Registration and Morning Refreshments

Opening Remarks

Katie Savage, Secretary of Technology, State of Maryland

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

Bits and Bytes – DoIT Round Robin Update

Networking Break

Concurrent Sessions

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, the impact of recent federal decisions on state and local security efforts, and the urgent need for multi-layered government collaboration.

The Future of the Public Sector Workforce

As the public sector increasingly relies on technology to drive innovation and efficiency, the demand for skilled IT professionals continues to grow. However, agencies are also grappling with workforce challenges, including burnout, retention struggles, and the need for continuous upskilling. This session will explore the evolving landscape of public sector tech jobs, strategies for preventing burnout, and how organizations can create meaningful career paths to attract and retain top talent.

The Data Journey: From Governance to Impactful Decision-Making

Data is more than just numbers - it’s the foundation for informed policy, resource allocation, and service improvements. But how do state and local governments ensure they’re collecting, governing, and utilizing data effectively to drive better decision-making? This session will explore the full lifecycle of data - governance, cleansing, and strategy - leading to a North Star of data-driven decision-making. Panelists from state and local governments will share real-world examples of how they have leveraged data to shape policy, improve service delivery, set the foundation for AI, and demonstrate ROI.

From Fragmentation to Efficiency: Maryland’s IT Modernization Journey

Maryland is at a pivotal moment in its technology modernization journey. With growing demands for digital services, cybersecurity resilience, and operational efficiency, strategic IT consolidation offers a path to cost-effective, scalable, and secure solutions. This session will explore how Maryland’s public sector can leverage modernization strategies - including shared services, cloud adoption, and infrastructure consolidation—to streamline operations and enhance service delivery.

Lunch

General Session

General Session

Short Break

Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.

Concurrent Sessions

Governing AI: Policies, Guardrails, and Accountability in a Rapidly Evolving Landscape

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve at a rapid pace, organizations must establish strong governance frameworks to ensure responsible and effective deployment. Building on the morning’s foundational data discussion, this session will explore how different organizations are staying ahead of AI advancements by creating guardrails that promote transparency, accountability, and compliance. Learn how organizations are defining roles, implementing governance training, and developing policies that balance innovation with risk management.

The Privacy Imperative: Protecting Data and Building Trust

In an era of increasing digital transformation, public sector organizations must navigate the complex landscape of privacy while maintaining transparency, ensuring compliance, and fostering public trust. With evolving regulations, growing cybersecurity threats, and the expanding use of AI and data-driven decision-making, safeguarding sensitive information is more critical than ever. This session will explore key privacy challenges in government, including data protection strategies, compliance with federal and state regulations and best practices for creating a “privacy-first” culture.

Connecting Maryland’s Communities for a Stronger Digital Future

The future of Maryland depends on strong, reliable, and equitable connectivity. From expanding broadband access in underserved communities to enhancing digital infrastructure for public services, connectivity initiatives are transforming how residents, businesses, and government interact. This session will explore Maryland’s broadband expansion efforts, the impact of federal and state investments, and innovative initiatives to bridge the digital divide.

Exclusive Briefing for Industry Partners

Hosted by:

Networking Break

The Government Experience Revolution – Reimagining Personalized Government Delivery

Constituents today expect the same level of seamless, personalized service from government that they receive in the private sector. The Government Experience Revolution is transforming how agencies deliver services - moving from one-size-fits-all approaches to data-driven, user-centric experiences. This session, presented by the Center for Digital Government, will explore how governments are leveraging AI, digital identity, and advanced analytics to anticipate citizen needs, streamline interactions, and build trust through personalization.

Barry Condrey, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government

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.