Frank Sweeney, Assistant Director of Support Services and Chief Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Child Safety, has been named to the 2026 Forbes CIO 100.
Sweeney’s selection follows a career of more than 30 years spanning consulting, telecommunications, private equity, professional sports and state government. Throughout that career, his leadership has remained centered on people and the belief that technology is most valuable when it helps employees better serve others.
Sweeney oversees technology, cybersecurity, data, artificial intelligence, digital transformation and shared services for DCS. His work supports employees across Arizona who are responsible for protecting children, strengthening families and connecting communities with critical services.
“It’s not just about the tech; it’s about finding solutions that help our frontline staff do their jobs better,” Sweeney told CIO Magazine in 2024.
Since joining DCS in August 2023, Sweeney has helped guide efforts to improve system reliability, strengthen cybersecurity, modernize data management and expand the responsible use of artificial intelligence. These efforts are designed to provide employees with secure, dependable tools while reducing administrative work that can take time away from children and families.
Sweeney previously spent nearly a decade with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. He began his state service in software development and cybersecurity leadership before becoming the department’s Chief Information and Technology Officer. During his tenure, he was awarded a U.S. patent for wildlife management software.
Before entering public service, Sweeney held positions with Accenture, Nortel Networks, the Arizona Diamondbacks and KKR. His experience across different industries shaped his view that successful transformation depends on more than systems and technology. It requires a clear purpose, the trust of employees and an environment in which people can contribute and grow.
That belief continues to guide his leadership at DCS. Sweeney has emphasized developing employees, creating opportunities for others and building teams that understand how their work supports the department’s mission.
While the CIO 100 recognition carries his name, Sweeney views the selection as a reflection of the professionals working throughout DCS and the many public servants whose contributions often take place outside the public spotlight.
His leadership philosophy is summarized in four words: “Mission First. People Always.”
The recognition highlights the importance of technology in public service while acknowledging the people whose work makes progress possible.
About Frank Sweeney
Frank Sweeney serves as Assistant Director of Support Services and Chief Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Child Safety. He has more than 30 years of leadership experience across the public and private sectors, with a focus on organizational transformation, technology, cybersecurity, data, artificial intelligence and developing people.
About the Arizona Department of Child Safety
The Arizona Department of Child Safety works to protect children, strengthen families and provide safe, permanent homes for children when necessary. The department works with families, communities and service providers throughout Arizona to promote child safety and well-being.
