AI is rapidly becoming part of everyday government operations, and the conversation is already shifting from basic AI tools to agentic AI capable of completing increasingly complex tasks. While organizations are exploring practical applications to improve employee productivity, citizen services, communications and operational efficiency, many are also grappling with shadow AI, evolving governance needs, data protection and the costs of implementing these new capabilities. Panelists will share real-world AI use cases delivering value today, lessons learned from implementation, and strategies for developing governance frameworks, managing risk, protecting sensitive data, educating the workforce and preparing for the next generation of AI while balancing innovation with responsible oversight.

As technology costs continue to rise and budgets remain under pressure, government IT leaders are being challenged to do more with the resources they have. From rising hardware prices and device lifecycle management to growing cybersecurity demands and modernization initiatives, organizations must make difficult decisions about where to invest and what risks come with delaying critical technology purchases. This session explores practical strategies for building sustainable funding models, communicating the business value of IT investments, strengthening procurement and vendor partnerships, and using data to support smarter spending decisions while balancing competing priorities, identifying must-fund investments and helping executive and budget leaders understand the true cost of delaying critical technology investments.

In the face of significant economic and social challenges, government organizations are looking for ways to improve their scalability, agility, accessibility, and cost efficiency. The cloud is increasingly becoming a key part of strategic planning, and it is crucial to stay up to date with the latest models to make the most of it. This session will define and explore cloud trends and technologies so organizations can make a better-informed decision about their cloud strategies in the months and years ahead.

As cyber threats grow in complexity - ranging from AI-driven attacks and ransomware to threats against critical infrastructure - the need for sustainable cybersecurity in the public sector has never been greater. With emerging threats targeting both public and private sectors, working together across all levels of government is essential to safeguarding citizens’ data. This session will examine the future of cybersecurity funding, emerging threats posed by agentic AI, and the urgent need for multi-layered government collaboration and communication.

As agencies embrace AI to improve operations, enhance decision-making and deliver better public services, the quality, governance and classification of data have never been more important. AI is only as effective as the data behind it, making strong governance, accurate classification and clear policies essential for security, compliance and responsible innovation. Join government leaders as they discuss practical strategies for managing structured and unstructured data, strengthening data governance frameworks, improving data quality, and preparing information for AI-enabled applications. Learn how organizations are balancing innovation with privacy, security and transparency while building the trusted data foundation needed to unlock AI's full potential.

Hosted by: Jay Harton, Director and Chief Technology Officer, Department of Shared Administrative Services, Office of State Technology, State of Arkansas