Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Full Throttle Leadership: Strategies for the Modern Tech Landscape

When you're moving fast and the stakes are high, there's no room for guesswork and no time to second-guess yourself. Public sector tech leaders face mounting pressure to deliver complex projects, lead through change, and keep teams motivated amid constant constraints. It’s not just about managing technology; it’s about leading people to success through uncertainty! This session draws on Julia Landauer’s experience as a NASCAR driver and innovation strategist to deliver sharp, story-driven lessons on ownership, preparation, resilience, and communication, while equipping leaders with straightforward tools to lead effectively and accelerate toward their goals.

Julia Landauer, Champion Racecar Driver, Motivational Keynote Speaker

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Refuel and reconnect over premium refreshments courtesy of Recharge Break Sponsors: Deloitte, Alert IT Solutions and MSF & W Consulting

Concurrent Sessions

Leading Through the AI Shift: Practical Approaches for Public Sector Teams

Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering environments as organizations explore responsible and productive uses of emerging tools. Yet many teams remain uncertain about where AI truly adds value. Leaders will examine realistic use cases, adoption challenges, and ways to address staff concerns about automation. Panelists will discuss how AI can support teams as a collaborative tool rather than replace them. How can technology leaders introduce AI thoughtfully while building confidence and strengthening the capabilities of their workforce?

Supporting the Overwhelmed Team: Workload, Expectations, and Sustainable Leadership

Technology teams across government and education face increasing demands while resources remain limited. Leaders must balance productivity with realistic expectations and long-term team well-being. Attendees will gain insight into recognizing early signs of burnout, communicating priorities clearly, and developing healthy work habits that sustain performance. Participants will share practical approaches for delegation, project pacing, and transparent decision-making. How can leaders build resilient teams that remain productive and engaged even when workloads intensify?

Lunch

General Session - Confident Communication: Turning Technology Work into Leadership Stories

Technical expertise alone rarely secures long-term support for modernization initiatives. Leaders must clearly communicate the value of their work to executives, policymakers, faculty leaders, and community stakeholders. This interactive session focuses on translating complex projects into clear outcomes, delivering difficult updates with confidence, and strengthening cross-team communication. Participants will practice short storytelling exercises and exchange strategies for explaining technical work in plain language. How can stronger communication skills help IT leaders build trust and maintain momentum for critical initiatives?

Short Break

Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.

Concurrent Sessions

Proving Your Impact: Demonstrating Value and Advancing as an IT Leader

Successful IT leaders not only deliver results but also ensure their impact is clearly understood by leadership and stakeholders. In this discussion, we will explore practical strategies for demonstrating value, communicating results, and strengthening leadership presence within an organization. Participants will also discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, build confidence, and supporting others through mentorship. How can technology leaders highlight their contributions while continuing to grow professionally and help develop the next generation of leaders?

Leading Small but Mighty IT Teams

Many public sector IT leaders must balance strategic planning with hands-on technical work, particularly in smaller organizations. Limited staffing often requires leaders to manage operations, security, infrastructure, and innovation simultaneously. Panelists will share practical techniques for prioritization, roadmapping, and managing competing demands while still advancing modernization goals. Leaders will share approaches for setting boundaries, making strategic tradeoffs, and maintaining focus. How can leaders maintain a clear vision when daily operational demands constantly compete for attention?

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Refuel and reconnect over premium refreshments courtesy of Recharge Break Sponsors: Deloitte, Alert IT Solutions and MSF & W Consulting

Building Tomorrow’s Public Sector Tech Workforce

Public institutions are navigating significant workforce transitions as technology evolves and experienced leaders retire. Organizations must attract, develop, and retain technology talent while preparing teams for automation and AI-enabled work environments. Experts will highlight strategies for mentorship, internal career pathways, and succession planning across government and education. Leaders will share ideas for developing future talent while strengthening current teams. What actions can today’s leaders take to ensure public sector technology teams remain innovative, resilient, and prepared for the challenges ahead?

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.