Kenyatta Powers-Rucker

Kenyatta Powers-Rucker is an award-winning visionary leader, technology executive, and advocate for diversity and inclusion with over 25 years of experience in state technological governance, agency development, and enterprise project execution. As the former Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the Maryland Department of Human Services, Kenyatta made history as the first African American female to hold this position. In her role as CIO, she was responsible for overseeing the department’s entire IT infrastructure, managing a $100M annual IT budget, and leading over 400 professionals across various technology domains.

During her tenure, Kenyatta successfully spearheaded the transition from waterfall to agile project management, a monumental shift that improved efficiency, adaptability, and project delivery across the organization. She was instrumental in modernizing the department's IT systems, implementing robust cybersecurity measures, and enhancing service delivery for 7,000 users across 100+ locations. In addition to her technical leadership, Kenyatta was deeply committed to the career development of her team, ensuring that her staff had the opportunities, mentorship, and resources they needed to grow and succeed. Her focus on nurturing talent and building a high-performing team was central to the department’s long-term success.

Kenyatta currently serves as Vice President and CIO at TriPowers LLC, a minority, woman, and veteran-owned business dedicated to delivering exceptional products and services to government entities. In this role, she continues to lead with a focus on innovation, operational excellence, and empowering government clients through transformative technology solutions.

Beyond her executive roles, Kenyatta is a passionate advocate for underrepresented communities in the tech industry. She is the founder of the Taste of Technology program, which introduces individuals from these communities to the vast opportunities within the tech sector, providing them with the skills and confidence to succeed. Additionally, as the visionary author of the Ladies in Tech Anthology Series, Kenyatta has created a powerful platform for women in technology to share their stories, challenges, and successes, helping to inspire the next generation of female leaders.

Kenyatta is also an international keynote speaker, known for her engaging talks that encourage women to step into leadership roles and advocate for greater diversity in the tech industry. Her work has made a significant impact on both the national and global stage, influencing corporate policies, inspiring women around the world, and contributing to a more inclusive technology landscape.

Her dedication and impact have earned her numerous awards and recognitions, including recognition as one of the Top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers by Government Technology (2024), Finalist for the Lifetime Achievement Award by Black Tech Achievements (2024), the Governor's Citation from Wes Moore (2023), the Phenomenal Woman Award (2023 and 2024), Finalist for the Women in Tech Leadership Award (2023), the Excellence in Professional Speaking (EPSY) Award (2023), the Commendation by the US Coalition of Black Business (2023), the Technical.ly CTO of the Year Award (2022), the Community Leaders Award from Women of Prince George’s (2022), the Outstanding IT Leadership Award (2017), and the Governor's Citation from Martin O’Malley (2014).

With a strong commitment to mentoring and developing future leaders, Kenyatta ensures that her teams and the communities she serves are not only prepared to tackle today’s challenges but are also equipped to shape the future of technology. Her leadership, vision, and dedication make her a trailblazer in promoting excellence and diversity within the tech industry.