Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

Welcome and Event Opening Ceremonies

Opening Remarks

Brandon Ragle, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois

Keynote – Find Your Fight: Innovating When the Odds Are Against You

In moments when challenges feel insurmountable, and the odds are stacked against us, how do we find the will to fight—and win? In this powerful and energizing talk, Jessica O. Matthews shares how the most groundbreaking innovations often emerge from struggle, uncertainty, and adversity. Drawing from her own journey as a pioneering entrepreneur and inventor, Jessica explores how resilience, creativity, and relentless problem-solving can transform even the toughest setbacks into opportunities for impact and growth. This session will help you reframe challenges as opportunities for breakthrough innovation, develop resilience during moments of struggle, and uncover determination to keep fighting for transformative solutions.

Jessica O. Matthews, CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Concurrent Sessions

Aligning Data, Security & AI to Drive Mission-First Outcomes

Modern organizations don’t succeed by chasing the latest technologies; they succeed by solving the right problems. This session focuses on how to strategically integrate application data, security, and AI to support your organization’s broader mission. Rather than adopting AI or securing data in silos, we’ll explore how to align these elements to improve decision-making, reduce risk, and create real value. Through practical examples and outcome-driven frameworks, you'll learn how to apply technology not for its own sake, but to meaningfully advance your organization’s goals.

Breach Mode: Security Crisis Management

When a cyberattack hits, every second counts. This session dives into the high-stakes world of security crisis management—what to do before, during, and after a breach. Learn how to build an actionable incident response plan, communicate under pressure, and lead with confidence when systems go down. With real-world scenarios and expert strategies, you’ll walk away prepared to turn chaos into control.

Future-Ready: Building the Skills to Thrive in Cloud-Driven IT

In today’s rapidly evolving IT landscape, standing still means falling behind. Cloud technologies are reshaping everything - from infrastructure to innovation velocity - and thriving in this new world demands a mindset of constant learning. This session explores the critical skills IT professionals need to stay ahead, from cloud architecture and automation to security, cost optimization, and cross-functional collaboration. Learn how to foster a culture of continuous education, build adaptable teams, and align learning with organizational strategy.

Culture First: Building High-Performing Teams Through Innovation, Collaboration

Behind every successful technology initiative is a culture that supports it. This session explores how state IT leaders can foster a workplace environment where innovation thrives, collaboration is second nature, and excellence is the standard. Learn practical strategies to attract, retain, and grow top talent—while breaking down silos and building trust across teams. If you’re aiming to future-proof your workforce and deliver lasting impact, this is where it starts.

Lunch

General Session – What You Need to Know About the Department of Justice’s Web Accessibility Laws

The Department of Justice established a technical standard under the ADA’s Title 2.1 Level AA for state and local government to create greater accessibility for ADA compliance. There are varying deadlines for compliance depending on the size of the jurisdiction. Learn more about this important initiative and how you can help prepare to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to public services offered through websites and mobile applications.

Short Break

Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.

Concurrent Sessions

Agentic AI in Action: Real-World Use Cases Driving Impact

Agentic AI is no longer just a futuristic concept -- it’s here, and it’s transforming how we work. This session explores real-life applications of agentic AI, where autonomous systems go beyond simple automation to plan, adapt, and act on behalf of users. From IT operations and customer service to cybersecurity and business optimization, discover how organizations are leveraging agentic AI to boost efficiency, reduce decision fatigue, and unlock new value. Join us for practical insights, success stories, and key considerations for adopting agentic AI in your own enterprise.

Data to Design: Transform UX with Journey Mapping

Great tech means nothing without a great user experience. This fast-paced session shows how journey mapping turns scattered user data into clear, actionable insights. Learn to identify friction points, align teams, and design experiences that truly connect. With real-world examples and practical tools, you'll leave ready to map smarter—and build better.

Making the Case: Storytelling Strategies to Secure IT Funding

In the competition for limited public sector funding, even critical IT projects can be overlooked without a compelling narrative. This session explores how government IT leaders can craft clear, impactful stories that connect their projects to mission outcomes, public value, and policy goals. Learn how to align technical initiatives with broader priorities, speak the language of decision-makers, and stand out among competing proposals. Practical strategies and real-world examples will help you champion your projects—and get them funded.

Executive Briefing for Industry Partners

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

General Session – The Illinois Innovation Showcase

See real solutions in motion. This session features a live showcase of technology already transforming government across the state of Illinois. You’ll get a firsthand look at how agencies are using tech to solve problems, improve operations, and better serve the constituents of Illinois. It’s proof that innovation is happening right here, right now.

Best of Illinois 2025 Awards Ceremony

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.