Momentum inside an organization rarely comes from technology by itself. It is shaped by people, leadership, and the mindset that guides how teams work, adapt, and move forward together.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Steven Barley, Chief Information and Technology Officer at the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS), to explore how momentum is unlocked by shifting IT from a support function into a strategic business partner. Steven shares his journey from operations into IT leadership and how it shaped his approach to aligning business needs with technology. He explains why real progress comes from understanding core problems, not just applying new tools, and how strong relationships drive better outcomes.

Through his modernization efforts, Steven highlights the importance of intentional AI adoption, strong governance, and investing in people through upskilling. He shows how empowering teams, encouraging cross functional thinking, and focusing on customer experience can transform organizations. Ultimately, he reinforces that lasting momentum comes from developing people and aligning strategy with execution.

Key takeaways:

• Momentum is driven by people and mindset, not just technology
• IT creates more value when it acts as a strategic business partner
• Understanding problems deeply matters more than applying new tool

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:00) Transition from operations to IT leadership

(05:32) Advice on l Learning from other industries and experiences

(09:31) Networking through conferences and peer groups

(14:13) Shifting IT to strategic business partner

(19:08) Using skills matrix to upskill teams

(22:24) Building data foundation before AI implementation

(24:24) Challenges of scaling AI governance efforts

(26:15) Starting small to build AI trust

(31:54) Key advice for modern CIO leadership

(39:17) Creative resources to check out

(42:05) Rapid fire questions with Steven

(46:01) Leadership legacy and helping others grow

Steven Barley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sbarley/

Explore the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS): https://www.linkedin.com/company/indiana-public-retirement-system/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS