

Government Executive of the Year
BRIAN PELTIER
Head of Technology, Customer Data, and Artificial Intelligence
Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer
Acting Chief Architect
Acting Chief Data Officer
Social Security Administration

Brian Peltier is being honored as the 2026 Government Executive of the Year for transforming Social Security Administration technology to deliver faster, more accessible, and more reliable services to millions of Americans. By connecting frontline employee needs with enterprise technology strategy, Brian has modernized digital services, contact center operations, internal tools, and data infrastructure while breaking down organizational silos.
Among his key achievements, Brian championed 24/7 access to mySocialSecurity, enabling more than 1.4 million people to use the portal during previously unavailable hours within the first 60 days. He integrated APIs into the Technician Experience Dashboard to streamline Direct Deposit and Change of Address transactions and helped stabilize the National 800 Number, reducing average call wait times by approximately five minutes to 7.1 minutes. He also advanced AI-enabled tools, including the Agency Support Companion, Policy Assistant Tool, and Evidence Portal, helping employees research policies, process claims, and manage documents more efficiently.
Brian has also strengthened SSA’s responsible use of AI, leading development of the agency’s AI Strategy, supporting workforce training, and sharing governance practices across government. His review of 208 software licenses eliminated duplication and saved taxpayers $14.7 million, which was redirected toward higher-priority technology initiatives. By combining digital modernization, AI, operational efficiency, and fiscal stewardship, Brian is helping SSA provide a simpler, faster, and more responsive experience for both the public and the employees who serve them.