Building Thriving Communities Through Technology (with Bob Leek) | Ep. 16

Technology in local government is more than servers and software—it’s about people and outcomes. In this conversation, Hugh Plappert talks with Bob Leek, CIO of Clark County, Nevada, about how leadership, community impact, and innovation intersect in the public sector.ㅤBob Leek shares stories from a career that’s moved from private industry to public service—from Egghead, Banfield, and Kaiser Permanente to leading one of the largest counties in the nation. He discusses the shift from profit-driven technology to mission-driven outcomes, the importance of “success skills” like empathy and communication, and how Clark County’s IT team supports everything from public safety to social services.ㅤListeners hear firsthand how technology enables healthy, thriving communities and why careers in public service technology offer both purpose and opportunity.ㅤ👤 Guest BioBob Leek serves as CIO for Clark County, Nevada. With experience spanning private sector technology and public service, his focus is on leveraging technology for better community outcomes. His leadership emphasizes people-centered IT, workforce development, and mission-driven innovation in one of the largest counties in the U.S.ㅤ📌 What We CoverBob Leek’s career path from private sector tech to public serviceHow early exposure to computers inspired a lifelong focus on outcomes through technologyLessons from roles at Egghead, Banfield Pet Hospital, and Kaiser PermanenteThe transition from profit-based business models to mission-driven government workLeading Clark County’s IT organization serving 2.5 million residents and 50 million annual visitorsBuilding healthy teams through “success skills,” empathy, and mindfulnessHow technology supports residents, business owners, visitors, and employeesFrameworks for accessibility, inclusion, and community-centered service designAdvice for students, veterans, and professionals exploring careers in public sector ITThe long-term rewards and stability of a career in local government technologyㅤ🔗 Resources MentionedClark County Nevada – job opportunities and IT department homepageSociety for Information Management – Las Vegas Chapterㅤ(Show Notes prepared for Ground Floor Government, hosted by Hugh Plappert and produced by PhoneLive.io.)