We give our lives to what we believe in. Some live believing yet never seeing the result of their effort, but they saw it in their mind and heart and that was enough. Others know the double win of investing into a vision and realizing its fulfillment. Too many quit in the middle; having given much, but doubting its effect, they neither realize in their heart nor their life that, which at one time, captured their soul.

I have chosen to invest who I am into the CIO and the field of technology leaders. I believe you are the new pioneer, the stabilizing force, the innovative prowess. Part of my passion is that not all see you in that way. But they will. You are a leader in a transition, and not just in your company. The very fabric of our great nation, and the collaboration of our amazing world, is the fruition of your own investment.

Each year, I end my articles with a tribute to you. This year is no different. Next week I will post several thoughts on the year ahead; today, I represent the voices of millions of Americans who thank you, whether they know what you have done for them or not.

Of all the 2020 vision meetings and conferences that took place prior to this year, few, if any, anticipated such a disruptive pandemic. You were handed the wheel of a ship that headed into a perfect storm: Pandemic, increased cyber-warfare, political unrest, social upheaval. Contrary to what others might think, and compared to other professional disciplines, you were not caught off-guard. By nature of your profession and make-up, you live in the now and not yet, you confront threats people are unaware of, and you already work with less to accomplish more.

I have long contended for the technology leader to be included in the highest levels of strategic planning and decision-making. Storms have a way of hastening the inevitable. I trust you are in a company that newly appreciates the value that you bring.

Because of you, millions of displaced workers were able to keep their jobs through remote contribution. In one of the most vulnerable spaces ever, you kept your company secure from threats. A society disrupted in nearly every field relied even more on the work you have been doing for years. You constructed the well from which people needed to draw in a time of drought. Do not underestimate the value of your contribution. It has been an industry wide effort for sure, and you are of the pioneers who made it happen.

I meet daily with your peers. I have heard the similar frustrations; I have coached on the same concerns. But I have also seen the determination to dig deep; I have seen the refusal to be discouraged to do more with less money. It seems we toss the term hero around a lot these days, but what else would I call someone who has given their life to advance the well-being of people and doesn’t give up when the challenges erupt?

I have a simple desire for you as the year nears its end. Know that you did well. And as you look to 2021, know that your recent work will soon be rewarded, but even more, that the investment of your life is realizing great return.