Officials in North Dakota, which organized the initiative, said they expect to have an announcement about the unique organization this year.

The state published a "playbook" that officials said other states and localities can use to automate research on new threats.

North Dakota CIO Shawn Riley said technologies like blockchain, smart contracts and NFTs have a role to play in state government.

Krishnan, who started in the role Nov. 1, said he wants to build on the technology developments made by government over the last 18 months.

Michael Gregg, the state's director of cyber operations, said he'll focus on the "basics" as North Dakota's top cybersecurity official.

Ravi Krishnan, who has also been a data strategist, will succeed Dorman Bazzell, who was hired as the state's first data officer in 2018.

Evonne Amundson, a former director of a health software company, will be tasked with integrating technology into the state’s business procedures.

North Dakota CIO Shawn Riley credited Ford for his role in a cybersecurity consolidation process that's included nearly every part of the state's public sector.

State Auditor Joshua Gallion said the routine technology audit will not be like the recent ballot reviews seen in Arizona and other states.