- Founded
- 2015-01-01 in Olympia, Washington, USA
- Headquarters
- 1500 Jefferson Street SE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA
- sales@fsbtech.com
- Phone
- +44 33-3996-1000
Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech) is the consolidated technology services agency of the Washington state government. Created by the legislature in 2015 and formally codified in statute in 2017 (RCW 43.105.006), WaTech serves as the central provider of information technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and strategic direction for over 80 state agencies, as well as local governments and public-benefit nonprofits. The agency was formed through the merger of the former Department of Information Services (DIS), the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO), and the enterprise applications division of the Department of Enterprise Services (DES). Today, WaTech operates the state’s core technology network and data centers, manages enterprise integration platforms and cloud services, and leads the state’s cybersecurity and privacy initiatives through the Office of Cybersecurity (OCS) and the Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP). With a headcount of approximately 400 employees and an annual operating budget derived from state appropriations and service fees, WaTech is a critical backbone for Washington’s digital government operations. The agency also manages the annual Technology Policy Certification process and oversees the statewide IT portfolio for major projects.
Detailed Review
History and Formation
Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech) is the result of a multi-decade consolidation of Washington state’s IT functions. Its roots trace back to the legislative creation of the Data Processing Authority in 1973, followed by the Department of Information Services (DIS) in 1987. In 2011, the legislature formed Consolidated Technology Services (CTS), combining the OCIO, DIS, and other units. Four years later, Governor Inslee’s 2015-17 budget called for a more centralized approach, leading to the formal creation of WaTech as the “consolidated technology services agency.” The agency absorbed the enterprise applications division of DES and later added the Office of Cybersecurity (2015) and the Office of Privacy and Data Protection.
Core Services
WaTech’s primary mission is to provide shared technology services that are more efficient and secure than if each agency procured them independently. Its core offerings include operation of the state’s central network (WAN/LAN), data center hosting, enterprise email and collaboration tools, API management platforms, cloud infrastructure (including AWS and Azure environments), and the “WaTech Connect” cloud-based contact center solution. The agency also sets statewide IT and security policies, manages the Technology Services Board (TSB), and conducts major project oversight. In 2023, WaTech was recognized as an AWS State and Local Government Champion for its adoption of cloud services.
Key Functions
A key function is the annual Agency Technology Policy Certification, where agencies must attest compliance with policies covering security, accessibility (WCAG 2.1 Level AA), and data privacy. WaTech is preparing state agencies for the DOJ Title II Accessibility Rule effective April 2026, including creating a Community of Practice for digital accessibility advocates. The Office of Cybersecurity (OCS) provides threat monitoring, incident response, and security training for state employees. The Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP) focuses on data governance and public education.
Challenges
Challenges include managing legacy systems across diverse agency environments, maintaining a skilled workforce in a competitive tech labor market, and addressing the growing complexity of ransomware threats targeting state and local governments. WaTech does not operate as a profit-making entity; its budget is funded through state appropriations and fee-for-service arrangements with client agencies. As a state entity, it is overseen by the Governor’s office and the Technology Services Board.
Key Products
WA.Platform
The core iGaming platform, fully scalable and customizable, aggregating over 75 game providers and 15,000+ games, supporting 80+ payment methods, and enabling operators to launch Casino, Sportsbook, Lottery, Fantasy, and Poker businesses.
Central Network & Data Center Operations
Manages the state’s core networking and data storage infrastructure, ensuring reliable connectivity for all Washington State agencies.
Cybersecurity Services (Office of Cybersecurity)
Provides threat monitoring, incident response, and statewide security policy to protect government digital assets.
Privacy & Data Protection (Office of Privacy and Data Protection)
Advises agencies on compliance with state and federal privacy laws, including the Washington State Privacy Act.
Digital Accessibility Program
Ensures all state websites and mobile applications meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards through policy guidance, training, and a community of practice.
Technology Policy & Strategic Direction
Sets statewide IT policies, including the Annual Agency Technology Policy Certification that holds agencies accountable for accessibility, security, and data management.
WaTech Network & Data Center
Operates the state’s core network infrastructure and the consolidated data center for all state agencies.
WaTech Connect
Cloud-based contact center solution using AWS, enabling automated self-service and secure interactions for state agencies.
Office of Cybersecurity (OCS)
Centralized cybersecurity operations including threat monitoring, incident response, and statewide security policy.
Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP)
Leads data privacy advocacy, education, and governance for the state.
Enterprise Integration Platform
API management and middleware services to connect agency systems.
Cloud Services (AWS/Azure)
Provides cloud migration support, managed cloud environments, and cloud brokerage for state agencies.
Offices & Headcount
400 employees (approx.)