CABPES Appoints Al Gardner, Executive Director of Public Safety for the City and County of Denver, to Its Board of Directors

For nearly 45 years, CABPES has inspired and prepared highly-motivated students in Colorado's Metro Denver, Aurora and Cherry Creek school districts to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

CABPES is delighted to welcome Al Gardner, Executive Director of Public Safety for the City and County of Denver, to its Board.

In June, CABPES appointed Al Gardner, Executive Director of Public Safety for the City and County of Denver, to one of two new positions on its Board of Directors.

"Mr. Gardner brings a valuable new perspective to our Board and to our organization as a whole," said Dr. Dewey Brigham, CABPES' Executive Director. "His exceptional background in public service and technology represents the unique combination of leadership and expertise we have sought for many years."

Gardner is an accomplished technology executive and public sector leader who currently serves as Denver's Executive Director of Public Safety. In this role, he provides strategic leadership for one of the region's largest public safety organizations, overseeing Denver Police, Fire, Sheriff, 911, and community corrections.

Before joining the City and County of Denver, Gardner served as Senior Vice President and Head of Global Technology Operations at Inspirato, where he helped lead the company's technology transformation through its successful NASDAQ public offering. His executive leadership experience also includes roles with Salud Family Health, Maximus, Jack Henry & Associates, Colorado Credit Union, and Level 3 Communications.

Throughout his career, Gardner has been recognized for his leadership and service, including being named a 2025 Urban Spectrum African American Who Makes a Difference, receiving the Denver Business Journal C-Suite Award, and being selected as a 2026 9NEWS Leader of the Year finalist.

He also serves on the Colorado State Board of Health and has held leadership roles with numerous civic and community organizations including past board member for the Colorado Technology Association. The appointment of Al Gardner reflects CABPES' ongoing commitment to attracting visionary leaders whose experience, integrity, and dedication will strengthen the organization and inspire the next generation of STEM innovators across Colorado.