USGS Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

USGS has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, technology, and information management.

Driven by scientific inquiry, USGS is dedicated to understanding the Earth's landscapes, resources, and hazards, providing critical data for national well-being and environmental stewardship.

Leadership Roles at USGS

  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Water Resources - Nathaniel Booth
  • Chief of Staff - Judy Nowakowski
  • Chief Technology Officer - Alica Weitzman
  • Associate Chief Information Officer, Office of - David Newman
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Joanne Taylor
  • National Geospatial Technical Operations Center Chief of Staff - Ronald Lofton
  • Associate Chief Information Officer - Timothy Quinn
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Keel Ross
  • Chief Marketing Officer & Cola Observer - Charles Owolabi
  • Chief of Staff & Regional Director, Office of Midcontinent (Interior Region 3 & 5) - Kaleb Blodgett
  • Nathaniel Booth - Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Water Resources

    Nathaniel Booth, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Water Resources at USGS, directs key operational aspects of the agency's water resource programs. This executive focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of water monitoring, assessment, and research activities across the United States. Booth oversees the implementation of strategies designed to manage and protect the nation's water resources, ensuring data accuracy and operational integrity. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer plays a vital role in coordinating field operations, supporting scientific investigations, and facilitating the dissemination of critical water-related information. By driving operational excellence in water resources, Nathaniel Booth contributes significantly to the USGS's mission of understanding and managing the nation's vital water systems.

    Judy Nowakowski - Chief of Staff

    Judy Nowakowski, the Chief of Staff at USGS, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the agency. This leadership position involves managing key projects and ensuring the efficient execution of agency-wide directives. Nowakowski coordinates interdepartmental efforts, facilitating collaboration to advance the USGS's scientific mission. The role demands a deep understanding of federal operations and the ability to translate complex scientific goals into actionable plans. By optimizing internal processes and resource allocation, Judy Nowakowski supports the agency's commitment to studying the United States' landscape, natural resources, and hazards. This executive ensures that the agency's operational framework effectively supports its scientific endeavors and public service commitments, driving forward the USGS's objectives with precision and foresight.

    Alica Weitzman - Chief Technology Officer

    Alica Weitzman, the Chief Technology Officer at USGS, architects the agency's technological vision and infrastructure. This role is central to leveraging advanced digital solutions for scientific research and data management. Weitzman oversees the implementation of cutting-edge technologies that enhance the USGS's capacity to study the nation's landscapes, resources, and natural hazards. The Chief Technology Officer drives innovation in areas such as data analytics, cloud computing, and geospatial information systems. This executive ensures that technological investments align with the agency's strategic goals, promoting efficiency and expanding the reach of scientific findings. By fostering a culture of technological advancement, Alica Weitzman empowers USGS scientists with the tools needed to address critical environmental challenges and inform public policy.

    David Newman - Associate Chief Information Officer, Office of

    David Newman, the Associate Chief Information Officer, Office of at USGS, supports the strategic direction and operational management of the agency's information technology resources. This critical role involves ensuring the reliability, security, and accessibility of IT systems that underpin USGS scientific operations. Newman collaborates with the Chief Information Officer to develop and implement IT policies and procedures that align with federal standards and agency objectives. The Associate Chief Information Officer plays a key part in managing IT infrastructure, supporting data integrity, and enhancing digital services for researchers and stakeholders. By focusing on robust IT governance, David Newman contributes to the USGS's ability to effectively monitor and analyze the nation's geological and biological systems, ensuring seamless data flow and operational continuity.

    Joanne Taylor - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Joanne Taylor, the Deputy Chief of Staff at USGS, provides essential support to the Chief of Staff in managing agency operations and strategic priorities. This position involves assisting in the coordination of interdepartmental initiatives and ensuring the smooth execution of administrative and operational functions. Taylor works to streamline processes, enhance communication channels, and support the implementation of key agency projects. The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a vital role in maintaining organizational efficiency and facilitating the achievement of the USGS's scientific and resource management goals. By contributing to effective leadership support, Joanne Taylor helps the agency advance its mission of studying the United States' diverse landscapes, natural resources, and the hazards that threaten them.

    Ronald Lofton - National Geospatial Technical Operations Center Chief of Staff

    Ronald Lofton, the National Geospatial Technical Operations Center Chief of Staff at USGS, directs operational strategies and administrative functions for a key geospatial division. This leadership role is focused on ensuring the efficient management of resources and personnel within the National Geospatial Technical Operations Center. Lofton oversees the implementation of policies and procedures that support the collection, analysis, and dissemination of geospatial data critical to understanding the nation's landscape and natural resources. The Chief of Staff ensures that the center's operations align with broader USGS objectives, contributing to the agency's mission of hazard assessment and resource management. By optimizing operational workflows, Ronald Lofton enhances the center's capacity to deliver high-quality geospatial information.

    Timothy Quinn - Associate Chief Information Officer

    Timothy Quinn, the Associate Chief Information Officer at USGS, contributes to the oversight and management of the agency's information technology infrastructure and services. This role is integral to maintaining the operational integrity and security of IT systems that support USGS scientific research and data dissemination. Quinn collaborates with senior IT leadership to implement technological strategies that enhance efficiency and data accessibility. The Associate Chief Information Officer focuses on ensuring that IT solutions effectively support the agency's mission to study the United States' landscapes, resources, and natural hazards. By driving improvements in IT governance and support, Timothy Quinn ensures that USGS personnel have reliable access to the digital tools necessary for their critical work.

    Keel Ross - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Keel Ross, the Interim Chief Information Officer at USGS, provides critical leadership for the agency's information technology operations during a transitional period. This executive directs the strategic planning and execution of IT initiatives, ensuring the continuity and security of essential systems. Ross oversees the management of technology resources, focusing on supporting the USGS's core mission of scientific research and data analysis related to the nation's landscapes, resources, and hazards. The Interim Chief Information Officer works to maintain robust IT infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity measures, and promote digital innovation across the organization. By guiding the IT department, Keel Ross ensures that technological capabilities effectively support USGS scientists and operational objectives.

    Charles Owolabi - Chief Marketing Officer & Cola Observer

    Charles Owolabi, the Chief Marketing Officer & Cola Observer at USGS, leads strategic communication and outreach efforts for the agency. This unique role involves developing and executing marketing strategies to enhance public understanding of USGS scientific endeavors and findings. Owolabi oversees initiatives aimed at promoting the agency's work in studying the United States' landscapes, natural resources, and hazards. The Chief Marketing Officer ensures that communication aligns with the USGS's mission and effectively engages diverse audiences. Additionally, the 'Cola Observer' aspect suggests a specialized focus on specific data or trends relevant to the agency's broader scientific objectives. Through strategic messaging, Charles Owolabi amplifies the impact of USGS research and fosters greater public engagement with critical scientific information.

    Kaleb Blodgett - Chief of Staff & Regional Director, Office of Midcontinent (Interior Region 3 & 5)

    Kaleb Blodgett, the Chief of Staff & Regional Director, Office of Midcontinent (Interior Region 3 & 5) at USGS, provides dual leadership for strategic operations and regional oversight. This executive manages administrative functions and directs key initiatives within Interior Regions 3 and 5, ensuring alignment with national agency goals. Blodgett oversees the execution of scientific programs and operational strategies pertinent to the Midcontinent region's unique geological and environmental characteristics. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of both internal agency management and the specific scientific challenges and opportunities within the designated regions. By integrating operational leadership with regional focus, Kaleb Blodgett enhances the USGS's capacity to effectively study and manage the landscapes, resources, and hazards across these vital areas.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding USGS Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads USGS?
    USGS is led by Nathaniel Booth (Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Water Resources), along with executives such as Judy Nowakowski (Chief of Staff) and Alica Weitzman (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of USGS’s executive team?
    The executive team of USGS includes leaders such as Nathaniel Booth (Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Water Resources), Judy Nowakowski (Chief of Staff), Alica Weitzman (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does USGS have?
    USGS has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in USGS’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of USGS includes roles such as Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Water Resources, Chief of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Associate Chief Information Officer, Office of, Deputy Chief of Staff.