HomeMy WebLinkAbout07.23.25 Board Correspondence_ FW_ Alumni Spotlight_ David Newaj, Register for Technology Executive Program.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening
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From:Clerk of the Board
To:Clerk of the Board; Connelly, Bill; Cook, Holly; Cook, Robin; Durfee, Peter; Jessee, Meegan; Kimmelshue, Tod; Kitts,
Melissa; Krater, Sharleen; Lee, Lewis; Little, Melissa; Pickett, Andy; Ritter, Tami; Stephens, Brad J.; Sweeney,
Kathleen; Teeter, Doug; Zepeda, Elizabeth
Subject:Board Correspondence: FW: Alumni Spotlight: David Newaj, Register for Technology Executive Program
Date:Wednesday, July 23, 2025 3:11:21 PM
Please see Board Correspondence
From: CSAC Institute <femmert-sanchez@csacinstitute.ccsend.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 2:34 PM
To: Clerk of the Board <clerkoftheboard@buttecounty.net>
Subject: Alumni Spotlight: David Newaj, Register for Technology Executive Program
Alumni Spotlight:
David Newaj, Technology Executive Program Alumni
and Instructor
David Newaj
Assistant Chief Information Officer
Contra Costa County
How do you explain to others outside government what you do?
This can be a difficult discussion to have with people who don’t have a good understanding of
what County government is or it’s function. They tend to consider county government to be the
same as city government. Generally, I have to explain how county government is an extension of
the state and are separate from cities. I have to explain what the role of county government is
related to services provided, jurisdiction of counties versus cities, and the difference between
what the Sheriff’s jurisdiction vs their local police departments responsibilities. Once they
understand that, then I can have the discussion with them that my role in IT is to manage and
direct IT capabilities in support of county departments that provide services to the public, such as
public safety, emergency services, health care, welfare, road maintenance, to name a few. These
IT resources allow our county departments to deliver the needed services to the residents of the
county.
What does public service mean to you?
Having spent time in both private and public sector, I have found public service to be more
fulfilling in the sense that you can see the difference myself and that of my department is making
in the lives of people who rely on services from the county. Whether it be public safety, safer
roads, getting healthcare, living assistance, or even building permits. Even though it may be an
indirect impact, we are still providing those departments who service the public directly with the
ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
What’s the best piece of advice that you ever received?
The best piece of advice I ever received was from my Software Engineering professor in college
who emphasized that if I remembered anything from my 4 years in college, it would be to “learn
the business model”. Basically, what he was referring to was that no matter what company,
organization, or department within an organization that I was part of or provided services to,
each one would have a unique business model. This included, their mission, objectives and goals,
culture, pain points, structure, and processes. To become a valued member of the group and
provide the most value, you have to learn the business model. I’ve always kept that in mind when
going into a new organization, whether private or public and it has served me well.
How has the CCISDA program assisted you in your career pathway?
The CCISDA program has been a great opportunity to learn how to properly navigate some of the
challenges that you encounter as you move into a management or executive role within the
organization would be difficult to learn otherwise. Areas such as financial management,
budgeting, organizational politics, staff development, strategic planning, just to name a few. Also,
just as important is developing a network of people in other counties that are experiencing the
same challenges as you are and realizing you’re not alone and you have resources you can tap
into for guidance and bounce ideas off of to help you be successful in your role is invaluable.
Registration for the Technology Credential Program is
Now Open!
County technology professionals face growing responsibilities in a rapidly changing environment.
Since, 2016 the CCISDA-CSAC Technology Executive Credential Program has equipped county IT
staff with the leadership skills, peer network, and practical knowledge needed to lead strategic
initiatives and navigate the future of government technology.
The 2025–26 program has been refreshed with updated content, exciting new course offerings,
and hands-on learning experiences that make it one of the most valuable leadership
opportunities for county IT professionals in California.
How to Register:
The cost to participate in the 2025–26 CCISDA-CSAC Technology Executive Credential Program is
$1,299. We recognize that budgets are often tight, and we’re pleased to keep this year’s fee
unchanged. Enrollment is limited to 30 participants, and spots will fill quickly.
To sign up, click the Register button on CCISDA’s page and complete the form. Once payment is
received, you’ll get a confirmation email. In mid-August, CSAC Institute will contact all registered
participants with instructions to create a profile and select courses. You may also complete your
profile early to view available classes.
For questions, contact Salote Yanuyanutawa at syanuyanutawa@counties.org
Register for the Technology Credential Program with CCISDA!
CSAC Institute for Excellence in County Government | 1100 K Street Suite 101 |
Sacramento, CA 95814 US
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