LAYNE MORRISON

About

Layne Morrison is a data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience in strategy and transformation. Her expertise spans artificial intelligence, machine learning, operations research, and strategic data modernization. Layne is known for blending technical expertise with empowering people leadership, whether in building strong teams, modernizing systems, and launching data products.

Layne previously served at the U.S. Department of Education as a Deputy Chief Data Officer, where she led enterprise AI, advanced analytics, and business intelligence initiatives across the agency. Prior to her federal service, she advised public and private sector clients on healthcare innovation, fraud detection, global supply chains, and strategic planning with IBM Global Business Services. Layne began her career at the University of California, Berkeley, managing federally funded research initiatives in computer science, robotics, and autonomous systems—laying a foundation for her lifelong commitment to emerging technology.

She holds a Master of Science in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University and maintains certifications as a Certified Analytics Professional (CAP), Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP), and Project Management Professional (PMP). Based in Washington, D.C., Layne is a passionate advocate for using data as a force for public good and for training the next generation of data leaders.

Roles

Oct 2020–Aug 2025

Former role

Deputy Chief Data Officer (2023), Lead Data Scientist (2020)

Department of Education

District of Columbia

Data Scientist

· Recognized data leader, delivering high-impact innovation to advance the strategic use of data, analytics and AI for ED offices. Responsible for 10+ projects/products annually, using Python, R, SAS, Tableau, Power BI, GitHub, ChatGPT assistants, Power Platform.

· Oversaw dynamic division of data scientists, responsible for analytics contract oversight, vendor relations, division budget planning and congressional justifications. Developed world class analytics capabilities, branded as internal consulting unit. Performed strategic planning for emerging technology and research agenda.

· Catalyzed data culture in cabinet-level agency: Spearheaded ED Data Literacy, an award-winning and pioneering program among federal agencies. Launched ED Data Science Training Program serving 150+s midcareer professionals with 30% growth yearly. Developed complex curriculum, teaching weekly, transitioned over time to ED-grown instructors. Designed and delivered powerful data storytelling events, engaging 10% of the agency. Led 500+ member Data Professional Community of Practice.

· Modernized ED processes, including Power BI dashboards for integrative insights, Python-based automation and AWS enterprise analytics platform oversight.

· Built cross-functional teams and executive champions throughout the agency, using strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills. Integral to ED’s GenAI strategy and policy.

Jul 2005–Sep 2020

Former role

Service Area Manager, Senior Managing Consultant

IBM Global Business Services (GBS) Advanced Analytics

District of Columbia

Data Scientist

· Successfully delivered dozens of projects for federal and health care clients, as technical expert and project manager. Program/Project Manager of record responsible for successful management of data/analytics/AI projects ranging in revenue from $1M-$4M/annually at agencies including ED, USAID, HHS, IRS, USCIS, VA.

· Delivered transformative projects in predictive analytics, strategy, microsimulation, simulation, process re-engineering, and text analytics, using SAS, SPSS, R, Python, visualization and GIS software.

· Recognized communicator: regular presentations to agency executives; co-authored papers with federal clients; delivered complex and high profile reports for clients; presented at conferences and collaborated with IBM Research on solutions; authored blogs and other informal communications.

· Supervised twelve data science consultants annually since 2010 and contributed to IBM's solutions, methods, and communities while meeting utilization targets of 90% and above.