Emil Michael
Golden Gov: Federal Executive of the Year
Emil Michael is the Pentagon’s top research and engineering official and chief technology officer. He sets direction for technology development across a broad defense portfolio, with an emphasis on getting useful capabilities to military personnel faster. In 2026, his office identified critical technology areas and announced changes intended to strengthen the department’s innovation ecosystem and protect defense-funded research. Michael brings private-sector technology experience to a role that requires connecting researchers, companies and military customers. His leadership helps determine where the department concentrates its technology efforts and how promising advances move from development toward operational use.
