Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- FedTalks 2026 convenes federal government executives and technology leaders to address public sector digital transformation
- Core topics include generative AI adoption, zero-trust security architectures, post-quantum cryptography, and cloud modernisation
- The event marks its 16th year, drawing more than 1,000 senior leaders from government and industry
- Discussion themes align with White House technology priorities and federal modernisation mandates
- Takes place on 17 November 2026 at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C.
Federal Technology Leaders Gather for FedTalks 2026
FedTalks 2026 brings together C-level executives, chief information officers, and technology innovators from across the United States federal government and private sector to examine how advanced technologies are reshaping public sector operations. Presented by AISCOOP and hosted by FedScoop, the single-day conference addresses the intersection of generative artificial intelligence, cybersecurity frameworks, cloud infrastructure, and digital service delivery at a time when federal agencies face mounting pressure to modernise legacy systems while maintaining security and operational continuity.
About FedTalks
Now entering its 16th year, FedTalks has established itself as one of the largest annual gatherings focused on federal government technology transformation. The event attracts more than 1,000 influential leaders for a programme of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Scheduled for 17 November 2026 at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C., the conference provides a forum for government and industry participants to examine how emerging technologies can improve mission outcomes and citizen services.
Technology Priorities Shaping Federal Modernisation
The conference agenda reflects current White House technology priorities and the operational realities facing federal agencies. Generative AI adoption represents a central theme, as agencies work to deploy artificial intelligence capabilities while establishing appropriate governance frameworks and addressing workforce implications. The discussion extends beyond initial pilot programmes to examine how AI can be integrated into core agency functions at scale.
Cybersecurity remains equally prominent, with sessions addressing the ongoing transition to zero-trust security architectures. Federal mandates have accelerated this shift, requiring agencies to move away from perimeter-based security models toward continuous verification approaches. The emergence of quantum computing introduces additional complexity, as agencies must prepare cryptographic systems for a post-quantum environment where current encryption standards may become vulnerable.
Cloud security and commercial software acquisition also feature prominently. Federal agencies increasingly rely on commercial cloud infrastructure and software-as-a-service platforms, creating new procurement challenges and security considerations. The conference examines how agencies can leverage commercial innovation while meeting federal compliance requirements and maintaining data sovereignty.
Data Infrastructure and Digital Services
A recurring theme throughout FedTalks concerns the foundational role of data in enabling emerging technologies. Artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities depend on well-governed, accessible data assets. Many federal agencies continue to grapple with fragmented data environments, inconsistent standards, and legacy systems that impede the integration necessary for advanced analytics and automation.
The conference also addresses 21st-century digital services, examining how agencies can improve citizen-facing applications and internal workflows. User experience has become a federal priority, with expectations that government digital services should match the convenience and accessibility of commercial alternatives.
Audience and Participation
FedTalks is designed for senior government officials including chief information officers, chief AI officers, and directors of information technology, alongside technology executives and vendors serving the federal market. Confirmed speakers include Mangala Kuppa, CIO and Chief AI Officer at the Department of Labor, and Patrick Newbold, CIO and Director of the Office of Information Technology at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The event offers continuing professional education credits for eligible participants.
The conference serves as a venue for examining how policy direction, technical capability, and operational constraints intersect in federal technology programmes. For government leaders, it offers perspective on peer agency initiatives and emerging solutions. For industry participants, it provides insight into federal priorities and procurement directions that will shape the public sector technology market in the years ahead.