Three Key Players

A few technology and acquisition officials have emerged as heavy hitters likely to set the course for the new Homeland Security Department 's technology operations.

PAT SCHAMBACH

Chief Information Officer,
Transportation Security Administration

Last job: CIO, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms

Big win: Averting shutdown of a $1 billion contract and building a working IT department in an agency struggling to get on its feet.

Word on the street: Schambach solidified his reputation as an influential force when he convinced White House officials to let TSA go ahead with its massive data network contract.

GREGORY GIDDENS

Deputy Program Executive Officer,
Deepwater System, Coast Guard

Last job: Deputy Assistant Commandant for Acquisition, Coast Guard

Rising star: Top civilian overseeing the biggest IT and fleet modernization in Coast Guard history.

Word on the street: Leading the Deepwater effort with Coast Guard Rear Adm. Patrick Stillman, Giddens honed the performance-based contracting approach likely to become the standard for the Homeland Security Department.

RON MILLER

Transition Planning Office
Office of Homeland Security

Last job: CIO, Federal Emergency Management Agency

Bold move: Leaving chief tech position at a highly regarded agency and stepping into the unknown at the White House as an IT planner for the Homeland Security Department.

Word on the street: Miller, who has been one of the most visible CIOs in Washington, probably will play a leading role from outside the new department.