2026 Federal Cloud & Data Forum Recap
As AI accelerates cloud adoption and data-driven transformation, federal agencies are rethinking their data strategy and how they manage, secure and scale their information ecosystems. Federal technology experts discussed some of their strategies for how cloud, edge and hybrid data solutions are powering AI innovation and enabling smarter decision-making across government.
Opening Fireside Chat: Exploring VA's Data Strategy
As federal agencies rethink how they manage data to support AI, Veterans Affairs’ Chief Data Officer Lisa Rosenmerkel discussed the department’s approach to data governance, quality and management. She explored how VA is working across the department and with federal partners to improve how data is used to support decision-making and services for veterans.
Featured Speaker:
- Lisa Rosenmerkel, CDO, VA
Building the Infrastructure for AI
As AI adoption expands across government, agencies are modernizing cloud environments to provide the scalable infrastructure needed to move AI from pilot projects to enterprise-wide capabilities. Hear how investments in cloud modernization, data architectures and computing resources are enabling agencies to accelerate AI adoption, improve operational efficiency and deliver mission outcomes at scale.
Featured Speakers:
- Joe Croghan, Associate Director of Informatics, Office of Cyber Infrastructure and Computational Biology, NIAID
- Jeff Malec, Principal Technologist, Lifecycle Planning, HP
- Kevin Walsh, Director of Information Technology and Cybersecurity, GAO
Lightning Rounds: Cloud and Data Success Stories
Federal agencies are modernizing cloud environments, strengthening data foundations and adopting new technologies to support AI, improve mission delivery and increase operational efficiency. Learn more about the innovative projects, compliance frameworks, modernization efforts and emerging strategies shaping the future of federal cloud and data management.
Featured Speakers:
- Katie Chrisman, Team Lead, Federal Solutions Engineering, NinjaOne
- Eric Miller, Senior Advisor for Open Source Intelligence, DIA
- Steevenson Nelson, Lead Management Analyst, NIH
- Adina Pantella, Executive Director, Passenger Systems Program Directorate, CBP
- Wade Zarriello, Director, Infrastructure and User Services Group, CMS
Security in the AI Era
Cloud adoption and AI-driven workflows are driving the need for an evolution in how cloud environments are secured. This panel explored strategies for strengthening cloud security, implementing zero trust, improving visibility across hybrid environments and managing emerging risks while enabling innovation at scale.
Featured Speakers:
- Leslie Nettles, Acting Deputy CISO, CMS
- Anish Patel, Head of Federal, Cloudflare
- Nicole Thompson, Security Director, FedRAMP, GSA
Data as a Strategic Asset
AI and AI agents rely on trusted and accessible data, yet legacy systems that are also built on archaic code continue to burden agencies that want to move fast on this new technology. This panel explored how agencies are improving data quality, interoperability and governance while building the foundation for advanced analytics and AI-driven decision-making.
Featured Speakers:
- Michael Hardee, Chief Architect, Red Hat
- Kevin Murphy, Acting Chief Data & Super Intelligence Officer, NASA
- Michelle Zebrowski, CDO, CBP
Cloud Optimization and IT Efficiency
More complex cloud environments with increased AI adoption drives new infrastructure demands. This panel explored strategies for managing cloud spend, streamlining workflows and leveraging automation to increase efficiency without sacrificing security.
Featured Speakers:
- Will Erb, Managing Director, Filevine Federal
- Cristina Genoese-Zerbi, Director, Neptune Cloud Management Office, Department of the Navy
- Dave Raley, Chief Digital Business Officer, Operation StormBreaker, USMC
- Kimberly Watson, Deputy Director, Division of Technology Portfolio Management, CMS
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NASA, CBP Tackle Data Access, Security Challenges Amid AI Expansion
NASA and CBP data leaders discuss how their agencies are balancing data accessibility, security and governance to advance AI capabilities.
2m read -
VA CDO Wants Data to be as Reliable as Water, Electricity
Lisa Rosenmerkel said the agency is striving to utilize its data with utility-level reliability to make it easier to get services to veterans.
3m read
