Kateri Candee
With 27 years of service with the Washington State Patrol, Kateri built a distinguished career in public safety, technology, security, and leadership. Beginning her career in dispatch, she progressed through the ranks while taking on increasingly complex roles and responsibilities. Her career included serving as an Information Security Officer for the State and later as an Assistant Division Commander, where she developed extensive experience in operations, technology, security, and organizational leadership.
One of Kateri’s most significant accomplishments was building the Firearms Background Division from the ground up. She was a Division Commander, played a key role in establishing the division, developing its operations, and creating processes to support the important work of conducting firearms background checks. Her expertise in this area also led to national-level involvement with the FBI, where she served as Chair of both the NICS Subcommittee and the Compliance Evaluations Subcommittee. In these roles, Kateri collaborated with law enforcement and public safety professionals from across the country, contributing her knowledge and leadership to national discussions surrounding firearms background checks, compliance, and program operations.
Today, Kateri serves as Chief Technology Officer, bringing more than two decades of public safety experience and a unique understanding of the intersection between technology, security, operations, and law enforcement. Her career progression from frontline public safety communications to executive leadership has shaped a practical, collaborative approach to technology, innovation, and organizational problem-solving.
Kateri holds a bachelor’s degree in Business and is committed to using her experience to support public safety and effective service to the community. She lives in Puyallup with her spouse and enjoys spending time with family. Outside of work, Kateri loves to travel and embraces both sides of the travel experience—from camping and exploring the outdoors to relaxing at all-inclusive resorts. Whether discovering a new destination or spending time with family, she values experiences, connection, and making lasting memories.