AI news ·
Khaled Tawfik: Leading San Jose’s Public Sector AI Transformation and Community Education
Khaled Tawfik, CIO of San Jose, leads thoughtful AI adoption in government with a focus on education and responsible policies. He champions ongoing public engagement to manage tech changes.
One of California's Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers: Khaled Tawfik
For nearly 25 years, Government Technology’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers awards have recognized leaders in state and local government who push public-sector IT forward. This year’s honorees include CIOs, CISOs, and innovation officers advancing AI, accessibility, and education. Their work bridges gaps and meets community needs with practical technology solutions.
Among them is Khaled Tawfik, CIO of San Jose. Since his appointment in 2022, Tawfik has positioned the city as a center for thoughtful AI use in government. He stresses the importance of preparing today for the world of 2050, focusing on policies and practices that responsibly manage emerging technologies.
Leading AI Adoption in Government
Tawfik played a key role in forming the GovAI Coalition, which develops guidelines to both leverage and control AI's impact in the public sector. His approach recognizes that technology can be overwhelming for many, so government must take the lead in educating and guiding the public through changes.
“We have to continue to engage the public, and educate and inform them,” Tawfik said at the GovAI Summit. He emphasized that change happens through persistent, respectful effort. “We’re not going to change the world overnight. We’re not going to educate people overnight. But we have to keep an open mind and work on this day after day.”
Experience and Vision
Before becoming San Jose’s CIO, Tawfik accumulated 25 years of experience in IT across government and private sectors. His leadership combines technical expertise with a clear sense of public responsibility. He understands that government’s role is not just about adopting new tools but about guiding citizens through transitions thoughtfully.
For government professionals interested in practical AI applications and continuous learning, exploring resources like Complete AI Training’s latest courses can provide valuable insights and skills to support your agency’s technology goals.