Dr. Joe Phillips

Dr. Joe Phillips is an accomplished educational leader with extensive experience in both the military and education sectors. As Chief Strategy and Technology Officer for Fulton County Schools, he leads IT operations, cybersecurity, and digital transformation for over 90,000 students, driving innovation and operational efficiency to enhance educational outcomes. A former U.S. Army officer, Dr. Phillips held leadership roles including Commander, Chief of Staff, and Chief Information Officer, managing operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa. His military service shaped his expertise in strategic planning, resource management, and crisis response, skills he now applies to education leadership. In his education career, Dr. Phillips has successfully led large districts such as Kansas City, Volusia County, and Broward County. Notably, he helped Kansas City Public Schools regain state accreditation after more than a decade and implemented transformative technology initiatives that improved student outcomes. Dr. Phillips holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Master’s in Business and Organizational Security Management, and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. Recognized as a Top 100 EdTech Leader, he is dedicated to fostering student success through strategic innovation and data-driven solutions.