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Overview

The Digital Government Summit is an event that brings together public sector leaders and technology professionals to explore innovative solutions to solve government problems. Key themes include cybersecurity, digital transformation, AI implementation, data governance, and fostering collaboration across multiple stakeholders. Attendees will benefit from expert discussions, peer networking, and insights into the future of government technology. Join us and let’s improve the future of government together!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

Speakers

Jessica O. Matthews 

Jessica O. Matthews 

CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate 

 Innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility have always been intrinsic to Jessica O. Matthews, even from a young age. At just 19, she invented SOCCKET, an energy-generating soccer ball that reflects her vision for a better world. Matthews was inspired by her experiences in Nigeria, when she noticed the reliance on dangerous diesel generators during power outages. She addressed a community need and created a safer alternative that harnesses power from an everyday activity to provide a source of light. 
Her invention of SOCCKET exemplifies Matthews’ unique blend of altruism and a disruptive technological mindset that encourages her audience to embrace innovation and actively contribute to positive change. She channeled these qualities into founding Uncharted, an award-winning sustainable-infrastructure company that empowers small and under-resourced cities. As CEO, she takes her social responsibility seriously, creating solutions that enhance access to energy, water, air, and transit. Notably, Matthews has revolutionized vision AI in energy efficiency, developing technology that employs “smart photos” to visually assess homes. These photos then determine potential savings on energy bills and qualifying rebates. Matthews is committed to preserving the unique identities of the cities she serves, asserting that citizens shouldn’t have to "leave where they are from to get where they are going." 
Exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, Jessica O. Matthews captivates audiences with her engaging presentation style. A relatable, down-to-earth speaker, she refers to herself as a “blend of Beyoncé and Bill Nye the Science Guy.” Her enthusiasm engages audiences, and she often jumps rope on stage to demonstrate her innovations in an interactive way. This personable approach allows her to connect deeply with her audience, fostering an honest dialogue about the challenges and opportunities in innovation. Matthews leaves audiences feeling inspired and motivated to create solutions that disrupt the status quo and encourages them to meet the needs of real people and communities. Her ability to tailor her message to resonate with the unique interests and experiences of each audience ensures that her insights are both relevant and impactful. 
Jessica’s success in entrepreneurship led to a White House invitation from President Barack Obama to represent small companies for the signing of the America Invents Act in 2012. In 2016, she raised what was at the time the largest Series A round ever raised by a black female founder in history and was selected to ring the NASDAQ opening ceremony bell, representing all Forbes 30 Under 30 alumni. In 2021, Jessica was officially appointed by Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm to the Electricity Advisory Committee. As a member of the Smart Grid subcommittee, she plays a key role in advising the Department of Energy on the ways we can modernize our nation’s electric delivery system, specifically focusing on accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the U.S. 
A dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, Jessica has a degree in psychology and economics from Harvard University, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and is listed on over 12 patents and patents pending. Her list of accolades includes Fortune’s Most Promising Women Entrepreneurs, Forbes 30 Under 30, Inc. Magazine 30 Under 30 and Female Founders 100, Harvard University Scientist of the Year, One Young World Entrepreneur of the Year, the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award, and Black Women Tech Talk’s Tech Trailblazer Award. She has appeared on the cover of Forbes and Forbes Africa, as well as featured in Marie Claire, Wired, Inc., TechCrunch, The New York Times, and Fast Company, among others. 

 

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Agenda

Thursday, July 24

8:00 am Central

Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

9:00 am Central

Opening Remarks

Amanda Crawford, Executive Director and State Chief Information Officer, Department of Information Resources, State of Texas

9:15 am Central

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

10:15 am Central

General Session

10:45 am Central

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

11:15 am Central

Concurrent Sessions

AI Strategy and Disruptive Technology: Governance, Innovation, and Risk

As AI and emerging technologies reshape government operations, leaders must balance innovation with governance, risk management, and long-term sustainability. This session will explore lessons from successful AI initiatives, assess readiness for organizational change and discuss the impact of recent legislation on responsible AI deployment, compliance, and oversight. Attendees will gain insights into the future of AI in government and proven approaches to adopting disruptive technologies while mitigating risk.

Securing the Backbone: Strategies for Defending Critical IT Infrastructure

Bad actors have more tools at their disposal than ever before and staying on top of them has proven to be the challenge of our day. What does the current threat landscape look like? Are there new tools and tactics we can deploy to strengthen our security posture? This session takes a further dive into Texas’s whole-of-state approach to cybersecurity. Attendees will learn how government can protect its most critical infrastructure through collaboration, standardized strategies and resource sharing.

Transforming Constituent Experience in Texas

Amid rising expectations for fast, seamless public services, government is under pressure to transform how they engage with constituents. This session explores how Texas is enhancing the constituent experience through digital platforms, mobile apps, and user-focused design. Discover how these efforts are improving public safety, community engagement, and service accessibility across the state. Hear from public sector leaders on the strategies driving more personalized, transparent, and connected digital experiences for Texans.

Optimizing the Workforce for a New Era

Emerging technology is transforming the public sector workforce by streamlining operations, enhancing decision-making, and redefining job roles. As government agencies adopt AI-driven tools and automation, the challenge lies in balancing technological innovation with workforce optimization. How can IT leaders ensure a smooth transition, empower employees with new skills, and foster effective human-AI collaboration? This session will delve into strategies for seamlessly integrating AI into government operations while cultivating a culture that is resilient

12:15 pm Central

Lunch

1:15 pm Central

Best of Texas Awards Program

1:30 pm Central

Bits and Bytes – AI Showcase

In these use case focused Ted-style lightning talks, we’ll explore public sector success stories.

2:00 pm Central

Short Break

Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.

2:15 pm Central

Concurrent Sessions

Practical AI in the Public Sector – Boosting ROI Through Automation

Implementing AI in the public sector offers a powerful opportunity to boost return on investment by automating routine tasks, enhancing data security, and improving service delivery. From accelerating software development with AI-assisted coding to scaling and targeting public programs, AI is transforming how agencies operate and innovate. This session will explore how government organizations can evaluate AI initiatives for their potential to deliver measurable value - factoring in costs, feasibility, risk, and security considerations.

Workshop: Leveraging the Power of Data Through Digital Readiness

Public sector organizations face growing challenges in unlocking the full potential of data while maintaining privacy, integrity, and trust - especially with the added complexity of AI. In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore practical strategies for cultivating responsible data practices, navigating digital readiness, and maximizing the value of their data tools. Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, we’ll dive into how to protect sensitive information while using data to drive better outcomes for Texas’ communities and beyond.

Securing the Future: Cybersecurity Funding, Emerging Threats, and Government Collaboration

As cyber threats grow in complexity - ranging from AI-driven attacks and ransomware to threats against critical infrastructure - the need for sustainable cybersecurity funding in the public sector has never been greater. With emerging threats targeting both public and private sectors, working together across all levels of government is essential to safeguarding citizens’ data. This session will examine the future of cybersecurity funding, emerging threats posed by agentic AI, and the urgent need for multi-layered government collaboration and communication.

Advancing Digital Accessibility

As digital services expand, governments must address challenges around infrastructure, platform usability, and compliance with standards like WCAG 2.1 to meet accessibility requirements. This session explores practical approaches to improving digital access, maintaining web and application accessibility, and supporting user success. We'll spotlight how Texas is advancing these efforts through improved connectivity and user-centered technology design.

Exclusive Briefing for Industry Partners

Hosted by:

John Hoffman, Deputy State Chief Information Officer, Department of Information Resources, State of Texas

Lisa Massock, Chief Procurement Officer, Department of Information Resources, State of Texas

3:15 pm Central

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

3:35 pm Central

General Session –AI 2025 – From Administrative Assistance to Agentic AI

As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, organizations are moving beyond AI as a simple administrative assistant to leveraging more autonomous, decision-making "agentic AI." This session will explore the transition from task-based automation to AI systems capable of reasoning, adapting, and executing complex workflows with minimal human intervention. Attendees will gain insights into how governments can harness these advancements while ensuring transparency, control, and alignment with human goals. Whether you're an executive, technologist, or policymaker, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the AI landscape of 2025 and beyond.

Dustin Haisler, President, e.Republic

4:20 pm Central

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

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

4:50 pm Central

End of Conference

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

JW Marriott Austin

110 E 2nd Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-4777

Get Directions To
JW Marriott Austin

Advisory Board

Government Representatives

Tanya Acevedo
Chief Information Officer & Senior Vice President
Capital Metro

Fuat Aki
Director of Development
Texas Education Agency

Patricia Avitia
Chief Information Officer
Texas Water Development Board

Jessica Ballew
Chief Information Officer
Texas Department of Public Safety

Wendy Barron
Chief Information Officer
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

Chris Bunton
Chief Information Officer
Texas Department Of Agriculture

Amanda Crawford
Executive Director and State Chief Information Officer
Texas Department of Information Resources

Carl Drescher
Chief Information Officer
Lower Colorado River Authority

Darrell Earwood
Chief Information Officer
Nueces County

John Fowler
Chief Information Officer
Department of Licensing and Regulation
State of Texas

Mark Gager
Chief Information Officer
Bexar County

Heather Hall
Chief Information Officer
Texas Workforce Commission

Ann Hallam
Chief Information Officer
Texas State Board of Public Accountancy

John Hoffman
CTO, Deputy State CIO
Texas Department of Information Resources

Casey Kennedy
Director, Information Services Division
Office of Court Administration
State of Texas

Kerrica Laake
Chief Information Officer
City of Austin

Jim Malmros
Application Development Manager
Office of Comptroller
State of Texas

Jamie McClanahan
Director of IT
Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife

Drew McGrath
Chief Information Officer
Texas Department of Family & Protective Services

Sean Peterson
Chief Information Officer
General Land Office
State of Texas

Anh Selissen
Chief Information Officer
Texas Department of Transportation

George Stolard
Chief Information Officer
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission

Ralph Warren
Director of IT
Travis County

Cory Wilburn
Chief Information Officer
Texas McCombs School of Business

Industry Representatives

Kindra Allen
Client Relationship Executive
Deloitte

Michael Bimonte
Chief Technology Officer
Armis

Denny Lowe
Senior Account Executive
Amazon Web Services

Jack O'Connell
Senior Account Executive
Google Public Sector

Katherine Olear
Technology Leader, State of Texas
IBM

Monica Pesl
District Sales Manager
SHI International Corp.

Tony Ramirez
Account Director
Lumen Technologies

Juan Shepperd
Account Executive
Dell Technologies

Registration Information / Contact Us

Event Date: July 24, 2025

Open to Public Sector only.

Registration - Free

If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.

Contact Information

For registration and general assistance contact:

Abigail Suiter
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1405
E-mail: asuiter@erepublic.com

For assistance or questions concerning Sponsor Logos or Logistics please contact:

Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact:

Heather Earney
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1339
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com

Venue

JW Marriott Austin

110 E 2nd Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-4777