Washington Department of Enterprise Services employee Jim Sampson has been named one of the nation's "Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers of 2014" by Government Technology magazine.

Each March, the publication honors 25 people who have propelled government forward using innovative technology to solve public-sector challenges and improve the performance of critical programs.

Since 2002, the magazine has honored more than 300 individuals — everyone from chief information officers and information technology managers, to governors and department directors — for their efforts to transform government.

Sampson was recognized for his leadership in overseeing a successful information technology internship program in partnership with South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia.

Sampson said, "Allowing interns to gain the real-world experience that bolsters the education and training they've already received in school is so beneficial. By the time they complete the program, they have a competitive edge in the job market."

Enterprise Services Director Chris Liu said the internship program is a "win-win" for the students, the agency and the community.

"Many organizations are facing a growing demand for skilled information technology workers," Liu said. "Internships are just one of the creative methods we're using to ensure we can mentor, recruit and hire talented workers who will help us continue providing innovative products and services to our customers. I'm proud of the work Jim Sampson has done to support this program, and I congratulate him on winning this prestigious award."

Liu also extended his gratitude to the community college partners, whose work ensures a skilled pool of intern candidates.

Visit Government Technology's website to read the full profile of Sampson.

More about Government Technology

For more than 25 years, Government Technology has focused exclusively on advancing technology solutions for state and local government through collaboration and best practices. Government Technology is about solving state and local problems through the smart use of technology. Government Technology is a division of e.Republic, the nation's only media and research company focused exclusively on state and local government and education.