Technology leader Chris Hoesel has been named the new director of Information Technology Services for Harris County Department of Education.

Hoesel, who joined HCDE in 2017 as an infrastructure analyst, most recently served as IT operations services manager leading a team of systems analysts and network engineers in the conceptualization, implementation, and sustainment of the Department’s IT infrastructure.

“I enjoy working with this professional team and welcome the challenge of taking it to the next level,” said Hoesel. “It’s much more difficult to improve on something that is already great versus improving something that requires improvement. The baseline is high, but I’m confident I can make a difference in subtle ways.”

With more than 18 years of technology experience, Hoesel will lead the IT Division, which is comprised of a Service Desk, Applications Support Team (AST), Operations Support Team (OST), Process Improvement, and IT Training. He will continue to serve HCDE and stakeholders by providing innovative tools and technologies to support educational programs and staff.

“Technology is hands down one of the most complex operations within HCDE. As such, it needed a leader with a diverse skill set who could not only implement new and innovative programs and practices, but also create an environment where existing programs demonstrate excellence,” said Chief Communications Officer Danielle Clark. “Chris has the vision, expertise, and leadership skills to take technology to the next level while growing relationships both internally and externally. He understands that technology is a customer-driven operation.”

Before joining HCDE, Hoesel worked in IT for international operations companies abroad and companies such as KBR, Halliburton, and Saudi Aramco.