Scott Gausland’s Journey from Stockbroker to Rhode Island’s First Chief Data and Analytics Officer

Scott Gausland’s journey from stockbroker to Rhode Island’s first Chief Data and Analytics Officer (CDAO) is a compelling story of resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to meaningful impact. His career navigates unexpected turns, transitioning from the private sector to foundational education data systems, and now shapes statewide policy on analytics and AI.

Gausland began his career in 1994 when he joined IBM, entering IT unexpectedly after earning a marketing degree and leaving  a job as a stockbroker. “IBM was where I fell in love with IT,” he said. His time at IBM allowed his technical skills to flourish as he moved from inside sales to technical advisory positions, working on advanced systems and high-end infrastructure. However, when IBM relocated its office to Atlanta, Gausland faced a crossroads. “I had just bought a house in Rhode Island. I wasn’t ready to leave,” Gausland said.

This decision to remain in Rhode Island became the foundation for his future in the public sector, leading him to a job at the American Power Conversion and, eventually, to the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE). “My mom told me about an opening at the department. I figured I’d stay a year or two. Joke’s on me,” he laughed. What he discovered was an opportunity to create meaningful change.

At RIDE, Gausland developed Rhode Island’s first student ID system, replacing outdated aggregate reporting with precise, individualized data. “Before that, we didn’t even collect student names, just raw counts from districts, he said. The student ID system allowed the state to produce more accurate reports. But Gausland’s influence didn’t stop there—he built enrollment collection systems, launched the state’s first education data warehouse, and oversaw more than 1,000 databases as a senior database administrator.

His focus also extended beyond technology; it was about nurturing trust with the schools and districts he served. “I always saw the schools and districts as my customers. I communicated with them constantly, trained them, and provided the tools they needed to succeed,” he explained. This customer-service mindset stems from Gausland’s time in the private sector.

In 2019, Gausland’s contributions were recognized when he was promoted to Director of Data & Technology Services for RIDE. This dual role enabled him to integrate IT and data strategy, embedding data-driven practices across departmental operations. His efforts in tracking critical metrics, such as absenteeism and standardized test performance, earned him respect among educators. “I’d offer to visit any district to explain their accountability ratings in person,” he recalled. His proactive approach was facilitated by Rhode Island’s small size, enabling him to build valuable face-to-face connections.

In 2024, Gausland was hired as Rhode Island’s first Chief Data and Analytics Officer, fulfilling an executive order from the governor that created the position. This new position, merging data management and analysis, reflected his holistic vision for the state’s data strategy. “A CDAO sees the full data life cycle, from collection and governance to analysis and decision-making,” he said, allowing him to be strategic rather than reactive.

 

 

Today, he leads efforts to create an AI vision for the state, launch a Center of Excellence in data and AI, and develop a federated integrated data system for secure interagency collaboration. “We’re small, but have all the responsibilities of the largest states—just with a fraction of the resources,” he said. “That’s where creative thinking and collaboration come in.” For Gausland, effective leadership is characterized by flexibility, empathy, and a sense of curiosity. “I don’t micromanage,” he said. “I try to give people interesting work, meet them where they are, and let them bring their best ideas forward. Everyone’s different. The key is listening more than you talk.”

What motivates him, even after decades in an ever-evolving career? “Learning,” he said. “Every day, I learn something new. That’s what excites me. I wouldn’t do well in a job that never changes.” His unconventional path, which began with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) jobs and skipping college, eventually led to a degree from Bryant University—a journey he takes pride in. “I didn’t go the traditional route, but I knew I could do the work,” Gausland said. “I paid my way through school, stayed focused, and found my calling through experience.”

Remarkably, Gausland still resides in the same house he bought in 1995. “I’ve always been loyal to Rhode Island,” he said. “Seeing systems I built 20 years ago still helping students today—that’s something I’m truly proud of.”

To aspiring public sector technologists, Gausland offers invaluable advice: “Learn everything you can, but don’t ignore the people part. Change only works if you build relationships. Get to know the people you work with. It makes everything easier.”

In an era of rapid innovation and digital transformation, Gausland stands out for his consistent dedication, humility, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Whether offering explanations of complex ideas in person to his community, he is serving or mentoring emerging professionals, his approachable leadership reflects a deep belief in the power of one-on-one connection. His story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that one individual can have on a community through perseverance, empathy, and innovative thinking.