We’re excited to announce that two North Carolina leaders in innovation and technology have been recognized as 2026 StateScoop 50 Award winners. Pokey Harris, Executive Director of the N.C. 911 Board, was selected for State Leadership of the Year, and the state’s AI Accelerator program earned State IT Innovation of the Year.
The StateScoop 50 Awards recognize the people and projects making the biggest impact in state government IT. Each year, the awards highlight influential leaders and forward‑thinking initiatives that advance digital services and improve government operations nationwide.
Pokey Harris: State Leadership of the Year
Since joining the N.C. 911 Board in 2018, Pokey Harris has led the state through a major modernization of its emergency communications infrastructure. Under her leadership, North Carolina completed a $99 million Next Generation 911 (NG911) upgrade, creating a data‑driven 911 network that enhances responders’ access to crucial information. This statewide effort has strengthened public safety and improved the reliability and effectiveness of emergency services for millions of residents.
AI Accelerator: State IT Innovation of the Year
North Carolina’s AI Accelerator was established under the Governor’s Executive Order on AI to support the responsible, secure adoption of artificial intelligence across state government. Housed within the N.C. Department of Information Technology, the free program enables state agencies to identify AI use cases, develop prototypes, and test solutions in a secure environment during 60‑day sprints. The AI Accelerator is helping teams explore practical applications of AI that streamline operations, improve services, and enhance decision‑making.
North Carolina continues to be recognized nationally for its leadership in modernizing government services and responsibly deploying innovative technologies. Congratulations to this year’s StateScoop 50 Award winners!