The Georgia Emerging Technology Summit: Data & AI is a pioneering event tailored for state, regional, and local public sector leadership to delve into the transformative potential of emerging technologies, including AI. This summit offers a comprehensive exploration of the current state and future trajectory of technologies set to revolutionize public service delivery. Through a blend of innovation, regulations, hands-on technology demos, and compelling case studies, attendees will gain invaluable insights into how emerging technologies can enhance the lives of residents.
As artificial intelligence gains momentum within state government IT, navigating the possibilities and challenges requires a careful, strategic approach. That’s the focus of the 2024 Georgia Emerging Technology Summit: AI/Data. In addition to exploring ways that AI can enhance service delivery and automate processes, we will examine the security measures and ethical guidelines needed to undergird its use. The summit’s compelling discussions and interactive sessions are designed for IT professionals as well as business leaders in state and local government. We hope you’ll plan to join us.
- Shawnzia Thomas, State Chief Information Officer and GTA Executive Director, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia
The responsible use of technology is crucial in addressing specific business challenges. At the 2024 Georgia Emerging Technology Summit: AI/Data, we will focus on the transformative power of artificial intelligence, highlighting the importance of data privacy, ethical frameworks, and best practices. This summit offers a vital platform for state and local government leaders to discuss policy development that ensures AI adoption is both innovative and secure. Additionally, we will stress the need to train the workforce for effective and responsible AI integration. Join us as we collaborate to shape the future of AI, ensuring it meets ethical standards and addresses real-world business needs.
- Nikhil Deshpande, Chief AI and Digital Officer, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia
Friday, December 6 |
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8:00 am Eastern |
Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit AreaGrand Ballroom Prefunction |
9:00 am Eastern |
Welcome RemarksGrand Ballroom ABShawnzia Thomas, Chief Information Officer, State of Georgia |
9:05 am Eastern |
Opening Remarks and A Shared Foundation for Public Sector Dialogue on AI & DataGrand Ballroom ABThis interactive session will establish the groundwork for the day, including the morning workshops, by clarifying key AI concepts, their contextual foundations, and their significance within the public sector landscape. This foundational understanding will provide a common framework to enhance the depth and relevance of sessions throughout the day. This session will also include an update on Georgia's AI program and progress, offering insights on how to engage with the initiative. Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, State of Georgia |
9:20 am Eastern |
General Session – Impact Spotlight: AI 4 Black Kids (AI4BK)Grand Ballroom ABInspiring Black brilliance, one algorithm at a time, the AI for Black Kids Foundation (AI4BK) was founded to empower Black youth interested in AI. Established by AI enthusiasts and educators, the foundation addresses the critical under-representation of Black individuals in AI by providing resources, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences. Join visionary founder, Calvin D. Lawrence, alongside students from AI4BK’s AI Discovery Summer Camp, for an inspiring fireside chat exploring their journey, impact, and the pursuit of equity in tech. Moderator: Shawnzia Thomas, Chief Information Officer, State of Georgia Calvin D. Lawrence, Founder, AI 4 Black Kids Foundation |
9:35 am Eastern |
Keynote – Leading the AI Revolution: IT's New Role in Global Public Sector InnovationGrand Ballroom ABAI is reshaping everything and IT leaders in government and public sector organizations stand at a pivotal juncture. Traditionally viewed as reactive and slower to innovate than the private sector, the public sector is now uniquely positioned to take a hands-on stance in AI implementation. To do that, we need to understand how IT departments can anticipate, and address business needs proactively. In this whirlwind session, digital transformation and AI expert, Sharon Gai, will take us on a journey around the world. Starting from the bustling streets of Hangzhou to the high-tech healthcare facilities of Tokyo, and finally to the classrooms of New York. Through this session, government leaders will understand the myriad ways AI is redefining society and be equipped with actionable insights, aiding them in harnessing the full potential of AI for the betterment of their communities. Sharon Gai, Keynote Speaker & Author |
10:25 am Eastern |
General Session – The Legislative Perspective on Data & AIGrand Ballroom ABAs AI technologies and the data that drives them become increasingly paramount to state considerations, this panel of state legislators offers crucial insights into the complexities of balancing innovative efficiencies with public welfare. Gain legislative perspectives on how the societal impact of AI and data is evaluated, along with the various considerations when assessing the roles of these emerging tools within the state. This dynamic panel will explore how public values and perspectives can be effectively integrated into the evolving narrative of AI and data transformation in governance. Moderator: Cameron Fash, Director of Government Relations, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia Representative Brad Thomas, Vice Chairman, House Technology and Infrastructure Innovation Committee Senator Ed Setzler, Chairman, Senate Science & Technology Committee |
10:45 am Eastern |
Networking Break in the Exhibit AreaGrand Ballroom Prefunction |
11:15 am Eastern |
Concurrent WorkshopsNavigating the EthicsDNA© Playbook through the New Waters of Emerging TechnologiesEast/West Paces RoomAs AI increasingly integrates into public sector infrastructure, those responsible for procurement and deployment of emerging technologies must learn to harmonize values-in-tension in order to choose ethical policies and behaviors. This workshop will explore the ethical considerations specific to government applications of AI, such as public trust and equitable access. Participants will learn how to recognize competing ethical principles and resolve them as they develop their own “Ethical Playbook” for AI strategy. They will build ethical capacity to align the values of public service with their work as they: Workshop Leader: Dr. Rose Procter, Executive Director, TRUIST Center for Ethical Leadership, Mike Cottrell College of Business, University of North Georgia Dr. Catharyn Baird, Founder of EthicsGame, and Professor of Business, Emerita, Regis University AI-Augmented Ideation & First StepsGrand Ballroom CThis hands-on workshop will guide participants in identifying key challenges that AI can help address and brainstorming practical solutions using a mix of readily available AI tools and group collaboration. Participants will actively use Generative AI tools to explore AI-driven solutions and define the initial steps to bring those ideas to life. By combining AI assistance with human collaboration, participants will stay central to the creative process. Attendees will leave with actionable next steps for the ideas they generated, along with transferable skills for using AI in future brainstorming, decision-making, and problem-solving across other various contexts. This hands-on workshop is open to all experience levels, and attendees are encouraged to bring their laptops to fully engage in the exercises. Workshop Leader: Brent O'Guin, Technology Strategist & Architect, Information Technology, Georgia Institute of Technology AI Adventure Quest: Practical Steps for Implementation and AdoptionGrand Ballroom DTransform theoretical AI concepts into actionable strategies through engaging, hands-on activities. You will learn AI integration by developing strategic plans, preparing data, building models, testing solutions, and achieving successful adoption. This workshop will empower you to align AI strategies with business goals, tackle challenges, and ensure scalability. By the end, you will be equipped with the confidence and knowledge to manage AI-driven projects that drive long-term success and innovation within your organization. Workshop Leader: Scott Baker, AI Program Director, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia Harsha Musunuru, Managing Director, Deloitte Data Stewardship for AI: Knowing Where Your Data StandsGrand Ballroom EAs AI becomes integral to decision-making, ensuring responsible data stewardship is critical. This session explores the best practices for managing, protecting, and ethically utilizing data in AI applications. Learn how the characteristics of the data we input into AI systems impact outcomes and shape our growing digital footprint. Participants will examine the importance of “stewardship” in fostering effective collaboration and data sharing for AI, covering: • Empower business ownership of data governance and stewardship to ensure data is managed and protected in alignment with regulatory standards and industry best practices. • Establish "trusted data sets" that maintain data accuracy, consistency, and completeness to enhance AI model training and outcomes. • Explore the data lifecycle stages alongside key tools and artifacts to support effective data stewardship practices for AI. • Understand the changes to types of data stores and management practices that AI, specifically GenAI, has introduced. • Define clear roles and responsibilities for creating, using, and reusing data sets, with a focus on robust metadata management. • Identify and address data gaps to reduce biases, enhance data accuracy and fairness in AI systems. • Communicate data-driven opportunities to leverage (or reuse) data in ways that serve the public good responsibly and effectively. Workshop Leader: Kanti Chalasani, Division Director, Georgia Data Analytics Center (GDAC), Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, State of Georgia Jesse Roberts, Principal Solutions Architect, Amazon Web Services |
12:45 pm Eastern |
Lunch + Technology DemonstrationsGrand Ballroom AB |
1:45 pm Eastern |
Concurrent SessionsEnhancing Data Sharing for InteroperabilityEast/West Paces RoomIn today’s interconnected world, seamless data sharing and interoperability across various systems and platforms is essential for enhancing constituent services and driving innovation. This session will explore the critical role of data-sharing in improving public services, reducing costs, and fostering collaboration. We’ll dive deep into strategies to overcome procedural and technical barriers, navigate legal and policy challenges, and promote effective data integration. Gain valuable insights, tools, and strategies to enhance data interoperability while ensuring privacy and security. Moderator: Nick Chaviano, Director Data Services, Enterprise Applications and Data Integrations, Georgia Institute of Technology Avik Batra, Managing Director, Accenture Kanti Chalasani, Division Director, Georgia Data Analytics Center (GDAC), Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, State of Georgia Rob Mikell, Vice President, Incode Technologies Spencer R. Moore, Commissioner, Department of Driver Services, State of Georgia Kevin Talbert, Senior Solutions Manager, Cloudera Public Safety vs Personal PrivacyGrand Ballroom DGovernments face the challenge of enhancing physical security to protect public spaces and critical infrastructure while addressing concerns about privacy and the ethical use of surveillance technologies and biometric data. Emerging technologies, such as AI, surveillance cameras, facial recognition, IoT, biometric access controls, can vastly improve public safety measures but also blur the line between security and privacy. This session explores the fine balance between ensuring safety through physical security measures while respecting individuals' rights to privacy. Key topics will also include data retention policies, transparency, public trust, and community engagement. Moderator: Tetchjan Simpson, IT Group Category Manager, Department of Administrative Services, State of Georgia Cassia Baker, Research Faculty and Technology Project Manager – Cybersecurity, Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP), Georgia Institute of Technology Tyson A. Morris, Chief Information Officer, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority Joss Nichols, Head of Compliance, Samsara Henry Rutherford III, Chief Information Officer, Department of Corrections, State of Georgia Ananias Williams III, Chief Information Officer, Department of Revenue, State of Georgia Workforce for a New EraGrand Ballroom EAs emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) transform the workplace, governments must cultivate a workforce adept at leveraging these tools and committed to innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. Public sectors struggle against the rest of the world to attract new talent and retain existing staff. Where can the public sector find new talent to fill critical roles? How can we effectively train and upskill our current teams to thrive in a rapidly evolving tech environment? How do we assess where to start and what to expect? This session will share creative tactics and strategies for building, retaining, and fostering a future-ready workforce. Moderator: Bill Curtis-Davidson, Director, Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology Steven Ferguson, Managing Director, Georgia AIM and Principal Research Scientist, Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology Tamara Mosley, Chief Human Resources Officer, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia Arun Rai, Regents’ Professor and Howard S. Starks Distinguished Chair; Director, Center for Digital Innovation, Department of Computer Information System, Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University Executive Briefing for Industry Partners (Industry sponsors only)Grand Ballroom CHosted by: Shawnzia Thomas, Chief Information Officer, State of Georgia Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, State of Georgia |
2:45 pm Eastern |
Networking Break in the Exhibit Area |
3:15 pm Eastern |
General Session – Inside Innovation: A Fireside Chat with Georgia & MicrosoftGrand Ballroom ABJoin this exclusive conversation with Nikhil Deshpande, Georgia’s Chief Digital & AI Officer and Microsoft as they explore the transformative potential of Microsoft Copilot to meet the unique needs of the public sector. This session will cover Copilot’s government-specific features, addressing critical considerations in implementation, service delivery, and dedicated support for public sector environments. Discover how Copilot can streamline services, enhance citizen engagement, and drive innovation in government operations. Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, State of Georgia |
3:45 pm Eastern |
General Session – AI and Data in State Governance: Perspectives Across the NationGrand Ballroom ABThis session provides a dynamic exploration of how states across the country are navigating the opportunities and challenges of AI and data transformation. Gain insights into how various states are evaluating and integrating these emerging technologies within their jurisdictions. What initiatives are they pursuing, and what expectations do they hold for AI and data in the public sector? The discussion will offer valuable perspectives on how states are shaping the future of governance in an increasingly data-driven world. Moderator: Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, State of Georgia Rebecca Cai, Chief Data Officer, State of Hawaii Josiah Raiche, Chief Data and AI Officer, State of Vermont Nishant Shah, Senior Advisor, Responsible AI, Department of Information Technology, State of Maryland |
4:15 pm Eastern |
Concluding Insights: A Collective Path ForwardGrand Ballroom ABJoin leaders from the Georgia Technology Authority and state agencies as they provide a closing reflection on the day's discussions and insights. This session will reaffirm the strong support and resources available within the state's technology landscape to enhance public services. It will also emphasize that today's conversations represent the continued collaborative effort for the future. Scott Baker, AI Program Director / Innovation Lab, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia Kanti Chalasani, Division Director, Georgia Data Analytics Center (GDAC), Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, State of Georgia Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital and AI Officer, State of Georgia Brent O'Guin, Technology Strategist & Architect, Information Technology, Georgia Institute of Technology Dr. Rose Procter, Executive Director, TRUIST Center for Ethical Leadership, Mike Cottrell College of Business, University of North Georgia |
5:00 pm Eastern |
Networking Reception in the Exhibit AreaGrand Ballroom PrefunctionNetwork with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors. |
5:30 pm Eastern |
End of ConferenceConference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change. |
3391 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 365-0065
Open to Public Sector only.
Registration - Free
If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.
For registration and general assistance contact:
Natalie Hernandez
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1307
E-mail: nhernandez@erepublic.com
For assistance or questions concerning Sponsor Logos or Logistics please contact:
Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@govtech.com
Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact:
Heather Earney
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1339
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com