Executive Summit

Businesses stand to benefit from AI in unprecedented ways, but only if IT leaders overcome transformation challenges. This includes implementing a modern zero trust architecture to protect data and users, embracing AI while managing its risks, and handling the technical and financial implications of ever-expanding environments. A risk-based approach to security ensures CIOs deliver a secure, phased transformation.

Join this session to:

• Understand how zero trust and AI together, unlike firewalls, provide the strongest cyber defense by stopping threat actors from lateral movement within networks
• Learn strategies for protecting AI applications developed in data centers and the cloud, while preventing data leaks from public AI applications
• Discover how eliminating costly legacy hardware simplifies environments while cutting network and security costs

As AI and emerging technology disruption persists, CIOs are tasked with addressing skills gaps to build a more resilient and adaptable workforce capable of meeting future technological demands.

Join this session to discuss:

• Developing an IT talent strategy to address skills gaps
• Upskilling and reskilling to expand the IT talent pipeline and capabilities 
• Building an adaptable team to capitalize on emerging opportunities

Connect with like-minded peers in a one-on-one setting through Peer-to-Peer Meetings. You will be matched with peers in your community based on your shared interests and priorities.

Gartner reports that 64% of CIOs and technology executives anticipate a moderate or significant shift to outcomes in 2026, echoing 2025 when 82% made midyear pivots. Executives that proactively adapt to these shifts will be best positioned to navigate uncertainty and deliver sustained business value.

Join Bob Trotter, Senior Executive Partner at Gartner, to discuss:

• Anticipating disruption and building agility into your IT Strategy
• Proactive planning for budget and performance pressures amid global uncertainty  
• Demonstrating forward-thinking and business-driven leadership to build influence, trust, and credibility

Gartner research predicts that 30% of generative AI projects through 2026 will be abandoned after proof of concept, due in part, to poor data quality. CIOs play a critical role in ensuring data is AI-ready and the business is poised for innovation.

Join this session to discuss:

• Emphasizing data quality and maturity as a keystone of AI innovation
• Aligning data strategy with business objectives to maximize AI impact
• Collaborating with data management leaders and cross-functional stakeholders

Finish the day sharing lessons learned with your peers over light fare and drinks at this closing reception hosted by the Gartner Atlanta CIO Governing Body.