On Wednesday (July 3rd), the Senate Rules Committee held a confirmation hearing for Jeffery Marino, where senators unanimously approved his appointment as Director of the Office of Data and Innovation. Final confirmation is expected when the Senate reconvenes after the summer recess.

During the 24-minute hearing, Marino discussed ODI’s focus on GenAI policies, the critical role of training for government transformation, and a systematic approach to project determination and public engagement. Marino also discussed the importance of building capacity through hiring and training, distinguishing ODI’s focus on business processes and analytics from the Department of Technology’s expansive role in state government.

“I believe that training is absolutely at the core one of our strongest strategies for government transformation that we have,” testified Marino at the hearing.  “Another strategy that we have is bringing on new talent to the state…so I believe that training is our fastest and most effective way to realizing the transformation that we want to see.”

Watch the hearing below.