Key Takeaways
- Orange County’s Director of Systems Integration, Lane Hunt, received the High Impact Leader Award for strategic leadership in cybersecurity, public‑safety system modernization, IT governance, and service enhancement.
- Assistant Director of Systems Integration, Justin Klepper, earned the Up & Coming Leader Award for early‑career excellence, technical expertise, collaborative problem‑solving, and innovative solutions to complex tech challenges.
- County Executive Steve Neuhaus praised both recipients, highlighting their role in positioning Orange County as a technology leader within New York State.
- Glenn Marchi, Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, stressed that the awards reflect the collective teamwork and innovation culture of the Department of Information Technology Services.
- The honors were presented at Government Technology’s New York IT Leadership Forum in Albany, an event that celebrates public‑sector professionals advancing digital government, cybersecurity, and resident services across the state.
Introduction: Orange County Recognized for Technology Leadership
Two Orange County government employees have been honored with statewide technology awards at Government Technology’s New York IT Leadership Forum held in Albany. Lane Hunt, the county’s Director of Systems Integration, received the High Impact Leader Award, while Justin Klepper, Assistant Director of Systems Integration, was presented with the Up & Coming Leader Award. The accolades underscore the county’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve government operations and public services.
Lane Hunt’s High Impact Leader Award: Driving Measurable Results
The High Impact Leader Award recognizes professionals whose strategic leadership delivers tangible outcomes. Over the past year, Hunt has spearheaded initiatives that strengthened Orange County’s cybersecurity posture, modernized public‑safety communication systems, refined IT governance frameworks, and elevated the overall quality of information technology services across county departments. His work has not only reduced vulnerabilities but also streamlined workflows, enabling faster response times for emergency services and more reliable digital interactions for residents.
Justin Klepper’s Up & Coming Leader Award: Emerging Talent and Innovation
Klepper’s Up & Coming Leader Award celebrates emerging technology professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership early in their careers. According to county officials, Klepper has distinguished himself through deep technical expertise, a collaborative approach that bridges departments, and a knack for crafting innovative solutions to intricate technology challenges. His contributions include developing automation tools that cut manual processing time, leading cross‑functional teams in system integration projects, and mentoring junior staff to foster a culture of continuous learning.
County Executive Steve Neuhaus Commends the Recipients
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus lauded Hunt and Klepper for their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to public service. He noted that their achievements have helped position Orange County as a technology leader within New York State, reflecting the administration’s broader investment in modernizing government infrastructure. Neuhaus emphasized that such recognition validates the county’s strategy of investing in skilled personnel and cutting‑edge solutions to better serve residents.
Impact on Cybersecurity and Public‑Safety Systems
A central theme of Hunt’s award‑winning work has been the enhancement of cybersecurity defenses. By implementing advanced threat‑detection tools, conducting regular security audits, and fostering a security‑aware culture among employees, Orange County has significantly lowered its risk profile. Simultaneously, Hunt oversaw the upgrade of public‑safety systems, ensuring that first responders have access to reliable, interoperable communication platforms that improve coordination during emergencies.
Modernizing IT Governance and Service Delivery
Beyond security, Hunt’s leadership revitalized the county’s IT governance model. He introduced clearer policies, standardized procedures, and performance metrics that align technology investments with strategic county goals. These governance improvements have translated into more efficient service delivery—residents now experience faster online permit processing, improved access to county data portals, and more reliable support for departmental IT needs.
Glenn Marchi Highlights Teamwork and Innovation Culture
Glenn Marchi, Commissioner and Chief Information Officer of the Department of Information Technology Services, pointed out that the awards are a testament to the collective effort of the entire IT team. He remarked that the recognition reflects not only the individual brilliance of Hunt and Klepper but also the department’s culture of innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Marchi stressed that sustaining this environment is crucial for maintaining Orange County’s competitive edge in public‑sector technology.
Government Technology’s New York IT Leadership Forum: Platform for Excellence
The awards were presented during Government Technology’s annual New York IT Leadership Forum, a gathering that spotlights public‑sector professionals whose work advances digital government, bolsters cybersecurity, and enhances services for residents statewide. The forum provides a venue for sharing best practices, networking with peers, and showcasing innovative projects that can be replicated across municipalities. Orange County’s presence at the event underscores its active role in shaping New York’s technological landscape.
Broader Significance for New York State Government Technology
Orange County’s accolades contribute to a growing narrative of municipal innovation across New York State. As local governments confront increasing cyber threats, demand for seamless digital services, and pressure to modernize legacy systems, the leadership demonstrated by Hunt and Klepper offers a replicable model. Their success illustrates how strategic investments in people, processes, and technology can yield measurable improvements in security, efficiency, and citizen satisfaction.
Future Outlook: Building on Current Momentum
Looking ahead, Orange County plans to build on the momentum generated by these awards. Initiatives under consideration include expanding cloud‑based infrastructure, enhancing data analytics capabilities for informed decision‑making, and deepening partnerships with state agencies and private‑sector tech firms. By maintaining a focus on innovation, collaboration, and measurable outcomes, the county aims to sustain its reputation as a forward‑thinking leader in public‑sector technology.
Conclusion: Celebrating Leadership, Inspiring Continued Excellence
The recognition of Lane Hunt and Justin Klepper at the New York IT Leadership Forum serves as both a celebration of individual achievement and a reminder of the vital role that skilled technology professionals play in modern governance. Their work has strengthened Orange County’s cybersecurity, modernized critical systems, and improved the experience of residents interacting with county services. As the county continues to invest in its IT workforce and innovative projects, it sets a benchmark for other municipalities striving to harness technology for the public good.