The Kansas Digital Government Summit is where innovation meets impact!
Bringing together the brightest minds in state and local government, this summit empowers public-sector leaders to explore cutting-edge technologies, modernize operations, and solve pressing challenges. From cybersecurity and AI to data governance and digital service delivery, sessions are designed to spark insight, foster collaboration, and accelerate real-world results. Whether you're shaping strategy or implementing solutions, the Summit delivers valuable peer connections and actionable guidance to help move your mission forward.
Join us for the 7th Annual Kansas Digital Government Summit. Be part of the conversation shaping the future of digital government in Kansas. Technology is evolving faster than ever, reshaping how we serve our communities. This summit is your opportunity to collaborate, innovation and turn new challenges into meaningful progress. Share ideas, explore emerging technologies, and strengthen the partnerships and build a smarter more connected Kansas. Key topics will include digital equity, AI, workforce innovation, cybersecurity, and more. Together we can improve Kansas's digital landscape and empower our communities to grow.
– Jeff Maxon, Chief Information Technology Officer, State of Kansas
Wednesday, August 26 |
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8:00 am Central |
Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit AreaConference Center Lower Lobby/1921 Field Club Pre-Function |
9:00 am Central |
Welcome and Opening RemarksMain Hall A-FJeff Maxon, Chief Information Technology Officer, Office of Information Technology Services (OITS), State of Kansas |
9:15 am Central |
Keynote – How Public Sector Leaders Unlock Collective Genius and Fuel Breakthroughs in the Age of AIMain Hall A-FIn this energizing keynote, Frankie Russo reveals how public sector leaders can unlock collective genius by uniting teams around a shared purpose that fuels meaningful impact in the age of AI. He shows how partnering with AI as a true copilot, not a replacement, helps leaders amplify imagination, accelerate breakthroughs, and bring bold new solutions to life. By examining what’s been holding organizations back, Russo guides audiences to unleash an infinity loop of innovation. Attendees leave with practical strategies to elevate human potential, harness AI for the greater good, and drive transformational change for the communities they serve. Frankie Russo, 8X Inc. 500 Founder, Top Growth Keynote Speaker, 2X Best-selling author |
10:15 am Central |
Networking Break in the Exhibit Area1921 Field Club Pre-FunctionRefuel and reconnect over premium refreshments courtesy of the Recharge Break Sponsor: Verizon |
10:45 am Central |
Concurrent SessionsSecuring the AI Era: Governance, Development and the Future of WorkBreakout Room HArtificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how governments build software, automate workflows, and deliver services. As AI-powered development tools become more accessible, agencies must rethink how they secure development environments, govern AI throughout the software lifecycle, and identify where these technologies can deliver meaningful value. Join public sector and industry leaders to explore practical strategies for responsible AI adoption, secure development practices, and preparing the workforce for an AI-enabled future. Resilient Operations: Strengthening Critical Infrastructure and Business ContinuityBreakout Room GOperational technology is the backbone of many essential government services, from utilities and transportation to public facilities and emergency operations. As agencies modernize these systems, ensuring resilience and continuity has never been more important. Join government leaders as they discuss strategies for strengthening operational technology, planning for disruptions, and building business continuity programs that keep critical services running when it matters most. Building Better Solutions Through CollaborationBreakout Room 1The best technology solutions begin with the right partnerships. As public sector organizations tackle increasingly complex challenges, success depends on bringing together business leaders, technology teams, and industry partners to develop innovative, mission-driven solutions. This session will explore strategies for engaging partners early, fostering collaboration throughout the solutioning process, and structuring agreements that encourage innovation, flexibility, and shared success while supporting successful project outcomes. Connected and Protected: Navigating Personal Technology and SecurityBreakout Room 2From smartphones and smart home devices to wearable technology and AI-powered assistants, personal technology is more connected than ever. While these tools offer convenience, they also introduce new considerations for privacy, security, and the workplace. This session will explore how personal technology can impact government environments, best practices for protecting personal and professional information, and simple steps employees can take to reduce risk while staying connected. |
11:45 am Central |
LunchMain Hall A-F |
12:45 pm Central |
Bits and Bytes – Building Tomorrow’s Workforce: Strengthening Government Through Technical InternshipsMain Hall A-FDeveloping the next generation of public sector technology professionals starts with meaningful opportunities to learn, contribute, and grow. Technical internship programs provide agencies with a valuable pipeline for emerging talent while giving students hands-on experience solving real government challenges. This session will explore how organizations can expand internship opportunities, build successful partnerships with educational institutions, and create programs that deliver lasting value for both interns and the agencies they serve. |
1:15 pm Central |
Short BreakPlease proceed to the concurrent sessions. |
1:30 pm Central |
Concurrent SessionsFrom Principles to Practice: Building an AI Governance FrameworkBreakout Room HAs artificial intelligence becomes part of everyday government operations, agencies need clear policies and governance frameworks that encourage innovation while maintaining accountability and public trust. This session will explore how to develop a local AI policy, establish the essential components of an effective governance framework, and define the role of human oversight throughout the AI lifecycle. Speakers will also examine the relationship between AI governance and data governance, highlighting how strong data practices create the foundation for responsible, transparent, and effective AI. Modern Solutioning: Rethinking How Government Solves ProblemsBreakout Room GThe way government approaches technology decisions has changed. Rather than starting with a solution, agencies are increasingly focusing on business outcomes and identifying the right mix of tools to achieve them. As cloud services, low-code and no-code platforms, automation, and AI continue to evolve, organizations have more options than ever to address operational challenges. This session will explore how technology strategy has shifted, how to evaluate solutions through a business lens, and what today's leaders should consider when selecting the right technologies to meet mission needs. Preparing for the Quantum EraBreakout Room 1The quantum era is approaching, bringing new opportunities alongside significant challenges for government technology. As encryption standards evolve and organizations begin planning for post-quantum security, leaders must understand what lies ahead and how to prepare. Join experts for a discussion on the changing technology landscape, the future of encryption, and practical strategies for building quantum readiness across the public sector. Charles Albayrak, Customer Success Manager & Quantum Technology Advocate, IBM Exclusive Briefing for Industry PartnersBreakout Room 2Hosted by: Jeff Maxon, Chief Information Technology Officer, Office of Information Technology Services (OITS), State of Kansas |
2:30 pm Central |
Networking Break in the Exhibit Area1921 Field Club Pre-FunctionRefuel and reconnect over premium refreshments courtesy of the Recharge Break Sponsor: Verizon |
3:00 pm Central |
General Session – AI in Perspective: From Hype to Practical ImpactMain Hall A-FArtificial intelligence is transforming the way governments think about service delivery, operations, and decision making, but successful adoption begins with realistic expectations. This session will explore where AI can deliver meaningful value today, where the technology continues to evolve, and how leaders can assess opportunities through a business and mission lens. Join experts for a candid discussion on practical applications, measuring impact, managing expectations, and making informed decisions about where AI fits within your organization. |
4:00 pm Central |
Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area1921 Field Club Pre-FunctionNetwork with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors. |
4:30 pm Central |
End of ConferenceConference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change. |
815 Fambrough Drive
Lawrence, KS 66045
785-764-3694
Thomas Bunton
Chief Technology Officer
Kansas State University
Nelson Casteel
Operations Section Chief
Emergency Management
Shawnee County
Jeffrey Dazey
Chief Counsel
Office of Information Technology Services
State of Kansas
Kimberly DeWitt
Chief Data Officer
Office of Information Technology Services
State of Kansas
Andrew Eichinger
CITA
Office of Information Technology Services
State of Kansas
Greg Gann
IT Business Solutions Director
Sedgwick County
Adrian Guerrero
Director of Operations
Board of Nursing
State of Kansas
Jared Harsin
Chief of Staff
Office of Information Technology Services
State of Kansas
Elesha Hazel
Communications Manager
State of Kansas
Tanya Heffel
Chief Technology Officer
Office of Information Technology Services
State of Kansas
Ed Hudson
Chief Information Officer
Kansas University
Shawn Lane
Chief Information Officer
Department of Agriculture
State of Kansas
Mike Mayta
Chief Information Officer
City of Wichita
Amber Shultz
Secretary of Labor
State of Kansas
Angela Wilson
Director of Procurement
State of Kansas
Alex Wong
Chief Information Technology Officer
Kansas Judicial Branch
Kari Warren
Client Executive
IBM
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:
Audrey Houser
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone: (916) 932-1420
E-mail: ahouser@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