been fortunate to build my career in public service, supporting the people of Washington through technology,” Goldsby said. “This recognition reflects the incredible teams I’ve had the privilege of working alongside at the Department of Health and now at the Department of Commerce. I’ve had the most amazing mentors throughout my career, and I am dedicated to paying that forward to others on their career path. I truly have the best job in the world, working with people who are committed to moving technology forward for the greater good of our state, helping people make their jobs easier through technology, and enjoying the journey while paving the way for others to succeed.”
Goldsby received three nominations this year, which included two from prior public sector ORBIE winners and an industry technology partner. Her nominators highlighted her exceptional leadership, collaborative approach and impactful contributions to the greater IT community. This is Goldsby’s second year as a finalist for this award.
With 27 years of experience in technology and public service, Goldsby has witnessed substantial change in public sector IT. She spent nearly 17 years at the Washington State Department of Health, including almost three years as CIO, and has been in state government since 1999. Goldsby is an active state agency CIO who contributes her expertise to help improve services to residents in the state of Washington. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Goldsby is a mentor and serves in both the InspireCIO Next Generation Leadership program, and the state’s Technology Management Council Mentorship program, helping to coach and inspire up-and-coming tech leaders in both private and public sectors.
Winners will be announced at an event on April 16. The organization received more than 320 nominations across five categories. Since 1998, more than 800 leaders have received Orbie Awards, which celebrate leadership excellence, strengthen executive relationships, and inspire the next generation of technology leaders. The awards aim to honor those who have driven innovation for products and organizations, recognizing contributions that go beyond just results.