Quantum computing firm IonQ has appointed former Department of War technology official Katie Arrington as its next chief information officer, marking her transition from senior government service to industry.
Arrington, who will assume the role on Monday, most recently served as acting CIO at DOW, where she advised senior leaders on enterprise IT, cybersecurity, communications, spectrum and emerging technology policy, IonQ said Thursday.
Why Did Katie Arrington Leave the Pentagon?
Arrington stepped away from her Pentagon role in December following the Senate confirmation of Kirsten Davies, who was nominated by President Donald Trump in May 2025 to serve as the department’s permanent CIO. Davies was sworn into office just before the Christmas holiday, concluding Arrington’s tenure as acting CIO, DefenseScoop reported.
During her time at the department, Arrington played a central role in shaping cybersecurity and technology modernization efforts across the defense enterprise.
What Was Arrington’s Role in Post-Quantum Cryptography Planning?
Shortly before departing government service, Arrington issued a department-wide memorandum directing all components and combatant commands to begin preparing for migration to post-quantum cryptography.
The directive cited advances in quantum information science and required defense organizations to inventory cryptographic systems, designate migration leads and plan for the transition away from cryptographic methods vulnerable to future quantum-enabled threats. The memo also outlined oversight requirements for testing, acquisition and readiness activities tied to post-quantum technologies.
What Will Arrington Oversee at IonQ?
At IonQ, Arrington will be responsible for modernizing and securing the company’s global enterprise systems, protecting digital assets and supply chains, and strengthening cyber and operational resilience as the company scales its quantum platform offerings.
IonQ Chairman and CEO Niccolo de Masi said Arrington’s “passion for defending the nation and advancing the kind of breakthrough innovation that quantum computing represents will help accelerate IonQ’s growth and impact.” Masi described quantum computing as “one of the most consequential technologies shaping the future of national defense, economic competitiveness, and global security.”
Arrington, a past Wash100 Award recipient, will report to Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Inder Singh.
