How Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Creates a Successful Cybersecurity Posture

Posted on by Craig Picken and Elizabeth Schultheisz

Stringent cybersecurity measures are crucial to secure Public Sector operations, and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a critical tool in that belt. Malicious adversaries range from rogue actors to nation-state-sponsored attacks, and all frequently target specific organizations that deal with highly sensitive data. By itself, EDR can quickly identify abnormal behaviors or code and help the SOC analyst team respond accordingly. When paired with other Security Operations Center (SOC) tools, EDR further broadens SOC visibility and increases operational efficiency. Federal agencies can use that intelligence to not only resolve security breaches, but also proactively adjust their security measures to prevent further incidents.

All Eyes on the Data: EDR and Data Visibility

Visibility is a fundamental tenet of EDR. When SOC teams have access to data that is current and actionable, they can make calculated, proactive decisions and respond appropriately in crisis scenarios. An effective EDR tool will monitor existing data, detect anomalous behavior and respond to threats in real time.

Data from across multiple sources is recorded and compared against watch lists that SOC analysts can use to search for anomalous activities. Additionally, known threat vectors are continuously monitored in near real-time, and analysts are automatically alerted to suspicious behavior. EDR looks at all endpoint activity, not just individual data silos, and presents that raw data to SOC analysts in a usable, searchable manner.

Efficiency and Data Quality: Two Sides of the Same Coin

It is not just the quantity of data SOC teams can access that matters; the quality of the data is just as crucial. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and SOC teams need to make fast, defensible decisions in both routine and crisis scenarios. Analysts do not have the time to sift through all alert activity and determine those that need immediate response. An effective EDR solution allows for tuning of watchlists to prioritize alerts. By receiving higher fidelity alerts, SOC analysts optimize time spent investigating and providing real-time response by isolating endpoints or acting directly to terminate suspicious processes.

It is not enough for security alerts to be prioritized; if the information is unreliable or incomplete, any analyses or flags extrapolated from that data are virtually worthless. A data-based EDR solution allows SOC analysts to resolve issues quickly, reducing the risk of faulty decisions.

Carbon Black EDR: The Premier Option

After observing the need for security and visibility in endpoints, Carbon Black was founded and pioneered EDR. Its open architecture with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) makes it possible to correlate the data with other SOC tools, such as network, identity, endpoint protection and data protection tools. Additionally, Carbon Black EDR can integrate with different security products, including Security Information and Event Management Systems (SIEMS). This holistic vision allows SOC teams to understand the entire lifecycle of potential attacks, and accurate data ensures that analysts know exactly what, where and how an incident occurred.

This layered approach to cybersecurity is especially valuable to the Public Sector. Many Federal teams work in multiple siloed or air-gapped networks, and each of these networks have different functions. Carbon Black EDR has the flexibility to be deployed in multiple environments and tailored to their individual operations.

Want to learn more about how Carbon Black EDR can elevate your cybersecurity posture? Contact our Broadcom team at Broadcom@carahsoft.com or visit our website.

How Microsoft’s OneGov Agreement Brings Affordable AI-Enhanced Productivity to the Federal Government

Posted on by Jenna Hafey

Federal agencies have a need to advance artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and transform Government by modernizing legacy IT systems. Microsoft’s OneGov Portfolio delivers AI-powered collaboration capabilities through pre-negotiated discounts, giving agencies a simple and predictive way to obtain Microsoft Solutions at significant cost savings.

Aligned with the General Services Administration’s (GSA) OneGov strategy to unify agencies and reduce technology silos, the program provides Federal agencies with streamlined access to Microsoft 365 Copilot, cybersecurity and monitoring tools, as well as tools to assist with citizen engagement and streamlining operations. This approach simplifies procurement, accelerates deployment and delivers measurable productivity gains across mission-critical operations.

Enhanced Productivity and Secure Collaboration

The Microsoft OneGov offer provides the AI-powered productivity capabilities of Microsoft Copilot with applications agencies are using today like Word, Outlook and Teams. The platform enables users to draft content, analyze complex datasets and automate repetitive processes without switching between systems or learning new interfaces.

Government‑tailored versions of the Microsoft 365 applications operate within Microsoft’s U.S. sovereign cloud environment, giving agencies secure channels for cross-agency communication. Agencies also receive cloud storage through Microsoft OneDrive for secure, real-time collaboration and AI capabilities through Microsoft Copilot that accelerate daily workflows, including:

Content generation: MicrosoftCopilot generates first-draft documents in Word, reducing time spent on routine writing tasks and enabling staff to focus on substantive review and refinement.
Accelerated communication: Microsoft Copilot summarizes lengthy email threads and drafts responses in Outlook, streamlining correspondence management across complex organizational structures.
Process automation: Users build agents in Microsoft Copilot to orchestrate multi-step processes, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors in repetitive workflows.

Entra ID, Microsoft’s Identity Management Platform, provides identity management capabilities that support secure collaboration across agencies. Administrators gain automated access policies, conditional access controls and enforcement of least-privilege principles, ensuring users access only content explicitly authorized for their roles.

The offer includes built-in automation and bulk-assignment tools that streamline license deployment and management for agencies of all sizes. Once licenses are deployed, they are readily available to users, expediting the onboarding process.

Meeting Federal Security and Compliance Requirements

Solutions deployed through Microsoft’s Government Community Cloud (GCC) and Government Community Cloud High (GCC‑High) operate in U.S. sovereign cloud environments designed to meet Federal compliance standards. The offer supports FedRAMP High authorization and Department of Defense (DoD) Impact Level 4 (IL4) requirements through comprehensive security controls:

Encrypted data handling protects information in transit and at rest.
Role‑based access control and continuous monitoring provide layered security.
Data residency guarantees ensure information remains within authorized geographic boundaries.
Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) enforces identity‑based access, least‑privilege permissions and robust conditional access policies across all services.

Simplified Procurement for Federal Buyers

Microsoft’s OneGov offer provides Federal agencies with pre-negotiated, standardized pricing up to 70% compared to standard GSA rates. The program supports agency-wide purchasing, reduces duplicative contracting and provides multi‑year discounts on solutions such as Microsoft 365 G5 and Copilot.

All purchases remain within the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), streamlining administrative tasks and simplifying budget planning. This structure enables agencies to act quickly on modernization initiatives while maintaining compliance with Federal procurement regulations.

Deployment and Adoption

Microsoft has end customer development funds available through the OneGov Portfolio offer to assist customers with rapid deployment, implementation and adoption of these tools.

The Power of Strategic Partnerships

As The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, Carahsoft worked closely with Microsoft to add OneGov offers to Carahsoft’s GSA MAS, making pricing widely accessible and offering standardized discounts ranging from 50-100% to Federal agencies. This partnership delivers pricing advantages on Azure Services, Microsoft 365, Copilot and Dynamics 365.

Microsoft and Carahsoft provide comprehensive support for environment qualification, anniversary alignment, suite conversions and deployment across GCC, GCC-High and DoD environments. By combining OneGov incentives with existing enterprise agreements, agencies gain simplified procurement, predictable pricing and meaningful cost savings that accelerate modernization timelines.

Explore Microsoft’s OneGov portfolio to discover available solutions aligned with the needs of Federal agencies.

Contact the Microsoft Team at (844) 673-8468 or Microsoft@carahsoft.com to receive pricing details or schedule an overview of OneGov offerings for your agency.

Top 10 Education IT Events in 2026

Posted on by Tim Boltz

As educational institutions continue to navigate rapid technological transformation, staying connected with the latest innovations and best practices has never been more critical. From K-12 districts implementing next-generation cybersecurity solutions to higher education institutions leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance student outcomes, education technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace.
Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Education IT Solutions Provider™, partners with leading technology providers to deliver comprehensive solutions that bridge the digital divide and empower educators, administrators and students alike. Throughout 2026, the education community will gather at events nationwide to explore emerging technologies, share successful strategies and forge partnerships that will shape the future of learning. Below are the key education events where Carahsoft and our partners will showcase innovative solutions designed to meet the unique needs of educational institutions of all levels.

NERCOMP

March 9-11, 2026 | Providence, RI | In-Person Event

The NorthEast Regional Computing Program (NERCOMP) Annual Conference brings together higher education IT professionals, faculty, researchers and institutional leaders from across the northeast to connect, share expertise and advance innovation in teaching, learning and technology. In partnership with EDUCAUSE, the conference creates a collaborative space to exchange practical insights, build meaningful relationships and explore emerging trends shaping higher education IT. Guided by this year’s theme, “Connect Locally, Think Globally,” attendees will strengthen regional partnerships while gaining perspective from global best practices, making the conference an essential opportunity to learn, network and help drive forward-looking innovation across the higher education community.

Carahsoft is a proud sponsor, strategic partner and exhibitor at NERCOMP 2026. Visit us at booth #303 to connect with our education technology vendors and leading innovative solutions. Join us for our industry panel on Wednesday, March 11^th from 11:15am-12:00pm ET, where thought leaders will discuss pressing topics facing higher education technology professionals. Our team will be available to discuss how our tailored solutions can enhance campus operations and drive institutional success.

CASBO Con 26

March 31-April 1, 2026 | San Diego, CA | In-Person Event

The California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) Con 2026 is a premier annual conference and expo for school business professionals across California. The event brings together more than 2,000 district administrators, financial officers and other school business leaders to connect, learn and grow through high-impact sessions, hand-on learning and access to the California School Business Expo showcasing the latest solutions and services tailored to the challenges and opportunities in K-12 education and community colleges. By attending CASBO Con 26, participants can deepen their professional expertise, build valuable networks with peers and industry partners and gain practical insights that advance excellence in school operations and leadership statewide.

Carahsoft is a sponsor of CASBO Con 26, reinforcing our commitment to supporting California’s K-12 business and financial leadership community. Come see us at booth #1240 to connect with our education technology vendors and discover solutions that address the unique fiscal and operational challenges facing California school districts. Our team will showcase technologies from our partners in areas such as financial management systems, cybersecurity, data analytics and cloud infrastructure. Stop by to discuss your technology needs and learn how Carahsoft can support your mission.

ASU+GSV Summit

April 12-15, 2026 | San Diego, CA | In-Person Event

The Arizona State University and Global Silicon Valley (ASU+GSV) Summit is a global gathering of education, workforce and technology leaders committed to transforming learning opportunities at all stages of life. Bringing together innovators from K-12, higher education, corporate learning, Government and investment communities, the Summit features keynotes, panels and curated discussions that explore emerging trends in education technology, workforce development, AI and more. Attendees will gain strategic insights, new partnerships and actionable ideas to accelerate innovation, scale meaningful solutions and drive impact across the learning ecosystem, from early education to career advancement.

Carahsoft will attend this year’s ASU+GSV Summit, demonstrating our commitment to supporting innovation at the intersection of education and workforce development. Our team will be present throughout the Summit to connect with attendees and discuss our comprehensive portfolio of education technology solutions. We look forward to participating in the 2026 Summit and exploring opportunities to drive meaningful change in education technology. Reach out to EDUMarketing@Carahsoft.com to connect with representatives onsite

Internet2 Community Exchange

April 13-26, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event

The Internet2 Community Exchange (CommEX26) is a flagship annual gathering where IT leaders, technologists and teams from research and education institutions come together to exchange ideas, share knowledge and collaborate on the future of technology in research and education. This event celebrates decades of community-driven innovation and provides expert-led sessions, working meetings and peer discussions that tackle topics such as emerging technologies, data privacy and security and sustainable IT strategies, fostering meaningful partnerships that help drive institutional missions forward. Attendees benefit from strategic insights, practical solutions to common challenges and the chance to connect with a diverse community dedicated to advancing research and education technology.

Carahsoft is looking forward to sponsoring and holding an exhibit at this year’s conference, supporting the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Internet2 community. In partnership with our reseller network, Carahsoft works closely with Internet2 to advance the NET+ and Cloud Scorecard programs, delivering trusted, vetted cloud solutions that help higher education and research institutions address shared technology obstacles.

CoSN2026

April 13-26, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event

The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) 2026 Annual Conference is one of the leading national gatherings for K-12 education technology leaders, including Chief Information Officers (CIOs), Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), district administrators and education technology practitioners. Built around interactive keynotes, workshops and hands-on sessions, CoSN2026 equips participants with strategic insights and practical tools to address pressing challenges like cybersecurity, student data privacy, generative AI (GenAI) readiness and digital equity while fostering collaboration on building the future of learning systems. Attendees can connect with peers, engage in high-impact learnings and gain actionable strategies to lead technology-enabled transformation that enhances teaching, learning and operations across school districts.

Carahsoft is excited to participate at CoSN’s Annual Conference 2026, with more details about our involvement to be announced soon. As a longstanding supporter of CoSN and the K-12 technology leadership community, we look forward to connecting with attendees to discuss the latest innovations in education technology.

EDUCAUSE Cybersecurity and Privacy Professionals Conference

April 28-30, 2026 | Anaheim, CA | In-Person Event

The EDUCAUSE Cybersecurity and Privacy Professionals Conference (CPPC) is a dedicated event for higher education IT and security leaders focused on strengthening defenses, protecting data and advancing privacy practices across campuses. Designed for cybersecurity practitioners, privacy officers and technology decision makers, the conference delivers deep-dive sessions, real-world case studies and collaborative discussions on emerging threats, risk management frameworks, incident response strategies and compliance priorities unique to higher education. Attendees gain practical insights, new tools and vetted best practices to enhance institutional resilience, build stronger security programs and network with peers tackling similar challenges, making it an essential experience for professionals committed to safeguarding their organization in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Carahsoft is honored to be a sponsor at this year’s EDUCAUSE CPPC. Our team will be present throughout the Conference to connect with attendees and discuss our leading partners’ innovative solutions for higher education institutions. Additionally, Carahsoft will host a reception, providing an opportunity for participants to engage with experts and peers, as well as a roundtable in partnership with Palo Alto Networks. More information about our reception and involvement will be announced closer to the event date.

ISTELive 26

June 28-July 1, 2026 | Orlando, FL | Hybrid Event

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) 2026 Conference & Expo is one of the world’s largest and most influential gatherings of educators, administrators and education technology innovators dedicated to transforming teaching and learning with technology. With thousands of attendees from around the globe, ISTELive offers hands-on workshops, cutting-edge keynotes and an expansive expo floor filled with the latest tools, strategies and research to support meaningful, equitable digital learning experiences. Whether you are looking to deepen your skills with AI and personalized learning, build a stronger tech-enabled classroom or connect with a vibrant community of peers passionate about education innovation, ISTELive 2026 delivers actionable insights and inspiring ideas to elevate teaching and drive student success.

Carahsoft will sponsor and be an exhibitor at ISTELive 26. Visit us at booth #3254 to connect with our education technology vendors and explore their solutions that are transforming teaching and learning. Our team will showcase cutting-edge technologies, including digital learning platforms, classroom collaboration tools, cybersecurity and AI integration. Stop by and learn how Carahsoft can support your mission to enhance student engagement and outcomes through technology innovation.

EDUCAUSE Annual Conference

September 29-October 2, 2026 | Denver, CO | In-Person Event

The EDUCAUSE Annual Conference 2026 connects higher education IT leaders, technologists and institutional decision makers looking to shape the future of campus technology. This flagship event brings together thousands of professionals from around the world to explore strategic innovations, emerging technologies and best practices that address the biggest challenges in higher education, from digital transformation and cybersecurity to data governance and AI-enabled learning. With a rich program of keynotes, panels, interactive sessions and networking opportunities, attendees gain actionable insights, practical solutions and collaborative connections that help drive institutional success and advance mission-critical priorities across teaching, learning, research and administration.

Carahsoft will have a significant presence at the EDUCAUSE Annual Conference 2026, offering opportunities for attendees to engage with front-line education technology solutions. Join us at booth #501 to explore 24 demo opportunities throughout the Conference, with 12 showcase spots each day, featuring solutions from our leading partners. Participants can attend our industry panel addressing critical topics facing higher education IT leaders. Join Joe Toste for live recordings of the Tech Tables podcast and network with peers at our on-site reception in the CarahCafe.

Internet2 Technology Exchange 2026

October 26-30, 2026 | Minneapolis, MN | In-Person Event

The Internet2 Technology Exchange 2026 (TechEX26) centers on the practical, day-to-day challenges facing higher-education network and infrastructure teams as campus environments grow more complex. Through technical sessions and peer-to-peer conversations, a consistent theme continues to emerge: campus networks are being asked to deliver more than ever before. Institutions must provide secure, resilient, high-performance connectivity while supporting expanding research requirements, AI-enabled workloads, cloud adoption and hybrid learning environments—often with limited staffing and budgets. Network engineers and architects emphasize the need for better visibility, stronger security and increased automation to maintain reliability and performance across increasingly distributed systems.

Carahsoft’s sponsorship of TechEX26 reinforces our longstanding commitment to supporting the research and education community. Through our partnership with Internet2’s NET+ program, Carahsoft works with member institutions to deliver reliable cloud and trust solutions that address shared technology challenges across higher education and research organizations. Our team will be present throughout TechEX26 and look forward to connecting with the Internet2 community to explore how Carahsoft can support your institution’s mission-critical technology initiatives.

Carahsoft’s Sixth Annual EdTech Talks

October 14-16, 2026 | Virtual Event

Carahsoft’s Sixth Annual EdTech Talks summit is designed to equip academic IT leaders and education professionals with practical insights into the performance, security, cost-efficiency and modernization capabilities of today’s leading education technology solutions. This three-day virtual event will feature a dynamic mix of Classroom Panels, keynote Assembly Sessions and “Before the Bell” breakout discussions, covering topics ranging from school safety, digital equity, cybersecurity and the evolving student experience. Attendees will also explore emerging use cases for AI and machine learning in K-12 and higher education, with a focus on improving instructional outcomes, streamlining operations and supporting secure, scalable learning environments.

Carahsoft is thrilled to host the Sixth Annual EdTech Talks, our premier virtual event for education. All presentation recordings and slide decks from the three-day event will be available on demand, allowing educators to access content on their own schedule. A detailed agenda will be posted soon. In the meantime, explore our sessions from the 2025 EdTech Talk Series to see how Carahsoft supports education missions through innovative technology solutions and thought leadership.

As education technology continues to evolve, these events represent invaluable opportunities to connect with peers, discover transformative solutions and gain actionable insights that can be implemented immediately. Whether you are seeking to enhance cybersecurity posture, implement AI-driven learning platforms, improve student data privacy or modernize IT infrastructure, Carahsoft and our extensive network of education technology partners are committed to supporting your mission. We invite you to join us at these premier events throughout 2026 to explore how innovative technology solutions can help your institution overcome challenges, enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for success.

To learn more or get involved with any of the above events, please contact us at EDUMarketing@Carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading education technology partners’ events, visit our education solutions portfolio and education technology events page.

Top 10 State and Local Government Events in 2026

Posted on by Tim Boltz

State and Local Governments face unprecedented challenges as they work to modernize critical systems, strengthen cybersecurity defenses and deliver enhanced services to their communities, all while managing budget constraints and evolving compliance requirements. As agencies navigate this complex landscape, industry events provide essential opportunities to learn from peers, discover innovative solutions and build strategic partnerships that drive mission success. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, has partnered with State and Local agencies for decades, delivering the technology solutions and expertise needed to meet these evolving demands. Throughout 2026, we are proud to support a select group of premier industry events that bring together Public Sector leaders, technology innovators and policy experts to advance the future of State and Local Government technology.

GovRAMP Symposium

March 9, 2026 | Washington D.C. | In-Person Event

The GovRAMP Symposium convenes senior Federal, State and Local leaders to explore how secure innovation, policy and procurement intersect to advance trusted modernization across Government agencies. Hosted in partnership with Billington CyberSecurity, the half-day program serves as the opening session of the Billington State and Local Cybersecurity Summit, setting the stage for collaboration and framework harmonization as a national security strategy. Attendees will gain insights from sessions exploring how harmonizing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), FedRAMP/GovRAMP, Department of War (DoW) and other regulatory frameworks can create a secure, interoperable innovation base for artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. A closing keynote will examine emerging governance models and the future of AI security in the United States.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting State and Local Government agencies as they navigate the complexities of framework compliance and secure modernization. As the Exclusive Government IT Solutions Partner for this event, we are dedicated to empowering Public Sector agencies with access to leading-edge technologies and trusted industry expertise that simplify the path to compliance. Through our extensive partner ecosystem, Carahsoft facilitates meaningful connections between Government leaders and the innovative solution providers who can help them achieve their security and modernization objectives while reducing operational burden.

Billington State and Local CyberSecurity Summit

March 9-11, 2026 | Washington, D.C. | In-Person Event

Billington CyberSecurity is the recognized leader in Federal cybersecurity education events. Following the success of its inaugural State and Local CyberSecurity Summit in 2024, the 3rd Annual Summit will bring together top Federal, State, Local and Tribal Government officials along with industry experts to share best practices, learn from one another and bolster future defenses. The event features critical sessions on protecting digital supply chains and baking trust into increasingly complex technology ecosystems. Attendees can expect expert panels examining recent threats, emerging regulations and best practices for ensuring transparency, trust and resilience across the technology landscape.

Carahsoft and NightDragon are proud to co-sponsor the State and Local Billington CyberSecurity Summit, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity posture of State and Local agencies across the nation. By co-sponsoring the All-Attendee Reception in the Exhibit Hall on Tuesday, March 10^th, we are creating valuable opportunities for Government cybersecurity leaders to build relationships, share challenges and discover collaborative solutions. Our participation reflects our dedication to supporting the State and Local Government community as they work to protect critical infrastructure and citizen data against evolving threats.

NASPO Exchange 2026

March 9, 2026 | Orlando, FL | In-Person Event

The National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) Exchange conference fosters relationships among the supplier community and Government entities. This premier public procurement event features guaranteed one-on-one meetings, exclusive networking opportunities and direct access to Government procurement decision makers from all 50 states and territories. Attendees will explore critical topics including the ethics of AI in supplier selection processes, regional procurement trends and practical approaches to integrating ethical considerations in AI-driven procurement while maintaining compliance and public trust. Experience unparalleled connections between suppliers and procurement professionals that support effective, efficient, transparent and fair public procurement outcomes.

Carahsoft is honored to exhibit at the NASPO Exchange Conference, where our dedicated NASPO Contracts Team will be available to help State procurement professionals navigate cooperative purchasing pathways and streamline their technology acquisition processes. We invite you to connect with us onsite or schedule a meeting in advance at NASPO@carahsoft.com to discuss how Carahsoft’s contract vehicles and extensive partner ecosystem can accelerate your agency’s access to best-in-class solutions. We are also honored to be recognized with an award at this year’s event, underscoring our continued commitment to supporting State procurement excellence and making it easier for Government agencies to acquire the technology solutions they need to serve their communities.

NASCIO Midyear Conference

April 26-29, 2026 | Philadelphia, PA | In-Person Event

The National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) Midyear Conference brings together State Chief Information Officers (SCIOs), technology leaders and industry partners to explore top priorities, emerging trends and leading practices shaping State Government IT. With an average attendance of nearly 1,000 participants—including representatives from all 50 states and dozens of SCIOs—the event offers unparalleled access to Public Sector technology leadership. Attendees participate in keynotes, breakout sessions, learning lounges and networking forums designed to promote peer learning, collaborative solutioning and strategic conversations. The conference provides structured opportunities such as meet-and-greets, general sessions and multiple networking receptions to help attendees build relationships and address shared challenges across the State IT landscape.

Carahsoft is proud to be the “Give Back Sponsor” for the NASCIO Midyear Conference, reinforcing our commitment to supporting State IT leaders as they tackle the most pressing technology challenges facing their agencies. This is part of NASCIO’s Give Back Program which supports local non-profits in the host city of Philadelphia. We are honored to host a Carahsoft Networking Reception on April 27^th from 8:30-11:00pm EST at Tir na nOg Fado Irish Pub, creating a relaxed environment where SCIOs and technology leaders can build meaningful relationships, share insights and explore collaborative approaches to common challenges. Our sponsorship and active participation demonstrate our dedication to fostering the peer connections and knowledge exchange that drive innovation across the State Government community.

Public Sector Network Government Innovation Shows

Multiple Dates Throughout 2026 | Various States Nationwide | In-Person Event

Public Sector Network’s (PSN) Government Innovation events are designed to bring together Government executives, technology leaders and industry partners to accelerate modernization across Federal, State and Local agencies. These shows focus on real-world applications of digital Government initiatives, covering areas such as data-driven decision-making, cybersecurity resilience, AI, digital service delivery, infrastructure modernization and cross-agency collaboration. Each event is tailored to the challenges and priorities of its region, with recurring high-impact session themes including AI and predictive analytics, citizen experience and digital services, cybersecurity resilience and cross-agency collaboration. Attendees can expect case studies, strategic insights and actionable frameworks for improving Government efficiency, strengthening public trust and adopting emerging technologies to improve citizen outcomes.

Innovation Show States:

Nashville, TN

Richmond, VA

Columbus, OH

Harrisburg, PA

Phoenix, AR

Tallahassee, FL

Albany, NY

Austin, TX

Denver, CO

Carahsoft is committed to supporting Government agencies nationwide through our sponsorship and event partnership with PSN’s Government Innovation Shows. By bringing our extensive portfolio of technology solutions and partner vendors to communities across the country, we are helping State and Local agencies discover the tools and strategies they need to modernize services, enhance cybersecurity and advance digital transformation initiatives. Our participation at these regional events reflects our dedication to meeting Government customers where they are. We are dedicated to understanding their unique challenges and connecting them with the innovative solutions and expert guidance that can help them better serve their constituents.

NACo Annual Conference

July 17-20, 2026 | New Orleans, LA | In-Person Event

The National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference is the premier gathering of elected and appointed officials from the nation’s 3,069 counties, parishes and boroughs. Attendees will explore emerging policy trends, innovative county-level programs and best practices designed to strengthen Local Government leadership. The event features data-driven sessions, hands-on workshops and opportunities to engage with national experts on issues ranging from infrastructure and public safety to health, technology and economic development. Participants will leave with actionable insights and proven strategies to enhance service delivery and improve outcomes for their communities.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting county leaders as they work to strengthen Local Government operations and deliver critical services to their constituents. Our planned sponsorship of the NACo Annual Conference demonstrates our dedication to the county Government community, where we have partnered with agencies for decades to provide access to transformative technology solutions. We understand the unique challenges facing county Governments and we are committed to connecting county leaders with the innovative tools, partners and expertise they need to modernize operations while maximizing the impact of every taxpayer dollar.

NASTD Annual Conference

August 23-26, 2026 | Denver, CO | In-Person Event

The National Association of State Technology Directors (NASTD) Annual Conference brings together State IT leaders, industry partners and technology innovators to explore emerging trends and best practices in Government technology. Attendees will gain insights into digital transformation, cybersecurity advancements and strategies for modernizing State IT infrastructures. The conference features data-driven sessions, peer case studies and collaborative discussions designed to help agencies improve service delivery and operational efficiency. Participants will leave with actionable knowledge, new professional connections and a clearer understanding of the evolving technology landscape across State Governments.

Carahsoft is honored to sponsor and exhibit at the NASTD Annual Conference, where we will showcase how our comprehensive portfolio of technology solutions and partner vendors support State IT modernization initiatives. Our team will be available throughout the event to discuss how Carahsoft can help State technology directors overcome infrastructure challenges, accelerate cloud adoption, strengthen cybersecurity defenses and implement emerging technologies like AI and automation. By participating in this critical gathering of State IT leadership, we are reinforcing our commitment to supporting the technology directors who serve as the backbone of State Government modernization efforts.

NASCIO Annual Conference

September 27-30, 2026 | San Diego, CA | In-Person Event

The NASCIO Annual Conference brings together State Government technology leaders, industry partners and subject-matter experts to explore the most pressing issues in Public Sector IT. Attendees will gain insights into national technology trends, share best practices and learn from data-driven sessions on cybersecurity, digital services, emerging technologies and State IT modernization efforts. The conference also provides opportunities to examine quantitative research released by NASCIO, including benchmarking data on SCIO priorities and technology investments. With a strong focus on collaboration and knowledge exchange, this event equips participants with practical strategies and proven frameworks to drive innovation across State Government, including sessions centered on top SCIO priorities such as cybersecurity, digital Government, enterprise architecture and developing technologies like AI and autonomous systems.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting the State CIO community year-round, and our sponsorship of the NASCIO Annual Conference reflects the depth of that commitment. We are proud to once again host our annual networking reception, creating relaxed, informal settings where State IT leaders can connect beyond the main conference agenda to share challenges, discuss strategies and build the relationships that lead to collaborative solutions. Our team looks forward to engaging with State CIOs, their teams and our industry partners throughout the event, facilitating the meaningful conversations and knowledge exchange that helps State Governments navigate complex technology decisions and advance their mission-critical modernization initiatives.

GovRAMP Cyber Summit

November 15-17, 2026 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event

The 2026 GovRAMP Cyber Summit brings together leaders from Government and industry to address the rising complexity of cybersecurity in the Public Sector. With agencies facing tight budgets, staffing shortages and increasing compliance requirements, the Summit emphasizes practical, risk-based strategies that enhance security while minimizing operational burden. Sessions focus on aligning frameworks such as GovRAMP, FedRAMP and Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) to reduce redundancy, promote reciprocity and achieve scalable, cost-effective security outcomes. Attendees can look forward to a keynote on emerging cyber risk trends and the evolving role of these frameworks in shaping Government-wide security strategy, as well as an interactive workshop focused on streamlining compliance through reciprocity and shared security evidence.

As the presenting sponsor of the 2026 GovRAMP Cyber Summit, Carahsoft is leading the effort to bring Government and industry experts together for high-impact cybersecurity collaboration that directly benefits State and Local agencies. We recognize that many State and Local Governments struggle with the complexity and cost of achieving and maintaining compliance across multiple frameworks, and we are committed to connecting agencies with the solutions, expertise and strategies that can simplify their compliance journey. Through our extensive cybersecurity partner ecosystem, we help agencies access GovRAMP-authorized solutions and navigate the path to secure, cost-effective cloud adoption. Carahsoft is committed to supporting the advancement of secure, efficient Government operations that better serve citizens while protecting their data.

Billington Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Summit

November 17-18, 2026 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event

The Billington Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Summit brings together an unprecedented coalition of Federal, State and Local Government cybersecurity leaders alongside operators from the nation’s four essential lifeline sectors: energy, communications, transportation and water. Building on sixteen years of hosting the most trusted Federal cybersecurity gathering, Billington is expanding its legacy to address the rapidly evolving threats facing America’s critical infrastructure. Attendees will gain insights from senior decision makers, sector experts and industry innovators on securing interconnected systems and strengthening national resilience through Firesides, General Sessions, Breakout Sessions and four sector-specific pre-conference Microsummits. Notable sessions include a rare cyber simulation examining roles and accountability between Government and industry during catastrophic events, as well as a fireside conversation with Intelligence Community leadership providing authoritative threat visibility directly to critical infrastructure operators.

Carahsoft is proud to support the inaugural Billington Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Summit, demonstrating our commitment to helping State and Local agencies strengthen the cybersecurity posture of America’s critical infrastructure sectors. As State and Local Government agencies increasingly recognize their role as operators and regulators of critical infrastructure, we are dedicated to connecting these agencies with the innovative technologies, expert guidance and collaborative partnerships they need to enhance resilience against evolving threats. Our team will be onsite throughout the Summit to engage with Government and infrastructure operators, showcase cutting-edge security solutions from our partner ecosystem and facilitate the meaningful dialogues that lead to stronger, more secure critical infrastructure operations serving communities nationwide.

As State and Local Governments continue to navigate complex modernization challenges, these 2026 events represent critical opportunities to gain insights, build relationships and discover the solutions needed to advance mission success. From cybersecurity frameworks and procurement innovation to digital service delivery and infrastructure resilience, each gathering addresses the most pressing priorities facing Public Sector IT leaders today. Carahsoft is honored to support these events and the Government technology community they serve.

To learn more about Carahsoft’s State and Local Government solutions, visit our State and Local Government solutions portfolio.

To directly connect with our team regarding any of these upcoming events, contact us at SLGMarketing@Carahsoft.com.

Top 10 Healthcare IT Events in 2026

Posted on by Tim Boltz

Healthcare organizations face the challenge of harnessing transformative technologies to improve patient outcomes while maintaining security, compliance and interoperability. From implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthening cybersecurity to modernizing health information exchange and navigating evolving regulatory requirements, Government healthcare agencies and providers must balance innovation with stringent standards that protect patient data and care quality. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Healthcare IT Solutions Provider™, supports this effort with a broad portfolio of proven healthcare technologies and expert guidance across every stage of digital transformation. Throughout 2026, premier healthcare IT events will bring together clinical, IT and policy leaders to explore emerging trends and share insights that advance care delivery. Join Carahsoft at these key gatherings as we support the healthcare community’s mission to deliver better outcomes through secure, intelligent technology adoption.

Carahsoft Charity Golf Classic

March 8, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

Carahsoft’s Charity Golf Classic will take place before the HIMSS Healthcare Conference, offering attendees a unique opportunity to make connections before the week’s events begin. The tournament welcomes participants of all skill levels to enjoy a day of community, networking and purpose. All proceeds from the event will support Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, helping fund critical research and provide support to families facing childhood cancer. Do not miss this chance to back a great cause and gain visibility in the healthcare industry!

The Charity Golf Classic is hosted by Carahsoft with support from This Week Health and HIMSS. We are committed to both the healthcare community and the fight against pediatric cancer. By supporting Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, we are joining healthcare leaders in making a meaningful impact beyond technology, directly contributing to research that saves children’s lives. This event embodies Carahsoft’s belief that supporting the healthcare sector means more than providing IT solutions; it means standing alongside healthcare professionals in their broader mission to improve patient outcomes and advance medical breakthroughs. Reach out to HealthcareMarketing@carahsoft.com with any inquiries.

Beckers Healthcare

April 13 – 16, 2026 | Chicago, IL | Hybrid Event

Becker’s 16^th Annual Meeting brings together more than 3,500 senior healthcare executives, including CEOs, CFOs, CMIOs, CNOs and service leaders, for four days of high-impact discussion centered on the industry’s most pressing challenges. With 840+ speakers, attendees will gain peer-tested strategies for margin recovery, workforce stabilization, AI integration, cybersecurity risk management and value-based care. The event features four dedicated summits that offer both focused depth and a cross-functional perspective for leaders navigating an increasingly complex healthcare landscape. The summits focus on the following:

Academic Medical Centers

Clinical Leadership

Workforce

Carahsoft will have a 10×10 gold booth at Becker’s 16^th Annual Meeting, where attendees can connect with our team and explore our portfolio of healthcare IT solutions. Discounted passes are available for Carahsoft partners. Reach out to learn how to take advantage of this opportunity and maximize your presence at one of healthcare’s premier executive gatherings.

HIMSS Global Conference & Exhibition

May 9-12, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

As the peak of health IT education, HIMSS26 offers attendees the opportunity to explore innovative digital health solutions, network with industry leaders and engage in discussions that will shape the future of healthcare. With more than 600 educational sessions and a major emphasis on AI, cybersecurity, digital transformation, health equity, data governance and workforce challenges, HIMSS26 consistently features worldclass keynote speakers, spotlighting influential global leaders in healthcare, technology, innovation and public policy. New for 2026, the introduction of One Hour Workshops provides fast, high-density learning sessions that combine presentations, collaborative discussions and hands-on exercises. Long recognized as the premier venue for interoperability advancements, HIMSS remains the trusted stage where major updates are shared, discussed and stress tested.

Session tracks to look out for:

Emerge Experience – This track has been reimagined for HIMSS 2026 and is now a full day of education that is essential if you follow tech innovation, digital transformation or startup ecosystems.

AI Track – AI-focused sessions will dive deep into AI-powered diagnostics, AI for clinical workflows and enterprise-scale AI strategies.

Cybersecurity Track – With ongoing attacks on health systems, these sessions will highlight cybersecurity as a critical risk area.

Carahsoft is proud to sponsor the HIMSS Global Conference & Exhibition, demonstrating our commitment to helping healthcare organizations navigate the complex intersection of innovation, security and patient care. Carahsoft’s anchor booth pavilion will host demo kiosks and 10×10’s showcasing our vendors’ solutions, connecting the healthcare community with the expertise, guidance and proven tools needed to advance digital transformation safely and effectively. Join us at booth #6424 to learn more about the technologies shaping the future of public health and be sure to check back for new opportunities to connect at the event!

AFCEA Health IT Summit

May 26-27, 2026 | Bethesda, MD | In-Person Event

The transformation of the U.S. public healthcare system is an ongoing mission, striving to deliver quality care, exceptional outcomes and improved patient experiences. At the 2026 AFCEA Health IT Summit, this mission takes center stage as Federal agencies and industry leaders gather to accelerate progress in an era defined by AI, interoperability, automation and strengthened cybersecurity. This year’s Summit theme, Making Progress, Advancing Healthcare Outcomes in an Era of AI, highlights how modern health IT is reshaping Federal healthcare by driving prevention, enhancing access through telehealth, enabling seamless data exchange and securing critical systems against evolving cyber threats.

Session topics include:

Acquisitions

Cybersecurity

Data science

Generative AI (GenAI)

Carahsoft will have a tabletop at AFCEA Health IT Summit as well as introductory remarks during the keynote session. Understanding the unique challenges faced by agencies in modernizing health IT while maintaining security and compliance, Carahsoft is dedicated to connecting healthcare leaders with insights and proven solutions. Our team will engage with attendees to help identify practical approaches to transforming healthcare delivery for service members, veterans and all Americans.

MESC 2026

August 17-20, 2026 | Portland, OR | In-Person Event

For more than two decades, the Medicaid Enterprise Systems Conference (MESC) has served as the premier national gathering for Federal, State and Private Sector leaders, attracting over 1,600 attendees annually across the healthcare community. Each year, a new state volunteer committee curates an agenda designed to address the evolving needs of the Medicaid enterprise, featuring sessions on Medicaid programs, system procurement and funding, operations, modularity initiatives, Health Information Technology (HIT), Health Information Exchange (HIE) and data analytics. With over 100 exhibitors, MESC offers attendees an expansive platform to explore the latest solutions, technologies and proven strategies that support the future of Medicaid enterprise systems.

Carahsoft’s pavilion at MESC 2026 will feature six, 10×10 healthcare technology exhibitions showcasing our vendors’ solutions, as well as booth activations, a speaking session and a cohosted reception. These easy-access opportunities presented by Carahsoft allow attendees one-on-one time with leading healthcare technology experts to discuss their unique challenges and come up with solutions that best fit their healthcare system needs. Our team will be available throughout the conference to share implementation insights from successful Medicaid modernization projects and help agencies identify practical approaches to improve program outcomes and better serve beneficiaries.

GovCIO Health IT Summit

September 2, 2026 | Bethesda, MD | In-Person Event

The GovCIO Health IT Summit brings together Federal health leaders and innovators to explore how emerging tools and modernization efforts are transforming healthcare delivery across Government agencies. At this year’s Summit, attendees will gain critical insights into the technology that is shaping the future of public health services. As Federal agencies work to improve care coordination, enhance data sharing and strengthen digital infrastructure, the Summit serves as a forum for advancing meaningful progress across the health IT ecosystem.

Agenda topics include:

Electronic Health Record (EHR) Modernization

Data Interoperability and Frameworks

AI in Health Care

Cybersecurity

Telehealth

Carahsoft’s participation in the GovCIO Health IT Summit demonstrates our commitment to helping Federal healthcare agencies navigate the challenges of health IT modernization and improve care delivery. Understanding that Government healthcare organizations face unique pressures to balance innovation with security, interoperability and regulatory compliance, Carahsoft’s team will engage with attendees, discussing emerging health IT trends, sharing implementation lessons and helping agencies identify ways to leverage technology to enhance patient outcomes.

CHIME26 Fall Forum

November 11-14, 2026 | Denver, CO | In-Person Event

The CHIME26 Fall Forum brings together experts from across the industry to redefine leadership in the next era of healthcare. This year’s Forum invites those who think boldly and push boundaries to engage in critical conversations at a pivotal moment for healthcare IT. As organizations navigate rapid transformation across care delivery, technology and leadership, CHIME26 provides a platform for thought-provoking keynotes, engaging sessions and high-impact networking. This impactful event offers attendees the opportunity to connect with industry experts, collaborate with peers and to be a part of charting the path forward for digital healthcare.

Session topics to look out for include:

Mastering the Latest in AI

Strengthening Cybersecurity

Exploring Innovative Care Models

Carahsoft will have a presence at CHIME26, continuing our mission to help healthcare Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and IT leaders navigate the complexities of digital transformation while maintaining the security, reliability and patient focus that define exceptional healthcare delivery. Our team will be on-site, connecting attendees with the technologies, insights and approaches that will enable them to lead transformative changes within their organizations. We invite attendees to join our focus group session, where participants can collaborate on addressing shared challenges and contribute valuable insights that help shape future solutions for the CHIME community.

HLTH 2026

November 15-18, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

HLTH 2026 is a major annual conference that brings together over 12,250 attendees from the healthcare ecosystem, including providers, startups, investors, policymakers and more. With focus on areas such as AI, global health collaboration, workforce and employer health, diagnostics and clinician-centered transformation, HLTH 2026 offers a powerful platform for exploring how technology, partnerships and new care models are reshaping healthcare delivery and experience. From groundbreaking sessions to dynamic networking opportunities, HLTH is where bold ideas and meaningful conversations are shaping the future of healthcare.

Carahsoft will participate in HLTH 2026, advancing our mission to help healthcare executives and clinical leaders navigate digital transformation while preserving the patient-centered care that defines healthcare excellence. As industry pioneers converge to explore innovations reshaping care delivery, payment models and health equity, our team will connect attendees with technologies and strategic perspectives that enable organizations to drive meaningful change. We are committed to facilitating dialogue between healthcare visionaries and solution providers who share the goal of improving outcomes through intelligent technology adoption that serves patients, providers and populations.

This Week Health 229 Events

Various Dates and Locations in U.S.

Sacramento City Tour Dinner (April 1) | 2 Partner Spots Left

Boise City Tour Dinner (June 2) | 3 Partner Spots Left

CISO Roundtable (Dallas, April 16-18) | 2 Partner Spots Left

CTO Roundtable (Destin, May 14-16) | 1 Partner Spot Left

The 229 Project from This Week Health is expanding its national footprint in 2026, bringing together healthcare technology leaders for in-depth discussions, networking opportunities and professional development. With over 63 events planned across 30 cities, these events offer unparalleled opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations, build community and accelerate transformation in healthcare organizations. Whether through summits, roundtables or city-tour dinners, each 229 event creates space for leaders to exchange insights, tackle pressing challenges and form the relationships that drive real progress.

As a trusted partner of This Week Health, Carahsoft understands that healthcare executives benefit most from intimate, peer-to-peer conversations where they can openly discuss challenges, share insights and learn from each other’s experiences. By supporting 229 events throughout the year, Carahsoft is helping executives connect, collaborate and advance their organizations’ missions to deliver better patient care.

More Events

ViVE 2026

February 22-25, 2026 | Los Angeles, CA | In-Person Event

ViVE brings together the leadership of the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) and the innovation marketplace of HLTH, creating a premier event where the business of healthcare meets the future of technology. Designed for digital health decision makers, ViVE convenes C-suite executives, Government leaders, healthcare providers, IT security professionals, investors and a broad ecosystem of solution providers driving measurable transformation across healthcare. At ViVE 2026, attendees will gain access to real-world solutions, curated networking experience, though-leading speakers and immersive programs focused on areas such as patient experience, AI, data innovation and diagnostics. Join ViVE to explore groundbreaking technologies, collaborate with industry leaders and help shape the future of healthcare.

Sessions to look out for:

Reimagining Nursing Workflows: Giving Time Back to Care – This session focuses on AI-enabled transformation, automation and reducing administrative burden.

Nursing and Remote Care: Expanding Care Delivery Beyond the Bedside – This session discusses how to scale nurse-led virtual care as remote and hybrid care models continue to expand.

Navigating Healthcare Policy Twists in 2026 – For anyone tracking Federal/State policy shifts, reimbursement, data privacy and regulatory compliance, this is a key session for understanding 2026 health policy impact.

Carahsoft will have a presence ai ViVE 2026 at booth #1442, demoing several vendors, including Broadcom and Dell. Carahsoft will also be hosting a session discussing how AI can save lives and improve cyber defenses. Our team will be available throughout the event to connect healthcare professionals with the right solutions to enhance their mission of delivering better care.

The healthcare technology landscape is evolving rapidly, creating both opportunities and complex challenges for organizations focused on improving patient care. These 2026 events offer healthcare leaders valuable insights, proven implementation approaches and trusted partnerships to navigate digital transformation successfully. Carahsoft is proud to support the healthcare community at these premier events, connecting Government healthcare professionals, clinical innovators and technology experts dedicated to advancing care delivery. Whether exploring AI, strengthening cybersecurity, modernizing Health Information Systems (HISs) or improving interoperability, these events provide invaluable opportunities to learn from peers, discover innovative solutions and build collaborative relationships that drive healthcare forward. We look forward to connecting with you throughout the year as we work together to transform healthcare through secure, effective technology adoption.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events, please contact us at Healthcare@carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading healthcare technology partners, visit our healthcare solutions portfolio and healthcare events page.

Top Cybersecurity Trends Reshaping Federal Risk Management in 2026

Posted on by Jeff Ladner

If you’re a governance, risk and compliance (GRC) professional on the Federal level feeling overwhelmed by the many recent and constantly changing cybersecurity trends, you’re not alone. As in many industries, Federal risk management has been all but upended by the rise of artificial intelligence and other major advancements in technology.

As a cybersecurity professional, you might be hesitant to jump on the latest bandwagon in favor of the tried-and-true methods you’re used to. While caution is always warranted, being overly reluctant to upgrade can hold you back from making beneficial changes to your organization that improve efficiency without compromising data security. In this guide, we’ll review exactly what you need to know about the five most impactful trends in cybersecurity right now, including what you and your team should be doing now to stay a step ahead of the competition as well as bad actors.

Top 5 Trends in Cybersecurity in 2026

To keep cyber threats at bay and prevent data breaches, you need to be aware of the latest changes in the cybersecurity space, including those that offer bad actors more opportunities to get in your way.

1. AI-Powered Monitoring

What it is: Artificial intelligence (AI) using large language models (LLMs) and machine learning (ML) has been the most monumental shift to the GRC landscape in many years. With the help of generative AI programs like ChatGPT, risk professionals can collect and analyze troves of data in a fraction of the time they used to.

How it impacts GRC: Whether or not your organization explicitly allows the use of AI, many employees will have an interest in a tool that promises to cut their workload without compromising on quality. Of course, those promises are often overblown. The truth is that working with the wrong kind of AI can expose your organization to greater risk of errors, compliance issues and data breaches.

How to stay ahead: Avoiding AI altogether will only mean your organization risks falling behind competitors that aren’t afraid to adapt to the latest technology. Instead of avoiding it, it’s vital to learn how to use AI responsibly.

2. Criminal Use of AI

What it is: GRC professionals and others who safeguard data aren’t the only people with access to the generative power of AI. Naturally, cybercriminals and other bad actors have as much access to AI as you do. In fact, there are even specific generative AI platforms tailored for criminals, such as FraudGPT.

How it impacts GRC: We probably don’t need to tell you that more empowered and efficient cybercriminals are an obvious threat to the integrity of your organization’s data. Any trove of personal or financial data will provide a tantalizing target to such criminals, as risk managers in Federal agencies are well aware.

How to stay ahead: It makes the most sense to fight fire with fire. When used correctly, AI programs excel at analyzing large amounts of data and flagging abnormalities that might indicate the presence of online intruders.

3. Quantum-resistant Encryption

What it is: Encrypted data has a new threat: quantum computing. Put simply, these advanced computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations at exponential speed. For now, this technology is expensive and difficult to access, but future advancements might make quantum computing much more widespread within the next decade.

How it impacts GRC: Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize problem-solving across the globe, empowering people to better understand our universe and share resources equitably. Unfortunately, well-intentioned people won’t be the only ones with access to this powerful technology. For GRC leaders, your main concern should be how easy quantum computing makes it to unlock encrypted data.

How to stay ahead: The National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) has spent the last eight years developing a set of new standards for encryption that can stand up to the threat of quantum computing, called post-quantum cryptographic standards. Getting familiar with these standards and formulating a plan to implement them is the best way to stay on top of this rapidly advancing technology.

4. Automation Beyond Generative AI

What it is: While recent headlines may make it sound like there is only one type of AI that matters, the newest cybersecurity tools aren’t limited to what’s offered by generative AI. Cybersecurity automation doesn’t rely on written prompts or require constant human monitoring to avoid mistakes. Instead, purpose-built automation can pull live data from your systems and analyze it for patterns without introducing additional third-party risk.

How it impacts GRC: The benefits of automation for cybersecurity professionals are hard to overstate. When used properly, cybersecurity automation can help you and your team eliminate repetitive tasks, detect threats and anomalies more quickly, and kick off pre-programmed incident responses without human intervention.

How to stay ahead: Keep your organization competitive by employing automation that connects to your existing tools and processes, offers no-code options for less tech-savvy team members and incorporates NIST requirements and compliance frameworks.

5. Predictive Analytics in Healthcare GRC

What it is: When it comes to protecting and acting on patient data, any wave of new technology in the cybersecurity market brings with it additional challenges. The rise of AI and other types of automation appeals to healthcare GRC professionals as much as any other risk manager, but these organizations require significantly more caution than needed for compliance in other industries.

How it impacts GRC: As more healthcare organizations adopt automation to streamline workflows, possibilities are expanding for the focus on patient care to shift from reacting to existing concerns to proactively identifying and addressing potential risk factors. While promising, this potential future poses new, complex challenges for healthcare GRC managers looking to avoid exposing sensitive patient data to mistakes, misinterpretation and theft.

How to stay ahead: Fortunately, predictive analytics can also be used to flag potential compliance issues that can lead your organization to fall afoul of regulations like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Stay Informed as Cybersecurity Technology Advances

Feeling more prepared for the next wave of technological advances in GRC? Don’t get too comfortable. The cybersecurity landscape is always changing, and you’ll need to successfully incorporate these trends to be ready for the next round of changes.

Get the insights into cybersecurity trends you need to stay ahead of the curve:

Watch our on-demand webinar “Building Resilient Organizations: Future of AI Risk Management”
Download the free ebook “Using AI in Risk Management for GRC Teams”
Learn more about how Onspring’s platform makes the most of AI advancements without exposing your organization to unnecessary risk
Looking for cybersecurity partners? Get a demo today

Top 10 Geospatial and Space Events for Government in 2026

Posted on by Lacey Wean

Geospatial technologies have become essential to Government operations, enabling location intelligence for mission-critical decisions across national security, disaster response, infrastructure planning and environmental monitoring. As Federal, State and Local agencies adopt advance mapping platforms, 3D visualization, satellite systems and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered analytics, geospatial and space technologies are reshaping how complex challenges are understood and addressed. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, supports this mission by connecting the geospatial community with innovative solutions and expert guidance that transform location data into actionable intelligence. Throughout 2026, geospatial and space technology events will convene leaders, technologists and practitioners to explore emerging capabilities, share implementation strategies and forge partnerships that advance agency missions. Join Carahsoft at these key events as we help agencies strengthen resilience, efficiency and security through intelligent use of geospatial data.

2026 GIS-T Symposium

March 19-20, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event

The 2026 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Geospatial Information System for Transportation (GIS-T) Symposium is the premier national gathering for professionals applying GIS technologies to solve complex transportation challenges. Attendees from Federal, State and Local agencies, along with industry partners, come together to exchange insights, strengthen peer connections and explore innovative applications of geospatial technology in modern transportation systems. The Symposium features high-quality technical sessions, workshops and special interest meetings designed to advance practice across the transportation GIS community. Participants can engage with emerging tools and elevate their professional skills through collaborative learning.

As Government transportation departments increasingly integrate advanced GIS capabilities to address complex mobility challenges, we remain focused on providing the strategic resources and technical expertise that enable agencies to deliver safer, more efficient transportation networks for the communities they serve. Our participation in the 2026 GIS-T Symposium reflects our commitment to connecting transportation professionals with GEOINT solutions that optimize route planning, enhance asset management and improve infrastructure decision-making across State and Local agencies nationwide.

SATELLITE Conference & Exhibition

March 23-26, 2026 | Washington, D.C. | In-Person Event

The SATELLITE Conference & Exhibition, part of SATShow Week, is one of the most influential global events for the satellite and space industry. It brings together commercial innovators, Government leaders and military decision makers from more than 110 countries to shape the future of space-enabled technologies and applications. The 2026 program delivers a high-impact mix of keynote presentations, expert-driven technical sessions, strategic discussions and a robust exhibition floor. The show’s dual focus, combining its flagship SATELLITE event with the dedicated GovMilSpace program, creates a uniquely comprehensive environment where mission-critical dialogue, industry partnerships and cross-sector innovation thrive. As the industry’s first and largest satellite-focused event of the year, SATELLITE 2026 offers attendees unparalleled networking, access to breakthrough technologies and opportunities to engage directly with leaders shaping commercial, Government and defense satellite priorities.

Sessions to look out for:

Innovating at Speed — Keeping Pace with Space Race

Agentic AI for Satellite Communications

Ground Segment-as-a-Service: Unlocking the NaaS Model for Teleports

AI-Enabled Cyber Defense for End-to-End Space Systems

Carahsoft looks forward to sponsoring the 2026 SATELLITE Conference & Exhibition, demonstrating our dedication to advancing satellite communications and space technologies across defense and civilian Government operations. Stop by our GovMilSpace booth where our team will be available to connect attendees with industry leaders throughout the Conference to discuss innovative approaches to strengthening satellite infrastructure that supports Government missions worldwide.

Space Symposium

April 13-16, 2026 | Colorado Springs, CO | In-Person Event

The premier global space event, Space Symposium, convenes the space community, uniting leaders from Government, military, commercial industry, intelligence, research and investment sectors for four days of high-impact programming. The Symposium provides a unique platform to explore critical space issues, foster dialogue and drive innovation across every segment of the space ecosystem. This year marks the 41^st Space Symposium and will feature keynote addresses, panels, awards and an expansive exhibit hall showcasing hundreds of organizations advancing space technology, services and capabilities. With its unmatched concentration of top-tier space professionals, senior decision makers and industry influencers, this event remains an essential destination for those shaping the future of the global space enterprise.

Sessions to look out for:

AI & Space Track: Sessions focused on how artificial intelligence is transforming satellite operations, autonomous spacecraft, mission planning, Earth observation and space debris management

Space Law & Regulation Track: Discussions on commercial space regulation, international space law and Government policy impacting space operations and industry growth

Carahsoft will have a booth at the 2026 Space Symposium. As military and civilian agencies pursue critical objectives in space exploration, we remain committed to connecting technology providers with mission leaders who require innovative solutions for national security and scientific advancement. Our team will collaborate with space professionals throughout the Symposium to explore how emerging technologies can accelerate mission success.

Sea-Air-Space

April 19-22, 2026 | National Harbor, MD | In-Person Event

Sea-Air-Space, organized by the Navy League of the United States, is the largest annual maritime exposition in the nation, bringing together defense industry leaders, senior military decision makers and global maritime stakeholders to explore the latest advancements shaping United States maritime innovation. Across three days, attendees can participate in educational sessions, listen to policy discussions and explore exhibits that span the full maritime domain. The exposition serves as a hub for discovering emerging technologies, engaging in strategic defense discussions and forging meaningful connections with key military commands and industry partners. For anyone invested in the future of maritime operations, defense readiness and naval innovation, Sea-Air-Space remains an essential event and a powerful platform for advancing mission-critical solutions.

Session to look out for:

Multi-Domain Integration and Naval Expansion in the Space Age

Stop by Carahsoft’s booth (#415) at Sea-Air-Space and explore technologies from our 36 demoing partners. Our longstanding partnership with the naval community enables our team to equip sea services with geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), autonomous systems and advanced technologies that enhance fleet readiness and operational superiority. Our team will engage with naval professionals throughout the exposition to discuss practical solutions for modernizing operations and bolstering defense capabilities. Additionally, Carahsoft will be hosting a networking reception for our vendor partners and their customers at Tom’s Watch bar on Tuesday, April 8^th from 6:00-8:00pm ET.

FedGeoDay

April 22-23, 2026 | Suitland, MD | In-Person Event

FedGeoDay is the Federal Government’s principal event devoted to advancing Open Geospatial Ecosystems, the combination of open source geospatial software, open/collaborative mapping, open science innovation and open engagement models that drive modern Federal data stewardship. The 2026 program centers on the theme “Building Ecosystems for Supporting Federal Data Stewardship,” bringing together Federal program managers, technology leaders, industry partners, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and open source community contributors. The event creates a collaborative environment where participants share ideas, learn from real-world Federal implementations and strengthen the networks that power geospatial innovation across Government.

Sessions to look out for:

Keynotes and panels on open geospatial ecosystems for Federal data stewardship

Workshops on open data and software strategies for Federal programs

Carahsoft will be returning to FedGeoDay in 2026, reinforcing our commitment to cultivating open geospatial ecosystems with the Federal Government. Our participation underscores the importance of knowledge-sharing and community collaboration in unlocking geospatial capabilities that enable agencies to tackle complex challenges while maximizing the value of location-based intelligence for mission achievement.

GEOINT Symposium

May 3-6, 2026 | Aurora, CO | In-Person Event

The GEOINT Symposium, hosted by the U. S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF), is the nation’s largest annual gathering of GEOINT professionals, joining Government, industry and academic leaders to advance the geospatial tradecraft. The 2026 theme, “Building a Secure Tomorrow Together,” emphasizes the collaborative efforts and innovative strategies shaping the future of GEOINT. Attendees will engage with senior Government officials, industry innovators and thought leaders to address the challenges and opportunities in today’s complex geopolitical landscape. The event features industry-leading keynote speakers, main stage panels, hands-on training sessions and the expansive GEOINT Exhibit Hall showcasing cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of intelligence, security and national resilience. Training offerings span specialized sessions and student-focused programs, providing opportunities for professionals to present research, expand networks and gain exposure to the broader community.

Sessions to look out for:

Main Stage Panels: National security executives and GEOINT professionals will discuss advancements redefining geospatial intelligence, providing insights into the latest developments and future direction

Training Sessions: Participants can engage in hands-on training on topics such as mission planning, precision timing and navigation, enhancing their practical skills and knowledge in GEOINT applications

Carahsoft will have a strong presence at GEOINT 2026, featuring a pavilion (Booth #1823) with partner demos throughout the show. As intelligence agencies pursue enhanced situational awareness, precision analytics and real-time decision superiority, we remain focused on linking GEOINT professionals with capabilities that amplify mission effectiveness. Additionally, Carahsoft will host a networking reception offering an evening of food, music and networking. Check back more details closer to the event!

Samsara Go Beyond 26 Public Sector

May 11, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event

Go Beyond is Samsara’s single-day summit designed for leaders in State and Local Government, as well as Public Sector operational teams. The event convenes Public Sector professionals to explore how peers across agencies are using Samsara’s technology to improve safety, increase efficiency and strengthen fiscal accountability. Through focused sessions on integrated safety, asset utilization and workflow modernization, attendees will learn real-world strategies for achieving total visibility into fleets and equipment, closing operational gaps between the field and office and reducing incidents and costs with AI-powered tools. The summit also provides dedicated networking opportunities for participants to share challenges, compare solutions and learn from agencies tackling similar challenges. As a free, high-value event for Government professionals, Go Beyond offers an exclusive chance to see how Samsara’s Connected Operations Platform can help agencies deliver better service to their communities while maximizing taxpayer dollars.

Sessions to look out for:

AI & Data-Driven Public Sector Safety

Modern Infrastructure & Maintenance Insights

Emergency Response & Operational Efficiency

Carahsoft is excited to sponsor Go Beyond 26, showcasing our passion for helping Government agencies harness connected operations technology to optimize fleet management, enhance asset visibility and improve service delivery. As transportation departments, public works agencies and emergency services increasingly depend on Internet of Things (IoT) platforms for real-time operational insights, we are committed to equipping leaders with intelligent solutions that drive efficiency and accountability.

SOF Week

May 18-21, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event

SOF Week is the leading annual conference for the international Special Operations Forces (SOF) community, sponsored by U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and the Global SOF Foundation. The event unites thousands of special operators, defense industry leaders and international partners to collaborate, learn and honor the SOF community. SOF Week showcases trailblazing capabilities, strategic priorities and next-generation technologies shaping the future of SOF missions. The program emphasizes innovation, transformation and operational excellence, featuring live demos, tactical discussions and opportunities to engage directly with senior leaders.

Sessions to look out for:

ISR, GEOINT and Mission Planning Technologies

SOF Interoperability and Multi-Domain Operations

Emerging Technologies Supporting Tactical Decision-Making

Carahsoft will host a pavilion (#633 – SOF Warrior Zone) at SOF Week, reinforcing our profound respect for operators who depend on superior GEOINT and technology advantages in high-stakes environments. Our team will collaborate with SOF professionals throughout the week to explore how geospatial innovations, autonomous systems and advanced communications enable mission success while keeping operators safe.

Cesium Developer Conference

June 8-10, 2026 | Philadelphia, PA | In-Person Event

This Cesium Developer Conference is a community-focused gathering of developers, engineers and integrators from around the world who work with open-3D geospatial technologies. Attendees come together to share ideas, solve real-world challenges and collaborate to shape the future of open geospatial technology. The program features an optional pre-conference workshop, two full days of technical sessions, keynotes, breakout tracks, lightning talks and hands-on learning opportunities. With its strong emphasis on openness, interoperability and community collaboration, the Cesium Developer Conference is an essential event for anyone building the future of 3D geospatial.

Sessions to look out for:

Young Professionals Event: Dedicated opportunity for young professionals to meet, network and engage with the Cesium technical team

The Developer Cove: A dedicated space to meet directly with Cesium experts to discuss projects, new features or any deep-dive topics

Carahsoft is pleased to participate in the Cesium Developer Conference, supporting the developer community in their mission to advance 3D geospatial visualization and open-platform innovation for Government applications. As Federal agencies pursue immersive mapping capabilities for mission planning, disaster response and infrastructure analysis, we recognize developers as essential partners in transforming geospatial technology.

CyberSat Summit

November 17-20, 2026 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event

CyberSat Summit is an event for leaders securing space and satellite systems, uniting Government, military, intelligence and commercial cybersecurity experts to confront rapidly escalating threats to space infrastructure. The Summit delivers deep technical content and solutions-focused discussions tailored to the space cybersecurity community. Across keynote sessions, technical briefings and mission-focused workshops, CyberSat emphasizes practical defense strategies, emerging threats and resilient architectures for satellite communications, ground systems and space-based networks.

Sessions to look out for:

Classified & Unclassified Sessions: Exclusive intelligence insights, real-world attack scenarios and advanced countermeasures

Advanced Technical Tracks: Safeguarding satellite networks, mitigating AI-driven threats and improving cyber resilience

Emerging Technologies: Explore Zero Trust, quantum, RF signal analysis, digital twin and AI-driven security

Carahsoft champions space satellite operators by participating in events like the CyberSat Summit. We understand the importance of events that allow professionals to explore Zero Trust frameworks, quantum encryption strategies and defensive measures, so their organizations can ensure mission continuity for critical satellite operations that support intelligence, communications and national defense objectives.

More Events

Geo Week

February 16-18, 2026 | Denver, CO | In-Person Event

Geo Week is a leading industry event for geospatial and mapping professionals to explore advancements in spatial intelligence, digital and mobile mapping, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), AI and machine learning, reality capture, digital twins and more. The event showcases how advanced geospatial tools are transforming decision-making and real-world project delivery. Geo Week features expert-led sessions, keynote presentations, workshops and panel discussions designed to help attendees anticipate industry trends and tackle complex challenges with modern geospatial workflows. The exhibit hall brings together vendor-neutral demonstrations of cutting-edge solutions spanning the full geospatial and built-world technology ecosystem.

Sessions to look out for:

AI and Automation in Geospatial Workflows

LiDAR, Reality Capture and 3D Modeling Advancements

Digital Twins for Infrastructure and Transportation

UAS/Drone Integration for Mapping and Inspection

Public Sector and Critical Infrastructure Case Studies

Carahsoft will have a 20×20 booth (#803) on the show floor at Geo Week. We are dedicated to connecting Government professionals with the expertise and proven technologies needed to modernize geospatial workflows. Our team will engage with attendees throughout the conference to facilitate meaningful discussions on implementing 3D innovations and integrated platforms that support smarter, data-driven decision making.

Reuters Events – Space & Satellites USA 2026

November 9-10, 2026 | Washington, D.C. | In-Person Event

Space & Satellites USA, hosted by Reuters Events, brings together senior leaders from Government, commercial space and policy backgrounds for two days of strategic discussions focused on the space economy. Unlike traditional expo-style conferences, this event is intentionally capped at 250 director-level and above decision makers to facilitate meaningful interaction. The program centers around high-velocity transformation in the satellite and space sectors, where commercial market is now setting the technological pace. Attendees engage through immersive sessions, interactive formats and targeted one-on-one meeting opportunities designed to accelerate partnerships, inform strategy and help organizations capture prospects in the space economy.

Sessions to look out for:

Strategic executive roundtables

Space industry policy and regulation forums

Private workshop sessions on space market acceleration

Thought leadership panels with Government agency participation

Carahsoft will have a booth at Space & Satellites USA 2026, reinforcing our commitment to Government and commercial organizations revolutionizing space-based services and satellite infrastructure. Our team will engage with attendees during the conference to discuss practical approaches for expanding space capabilities that serve both national interests and global connectivity requirements across the sector.

FOSS4G North America

TBD, 2026 | TBD | In-Person Event

Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial (FOSS4G) North America is the premier open geospatial technology and business conference, offering a vibrant, community-driven environment for technologists, end-users, researchers and decision makers learn, collaborate and innovate together. The event brings the free and open source geospatial ecosystem to life, providing a welcoming space for attendees to share real-world experiences, explore new tools and deepen their expertise in free and open source geospatial software. With a mix of technical talks, networking events and hands-on learning opportunities, FOSS4G North America continues to serve as a key hub for professionals working across mapping, analytics, data science, GIS development and open source geospatial solutions.

Carahsoft is proud to sponsor FOSS4G North America. Our participation seeks to highlight the technologists, academics and practitioners building accessible platforms that empower agencies with robust mapping, analysis and visualization capabilities while fostering the collaborative spirit that makes open source geospatial technology a cornerstone of Government operations.

GeoGov Summit

TBD, 2026 | TBD | In-Person Event

The GeoGov Summit is a national annual forum that brings together leaders and experts from Government, industry, academia and the broader geospatial community to advance the U.S. geospatial strategy. The Summit focuses on the evolving role of geospatial technologies in shaping smarter decision making, more efficient governance and stronger, more resilient communities. Centered around the Government-to-Government (G2G) and Government-to-Business (G2B) collaboration, GeoGov provides a strategic environment for discussing how the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) and emerging location-intelligence capabilities can drive innovation, improve Public Sector efficiency and support national development. Designed as a working forum rather than a traditional conference, GeoGov fosters partnership-building, discovery of innovative geospatial solutions and meaningful conversations on how geospatial data, standards and technology can deliver measurable impact across society, the economy and the environment.

Carahsoft will be attending the 2026 GeoGov Summit. As policymakers and technology providers work together to improve data-driven governance, infrastructure resilience and interagency coordination, we are helping to make partnerships that strengthen geospatial foundations across Government.

These events provide invaluable opportunities for Government professionals to gain practical insights, discover proven solutions and build relationships with peers and technology leaders in the geospatial field. Carahsoft is honored to participate in these events, facilitating connections between agencies and the geospatial innovations that enable smarter decision-making, enhanced situational awareness and improved mission outcomes. Whether modernizing mapping infrastructure, securing satellite networks or advancing spatial data strategies, the geospatial community thrives through knowledge-sharing and collaboration. We look forward to engaging with you throughout the year as we work together to unlock the full potential of location intelligence for Government missions.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events, please contact us at GISMarketing@Carahsoft.com or SpaceTechMarketing@Carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading geospatial technology partners, visit our geospatial solutions portfolio and geospatial events page.

Building Mission-Driven AI That Lasts: A Federal Agency Roadmap for Success

Posted on by Angela Kovach

A recent Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) study revealed that 95% of artificial intelligence (AI) projects fail before they even get started. For Federal agencies managing citizen data, classified information and critical infrastructure, this is not just a learning curve; it is a fundamental breakdown of how AI initiatives are conceived and executed. The disconnect between AI proliferation and AI success stems from a common pattern—agencies prioritizing tools over outcomes, launching disconnected pilots without enterprise alignment and lacking the governance structures to ensure accountability. The path forward requires a deliberate shift. Starting with mission-driven use cases, building on clean and governed agency data and ensuring sustainable adoption through people-centered strategies.

Mission-Driven Use Case Development First, Technology Second

The fastest way to stall an AI initiative is to start with the technology instead of the mission. Too often, agencies approach AI adoption by asking “what can we do with generative AI (GenAI)?” rather than “what operational problem needs solving?” This approach yields pilots that work in limited scenarios but often fail to scale because the model, data and governance do not translate to enterprise-level needs. Strong AI use cases are not discovered after implementation; they are designed deliberately around mission outcomes and real operational constraints. Agencies should begin by defining a specific challenge or opportunity, whether it is a slow and manual process, resource-intensive workflows or error-prone operations. The critical test is simple: if success would not fundamentally change how the mission operates, it is not the right use case to prioritize.

Identifying stakeholders early is equally essential. Program owners, analysts, operators and leadership must validate whether AI will genuinely help or simply add noise to an already complex technology landscape. Agencies must also be explicit about outcomes—faster decisions, fewer errors, reduced backlogs, better procurement insights or reclaimed staff time. Without clearly articulated outcomes, measuring success or defining return on investment becomes impossible. A practical prioritization matrix can guide agencies in filtering use cases into four categories:

high-impact, high-effort investments for enterprise transformation
high-impact, low-effort quick wins ideal for pilots
low-impact distractions to avoid entirely
interesting but non-urgent projects to defer

By focusing on tightly scoped problems with clear ownership and contained risk, agencies can deliver meaningful pilots that demonstrate real value and build momentum for broader adoption.

Data Foundation and Governance as the Critical Success Factor

Most AI models in use today are generalized Large Language Models (LLMs) trained on public internet data. These models are faster to deploy and have lower upfront costs, making them attractive for proofs of concept. However, they lack understanding of an agency’s unique mission, culture and decision-making context. For lasting, mission-critical AI, agencies should consider Small Language Models (SLMs) trained on agency-specific data. These models are more energy efficient, operationally reliable and context-aware with fewer mistakes. The challenge lies in fragmented data environments where records are spread across systems, formats and classification levels. This is where records management and data governance professionals become invaluable, helping to locate data and establish controls that transform data from a liability into a strategic asset.

AI learns directly from the data it was trained on and from how humans categorized it through reinforcement learning from human feedback. If the underlying information is disorganized, untagged or incomplete, the model will reproduce those flaws at scale. Properly governed, annotated and categorized data produces outputs that are accurate, explainable and trustworthy. Unstructured data—emails, PDFs, chat logs, memos, case files—represents roughly 80% of all agency information and contains the real story of mission operations. Yet most tools focus on structured data like databases and spreadsheets, missing the valuable context hidden in human-generated content. In-place data management addresses cost and security concerns by training and running models where data already lives, minimizing movement and preserving security boundaries. When Chief Data Officers (CDOs) and Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) collaborate under a shared governance model that includes Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Chief Information Officers (CIOs), legal teams and records leaders, innovation becomes both safer and faster because trust and accountability are built from the start.

The AI Failure Crisis and Its Root Causes

Federal AI adoption has accelerated faster than almost any other technology in Government history, yet this growth comes with significant risk. Currently, there is no Federal statute enacted by Congress to regulate AI across sectors, leaving agencies to rely on self-assessments and voluntary guidelines. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) M-24-10 requires agencies to apply risk management and governance controls to high-impact AI systems, but without uniform standards for measuring impact or frameworks for compliance, agencies struggle to implement meaningful safeguards.

Many AI projects begin in isolation, driven by excitement about new tools or pressure to deliver results quickly, without engaging CIOs, CDOs or records management teams. Solutions may work adequately for limited use cases but lack the foundation to scale because governance, data quality and stakeholder alignment were afterthoughts rather than prerequisites. This pattern creates an explosion of activity with limited longevity, the very definition of a bubble. Experts report that Government is a generation behind industry in AI governance, a concerning gap given the sensitive citizen data, classified information and critical infrastructure at stake. If agencies rush to deploy AI without proper governance, they multiply the surface area for data errors, bias and compliance breakdowns. Expansion without oversight increases exposure rather than capability.

Sustainable Adoption Through People and Partnership

Even well-designed AI initiatives fail without sustained human engagement and vendor commitment. Vendors must remain engaged beyond initial implementation, continuing to train systems, monitor performance, incorporate feedback and deliver updates. If a vendor disappears after the sale, agencies are left without the support needed to refine and sustain their AI investments. This reinforces why starting with genuine use cases matters: when AI addresses tangible operational pain points, users are motivated to engage with and trust the technology.

Training cannot be a one-time orientation. Structured, continuous learning programs ensure that users understand not just the technology, but the workflows and data that feed it. Agencies should design AI for growth from the outset, building in governance controls, planning for scalability and considering reuse potential beyond the initial deployment. This “build once, reuse often” approach delivers efficiency gains and cost savings while making funding approval easier.

In an era where understanding how to learn has become the most essential skill, professionals must remain elastic and curious about topics that may fall outside traditional scopes, whether data governance for operational staff or technical architecture for mission leaders. By prioritizing mission-driven use cases, establishing robust data foundations, implementing governance as an enabler rather than a barrier and investing in people alongside technology, Federal agencies can move beyond experimental pilots to deliver AI that creates lasting, measurable impact.

To explore proven strategies for building mission-driven AI that lasts, watch ZL Technologies’ webinar, “From Noise to Impact: Building Mission-Driven AI in the Agency.”

The Year of Expansion for GenAI in Government

Posted on by Mike Adams

Generative AI (GenAI) is entering a pivotal new phase in 2026, marked by rapid advances in accuracy, reliability and mainstream integration. In 2025, GenAI became embedded into our everyday lives – from AI-generated overviews in search engines to classrooms adapting to powerful, readily accessible large language models. At the Federal level, 2025 White House guidance instructs agencies to push forward with AI infrastructure, building secure data centers to support the compute necessary in implementing innovative, American-built AI into our most vital missions.

GenAI’s unique content generation capabilities can be used to increase efficiency and productivity in our US Government agencies in the form of chatbots, text-to-speech audio generation, AI task managers, coding assistance and other Natural Language Processing (NLP) models. With the rising momentum created by America’s AI Action Plan and increased budgets for AI in areas such as the Department of War (DoW) and Veteran Affairs (VA), 2026 is the year of expansion for GenAI.

Augmenting Agencies in Task Execution

In Government agencies, GenAI commonly removes routing and repetitive workflows, freeing up users to focus on strategic tasks. GenAI works best in mission-support roles, supplementing human roles by improving written communication, increasing the efficiency of accessing information, enabling program status tracking and more. Personalized learning paths and AI assistants can augment current roles.

There are various use cases for GenAI. Program-specific examples include:

Defense
- The DoW has deployed GenAI.mil – a secure, bespoke platform that leverages generative AI to enhance efficiency, speed and operational effectiveness in our most critical defense and national security missions.
FEMA & NOAA
- In inclement situations, GenAI has been used to perform tasks like weather [CA1] and disaster prediction and response. Some GenAI models have even been more accurate than traditional deterministic models, suggesting GenAI has a strong use case in research and science.
GSA
- GSI has launched USAi, a secure GenAI evaluation suite that has helped employees draft emails, generate code and summarize documents.
The Department of Veterans Affairs
- GenAI has been used to automate various medical imaging processes to enhance veterans’ diagnostic services.
Healthcare & Department of Health and Human Services
- Generative AI has enabled healthcare systems to enhance medical images, generate molecular structures for potential drugs and create realistic patient data for AI training.
- To support containment of the poliovirus, the Department of Health and Human Services initiated an effort to use GenAI to extract information from publications and identify outbreaks in areas previously thought to be polio-free.

Procurement of GenAI solutions is being simplified and expedited by the Federal Government, increasing agencies’ ability to use innovative solutions to solve complex problems. GSA’s OneGov strategy delivers generative AI to the government by removing a major barrier to AI adoption: cost. Through the OneGov agreements, popular GenAI solutions are available for $1, and agencies are given the opportunity to experiment with AI and see what works best for their specific use cases. This strategy aligns with America’s broader AI policy framework – allowing agencies to take advantage of the speed, automation and modernization capabilities provided by AI. Carahsoft’s dedicated OneGov page serves as a centralized resource for determining product availability and identifying procurement pathways.

Federal Guidance for AI Usage

GenAI is already being used successfully in the US Government, and recent Federal guidance cements AI’s place in Government operations. 2025 executive orders (EO’s), such as “Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence” pave the way for increased usage of the technology. See below for an overview of relevant generative AI-focused memos and EO’s released in the last few months.

Launching the Genesis Mission – November 24, 2025

The Genesis Mission establishes AI at the forefront of scientific and economic growth and calls for an integrated platform to enable AI-automated research and discovery. The next wave of federal AI will prioritize scalable compute orchestration, secure model training environments, hypothesis-testing AI agents, supply-chain rigor, and measurable national return on investment that will be evaluated by acceleration in discovery velocity, compressed innovation cycles, and compounding mission impact – not extended pilots.

Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence, December 11, 2025

This EO adds on to previously established framework by ensuring state-by-state regulatory laws do not act as barriers to fast AI adoption, and that ideological bias is not embedded into AI tools used within each state. By creating a unified framework, America will become the winner of the AI race.

M-26-04: Increasing Public Trust in AI Through Unbiased AI Principles, December 11, 2025

In response to Executive Order 14319, OMB released M-26-04 which establishes principles for unbiased AI: that it is truth-seeking, and that it is ideologically neutral. All LLM’s procured by a government agency must abide by the unbiased AI requirements established in this memo.

Transforming the Defense Innovation Ecosystem to Accelerate Warfighting Advantage, January 9, 2026

This DoW memo formalizes AI as a core warfighting capability across DoW operations and streamlines integration and acceleration of adoption.

War Department’s AI Acceleration Strategy to Secure American Military AI Dominance, January 11, 2026

The DoW’s January 2026 memo outlines their AI dominance strategy. It calls for establishing an AI-first warfighting force – echoing earlier EOs and removing barriers that would hinder adopting practical, mission-first AI solutions for DoW. It highlights the previously mentioned GenAI.mil program that provides direct access to leading GenAI solutions for the DoW, enhancing speed and ease of AI adoption.

Department of War’s Arsenal of Freedom Tour, January 2026

A new “AI Swat Team,” led by the CDAO, is charged with removing barriers and increasing data sharing to speed up AI deployment. The DoW’s AI strategy, and the SWAT team enforcing it, shows that their measure of AI success is how fast usable data reaches operational systems. Organizations that improve data access, quality, and interoperability will be able to maintain strategic advantage.

Recent guidance establishes a framework for AI adoption and usage, enabling fast, common-sense deployment to ensure America wins the AI race. While agencies are encouraged to push forward, they must maintain the highest levels of security.

Building the Foundation for Successful Generative AI in Government

As Generative AI moves beyond pilot programs and into operational use, agencies must ensure these systems meet the established requirements for security, reliability and data protection. GenAI is dynamically generating content, so it must be deployed within secure environments where sensitive information remains protected and outputs are grounded in trusted data sources. Federal guidance emphasizes strong governance, secure infrastructure and validation mechanisms to ensure AI-generated outputs remain accurate and mission-relevant. With these controls in place, agencies can scale Generative AI to support mission execution while maintaining full confidence in the integrity of their systems and data.

Current Federal recommendations include utilizing and onboarding:

Risk management solutions
On-prem and cloud data security
Impact Level (IL) 5 and 6 security standards for mission-critical or classified information
Air gapping, which physically isolates computer systems and networks to avoid breaches
Model Context Protocol (MCP), the universal open standard for connecting AI applications to external systems
Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), the foremost security strategy that verifies the identity of end users as they access the network
Data governance for Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), which enables content filtering and identity validation

Agencies are strongly encouraged to draw on guidance from reputable experts, including the National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST), whose AI Risk Management Framework (RMF) offers a proven foundation for responsible adoption. In addition to technical protocols, it is helpful to keep a human in the loop to audit and observe GenAI output, minimizing chatbot errors. Cybersecurity considerations, including data poisoning, data leakage and hallucinations, must be actively monitored to ensure models operate safely and consistently across Government missions.

Keeping security at the forefront is vital for GenAI’s success in Government. With thoughtful governance and strong safeguards, GenAI can advance agency missions without compromising security. The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity.

As The Trusted IT Solutions Provider for Government™, Carahsoft offers a comprehensive portfolio of AI and GenAI solutions designed to meet the unique security, compliance and operational requirements of Federal, State and Local Government agencies. From secure on-premises deployments to cloud-based platforms that meet Impact Level 5 and 6 standards, Carahsoft’s technology partners deliver the tools agencies need to implement AI responsibly and effectively.

Visit Carahsoft’s AI Solutions portfolio to explore GenAI platforms, risk management frameworks and Zero Trust security solutions that align with Federal guidance and support mission-critical operations.

Explore OneGov offerings available through Carahsoft.

Contact Carahsoft’s AI team to discuss how GenAI can transform your agency’s workflows while maintaining the highest security standards.

The Top 5 Insights from AFCEA West 2026

Posted on by Mike McCalip

Naval leaders gathered at Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) West Conference delivered a clear message: the sea services are undergoing their most significant transformation in decades to meet an increasingly complex threat environment. Admiral Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations’ (CNO) emphasis on achieving 80% combat surge readiness to the Marine Corps’ accelerated force design modernization, the discussions revealed the Navy and Marine Corps are fundamentally rethinking how they train, equip and fight as an integrated force.

The conversations that unfolded across multiple panel sessions painted a comprehensive picture of both the challenges facing the sea services and the innovative solutions being implemented to address them, from generating readiness across all domains to resourcing maritime dominance and integrating emerging technologies.

Here are the five key insights that will guide the future of maritime superiority.

1. Achieving 80% Combat Surge Readiness Requires Foundational Investment in People and Platforms

The CNO established “80% combat surge ready” as the target resiliency metric. This threshold is designed to ensure the Navy can execute and provide desired outcomes during relative peace while maintaining capacity to surge when needed. In the panel titled “Generating Readiness Across All Domains,” Commander Naval Surface Forces Vice Admiral Brendan McLean spoke with several naval leaders and emphasized that if the fleet struggles now during peacetime operations, the challenges will become insurmountable when conflict begins.

This combat surge readiness target represents more than a numerical goal; it reflects a fundamental shift in how the Navy approaches fleet generation. The foundry concept places Sailors first, recognizing that the most important weapon system remains the individual Sailor or Marine and their ingenuity, toughness and capabilities. Training must focus on developing mastery and self-sustainment rather than simply checking qualification boxes – we must train like we’re going to fight.

Achieving this readiness level demands addressing critical infrastructure challenges, particularly in maintenance and sustainment. Supply chain effectiveness emerged as another critical factor. Submarine forces, for example, have driven gross effectiveness and net effectiveness metrics up 40% in two years by improving configuration change processes, conducting enhanced audits and working with Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) to overcome bureaucratic barriers.

2. Force Design Modernization Accelerates Lethal Capabilities to the Tactical Edge

Force design represents a fundamental rethinking of Marine formations and employment concepts. The Marine Littoral Regiments (MLR) and Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU) are designed as inherently dispersed, mobile units with lower signatures that complicate adversary targeting. These formations create hard-to-hit postures that enable forces to persist in contested environments, strengthening the entire naval force.

Force design remains a journey rather than a destination, characterized by continuous learning and adaptation. Marine Corps leaders described how early force design decisions around infantry battalions have evolved through experimentation and wargaming, building resiliency back into formations while incorporating small unmanned aerial systems and other emerging technologies. The ability to operate from austere locations ashore through Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) supports Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) by creating multiple dilemmas for adversaries unsure of where the next threat will emerge.

3. Information Dominance Powers Decision Advantage in Contested Environments

Information warfare capabilities and the ability to make decisions faster than adversaries define success in contested maritime operations. As information warfare leaders emphasized, the side that wins is the side able to decide and act fastest, and the commander who generates and maintains tempo puts the adversary on the defensive. The Maritime Operations Center (MOC) emerged as a critical node for generating this decision advantage. With responsibility for battlespace awareness, integrated fires and assured Command and Control (C2), MOCs are evolving beyond traditional command centers to become dynamic fusion centers that leverage multiple sensors, shooters and C2 nodes across all domains.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how information flows into operational decisions. Leaders described AI not as a replacement for human judgment, but as a battle partner that curates vast amounts of data and presents options to decision makers. Technology experts such as Alteryx, CrowdStrike, Quantum and RegScale understand that the most valuable contribution of AI to defense will be to help human beings make better, faster and more precise decisions, especially in combat, where decision makers often face overwhelming volumes of conflicting data.

Building information dominance requires cultural transformation around information sharing. Leaders acknowledged the tension between traditional need-to-know restrictions and the imperative to create truly data-centric environments where information flows seamlessly to support distributed operations. The challenge extends beyond technology to include standards, governance and trust frameworks that enable sharing intelligence and operations synchronization in real time across services, combatant commands and coalition partners.

4. Distributed Maritime Operations Demands Seamless Blue-Green Integration

The integration of Navy and Marine Corps forces for DMOs represents the operational approach designed to counter adversary anti-access and area denial strategies in contested environments. As fleet commanders emphasized, this integration creates exponential expansion in capability rather than simple force multiplication.

One Marine Expeditionary Force’s (MEF) integration with Third Fleet demonstrates how this concept translates to operational reality. The ability to operate small, dispersed and mobile formations from austere locations ashore forces adversaries into complex dilemmas. Additionally, Marine aviation provides critical enabling functions that tie distributed operations together, such as Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, aviation ground support and more.

Training infrastructure must evolve to support this level of integration. The Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) now conducts Information Warfare Advanced Team Training integrated with Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWAT) events, bringing Warfare Tactics Instructors (WTI) together with Strike Warfare teams to refine tactics, techniques and procedures based on operational lessons learned.

5. Industry Partnership at Speed Accelerates Innovation to Operational Forces

The Red Sea operations demonstrated how Government, industry and laboratory partnerships operating at unprecedented speed can deliver operational advantage. What previously required a month to analyze engagement data, develop software updates and deploy improvements to ships was compressed to two days.

Naval leaders issued clear guidance to industry on critical capability gaps. Obsolescence management emerged as a priority challenge, and industry partners who must maintain expertise will be critical. Open architecture and intellectual property access would enable faster adaptation to provide products when and where needed without waiting for single suppliers.

The newly established Naval Rapid Capabilities Office (NRCO) demonstrates institutional commitment to accelerating innovation. Within three months of establishment, the office has inducted six to seven systems. The process emphasizes demoing and testing rather than lengthy development cycles and getting capabilities into operator hands for evaluation before scaling production.

Carahsoft, The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider™ excels at achieving rapid delivery through our partner vendors. We connect naval commands with industry partners specializing in open architecture systems, AI-driven analytics, cybersecurity solutions and emerging technologies that address critical capability gaps. Our established contract vehicles streamline procurement timelines, enabling defense organizations to move from requirement identification to deployment at the speed operations demand to support mission-critical modernization efforts.

Charting the Course for Maritime Dominance

AFCEA West 2026 reinforced that sustained maritime dominance requires synchronized progress across people, platforms, concepts and partnerships. The Navy and Marine Corps are not simply acquiring new technologies; they are fundamentally transforming how they organize, train and fight as an integrated naval force prepared for high-end conflict.

The 80% combat surge readiness target, accelerated force design fielding, information warfare integration, distributed maritime operations and industry collaboration at speed represent interconnected elements of a comprehensive modernization strategy. Success depends on maintaining focus on foundational capabilities, such as trained Sailors and Marines, maintained platforms, resilient networks and proven tactics, while rapidly integrating emerging technologies that provide decision advantage.

As Carahsoft, The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider™, continues supporting defense modernization, the insights from AFCEA West 2026 inform how industry can best partner with the sea services to deliver the capabilities required for maritime superiority in an era of great power competition.

Explore Carahsoft’s Defense Technology portfolio of leading solutions that support naval modernization priorities including AI, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure and advanced analytics.

Contact us at (888) 662-2724 or NavyInc@carahsoft.com to discuss how Carahsoft’s technology partners can support your mission requirements.