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“Michael Pegues, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the City of Aurora, Illinois, is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in information technology. In this critical role, he oversees and manages the city’s technology infrastructure, ensuring efficient and secure IT operations. Michael’s responsibilities include implementing innovative solutions and enhancing digital services for residents and businesses.
Michael Pegues, CIO at City of Aurora, Illinois
Before joining the City of Aurora, Michael held various IT support roles at AT&T and PepsiCo in the Greater Chicago Area. Additionally, he worked as a civilian Automation Management Officer for the US Department of Defense at the US Army Logistical Readiness Center in Vicenza, Italy. His international experience extends to senior IT positions in companies such as Hewlett-Packard France, Vodafone Hungary, and Morgan Stanley in Budapest, Hungary, and New York, New York.
Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from DeVry University and a Master of Business Administration in Global Executive Management from the Central European University Business School in Vienna, Austria. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Michael contributes to academia. He has served as an Associate Lecturer in Smart Cities and Communities at the University of Wisconsin (Parkside) and will begin teaching an interdisciplinary course on the same topic at Aurora University in Fall 202
Michael Pegues is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the City of Aurora, Illinois, where he plays a pivotal role in driving technological innovation and enhancing municipal services that drive social impact. With a distinguished career spanning military and federal service, corporate leadership, and municipal governance, Pegues brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to his role.
From Military Service to IT Leadership: A Journey in Federal Service
Pegues's career began in 1988 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army, embarking on a four-year journey that included serving during the Gulf War's Operation Provide Comfort. Stationed in Italy with the U.S. Army Airborne, he was part of a critical mission to deliver humanitarian aid and defend displaced Kurds in northern Iraq. This experience laid the groundwork for his future career, instilling in him a sense of duty and resilience.
“Change has never been easy, but execution is the chariot of genius. I am driven by unconventional thinking, inspiring and empowering teams, and upholding unwavering integrity. My mission is to pioneer new models for service innovation and accountability, especially in government roles where traditional practices often fall short. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and create a brighter future for Aurora,” says Pegues.
After his honorable discharge in 1992, Pegues transitioned to civilian life with a focus on technology. He pursued a degree in computer science from DeVry University, balancing his studies with various roles in the tech industry. His early career included positions as a computer operator, IVRS operation programmer, and senior client support specialist, which helped him build a solid foundation in IT.
After earning his degree in 1997, Pegues began his federal career as a civilian Automation Manager Officer with the Department of Defense in Italy, where he had served in the military less than ten years earlier. In this role, he led a team of civilian and military staff, delivering IT and logistical automation support for the Standard Army Management Information Systems (STAMIS), essential for overseeing maintenance, supply, and property for land-based military operations in the area.
Corporate Ventures: Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
After the year 2000, Pegues’s career journey led him to Hewlett Packard in France, where he served as a Technical Account Manager, overseeing IT services across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. In 2004, his entrepreneurial drive took him back to Italy, where he ran his own company focused on business-to-government commerce. The 2007 financial crisis marked a significant turning point, propelling him into a pivotal role as a Transition Manager at Vodafone Hungary in 2010. In this position, he managed technology security programs and led teams both locally in Budapest and remotely in Pune, India.
In 2012, Pegues’s expertise in cybersecurity and portfolio management landed him a Vice President role at Morgan Stanley, where he advanced from managing enterprise infrastructure projects to founding and leading the global cybersecurity team. In this capacity, he oversaw a global portfolio of programs, projects, and teams, ensuring the organization’s enterprise security solutions were successfully deployed. Additionally, he earned an MBA in Global Executive Management from Central European University Business School, utilizing his international experience to focus on innovation management and entrepreneurship.
Transforming Aurora: A Vision for the Future
In 2017, Pegues returned to his roots in Aurora, Illinois, to serve as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the city. This transition from a global corporate environment to municipal government was a significant shift, but Pegues’s commitment to his hometown drove him to take on this new challenge.
Under Pegues’ leadership, Aurora has experienced significant technological advancements. He spearheaded the development of the city’s first digital plan, initiating efforts to centralize IT operations, modernize IT infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and support workforce development. These initiatives align seamlessly with Mayor Richard C. Irvin’s vision of promoting education, economic growth, and public safety. Pegues’ strategic approach measures success through various metrics, including cost savings, cost avoidance, revenue generation, and positive impacts on departments, residents, and businesses.
Pegues is a strong advocate of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education and digital equity. He actively promotes STEAM initiatives to inspire and equip the next generation with the skills needed for the future. By supporting programs that integrate these disciplines, Pegues aims to foster innovation, critical thinking, and creativity among youth, ensuring they are well-prepared for the evolving job market. Furthermore, Pegues is committed to bridging the digital divide by advocating for digital equity. He supports initiatives that provide affordable internet access and digital literacy training to underserved communities, ensuring that all residents can participate in the digital economy.
Pegues’s leadership is characterized by his focus on transformational change. He emphasizes recruiting and nurturing local talent, fostering a culture of innovation, and maintaining transparency and authenticity. His work has not only advanced technology in Aurora but also contributed to its recognition as one of the best cities to live and raise a family.
Advice for Tomorrow’s Leaders
“Change has never been easy, but execution is the chariot of genius. I am driven by unconventional thinking, inspiring and empowering teams, and upholding unwavering integrity. My mission is to pioneer new models for service innovation and accountability, especially in government roles where traditional practices often fall short. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and create a brighter future for Aurora,” says Pegues.
Pegues’s career journey epitomizes the seamless integration of humanity and technology, leadership, and civic engagement. His narrative stands as a compelling testament to the fact that with unwavering dedication, visionary thinking, and an openness to change, leaders can catalyze profound transformations and leave an enduring legacy within their communities.
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