Alaska Digital Government Summit 2024 Banner

Overview

The Digital Government Summit brings together technology focused public-sector professionals with leading industry partners to connect on innovative approaches, get inspired and discover new technologies. Join us and let’s improve the future of government together!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

Emerging technologies provide incredible opportunity for those of us in the public sector to reimagine how we provide services. As we strive to develop better ways to serve citizens and business, it’s incredibly important for us to share information and explore what is possible. The Digital Government Summit, now in it’s second year in Alaska, is a valuable resource for government at all levels and I’m grateful to have this tremendous event in The Last Frontier.

- Bill Smith, Chief Information Officer, State of Alaska

Speakers

Sharon Gai

Sharon Gai

Keynote Speaker and Author

Sharon Gai is an international female keynote speaker for corporations, associations and the public sector. Using her unique background from the east and west, she works with leaders worldwide to understand how to adopt AI into their workflows to increase productivity and efficiency. In her tenure at Alibaba, she advised brands and heads of state in crafting their digital strategy with programmatic marketing and AI. She has been the keynote speaker at TEDx, Singularity University, UBS, Deloitte, LVMH, Nestle, Ecomworld, and Etail. She is in the AAE list of Top Keynote Speakers in 2023. She is also one of 2024’s RETHINK Retail’s Top Retail Expert and a LinkedIn Top Voice in Public Speaking 2023. She has appeared on Bloomberg, ABC, CBC, CCTV, Techcrunch, Retail Asia, Wired, and The Next Web. She is the author of the book, Ecommerce Reimagined. Sharon has an Honors Bachelor’s degree in International Development from McGill and a Masters in Information and Knowledge Strategy from Columbia University.

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Dustin Haisler

Dustin Haisler

President, e.Republic

Dustin Haisler is the President of e.Republic - the nation's leading state and local government data, media, and events company - and the parent company of Government Technology, Governing, and the Center for Digital Government. He is also active in the academic and research community, serving as co-lead of the Center for Public Sector AI, an Eisenhower Fellow (2019 Zhi-Xing Program), board member of the Good Governance Worldwide Academic Journal, and Program Faculty for the Certified Public Management Program (CPM) at Texas State University.
As the former Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Assistant City Manager for the City of Manor, Texas, Dustin quickly built a reputation as an early innovator in civic tech. He pioneered government use of commercial technologies not previously used in the public sector, including open innovation, Quick-Response (QR) barcodes, crowdsourcing, and gamification. Recognized as one of the nation’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers for government technology, he was also named a Business Transformation 150 Leader by Constellation Research. His work has been featured in Wired, Fast Company, the Wall Street Journal, Inc. Magazine, the Today Show on NBC, The Economist, CNN, Fortune, and Citizenville by California Governor Gavin Newsom. Most recently, Dustin has led initiatives to help public sector agencies safely adopt and integrate artificial intelligence technologies through public speaking, research, training, expert testimonies, and the development of AI tools.
Dustin graduated Magna Cum Laude from LeTourneau University with a Bachelor of Business Administration and has conducted research with universities around the globe on incubating next-generation technologies in government, including the Persuasive Technology Lab at Stanford University and the University of Trento, Italy. He is a frequent speaker and expert advisor who collaborates with Fortune 500 companies, investors, government agencies, academia, startups, and non-profits worldwide on the global govtech market, public sector technology trends, and artificial intelligence development.

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Alex Bonnifield

Alex Bonnifield LinkedIn

Advisory Solutions Consultant, SailPoint

Alex is a versatile Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), renowned for mastering identity security and crafting cutting-edge cloud architectures that keep organizations a step ahead of threats. With leadership roles at the California Department of Veteran Affairs, High-Speed Rail Authority, MTI College, and SailPoint Technologies, Alex’s expertise spans critical systems, cloud innovation, and cybersecurity. When he's not architecting secure solutions, Alex is chasing new adventures in the great outdoors as a proud father and passionate explorer, always blending innovation, family, and excitement.

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Brian Brubaker

Brian Brubaker

Department Technology Officer, Department of Revenue, State of Alaska

Brian Brubaker has worked in Alaska IT in the public sector for over 2 decades, including positions at the University of Alaska Statewide, UAA, the Anchorage School District, Municipality of Anchorage and State of Alaska.  He has worked extensively with application development, ERP systems and in institutional research and data reporting with a focus in financial systems.  He has a bachelor's from UAF and MPA from UAS.  He lives in Anchorage with his wife, Amber, and their daughter Emily. 

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Terence Burke

Terence Burke

Chief Information Officer, Department of Transportation, State of Alabama

Terence W. Burke, Sr. is a native of Montgomery, AL. He is a graduate of Jefferson Davis High School and Troy University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer and information science. He has been employed with the Department of Transportation for 32 years. Terence became the Chief Information Officer of the Computer Services Bureau in January 2022. He is passionate about establishing a work environment that is enjoyable, impactful, relevant, and beneficial to employees and the department. He’s an advocate for implementing efficient, user-friendly solutions to the end-user as Information Technology advances.
Terence is a proud parent of Terence W. Burke, II and Ashlee Janell Burke. Being a parent has taught him how God looks at us as his children, wanting the best for us, and having an unconditional love for us.
Terence enjoys helping others, listening to great music, traveling, eating good food, and relaxing around water.

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Fadi Fadhil

Fadi Fadhil LinkedIn

Director, Public Sector Field Strategy, Palo Alto Networks

Fadi is a seasoned IT executive with 20+ years track record of digital transformation, business strategy, and partnership building in K12 education. Fadi served as the CIO of the CIO of Minneapolis Public Schools as well as the City of Minneapolis, and Director of St. Paul School IT Services. He also served as the Lead Technology Architect and Liaison between the US Army and the new Iraqi government in Baghdad, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II 2003-2005. Fadi offers a unique combination of strategic vision and wealth of knowledge and experience in cybersecurity, and IT operations. Today, Fadi is the Director of Public Sector Field Strategy for Palo Alto Networks empowering organizations and governments to effectively protect our digital way of life.

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Mike Hussey

Mike Hussey

Industry Executive Director, Oracle

Mike Hussey is an industry executive director for state and local strategy for Oracle Government and Education. Mike has 25 years of senior leadership experience with the State of Utah where he most recently served as CIO for the State of Utah and the executive director for the Department of Technology Services.  While serving in this cabinet-level position, Mike was known as a collaborative and transformative leader who enjoys applying technological advances available in the market.  Among some of his accomplishments while the state CIO, Mike led the state’s cloud journey and digital transformation efforts, created the state’s first cyber center, and formed the state’s first innovation fund.
Mike has been recognized as a “Top 25 Doer, Dreamer and Driver” in the public sector.

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Troy Lofven

Troy Lofven

Cyber Security Advisor, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), State of Alaska

Troy has worked in a variety of technical capacities from incident and alert response to forensics, and spent years developing and managing compliance assessment while working for the State of Alaska. This varied and aggregate experience provided a broad background that led to his current position as a Cybersecurity Advisor (CSA) for Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) where he is able to help organizations across the state of Alaska, Region 10, and the United States advance their cybersecurity posture.

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Justin Michaud

Justin Michaud

Senior Program Manager, Information Technology, Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, State of Alaska 

Justin Michaud, PMP, is a seasoned IT leader with an notable professional record, currently serving as the Senior Program Manager, IT at the Mat-Su Borough School District for the past eight years. With over two decades of experience in the technology sector and a remarkable 22-year tenure in the K12 education sector, Justin has consistently demonstrated his leadership and effective management abilities. He boasts a strong academic foundation, including a Master of Business Administration in Technology Management, a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems, and two Associate degrees in Information Technology and Computer Information Systems.
Committed to professional growth and community involvement, Justin actively participates in various organizations, including Alaska Smart Communities (Advisory Group), InfraGard (Member), and INTERFACE Alaska (Advisory Council) and is continually participating in additional training. He's known for his unwavering support and willingness to collaborate with fellow K12 technology professionals, contributing to the advancement of education in Alaska.
Originally from Maine, Justin has made Alaska his home for the past 22 years. Alongside his wife, he is raising two teenagers while supporting his passion for motorcycling as a Certified Rider Coach (MSF) and Certified Harley-Davidson Riding Academy Rider Coach. Beyond the thrill of the open road, his hobbies include exploring the unique beauty of Alaska through hiking and fishing. Justin also cherishes quality time with his family, encapsulating his dedication to both his professional and personal pursuits.

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Dan Monarch

Dan Monarch

Chief Information Security Officer, Office of Information Technology, AK Dept of Administration

Dan Monarch is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the State of Alaska, bringing extensive experience in IT across various roles within both private and public sectors. His diverse background encompasses software development, project management, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and cybersecurity. Dan earned his degree in Information Systems and Computer Science from Washington State University. In his free time, he enjoys boating, fishing, hunting, and spending quality time with his family. Dan is deeply committed to safeguarding individuals from the perils of the online world.

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Benjamin Shier

Benjamin Shier

Chief Information Technology Officer, University of Alaska System

Benjamin Shier serves as the University of Alaska’s (UA) Chief Information Technology Officer.  Shier is a lifelong Alaskan with more than 22 years in Alaska public service, holding a number of roles in senior IT leadership, including:  Chief Technology Officer for Policy and Planning at the State Office of Information Technology; Media Technology Coordinator for the Governor; and CIO for the University of Alaska Anchorage, as well as several other executive leadership roles within the State of Alaska central IT organization.
In these roles Shier gained experience in systems management, strategic planning, organizational oversight, policy development, budgeting, cybersecurity, and large-scale change management. In his current role, Shier oversees UA’s enterprise technology services including telecommunications, Cybersecurity, enterprise applications, and systemwide IT governance and policy. 
Shier received his Masters of Public Administration and BS in Information Systems from the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS). Shier and his wife and children presently live in the Matsu valley.

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Tucker Simpson

Tucker Simpson

Cybersecurity Research Engineer, Auburn University

Tucker Simpson is a Cybersecurity Research Engineer and Project Manager for Auburn University’s McCrary Institute. Tucker is responsible for growing the McCrary Institute’s applied research efforts in Cybersecurity at both Auburn University and in Huntsville, AL at the Auburn University Research and Innovation Campus. Prior to joining Auburn University, Tucker served as a Government Civilian in the Department of the Army before moving to industry in roles conducting and leading Cyber Threat Intelligence efforts. Tucker is a Software Engineering Alumni of Auburn University.

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Niel Smith

Niel Smith

Deputy Chief Information Officer, Department of Administration, State of Alaska 

Niel is the Deputy CIO at the State of Alaska since December 2019. He is the executive lead for the governor’s rapid cloud migration and Microsoft security projects and was born in western Alaska and has worked in IT for over 25 years in health care, for native corporations, and telecom provider industries.

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Steve Stewart

IT Manager, City of Wasilla

Steve has been working in IT professionally for 20 years now. Currently working for the City of Wasilla as the IT Manager, doing everything from installing workstations, deploying firewalls, and managing an IT budget.  Steve has worked in government his whole career, with one small stint with a private utility. He has worked for a school district, state government, borough, government utility, and now small local government. Steve has seen a lot of different government IT environments in Alaska.
He is Alaska born and raised, and plan on never leaving this great state. 

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Paula Vrana

Paula Vrana

Commissioner, Department of Administration, State of Alaska

Commissioner Paula Vrana is a fourth generation, lifelong Alaskan, raised in the southeastern Alaska community of Skagway. Ms. Vrana holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a Juris Doctorate degree. Prior to joining the Department of Administration, Ms. Vrana practiced law and served as the managing attorney for the law firm of Brena, Bell, and Clarkson for thirteen years. She has also served as the Chief Executive for two Alaskan nonprofits in the health industry. Ms. Vrana lives on a farm in the Matanuska Valley with her husband and two sons, where they raise horses and cattle and enjoy all the outdoor activities that Alaska has to offer.

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Agenda

Wednesday, November 13

8:00 am Alaska

Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

9:00 am Alaska

Opening Remarks

Daniel Urquhart, Secretary of Information Technology, Chief Information Officer, State of Alabama

9:15 am Alaska

Keynote – The Age of Digital Disruption: Moving Forward, Faster

Technology advancements continue to disrupt at a swifter pace than ever before. 2023 witnessed the impact of AI in all sectors, and this year the public sector is required to adapt and adopt at a speed unheard of in the past. For the rest of our careers, intelligence will be built into all devices, applications, and processes. This changes how we must think about the use of data and the integration of humans and machines. What are the crucial strategies for adapting to and maximizing the benefits of these advancements? This session will have you ready to move forward at high speed as it paints a vibrant picture showing how synthetic intelligence can amplify current systems and our workforce.

Scott Klososky, Technologist, Futurist, Humanist, Author and Consultant

10:15 am Alaska

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

10:45 am Alaska

Concurrent Sessions

AI: The Art of Possible in Government

As AI steadily advances into the public sector, it has the potential to enhance constituent services, improve efficiency, drive innovation and more. However, as with any emerging technology, its impact on government agencies and their workforces raises more questions than answers. Explore how public-sector organizations are approaching AI, including the benefits, challenges, and strategic considerations, and learn key insights into effectively integrating AI tools to enhance public service delivery.

Moderator: Honorable Mike Shaw, State Representative, State of Alabama

Bryan Phillips, Chief Information Officer, Hoover City Schools

Navigating the Intersection of Data Privacy and Identity Management

In today's digital landscape, organizations face increasing challenges in balancing data privacy with effective identity management. Ensuring seamless user access with robust data security while minimizing the risk of data mismanagement has become increasingly complex. What are the best approaches to managing access in a way that minimizes risk, enhances user trust, and meets the demands of both security and compliance? This session will explore the critical intersection of data privacy and identity management, highlighting best practices for implementing secure identity solutions that align with stringent privacy regulations.

Moderator: Gary Parker, Chief Data Officer, Alabama Medicaid Agency

Bryon Campbell, Chief Information Officer/Chief Information Security Officer, Madison County Commission, Madison County

Mark Craymer, Executive Director, Shared Services, Office of Information Technology, State of Alabama

Finding, Keeping, and Growing Today’s IT Workforce

As the workforce landscape evolves, attracting and retaining top talent has become a critical challenge for organizations, especially the public sector. The modern workforce values flexibility, purpose-driven work, and opportunities for growth more than ever before. Where can the public sector find new talent to fill critical roles? How do we motivate and upskill our existing teams to meet the needs of an ever-evolving tech environment? This session shares creative tactics and strategies for establishing, retaining, and fostering a diverse, future-ready workforce.

Moderator: Sara Fenn, Director of Technology, Jefferson County School

Tara Hutchison, Communications Director, Department of Labor, State of Alabama

Nikki Kerns, Information Technology Director, City of Dothan

Optimizing Partner Relationships

To ensure the delivery of successful, consistent services and the efficient use of taxpayer dollars, cooperative, mutually beneficial IT partnerships are crucial for state and local governments. Skill and experience are needed to align the right IT solutions to fit current and future business strategies, functional requirements, technical specifications, and budgets. Hear benchmarking strategies on optimizing partner relationships and outsourcing agreements, focusing on key aspects such as contract negotiation, performance monitoring, compliance, and risk mitigation.

Moderator: Keith Cousins, Director, Business Relations and Governance, Office of Information Technology, State of Alabama

Christine Cook, Chief Procurement Officer, State of Alabama

Hollye Massey, Government Development Director, CSpire

Brittany Peterson, Senior Buyer, Division of Procurement, State of Alabama

11:45 am Alaska

Lunch

12:45 pm Alaska

General Session – Fortifying the Digital Fortress: Cybersecurity Strategies, Resources, and Funding

In an era of escalating cyber threats, state and local governments must adopt proactive approaches to stay ahead of attackers. Is your organization prepared to address evolving cyber threats? How can we work together to defend and respond? Learn how to find, access, and leverage grant funding available for cybersecurity risk assessment, training and programs. Explore key strategies and essential resources, such as operational technology, to stay ahead while fostering collaboration against cyber adversaries.

Moderator: Jeremy Ward, Director of Communications, Office of Information Technology, State of Alabama Office of Information Technology

Keith Cousins, Director, Business Relations and Governance, Office of Information Technology, State of Alabama

Clyde Roark, Cybersecurity Advisor, Region 4 (Gulf Coast), Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

Tucker Simpson, Cybersecurity Research Engineer, Auburn University

1:25 pm Alaska

Short Break

Please proceed to the concurrent sessions

1:30 pm Alaska

Concurrent Sessions

SaaS Customization: Successes and Failures

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, Software as a Service (SaaS) platforms offer flexibility and scalability that are transforming industries and governments. However, the journey to effectively customizing SaaS solutions comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. This session will delve into the real-world successes and pitfalls of SaaS customization, exploring key factors for optimal outcomes, including the importance of aligning customizations with business goals, managing technical debt, and balancing the need for flexibility with system stability.

Moderator: Scott Kearney, Chief Technology Officer, Information Technology, City of Mobile

Aimee Cubbage: Managing Director, Coastal

Manley Haynie, Database Systems Manager, Computer Services Bureau, Department of Transportation, State of Alabama

Mike Vanhook, IT Business Solutions Manager, Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), State of Alabama

Future-Proofing IT: Strategies for Resilience and Continuity

In today’s unpredictable world, the continued operation of government services in a disaster is paramount, and safeguarding critical digital infrastructure and data has never been more important. Public sector organizations must collaborate to build resilience against diverse disruptions such as natural disasters and cyber threats. What lessons have we learned from past incidents that could be applied to future preparedness? This session provides an in-depth exploration of continuity of operation plans and highlights best practices in IT continuity and recovery.

Jay Moseley, Director, Alabama Fusion Center, Homeland Security Advisor, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency

Scottie Orr, Regional Director, Cybersecurity - Public Sector, Fortinet

Frank Yarnell, Director of Information Security, Office of Information Technology, State of Alabama.

Leadership Communications: Navigating Across Differences

Effective leadership communication is crucial for building cohesive teams and driving organizational success. In today's diverse workforce, IT leaders must navigate varying communication styles and expectations while fostering accountability among team members. This session will explore the nuances of leadership communication to bridge communication gaps and enhance collaboration across diverse, multi-faceted teams.

Terence Burke, Chief Information Officer, Department of Transportation, State of Alabama

Taylor Nichols, General Counsel, Department of Finance, State of Alabama

Aaron Tripi, Chief Information Officer, Law Enforcement Agency, State of Alabama

Exclusive Briefing for Industry Partners

Hosted by: State of Alabama

Daniel Urquhart, Secretary of Information Technology, Chief Information Officer, State of Alabama

Willie Fields, Deputy Secretary, Office of Information Technology, State of Alabama

2:30 pm Alaska

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

3:00 pm Alaska

General Session – The State of AI in GovTech: Exploring the Future

Presented by the Center for Public Sector AI, this keynote presentation delves into the present status of Artificial Intelligence in the GovTech sector, offering a detailed examination of AI's applications within state and local governments. We will explore AI's potential future paths in GovTech, highlighting emerging trends and discussing how technology and policy leaders can prepare for AI's impact on service delivery. We will address starting points for AI implementation, stressing the importance of collaboration, ethical considerations, and equitable technology access. This forward-looking talk will equip attendees with a thorough understanding of AI's trajectory in GovTech, providing practical insights to effectively leverage AI for public sector innovation and advancement.

4:00 pm Alaska

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.

Bill Rials, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government

4:30 pm Alaska

End of Conference

*Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.

Marriott Anchorage Downtown

820 W 7th Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 279-8000

Get Directions To
Marriott Anchorage Downtown

Advisory Board

Government Representatives

Colin Amundson
Chief Workforce and Finance Officer
Department of Administration
State of Alaska

Nils Andreassen
Executive Director
Alaska Municipal League

Mark Breunig
Cybersecurity State Coordinator
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

Brian Brubaker
Department Technology Officer
Department of Revenue
State of Alaska

Amy Eakin
Director of Technology
Technology Department
Northwest Arctic Borough School District

John Fargo
Chief Technology Officer
Courts, Information System
Alaska Court System

Ted Johnston
Department Technology Officer
Department of Public Safety
State of Alaska

Ryan Kendall
Department Technology Officer
Department of Environmental Conservation
State of Alaska

Paul Krous
Department Technology Officer
Department of Education and Early Development
State of Alaska

Jerry Kung
Department Technology Officer
Department of Fish and Game
State of Alaska

Chris Letterman
Chief Information Officer
Information Services Department
Bartlett Regional Hospital

Keith Lewis
Department Technology Officer
Department of Family and Community Services
State of Alaska

Jennifer McCaul
Department Technology Officer
Office of Information Technology - Law
State of Alaska

Mark Merchant
Chief Information Security Officer
Office of Information Technology
Municipality of Anchorage

Justin Michaud
Senior Program Manager
Information Technology
Mat-Su School District

Chris Murray
IT Director
Municipality of Juneau Administration

Ty Nesheim
Network Analyst
Municipality of Anchorage

Patty Robinson
Department Technology Officer
Department of Natural Resources
State of Alaska

Thor Ryan
Chief Risk Officer
State of Alaska Revenue

Myría Shakespeare
Department Technology Officer
Department of Health
State of Alaska

Benjamin Shier
Chief Information Technology Officer
University of Alaska System

Niel Smith
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Department of Administration
State of Alaska

Bill Smith
Chief Information Officer
State of Alaska

Steve Stewart
Information Technology Director
City of Wasilla

Jean Sullivan
Department Technology Officer
Department of Administration
State of Alaska

Kelly Swearingin
Department Technology Officer
Department of Administration
State of Alaska

Chris White
Chief Technology Officer, Operations
Department of Administration
State of Alaska

Vince Yelmene
Department Technology Officer
Department of Transportation and Facilities
State of Alaska

Registration Information / Contact Us

Contact Information

2025 Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact:

Heather Earney
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1339
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com

Venue

Marriott Anchorage Downtown

820 W 7th Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 279-8000