Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Federal technology leaders from VA, NASA, CBP, CMS, GAO, NIH, DIA and NIAID will discuss cloud, edge and hybrid data strategies supporting government AI initiatives
- Sessions address cloud security in the AI era, including zero trust implementation and visibility across hybrid environments
- Data governance, quality and interoperability are examined as foundational requirements for AI and advanced analytics
- Attendees may earn up to 3 CPE credits
- The event takes place October 8, 2026 in Washington, D.C.
About the Event
The 2026 Federal Cloud & Data Forum brings together federal technology experts to examine how agencies are rethinking data strategy as AI accelerates cloud adoption and data-driven transformation. The half-day event runs from 8:00am to 12:40pm and features panel discussions and fireside chats with officials from multiple federal agencies.
Speakers include Lisa Rosenmerkel (Chief Data Officer, VA), Kevin Murphy (Acting Chief Data and AI Officer, NASA), Michelle Zebrowski (Chief Data Officer, CBP), Kevin Walsh (Director of Information Technology and Cybersecurity, GAO), Leslie Nettles (Acting Deputy CISO, CMS), Nicole Thompson (Security Director, FedRAMP, GSA), and representatives from NIAID, NIH, DIA and USMC.
Cloud Infrastructure for AI
A panel on building infrastructure for AI will explore how agencies are modernizing cloud environments to move AI from pilot projects to enterprise-wide capabilities. Speakers from NIAID, GAO and HP will discuss investments in cloud modernization, data architectures and computing resources that enable agencies to accelerate AI adoption and improve operational efficiency.
Lightning rounds will feature federal officials sharing cloud and data success stories, covering innovative projects, compliance frameworks, modernization efforts and emerging strategies shaping federal cloud and data management.
Security in the AI Era
A dedicated security panel will address how cloud adoption and AI-driven workflows are changing cloud security requirements. Topics include zero trust implementation, visibility across hybrid environments and managing emerging risks while enabling innovation. Speakers include the Acting Deputy CISO from CMS, the Security Director from FedRAMP and the Head of Federal from Cloudflare.
Data as a Strategic Asset
The forum will examine how agencies are improving data quality, interoperability and governance to support AI and advanced analytics. Panelists will discuss challenges posed by legacy systems and archaic code that burden agencies seeking to adopt new technology. NASA’s Acting Chief Data and AI Officer and CBP’s Chief Data Officer will participate in this session.
Cloud Optimization and IT Efficiency
A closing panel will explore strategies for managing cloud spend, streamlining workflows and leveraging automation to increase efficiency without sacrificing security. Speakers from CMS and USMC’s Operation StormBreaker will share approaches to handling increased infrastructure demands driven by AI adoption.
Who Should Attend
The forum is designed for federal IT leaders, data officers, cloud architects, cybersecurity professionals and technology decision-makers involved in cloud modernization, data strategy and AI implementation across government agencies.