Honoring the people behind Minnesota's technology

Public Service Recognition Week (May 3-9) provides an opportunity to recognize the people who make MNIT what it is. Day in and day out, our team works to modernize the IT infrastructure that keeps Minnesota running — from health care systems to transportation networks to the digital tools agencies depend on. This week, we celebrate their ingenuity, dedication, and shared commitment to serving the State of Minnesota.

Employee spotlight videos

We sat down with five MNIT employees to hear about their most memorable projects — and what keeps them showing up for the people of Minnesota. Select the images to watch each video. Their stories speak to the heart of what public service is all about.

Fazly Alahi: MNIT Strategic Portfolio Governance & Intelligence Manager

Favorite project: Planview rollout across the State of Minnesota

Fazly led the coordination and teamwork needed to deploy an enterprise platform system statewide — a tool now used by more than 1,500 people. Seeing agencies use it to make smarter, more informed decisions is something he's genuinely proud of.

"Whether it's improving a system, supporting a team, or just making things run a little smoother — it all adds up to something that matters."

Nicholas Bawek: MNIT Systems Supervisor, Enterprise Hosted Desktop & Applications

Favorite project: Architecting the enterprise Microsoft Configuration Manager site

Nicholas designed and built a configuration manager environment scaled to support all executive branch workstations and servers. He takes pride in creating a robust, durable system that continues to deliver services across the enterprise.

"Being part of something bigger than myself — knowing our work impacts such a wide variety of critical government functions and, in turn, groups of people."

Mary Boyle: MNIT Systems Supervisor

Favorite project: MNsure METS — Minnesota Eligibility Technology System

Mary played a key role in Minnesota's response to the Affordable Care Act — helping build the platform that allows Minnesotans to shop and access health insurance. What she remembers most is how everyone rallied around a shared goal and pushed through challenges together.

"The work we do matters. It helps people live easier lives. We're doing meaningful work for the citizens of Minnesota, and I know we're doing the right thing."

Garland Jackson: Microsoft 365 Services & Application Development Supervisor, partnering with MnDOT

Favorite project: Impactful technology projects centered on governance and collaboration

For Garland, the most meaningful work went beyond the technology — it centered on people. He prioritized strong governance, hands-on training, and close partnership with business teams to ensure tools truly met their needs.

"It's the people. Everything I do — individual tasks, team efforts, leading my team — contributes to the lives of others. That's what drives me every day."

June Va: MNIT Application Developer, partnering with the Minnesota Department of Revenue, Interfaces Scanning & Imaging Team

Favorite project: Upgrading and migrating two critical agency applications to Azure

June found her most meaningful work in the recent migration of two business-critical applications to a new system. Beyond the technical lift, the project stands out because of the personal growth it sparked, helping her become more confident and forthcoming in her abilities.

"I've always gravitated towards helping others. As an application developer, I help keep our processes afloat and in turn help the state function — and I get to do it in a way I find interesting and fun."

These stories offer a glimpse of the talent and heart that defines MNIT. Thank you to every member of our team who shows up for Minnesota — your work makes a difference. Happy Public Service Recognition Week!