Maximus CDIO Derrick Pledger on Putting Business Value Before AI
About this episode
Derrick Pledger discusses the importance of prioritizing business value in AI transformation efforts at Maximus.
AI transformation should start with business value, not technology. In this episode of Technovation, Peter High speaks with Derrick Pledger, Chief Digital and Information Officer of Maximus, about how he is reimagining work for an AI-driven enterprise. Derrick explains why Maximus defines ROI before launching AI pilots, how the company evaluates whether legacy processes can survive in an agentic world, and why every employee receives AI training. He also discusses building a failure-friendly innovation culture, bringing Silicon Valley capabilities into government environments, and using technology to improve citizen and mission outcomes. For CIOs navigating pressure to turn AI investment into measurable results, Derrick offers a clear mandate: start with the value you intend to create. This episode is presented by ElevenLabs — Bringing technology to life. Learn more at elevenlabs.io This episode is also presented by Retool — Build internal software better, with AI. Learn more at retool.com
People in this episode
Host: Peter High
Guest: Derrick Pledger
Topics covered
- AI transformation
- business value
- innovation culture
- government technology
- employee training
Sponsors
ElevenLabs, Retool
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Maximus
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