Mike Watson Archives

3 state IT leaders — From left: Michael Watson, Virginia’s chief information officer; Tony Sauerhoff, Texas’ CIO; and Rex Menold, Michigan’s chief security officer, pose for a photo at the National Association of State Chief Information Officers’ midyear conference in Philadelphia on April 27, 2026. (Colin Wood / Scoop News Group)

State cyber leaders name salesmanship, listening as keys to success

Technical chops don't hurt, but understanding what state government's decision makers care about seems to matter more.

2 days ago By Colin Wood

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger speaks after being sworn into office at the Virginia State Capitol on Jan. 17, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia. (Win McNamee / Getty Images)

Virginia’s governor promotes cybersecurity chief Mike Watson to state CIO role

Michael Watson, who's been leading cybersecurity initiatives in Virginia for more than a decade, is the state's new chief information officer.

Apr 16, 2026 By Colin Wood

NASCIO honors Virginia cyber chief with leadership award

The National Association of State Chief Information Officers presented Virginia CISO Michael Watson with its Thomas M. Jarrett State Cybersecurity Leadership Award.

Oct 2, 2024 By Sophia Fox-Sowell

Federal cyber grant funding for locals won’t last forever, state officials know

State cybersecurity officials said there's a ticking clock to get local governments' cyber programs matured up before federal funding stops.

Mar 2, 2023 By Colin Wood