Hawaii Data & AI Summit
In today’s public sector, better data means better decisions, and AI is unlocking new ways to act faster, smarter, and more strategically. The Hawaii Data & AI Summit brings together government leaders and technology partners for a dynamic day of collaboration, insight, and innovation. This summit is designed to spark fresh thinking and deliver practical strategies. Join your peers to explore what’s working, what’s next, and how to harness the full power of data and AI to serve Hawaii’s communities more effectively.
As data and AI continue to reshape how government operates, the 2026 Hawai’i Data & AI Summit is our chance to look beyond the tools and focus on the impact. This year, we’ll explore innovative ways to harness data for smarter decision-making, stronger collaboration across state and county departments, and meaningful improvements in the services we provide to our residents. I look forward to inspiring new ideas and fostering conversations that will guide Hawai’i’s data and AI journey.
-Rebecca Cai, Chief Data Officer, State of Hawai’i
Wednesday, May 13 |
|
7:45 am Hawaii |
Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area |
8:45 am Hawaii |
Opening RemarksChristine Maii Sakuda, Chief Information Officer, Office of Enterprise Technology Services, State of Hawaii Rebecca Cai, Chief Data Officer, Office of Enterprise Technology Services State of Hawaii |
9:00 am Hawaii |
Keynote - The Future of AI and Data in the Public SectorHow can public-sector leaders harness the power of artificial intelligence and data without sacrificing ethics, trust, or long-term value? In this session, Noelle Russell explores how governments and industries are evolving with generative and applied AI, and data-driven decision-making, highlighting real-world case studies that go beyond the hype. She shares a clear, actionable framework for scaling AI responsibly - mitigating bias, protecting privacy, leveraging data effectively, and fostering innovation that complements human ingenuity. Attendees will leave with practical steps to translate excitement into execution and ensure AI and data investments drive meaningful, sustainable impact. Noelle Russell, Founder & Chief AI Officer, AI Leadership Institute |
10:00 am Hawaii |
General Session – Conversations with the State Data Task Force: Opportunities and Challenges in Data and AIJoin members of the State Data Task Force for a candid conversation on the opportunities and challenges of data and AI in the public sector. Panelists will share current realities, lessons learned, and what comes next. |
10:45 am Hawaii |
Networking Break in the Exhibit Area |
11:15 am Hawaii |
Concurrent SessionsLocation Intelligence for Government ServicesLocation intelligence is transforming how government agencies plan, respond, and deliver services. In this session, we explore how GIS and location-based tools enhance emergency response, improve 911 accuracy, and inform decision-making across public safety and community services. We’ll highlight real-world examples, discuss data privacy considerations, and examine how agencies can leverage location intelligence to deliver smarter, more effective services. Data & AI in Practice: Health, Education, and Human ServicesData and AI are transforming how government delivers health, education, and human services. How can you improve program effectiveness, streamline service delivery, and support better outcomes for communities? Join us to hear practical examples, lessons learned, and strategies for responsibly using data and AI to enhance resident-focused services. |
12:15 pm Hawaii |
Lunch |
1:00 pm Hawaii |
General Session - Breaking Down Data Sharing Barriers: From Policy to PracticeData sharing is critical for AI readiness and improved government services, yet legal, policy, and operational barriers persist. In this session, we examine how agencies are overcoming data silos through standardized agreements, stronger governance, and cross-agency collaboration. We’ll highlight real-world success stories and discuss practical approaches to move data sharing from intention to action while supporting long-term digital service strategies. |
1:45 pm Hawaii |
General Session – Responsible Use of Data & AI: Balancing Innovation, Security, and TrustAs data and AI tools become more embedded in government operations, agencies must balance innovation with responsible risk management. Join us to explore how you can improve services utilizing data and AI while addressing challenges such as shadow AI, data exposure, and security gaps. We’ll discuss governance, training, and strategies to help agencies adopt AI confidently while maintaining public trust. |
2:30 pm Hawaii |
Networking Break in Exhibit Area |
3:00 pm Hawaii |
Concurrent SessionsBuilding a Data and AI Ready WorkforceA strong data and AI strategy starts with a workforce that’s prepared to use these tools responsibly and effectively. In this session, we explore building AI readiness through workforce development, education partnerships, and practical training models. We’ll discuss ways to develop foundational skills, scale impact through workforce multipliers, and align learning efforts with agency priorities. Real-Time Data & AI in Action: Strengthening Public SafetyFrom predictive analytics to real-time situational awareness, data and AI are transforming how public safety agencies prevent, respond to, and manage incidents. This session highlights how agencies are applying data-driven tools to improve emergency response, resource allocation, and cross-agency coordination across law enforcement, fire, emergency management, and ocean safety. Attendees will gain practical insights, lessons learned, and an understanding of the privacy, security, and governance considerations essential to turning data into actionable intelligence for safer communities. |
4:00 pm Hawaii |
Short BreakPlease proceed to the concurrent sessions. |
4:15 pm Hawaii |
General Session |
5:00 pm Hawaii |
Networking Reception in the Exhibit AreaNetwork with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors. |
5:30 pm Hawaii |
End of ConferenceConference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change. |
100 Holomoana Street
Prince Waikiki, HI 96815
(808) 824-5155
Brandon Asuka
Executive Officer
Department of Law Enforcement
State of Hawaii
Arthur Buto
Statewide GIS Manager
Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism
State of Hawaii
Rebecca Cai
Chief Data Officer
Office of Enterprise Technology Services
State of Hawaii
Darren Cantrill
Information Systems Manager
Department of Accounting and General Services
State of Hawaii
Kira Chuchom
Chief Data Officer
Department of Information Technology
City & County of Honolulu
Craig Clouet
GIS Program Manager
Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity
State of Hawaii
Stephen Courtney
Deputy Director
Department of Information Technology
City & County of Honolulu
Glenn Dela Cruz
Senior Communications Manager
Office of Enterprise Technology Services
State of Hawaii
Sandra Furuto
Director of Data Governance and Operations
University of Hawaii
Vince Hoang
Chief Information Security Officer
Office of Enterprise Technology Services
State of Hawaii
Juha Kauhanen
Business Architect
Department of Accounting and General Services
State of Hawaii
Arnold Kishi
Senior Advisor
Office of Enterprise Technology Services
State of Hawaii
Brian McKee
Director and Chief Information Officer
Department of Information Technology
City & County of Honolulu
Henderson Nuuhiwa
Chief Information Officer
Board of Water Supply
City & County of Honolulu
Amy Peckenpaugh
Chief Information Officer
Department of Education
State of Hawaii
Antonio Querubin
Chief Information Officer
Department of Defense
State of Hawaii
Keith Regan
Comptroller
Office of the Comptroller, Department of Accounting & General Services
State of Hawaii
Steve Sakamoto
Health Information Systems Officer
Department of Health
State of Hawaii
Christine Sakuda
State Chief Information Officer
Office of Enterprise Technology Services
State of Hawaii
Ryan Shimamura
Chief Information Officer
Department of Human Services
State of Hawaii
Jussi Sipola
Senior IT Enterprise Architect
Office of Enterprise Technology Services
State of Hawaii
Phan Sirivattha
Technology Officer
Department of Human Services
State of Hawaii
Derek Vale
Chief Data Officer
Department of Health
State of Hawaii
Roxanne Watanabe
Business Transformation Office Director
Department of Accounting and General Services
State of Hawaii
Judy Yamada
Information Technology Manager
Department of Public Safety
State of Hawaii
Garret Yoshimi
VP for Information Technology & Chief Information Officer
Information Technology Services
University of Hawaii
Open to Public Sector only.
Registration - Free
If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.
This event is open to all individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants.
Need help registering, or have general event questions? Contact:
Isabel Hope
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone: (916) 932-1300
E-mail: ihope@erepublic.com
Already a sponsor, but need a hand? Reach out to:
Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone:(916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com
Want to sponsor and stand out? Reach out to explore opportunities!
Heather Earney
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone: (916) 365-2308
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com