Tlingit & Haida is pleased to announce that Chris Cropley has been named Chief Information Officer (CIO), providing executive leadership for the Tribe’s technology operations while continuing to serve as Executive Director of Tidal Network. As a member of Tlingit & Haida’s executive leadership team, Cropley will provide strategic technology leadership across Tribal operations while helping advance the Tribe’s economic sovereignty through Tidal Network.

Cropley brings nearly three decades of experience in telecommunications, network infrastructure, technology operations, and information systems. He joined Tlingit & Haida in 2021 as a Network Architect and has served as a director since 2022, helping advance the Tribe’s technology infrastructure and connectivity initiatives.

Prior to joining Tlingit & Haida, Cropley served as Territory Manager with Leverage Information Systems for nearly 10 years and previously spent four years as Network Manager with SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC). He also worked as a telecommunications consultant from 1998 to 2006.

Cropley holds a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications Management from DeVry University. His professional credentials include Cisco Customer Success Manager Specialist certification and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification.

In his role as CIO, Cropley will advise the executive leadership team on technology investments, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and digital transformation. He will lead the development and implementation of technology strategies that strengthen Tribal sovereignty, enhance operational excellence, protect critical information and systems, and support the Tribe’s long-term growth.

“Technology is essential to how we serve our tribal citizens, operate our government, and build a stronger future for the Tribe,” said Tlingit & Haida President Chalyee ÉeshRichard Peterson. “Chris has been instrumental in advancing our technology infrastructure and connectivity, and his experience, institutional knowledge, and leadership make him well positioned to guide Tlingit & Haida’s technology enterprise into the future.”

In his role as Executive Director of Tidal Network, Cropley will continue to oversee the growth and development of the Tribe’s telecommunication enterprise, with responsibility for strategic planning, business development, financial performance, client relationships, service delivery, and organizational growth. He will work to expand partnerships and identify sustainable revenue opportunities that strengthen Tlingit & Haida’s economic sovereignty.

“I’m honored to take on this role and help shape the next chapter of Tlingit & Haida’s technology enterprise,” said Chris Cropley. “There is tremendous opportunity to use technology to strengthen our operations, protect sovereignty, expand connectivity and create sustainable economic opportunities for the Tribe. I look forward to building on the work we’ve already accomplished and working with our teams and partners to continue moving Tlingit & Haida forward.”

The combined CIO and Tidal Network leadership role reflects Tlingit & Haida’s commitment to aligning technology, innovation, connectivity and economic development to support a stronger, more secure, and self-sufficient Tribal government.