The vibrant city of Miami is set to host the inaugural Southern Florida Digital Government Summit on October 28, a significant event for public-sector technologists and industry innovators. The summit, presented by Government Technology magazine—sister publication of Industry Insider — Florida—provides a unique platform for attendees to explore innovative approaches within the realm of digital governance. The one-day event, running from 8 a.m. to 4:50 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Miami Airport and Convention Center, opens its doors to those engaged in the public sector, paving the way for impactful discussions and collaborations.
A Platform for Public Sector Leaders
As digital transformation continues to reshape the public sector, the summit aims to create meaningful connections among professionals dedicated to enhancing government services through technology. Attendees can expect insightful discussions and networking opportunities, designed to inspire fresh ideas and effective strategies in their organizations. The event welcomes a diverse audience of decision-makers, IT professionals, and tech industry leaders, all united by the common goal of advancing public service through technology.
Keynote and Opening Remarks
The event will be kicked off by Margaret Brisbane, the chief information officer and director of Miami-Dade County’s Information Technology Department. Her opening remarks are expected to set an inspiring tone for the summit, highlighting the critical role of technology in modern governance. Following her, attendees will hear from several prominent technology leaders in South Florida, including Frank Quintana, CIO of Miami Beach, and Raimundo Rodulfo, Chief Innovation Officer for Coral Gables. Their insights will lay the foundation for the collaborative spirit of the summit.
Engaging Breakout Sessions
Throughout the day, numerous breakout sessions will delve into vital topics at the intersection of technology and public service. These sessions feature a mix of expert speakers and panelists from well-known institutions such as the city of Coral Gables, Miami Dade College, and Florida International University. Attendees can choose from a variety of focused discussions designed to inspire and inform.
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The Art of the Possible: AI in Action
Hosted by Ana Chammas, Miami-Dade County’s innovation director, this session will explore how artificial intelligence can enhance service delivery in local governments. With a panel that includes Margaret Brisbane and senior leaders from academia and the tech industry, participants will gain insights into practical AI applications that can transform public service. -
Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Framework
Cybersecurity is a pressing concern for governments, and this session, led by Hansa Bernal, senior national conference director for Government Technology, will tackle the essentials of creating a robust cybersecurity framework. Panelists include experts from HP Federal, Florida International University, and Miami-Dade County, discussing ways to safeguard sensitive data and ensure the integrity of public systems. -
Sharing Data Makes Government Go Round
The importance of data sharing in enhancing governmental operations will be the focus of this session. Participants, including Carrie Mast, CIO of St. Lucie County, will discuss innovative strategies for data collaboration and interoperability between agencies, ultimately leading to improved transparency and efficiency in public services. -
Designing for All: The Future of the Constituent Experience
This session aims to address how to create a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for citizens interacting with government services. With contributions from Cassandra Arnold, deputy chief of staff for the office of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, attendees will explore best practices in service design that cater to diverse populations. - The Evolving IT Workforce Landscape
The final breakout session examines the challenges and opportunities in the IT workforce within the public sector. Featuring leaders such as Terri-Ann Brown, director of Miami Tech Works, this session will discuss the necessary skills for future workforce development and strategies to attract and retain top talent in technology roles.
Networking and Opportunities
In addition to the learning opportunities, the summit will include structured networking sessions and lunch, providing a conducive environment for attendees to make connections, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. Representatives from various sponsoring companies will also participate, contributing to the dialogue about the latest technological advancements and their implications for public governance.
The Southern Florida Digital Government Summit promises to be an energizing and informative day, driving forward the conversation on how technology can improve public services for the residents of Southern Florida. This inaugural event is not just a conference; it’s a call to action for those in the public sector to embrace innovation, foster collaboration, and lead the digital charge for better governance.