5 minutes
On April 3rd, 2025, join us at GovExec’s Evening of Honors gala as we recognize the Federal 100 award winners and Government Hall of Fame inductees who have gone above and beyond to achieve the government’s critical mission.
We spoke with Frank Konkel, GovExec’s Editor-in-Chief, to answer some of your most pressing questions about what makes this event unique, the nomination process, and reasons you should attend the government’s premier awards ceremony.
How has the Federal 100 evolved over the years to reflect changes in federal technology?
Konkel: The Fed 100 award evolves similarly to technology. As we approach our 36th Fed 100 Awards gala, it’s worth reflecting on how much technology has transformed since the early 1990s. Back then, many of the largest federal agencies didn’t even have websites, and IT was seen as a back-office utility rather than the backbone of most organizations.
Fast forward to today: IT is integral to nearly every government program. Even our nation’s most sensitive security data often resides in the cloud, and technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) dominate conversations everywhere, from boardrooms to TV ads.
The Fed 100 has adapted to recognize achievements reflecting this evolution. While early winners might have been celebrated for helping an agency get online or secure email addresses, today’s honorees are leading game-changing initiatives in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
What makes the Federal 100 Awards unique compared to other government recognitions?
Konkel: The judging process sets the Fed 100 apart.
Each year, we assemble a panel of judges composed of C-level leaders from both government and industry, many of whom are former Fed 100 winners themselves. This ensures a deep, firsthand understanding of the federal IT landscape.
It’s important to note that GovExec does not contribute a vote in the process; decisions rest entirely with the judges.
As my former colleague Troy Schneider often said, the judging process is the “secret sauce.” One of the chief reasons the Fed 100 carries so much significance in our community is that winners are nominated by their peers and selected by some of the most accomplished leaders in the field. This peer-driven approach ensures the awards reflect genuine impact and excellence within the community.
From your perspective, what common qualities do Federal 100 winners share?
Konkel: Short answer: they get stuff done!
Fed 100 winners are the change agents driving significant IT efforts that improve the government. Over the years, I’ve seen a pattern of winners who overcame major challenges, pushed beyond the status quo, and did not relent in delivering successful outcomes.
What stands out is that winners rarely achieve their results alone. They aren’t usually the tech kings and queens but the leaders spearheading critical initiatives and rallying teams and resources to drive change.
It’s their leadership, resilience, and determination that set them apart.
What do you believe is the biggest impact of honoring federal IT leaders through these awards?
Konkel: No one enters public service for recognition—it can be a thankless job, especially in today’s climate of waning public trust. But, recognizing these individuals is essential. It highlights their dedication and achievements, which inspire others across government.
For us at GovExec, facilitating these awards and hosting a gala where winners’ families, friends, and coworkers can celebrate with them is deeply rewarding.
Additionally, profiling winners on our websites and social media amplifies their stories, offering inspiration and valuable insights for the broader federal IT community.
I also love how former winners proudly reference their Fed 100 status in bios years later—it’s an enduring honor that resonates within and beyond the community.
Are there trends in federal IT innovation that you see shaping future nominations?
Konkel: In recent years, I’ve seen an increasing number of nominations centered around customer experience and cybersecurity, reflecting broader priorities within the government and IT sectors.
Personally, I’d love to see more nominations from the legislative and judicial branches. There are many unsung technologists in those areas whose work also deserves recognition.
Can you share a memorable moment or story from a past Evening of Honors event?
Konkel: One moment that stands out happened backstage at last year’s gala at The Anthem. I spoke with a winner moments before he went on stage before a crowd of 700+. He turned to me and said, “This is so fricken’ cool.” Only, he didn’t say “fricken.”
It was a genuine expression of excitement and gratitude that encapsulates what the evening is all about: celebrating excellence in a big way.
What advice would you give to those nominating a colleague or leader for the Federal 100?
Konkel: Here are a few tips:
- Eligibility: Anyone in the federal IT community can be nominated, including civil servants, contractors, academics, and members of Congress.
- Focus on Impact: Highlight specific accomplishments from 2024 that go beyond the nominee’s standard duties.
- Tell a Story: Show how the nominee’s efforts drove meaningful outcomes.
- Support Matters: Include a diverse slate of supporting nominators to strengthen the case.
Remember, it’s all about the impact and dedication that truly make a nominee stand out.
There is immense value in recognizing the individuals who keep government technology moving forward each year. Whether you're a long-time attendee or new to the Federal 100, don’t miss your chance to be part of this storied tradition!
