Longtime GSA IT official calls it a day

John Ray began his federal civilian IT career during the Nixon administration. Now, after 42 years on the job -- more than 39 at the General Services Administration -- he has hung up his government hat. His last day on the job was Dec. 1.

"John's career in GSA policy has provided a model for others," said John Sullivan, data management official at the Office of Government-wide Policy, "demonstrating that one very knowledgeable person can have substantial positive impact in the government." 

Ray dealt with computer and telecommunications procurement at GSA starting in 1974, before being promoted to managing the procurement program for computer services across the government.

In 1989, Ray transferred to the Information Resources Management Service – now the Office of Government-wide Policy -- where he offered recommendations on proposed legislation, reviewed drafts of presidential memos and assessed circulars on information system, cybersecurity and acquisition topics.

"John has been a thought leader in the policies of the IT schedules," Sullivan said. "His watchful eye and deep understandings of various policies has been critical to the useful evolution of the schedules program."

Before joining the civilian workforce, Ray served 17 years with the Air Force, Air Guard and Reserve, including two years on active duty in the mid-1950s.