Women To Watch 2025 honoree Alexis S. Smith

Alexis S. Smith is a transformational technology executive who has redefined innovation across three decades of CTO leadership. With over 25 years of pioneering enterprise IT solutions, she has orchestrated breakthrough digital transformations for public-sector agencies, utilities, and Fortune 500 enterprises—consistently turning complex technological challenges into competitive advantages.

Currently serving as Manager of Enterprise Architecture at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, Alexis drives strategic technology initiatives impacting millions of lives while architecting the future of healthcare innovation. Her proven ability to build world-class technical organizations and deliver game-changing innovation programs has established her as a visionary leader who doesn’t just adapt to change—she creates it.

Throughout her distinguished career, Alexis has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing multi-million-dollar IT portfolios, directing comprehensive digital transformation initiatives for over 45,000 users, and serving as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives on emerging technology strategies. Her expertise spans artificial intelligence implementation, enterprise systems architecture, and strategic program management, with particular focus on Generative AI adoption and customer-centric solution delivery.

Alexis's commitment to public service runs deep, with over a decade of experience supporting government agencies and educational institutions. As IT Director for the State of Alabama Board of Education, she successfully managed a $3M+ annual budget while securing competitive federal and state technology grants that enhanced educational outcomes for thousands of students. Her work in municipal government with the City of Opelika demonstrated her dedication to leveraging technology for community benefit and public service excellence.

A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in technology, Alexis currently serves as Board Chair of TechNOW, an employee resource network focused on advancing women in technology and driving inclusive digital workplace initiatives. She also contributes as a Blue Xchange Mentor and Advisory Board Member, guiding strategic mentorship programs and fostering the next generation of technology leaders through rotational development programs.

Alexis's educational journey reflects her lifelong commitment to learning and growth. She holds a Master's degree in Information Systems/Management from the University of Phoenix, a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Alabama State University, and is currently pursuing her Doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership/IST. This diverse educational background uniquely positions her to bridge technology solutions with human-centered leadership and organizational development.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alexis is deeply committed to community

engagement and civic innovation. Her board leadership experience and dedication to mentorship programs demonstrate her belief in lifting others as she climbs. She understands that true innovation happens when technology serves people, and she consistently champions initiatives that enhance operational efficiency while maintaining focus on user experience and community impact.

As a thought leader in emerging technologies, Alexis is at the forefront of Generative AI strategy development and implementation, helping organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation while ensuring ethical and inclusive technology adoption. Her vision extends beyond traditional IT management to encompass holistic organizational transformation that

drives both business success and positive societal impact.

Alexis embodies the intersection of technical excellence, servant leadership, and community

dedication, qualities that make her not just a technology leader, but a catalyst for positive change in every organization and community she serves