Samuel Davis is the Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer at Echelle Resources, overseeing technological strategy planning, corporate partnerships, and revenue generation. Previously, he was the CIO at Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services, managing information for over 650 employees and 1. 2 million customers. Samuel has held roles such as Head of Automation, Chief Technology Officer at Gordon Food Services, and Director of Software Engineering at Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Samuel is also involved in philanthropy and nonprofit advocacy, serving as the Founder/CEO of Good Sport Golf Club, managing golf leagues and organizing charity tournaments. He is a Board Member for various organizations and prioritizes being a devoted husband and father to two children with special needs.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Samuel shared his professional trajectory, significant career milestone, personal role model, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Samuel. What inspired you to pursue a career in technology, and what motivates you to continue innovating and leading in this field?
I was drawn to technology because of its power to create meaningful change—whether it’s improving lives, developing talent, or delivering innovative solutions that transform organizations. Early on, I realized technology isn’t just about functionality; it’s about enhancing human experiences. That belief has guided me through industries like automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and tech, where I’ve focused on designing solutions that push boundaries and deliver real-world impact. What keeps me motivated is the desire to solve complex challenges, mentor others, and create cutting-edge innovations that truly make a difference.
What is your favorite aspect of being a CTO, and what do you enjoy most about your current role?
What I love most about being a CTO is shaping the technology strategy for a world-class organization. It’s a dynamic role that requires staying ahead of industry trends and understanding the challenges organizations face. I enjoy being both a trusted advisor and a hands-on problem solver, helping to implement solutions that drive real impact.
In my current role, I’m especially proud of building a team of talented technologists who share a deep commitment to enhancing our clients’ experiences. We’ve cultivated a workplace culture rooted in psychological safety and empathy, where bold ideas are encouraged, and decisive actions lead to meaningful results. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how our efforts not only support our clients’ success but also strengthen our reputation as an industry leader.
What do you believe are the essential qualities and skills required to be a successful CTO, and how do you embody those qualities in your own role?
To be a successful Chief Technology Officer (CTO), you need a strong grasp of both current and emerging technologies to drive innovation and keep a competitive edge. Leadership is key, especially in fostering collaboration across teams and translating technical strategies into actionable business goals. Clear communication is equally vital—you have to make complex ideas accessible to everyone, from technical teams to stakeholders. Lastly, adaptability is critical in a fast-changing tech landscape.
I strive to embody these qualities by staying engaged with my team through brainstorming sessions, ensuring transparency with updates that resonate across departments, and keeping up with tech advancements through research and conferences. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and agility, I aim to lead my organization toward ongoing growth and success.
How do you stay current with emerging trends and technologies, and what resources or networks do you rely on to stay informed?
I keep abreast of emerging trends and technologies by participating in national and international conferences, subscribing to relevant journals, and actively engaging in industry focus groups, IT Leader Forums, and professional development seminars. I explore various learning avenues to enhance my understanding, gain insights from thought leaders, and develop business acumen from industry experts. These networks and forums ensure that I remain informed, current, and competitive within the market, allowing for continuous awareness and education.
Looking back on your career, what do you believe is your most significant accomplishment as a CTO?
My most significant accomplishment as a CTO has been prioritizing emotional intelligence in both the workplace and the community. By leading with empathy and taking action as a servant leader, I’ve been able to build meaningful connections and foster a positive environment. These values were shaped early on by incredible mentors who helped me develop my executive skills.
Throughout my career, I’ve embraced the lessons from both successes and setbacks—listening to understand, learning from mistakes, and supporting my colleagues as they strive to excel. Above all, I aim to lead with kindness in every interaction, creating a culture where people feel valued and empowered to perform at their best.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
If I were to identify someone specific for whom I hold deep gratitude for my journey, it would undoubtedly be my father. He instilled in me the significance of following through on commitments, maintaining integrity, and valuing a strong work ethic. As I reflect on his principles and philosophies, I recognize how instrumental they have been in shaping the individual I am today. It is no coincidence that I now find myself imparting the same lessons to my son that my father shared with me. I feel truly fortunate to have had a loving, engaged, and honorable role model to look up to and learn from.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
Outside of my professional life, I am deeply committed to community service and volunteer work with both local and national nonprofits. I have a strong passion for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, camping, and various sports, particularly golf. In my leisure time, I enjoy playing chess and billiards as well as hosting game nights for family and friends. I feel truly fortunate to have a loving wife and two adoring children who mean the world to me.
Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future?
I am currently focusing my investments on technologies related to smart mobility, artificial intelligence, optical character recognition (OCR), and cloud computing to prepare for the future.
What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
As the Chief Technology Officer at Echelle Resources, my primary objective is to guide our technology strategy toward a level of robust maturity. I aim to significantly enhance business growth by spearheading initiatives that boost revenue and foster new business development. Additionally, I intend to establish strong partnerships and collaborations with corporate organizations. Looking ahead five years, I envision myself in a financially secure position with the option to retire, potentially serving as CEO or on the Board of Directors for an organization I have owned and that has been acquired, all while enjoying life’s abundance.
What advice would you give to aspiring technology leaders who are looking to follow in your footsteps and become a CTO one day?
To aspiring technology leaders aiming to become a CTO, my advice is to: 1) establish goals that demand patience and discipline, backed by a solid plan; 2) cultivate curiosity by asking questions to prevent mediocrity from shadowing your career; and 3) practice kindness and strive to create value in every interaction with others.