Innovation Steward Profile:
DMV's Beth Thompson

One of the biggest obstacles to greater participation in Innovate ITD is that employees simply don't know who to go to to submit an innovation or just talk about a fledgling idea. To remedy that, we are starting a series of profiles of the innovation stewards in each division and district.

Beth Thompson (she can be reached at 9-8278) is a fairly new steward, taking over the role from Kendra Conder in May. She represents probably the most active division in all of ITD in terms of submissions to Innovate ITD.

Thompson came to the position completely unaware of ITD's innovation process or pedigree.

"I had no idea about innovations or being a steward when I became one," she explained. "But the whole idea of it was very intriguing. And now that I know what it entails, I am so glad I followed my instinct to become one!"

She recently took part in the Innovative Company of the Year gala Oct. 23, sponsored by the Idaho Technology Council. ITD was one of three finalists.

"I felt honored to be a part of such a huge event. For a state agency to even be nominated for Innovative company of the year is practically unheard of."

Thompson said her favorite part about being a steward is meeting people. "This position provides us with such a platform to meet so many new people."

When asked what she'd tell a co-worker who is hesitant to use the innovation funnel or has questions, she said "there are very few state agencies who support their employees to bring ideas and innovations to the table the way ITD does. Whether you’re a tenured employee or still on probation, ALL ideas and innovations are valued."

Here are all of the innovation stewards across the state:

DMV - Beth Thompson
Administration - Angela Monson
Aeronautics & Public Transportation - Shauna Miller
Highways - David Coladner & Eric Dahlinger
D1 - Junior Williams
D2 - Bud Converse
D3 - Lori Copeland
D4 - DJ Price
D5 - Evan Snow
D6 - Jet Johnstone

Published 11-08-19