KEVIN LUEBE
CIO for CIO Boom
Can you please provide a little introduction about yourself
I am a technology leader with strong Midwestern roots and over 20 years of experience in Southern California. Throughout my career, I have led technology initiatives and driven global digital transformations across various industries.
As the founder of CIO Boom, a fractional CIO consulting agency, I now use my extensive expertise to help organizations successfully navigate the complexities of the digital age.
What path have you taken to your current position?
I began my career with the United States Geological Survey, Department of the Interior, where I discovered my passion for information systems and the critical role that well-designed business, technology, and information systems architecture play in supporting success.
By deeply immersing myself in every facet of supporting the scientists who relied on technology to serve the nation, I recognized the potential to manage and scale larger, more complex systems.
This realization led me to excel in the health and fitness, hospitality, manufacturing, and retail industries, where I focused on reducing complexity and implementing long-term enterprise solutions that not only improved business processes but also significantly impacted the bottom line.
Has it always been your vision to reach the position you’re at? Was your current role part of your vision to become a tech leader?
I realized my passion for leading in technology and business while I was in college, during a time when the technology landscape was rapidly evolving. I was drawn to the dynamic nature of the field, knowing that as a leader, I could help shape innovative solutions and systems for companies, ensuring that my work would never be stagnant—a situation I don’t thrive in.
I recognized that by embracing and mastering both technology and business, I could leverage my leadership abilities and soft skills to succeed. My experience as an athlete and team leader in high school and college also played a significant role in shaping the leader I am today.
Have you had a role model or mentor that has helped you on your journey? (If you feel comfortable, please share their name and how they helped you)
I've been fortunate to have three key mentors in my career. The first was my father, an entrepreneur who taught me the importance of focusing on both the customer and the team. By closely observing his approach, I learned the value of building strong relationships, maintaining a rigorous work ethic, and consistently delivering results.
My second mentor was a government employee who provided me with invaluable insights into operating and enterprise systems when I was just starting out. His ability to share the latest knowledge in a clear and concise manner was instrumental in my early growth.
Finally, I had the privilege of working with an executive coach who helped me discover my true potential. Our conversations were challenging, inspiring, and pivotal in shaping both my career and personal development.
How do you see the role of the technology leader evolving over the next 5 years?
As technology continues to integrate deeply into every aspect of business, CIOs will need to focus more on innovation, data-driven decision-making, and enhancing customer experiences.
Additionally, with the rise of AI and cloud computing, technology eaders will increasingly need to lead efforts in developing flexible, scalable technology solutions that support both business growth and resilience. I've seen this change almost overnight.
What skills do you think leaders of the future will need in order to thrive?
Future technology leaders must possess exceptional business acumen and a strategic mindset, as these qualities are essential for driving successful digital transformation and building/maintaining a customer-centric focus. Equally important is the need for adaptability and agility, enabling CIOs to navigate the fast changing technological landscape.
Additionally, the ability to leverage data analytics and AI to inform decision-making, optimize operations, and enhance customer experiences will be critical for staying competitive and delivering value.
Is there anything in particular that you would still like to achieve in your career or what is the next step on your journey?
Absolutely, my primary mission is to continue helping my clients succeed, and I take great pride in that.
However, I also have a passion for downhill mountain biking. Winning a race or two in that sport would bring me a lot of happiness as well.
What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?
My most significant achievement was overcoming a global ERP consolidation challenge that affected over 25 locations and 2,500 team members.
After nearly seven years of misaligned people, processes, and technology, and millions of dollars spent without success, the organization recognized the need for a new approach.
They appointed me as a leader to drive a digital turnaround, enhancing customer service, improving the workplace for employees, and eliminating unnecessary ongoing costs, as well as delivering results.
"Future technology leaders must possess exceptional business acumen and a strategic mindset
What has been your most significant achievement or proudest moment as a technology leader?
My proudest career moments are the times I’ve helped shape individuals into leaders. In every organization where I’ve led technology, it’s not the solutions, technologies, or deliverables that stand out—it’s the people who reach out to tell me how my leadership has positively impacted their lives. That is truly priceless.
A big thank you to Kevin Luebe from CIO Boom for sharing his journey to date.
If you would like to gain more perspective from Tech Leaders and CIOs you can read some of our other interviews here.
