Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

Welcome Remarks

Shawnzia Thomas, Chief Information Officer, State of Georgia

Opening Remarks and A Shared Foundation for Public Sector Dialogue on AI and Data

Kick off the day with a clear understanding of AI’s core concepts, contextual foundations, and why they matter in the public sector. By building a shared framework, participants will be better equipped to dive deeper into the workshops and discussions ahead. The program also features an update on Georgia’s AI initiative, highlighting progress made and opportunities for engagement. How can government leaders and technologists align around a common language of AI to maximize its impact and ensure meaningful innovation?

Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital and AI Officer, State of Georgia

Keynote – The Future of AI

How can your organization harness the power of artificial intelligence without sacrificing ethics, trust, or long-term value? Together we will explore how industries are evolving with generative and applied AI while spotlighting real-world case studies that move beyond the hype. She offers a clear, actionable framework to scale AI responsibly, mitigating bias, protecting privacy, and fostering innovation that complements human ingenuity. Discover how to translate excitement into execution and ensure your AI investments drive meaningful, sustainable growth.

Noelle Russell, Leading AI Innovator & Practitioner, Founder & Chief AI Officer at AI Leadership Institute

General Session – The Role of Foundational AI in Modern Government

Is your agency prepared to separate AI fact from hype? From chatbots that greet citizens to tools that analyze massive data sets, AI's capabilities are expanding rapidly. Together, we will break down what foundational AI really means, what it can do today, and where it's heading. Learn from clear examples that demonstrate how AI is already being used in government and consider how these same tools might enhance your agency's service delivery tomorrow.

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Concurrent Workshops

Putting Principles into Practice with AI Ethics

Is your agency equipped to make ethical choices about AI adoption? This workshop explores frameworks for fairness, accountability, transparency, and inclusivity in government applications. Participants will work through practical examples of where ethics matter most, from bias in data to decision-making in high-stakes services and leave with strategies to guide responsible AI use across programs.

From Ideas to Action

What's the first step in moving AI from buzzword to real impact? Join in the brainstorming on how to prioritize and develop roadmaps tailored to their agency's specific needs. You'll identify opportunities where AI can deliver quick wins, while also laying the foundation for long-term adoption. Is your organization ready to take its first confident steps toward AI transformation?

Building Momentum on Implementation and Adoption

Is your agency struggling to move from pilot to production? Many teams start strong but stall when scaling AI solutions. This conversation will focus on practical steps, governance structures, workforce engagement, vendor partnerships, and funding models that drive sustainable adoption. Learn how to translate vision into action and ensure your AI projects deliver measurable value to both your agency and your citizens.

Knowing Where Your Data Stands

Do you know if your agency's data is ready for AI? High-quality, well-governed data is the foundation of practical tools. Here we will guide participants through assessing data maturity, strengthening stewardship practices, and identifying gaps that hinder the effective use of AI. Participants will leave with actionable steps to ensure their data environments are prepared for secure, ethical, and impactful AI integration.

Lunch

General Session – Impact Non-Profit Spotlight

General Session – Building Citizen Trust in AI

Can citizens trust AI to deliver fair, secure, and transparent government services? As agencies adopt new technologies, public trust becomes the critical factor in long-term success. Hear from the federal perspective, as well as state and local realities, and learn about the steps agencies must take to earn confidence, from implementing ethical safeguards to maintaining clear communication. How are you securing trust in your own programs, and what models can be replicated to build stronger, citizen-focused AI systems?

Rajendra Gangavarapu, Chief Data & AI Officer, AI Strategy, GenAI, Governance & Financial Services Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author, and Strategic Advisor

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Concurrent Sessions

Protecting Data in the Age of AI: Cybersecurity and the Rise of AI Threat Actors

In the age of AI, protecting your agency’s data and environments is more critical than ever. Artificial intelligence is no longer just a defensive tool; it’s also in the hands of adversaries. From AI-driven anomaly detection and automated response to AI-generated phishing and deepfake attacks, the cyber landscape is shifting rapidly. How can agencies harness AI to strengthen defenses while also anticipating and mitigating the risks posed by AI-enabled threat actors? This session examines the alignment of cybersecurity strategies with the evolving threat of malicious AI use, providing practical steps to safeguard data, build resilience, and foster trust in digital government.

Reskilling for the Future

Is your workforce ready to thrive alongside AI? Age diversity, varying skill levels, and shifting roles create both challenges and opportunities. Learn how AI can support, rather than replace, public servants by enabling new efficiencies and enhancing citizen services. Through practical examples, participants will see how agencies can upskill and reskill staff, integrate human judgment with AI tools, and build a future-ready workforce.

Building the Foundation for Emerging Tech with Data

Emerging technologies are only as effective as the data fueling them. For public sector leaders, harnessing this potential means going beyond access; it requires trust, effective governance, and strategic alignment. This session explores how to strengthen data quality, accessibility, and integrity to power innovation responsibly. Gain insights on preparing your data strategy for next-generation tools, navigating digital readiness, and applying ethical practices.

Executive Briefing for Industry Partners (Industry sponsors only)

Hosted By: Shawnzia Thomas, Chief Information Officer, State of Georgia

Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, State of Georgia

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Concluding Insights: Charting Georgia's Tech Future

As we close the 2025 Emerging Tech Summit, leaders from the Georgia Technology Authority and partner agencies will reflect on the day's key discussions and shared learnings. This session underscores Georgia's commitment to driving innovation, strengthening resilience, and responsibly adopting emerging technologies to enhance public services. More than a conclusion, it's a call to action, reminding us that today's dialogue is the foundation for tomorrow's collaboration, innovation, and progress across the state.

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

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

End of Conference

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