The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has appointed Dawn Zimmer as its third Chief Information Officer (CIO). Zimmer was appointed the DOE’s Principal Deputy CIO in November last year and has twice served as Acting CIO for the department this year.

In her role, she leads the Department’s enterprise IT and cybersecurity initiatives, driving secure, efficient, and forward-looking systems. 

According to the department, Dawn is instrumental in aligning the agency’s IT modernization with its mission priorities, advancing transformative technologies that strengthen U.S. energy security and innovation.

With over 25 years of experience across government, academia, and industry, Ms. Zimmer has built a reputation for creating high-performing technology organizations. 

Before joining DOE, she led IT engagement at Virginia Tech and held senior roles at the FAA and DOJ, advancing modernization, cybersecurity, and user-focused service delivery. She holds a business administration degree from Ramapo College.