Unified Financial Intelligence: Why Government Finance Teams Have a Data Foundation Problem, Not a Data Problem

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How Incorta, Google and Carahsoft help State, Local, education and Federal civilian agencies move from slow close cycles to real-time, AI-ready financial insight

I spend a lot of my time talking with Government finance leaders—CFOs, comptrollers, budget directors—and the conversation almost always starts with AI and ends with data. Almost every agency I talk to eventually runs into the same wall: their data isn’t ready. As we move toward agentic AI—AI that takes actions and makes decisions on its own, not just answers questions—the demands on that foundation multiply fast. Until it’s right, AI remains a slide in a strategy deck. That’s the problem Incorta was built to solve.

Nowhere is this more obvious than in Public Sector financial management, where the stakes are high, the infrastructure is often decades old and the expectation for transparency has never been greater. If we want to talk seriously about Unified Financial Intelligence in Government, we have to talk seriously about the data brain underneath it—the trusted, real-time, contextual foundation that AI agents depend on to make accurate, explainable decisions. Without it, you don’t have an AI problem. You have a data problem dressed up as one.

The Real Bottleneck: Government Finance Needs a Data Brain

Public Sector finance teams are under more pressure than ever: leaner budgets, post-pandemic fiscal gaps, enrollment volatility and a mandate to do more with less. New White House and OMB directives are accelerating the AI timeline—agencies are being asked to demonstrate AI-ready infrastructure now, not in a future budget cycle.

For CFOs, comptrollers and finance teams, that pressure is concrete. Close cycles still take days or weeks. Analysts spend more time gathering data than using it. When leadership questions a number, the answer is “let me pull it manually”—because the system shows aggregates, not the transactions behind them.

The root cause isn’t a lack of tools or talent. Financial data is scattered across GL, procurement, grants, payroll and project systems—each with its own codes and timing—and traditional ETL strips out the very context that makes it useful. That’s the data brain problem.

What the Data Brain Has to Deliver

For finance, AI isn’t about prettier dashboards. It’s about answering hard questions: why did this variance occur? Where are the early signals of fraud, waste or abuse? What does next quarter look like if this assumption changes? To answer those credibly, AI needs a data brain.

That data brain has to deliver three things: granularity (100% transactional detail), timeliness (near real-time, not last week’s batch) and context (preserved relationships—purchase orders to vendors, funds to appropriations, payroll to projects).

Traditional ETL gives you the opposite of a data brain: summarized, stale data stripped of business logic. When you layer AI on top of it, the model fills in the gaps—and for Government finance, that’s not a technical problem. If an AI-assisted answer can’t be traced back to the exact transaction, your auditors and oversight bodies won’t accept it.

That’s how you get hallucinations instead of financial intelligence.
The “AI problem” and the “data problem” in Government finance are actually the same problem. Build the data brain, and Unified Financial Intelligence follows.

What Changes When You Have a Data Brain

Take a Federal civilian agency we worked with: 24-hour data refresh cycles, manual reconciliation, spreadsheets and email chains just to close the books. Analysts spent most of their time getting data into a usable format—not using it.

After implementing Incorta with Google Cloud, that agency went from 24-hour to 15-minute data refreshes for key financial subject areas.

  • From periodic close to continuous audit. Anomalies surface in near real-time—before they snowball, not after month-end.
  • From “check the dashboard” to “follow the data.” The CFO questions a number; the analyst drills to the exact transaction, in the same environment.
  • From data gathering to value creation. Analysts shift from reconciliation to scenario modeling and real decisions.

That’s Unified Financial Intelligence with a data brain underneath it: full, timely, contextual access to the truth—and the time to actually use it.

How Incorta Builds the Data Brain

The traditional path to modernizing financial data in Government is measured in years and eight-figure budgets—and most of us have seen how that story ends. At Incorta, we took a different approach: build the data brain for Government finance on Google Cloud without requiring agencies to tear out what’s already there. Three pillars make that possible:

  1. Direct access to ERP data in its native form – Incorta connects directly to Oracle EBS, Oracle Fusion, SAP and Workday, ingesting data in its native schema—no heavy transformation, no lost business context.
  2. Prebuilt blueprints for Public Sector financial systems – A library of prebuilt blueprints captures how ERP tables relate, how funds and projects are structured and how to translate that into analytics-ready models—removing months of data engineering work.
  3. Landing it all in Google BigQuery for AI-ready analytics – The result is a production-ready financial data brain in Google BigQuery—granular, near real-time and fully contextualized—standing up in weeks, not months or years, with Gemini for Government and agentic AI tools ready to operate on top.

On top of this, Incorta layers AI-powered insights with built-in hallucination mitigation, role-based access controls, audit trails and mirrored source system permissions—so agencies can scale AI without sacrificing governance.

Carahsoft plays a crucial role in this story by making it easy for agencies to get started—through existing contract vehicles and the Google Cloud Marketplace—without embarking on another risky, bespoke IT project.

Where State, Local, Education and Federal Civilian Finance Teams Are Starting

State budget offices need real-time visibility into appropriations and fund balances—so leadership responds to revenue shifts, not monthly reports. Local Governments want to move from reactive spreadsheets to proactive scenario planning and cleaner audits. Education finance teams need unified views of budgets, grants and financial aid to navigate enrollment volatility. Federal civilian CFO offices are pursuing continuous close and early AI-driven detection of fraud, waste and abuse. In every case: build the data brain first, and the downstream AI use cases become operational, not experimental.

Getting Started Doesn’t Have to Be a Multi-Year Commitment

One of the most consistent concerns I hear is: “We’ve been burned by big data projects before. We can’t sign up for another multi-year transformation.” That hesitation is completely rational—and it’s exactly why we’ve structured our approach with Google and Carahsoft to deliver value in weeks, not years.

A practical entry point is a Unified Financial Intelligence Modernization Assessment—a focused engagement to assess your ERP landscape, map how your data lands in BigQuery (secure, governed, auditable) and define a 60- to 90-day outcome that shows what the data brain delivers in your environment.

Incorta is available through Carahsoft on the Google Cloud Marketplace—most agencies can use existing contracts and cloud commitments to get started, no new RFX required.

The Bottom Line

State, Local, education and Federal civilian finance teams don’t need another dashboard. They need the data brain that makes Unified Financial Intelligence possible—access to all of their financial data, in near real-time, with full business context, so they can shift from gathering data to actually using it.

That’s what Incorta, Google and Carahsoft are building together for Government. In an environment where agencies are being asked to do more with less, standing up that data brain in weeks rather than years isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the difference between a finance function that’s keeping up and one that’s falling behind.

→ Request a live Agentic AI demo — see Incorta + Google in action on your mission data.

→ Try free for 30 days on Google Cloud Marketplace — software free; infrastructure costs may apply.

→ Get started with the Unified Financial Intelligence Modernization Assessment — map your data brain and define a 60- to 90-day outcome.

Ready to explore what real-time financial intelligence looks like for your agency? Learn more about Incorta’s Government solutions on Carahsoft’s Incorta microsite. Watch our joint Incorta + Google session on AI-ready financial data for Public Sector.
Contact the Carahsoft Team ☎ (703) 871-8548  |  ✉ incorta@carahsoft.com

Integrated Threat Hunting: A Smarter Path for Stretched Federal SOCs

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Why visibility, automation and collaboration are now mission-critical

Federal Security Operations Center (SOC) teams are under relentless pressure. Teams are increasingly stretched thin as agencies grapple with AI-enhanced threats, Zero Trust requirements and operational mandates like FISMA 2.0. Despite limited staff and growing workloads, though, the mission remains clear: defend critical infrastructure, secure sensitive data and maintain compliance.

For split-second contexts in the face of critical alerts, fragmented tools and siloed data only make matters worse. Analysts lose time switching between platforms. Revalidating and responding to quickly escalating threats takes time away from mission continuity.

Federal SOCs require integrated, intelligence-driven platforms that support end-to-end threat visibility, rapid response and secure information sharing.

Modern Federal SOCs Face Mounting Challenges

Staffing shortfalls are now a systemic issue. The cybersecurity talent gap currently exceeds 5.5 million unfilled roles globally, with Federal agencies competing for a shrinking pool of qualified professionals.

Meanwhile, tool sprawl and console fatigue complicate workflows. Analysts must juggle multiple platforms to correlate data, validate incidents and track lateral movement all while meeting increasingly complex compliance reporting mandates.

Agencies must also contend with:

  • AI-generated malware that evades signature-based detection
  • Expanding attack surfaces from hybrid environments and remote endpoints
  • Escalating compliance expectations tied to FISMA modernization, OMB M-24-14 and Zero Trust architecture maturity

To keep pace, teams need tools that consolidate, correlate and streamline.

Real-time Response Enhances SOC Agility

Threat impact is defined by the time it takes to respond properly. Delayed containment leads to higher costs and increased exposure. That’s why real-time response is now essential to any defensible cybersecurity posture.

Modern endpoint detection and response (EDR) platforms allow teams to:

  • Isolate compromised endpoints instantly
  • Terminate malicious processes at the source
  • Prevent data exfiltration in-flight
  • Apply automated playbooks for repeatable, standards-based remediation

These capabilities reduce manual intervention and align with CISA’s SOAR guidance, enabling SOCs to act swiftly within a Zero Trust model. For Federal teams, this also supports audit-readiness with timestamped forensic records that meet FISMA and OMB compliance requirements.

Unified Telemetry Accelerates Threat Hunting

Siloed data weakens an analyst’s ability to detect patterns and perform deep investigations. By unifying endpoint telemetry across devices and environments, teams gain access to richer datasets and longer retention windows for root cause analysis.

Carbon Black EDR captures high-fidelity endpoint activity and retains up to 180 days of telemetry, letting teams uncover threats that may have originated weeks or months prior.

With behavior-based analytics, SOCs can move past static signatures and detect anomalies faster. This involves pinpointing lateral movement, privilege escalation and indicators of compromise before damage escalates.

Collaboration and Data Sharing Reduce Operational Risk

Cybersecurity is a team sport, but without integrated data sharing, even the best defenses can fall short. Fragmented environments limit visibility, making it difficult to act on shared intelligence across tools and agency teams.

Integrated platforms streamline threat intelligence sharing through features such as:

  • The Carbon Black Data Forwarder, which simplifies integration with SIEM/SOAR platforms
  • API-driven data sharing that supports automation and collaboration
  • Compatibility with Zero Trust frameworks, particularly the Device Pillar of OMB M-24-14

With cross-environment visibility and collective learning, SOC teams can improve incident response while advancing cybersecurity maturity across the agency.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Federal SOCs face high-stakes situations where time and clarity are critical and impact lives in real time. Every alert demands focus. Every decision must be defensible. To operate effectively under pressure, teams need platforms that reduce noise, unify workflows and enable smart action.

Carbon Black and Carahsoft help Federal teams do more with less. We empower analysts with the real-time insights and interoperability they need to protect what matters most.

Contact us to learn how your agency can simplify threat detection, response and collaboration with Carbon Black EDR.

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, including Broadcom, we deliver solutions for Geospatial, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Artificial Intelligence, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Explore the Carahsoft Blog to learn more about the latest trends in Government technology markets and solutions, as well as Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partner thought-leaders.

Weathering the Storm: Migrating to the Cloud in Government

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Government agencies are under increasing pressure to modernize IT systems and deliver secure, efficient digital services. Migrating to the cloud is a critical step in this transformation, but the journey can feel like navigating a storm. In our latest CarahCast podcast episode, “Weather the Storm of Migrating to the Cloud,” experts share strategies to help agencies adopt cloud solutions with confidence.

Why Cloud Migration Matters 

Cloud adoption enables scalability, resilience and innovation. Agencies can reduce reliance on outdated legacy systems, strengthen disaster recovery and improve citizen services. 

Key Benefits: 

  • Efficiency: Lower costs and improved scalability.
  • Resilience: Faster adaptation to crises and cybersecurity threats
  • Innovation: Access to artificial intelligence (AI), analytics and automation.
  • Citizen experience: Reliable digital services that build trust.

Key Challenges: 

Despite its benefits, migration presents hurdles:

  • Security and compliance requirements
  • Legacy infrastructure integration
  • Budget limitations
  • Cultural resistance to change
  • Vendor management and lock‑in risks

Expert Insights from CarahCast 

Podcast experts highlight that migration is not one‑size‑fits‑all. Key takeaways include:

  • Start small with pilot projects to prove value.
  • Embed security and compliance at every stage.
  • Engage stakeholders across IT, leadership and end‑users.

As one guest noted, “Cloud migration is about resilience, not just moving workloads.”

Best Practices to Weather the Storm 

To navigate the complexities of cloud migration, agencies should: 

  • Define a clear roadmap with goals and milestones.
  • Use hybrid approaches to balance on‑premises and cloud systems.
  • Invest in staff training and change management.
  • Partner with trusted vendors and experts.
  • Measure success with KPIs like uptime and cost savings. 

Real‑World Examples 

Agencies nationwide are already seeing results:

  • State Governments modernized licensing systems to reduce wait times.
  • Federal departments leveraged cloud analytics for disaster response.
  • Local Governments adopted cloud collaboration tools to streamline operations. 

Listen to the Podcast

For deeper insights, tune in to CarahCast: Weather the Storm of Migrating to the Cloud. Hear directly from experts guiding agencies through successful migrations.

Migrating to the cloud may seem daunting, but with the right strategy, agencies can emerge stronger, more resilient and better equipped to serve citizens. The CarahCast podcast is your trusted resource for navigating this journey. Subscribe today to stay informed on the latest technology trends shaping Government.

Top 10 DevSecOps Events for Government in 2026 

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As Federal, State and Local agencies accelerate their modernization initiatives, DevSecOps has evolved from an emerging practice to a mission-critical capability. Integrating security at the speed of development is a foundational requirement for agencies seeking to deliver innovative services while maintaining rigorous compliance and protecting sensitive data. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, has been at the forefront of this transformation, serving as the central hub connecting Government agencies with the industry’s leading DevSecOps solutions, platforms and expertise. Through our extensive partner ecosystem and Government contract vehicles, we enable Public Sector organizations to operationalize secure software delivery at scale. The events below represent essential opportunities for Government IT leaders, developers, security professionals and acquisition teams to explore cutting-edge DevSecOps methodologies, connect with mission-focused innovators and gain actionable insights that can be immediately applied to their agency’s secure delivery transformation. 

RSA Conference 

March 23-26 | San Francisco, CA | In-Person Event 

In 2026, the theme “The Power of Community” underscores that effective DevSecOps is a collaborative effort between people, processes and technology. As Government agencies work to meet modern mandates, integrating security at the speed of development is now a mission requirement. The RSA Conference provides a vital forum for Public Sector professionals to explore how automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and community-driven innovation can secure the software supply chain and accelerate digital transformation.  

Sessions to look out for: 

  • How to Secure Containerized Applications from Supply Chain Attacks 
  • Chainloop: Inside Modern Software Factory: Why Bolted-On Security Fails in the AI Era 
  • Techstrong Seminar: AI NativeDev and the Next Evolution of DevSecOps 

Carahsoft serves as the central hub for the Public Sector community at RSA, beginning with the 13th Annual RSA Public Sector Day on Monday, March 23rd. Sessions will focus on FedRAMP cloud architectures, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) compliance and modernizing state cyber defenses. We invite our partners and Government customers to join us at this dedicated forum to discuss mission-specific challenges and network with the leaders shaping the future of Public Sector security. To facilitate cross-agency networking, Carahsoft will host our signature Public Sector Reception on Tuesday evening, March 24th, providing a dedicated venue for Federal, State and Local officials to connect with peers and explore tailored solutions for their specific mission requirements. 

F5 AppWorld Public Sector Symposium 

April 8-10 | McLean, VA | In-Person Event 

This event serves as a dedicated gathering for IT, DevSecOps, cloud and application delivery professionals in the Government community. Hosted by F5, the symposium brings together Public Sector leaders, solution architects, engineers and ecosystem partners to explore strategies for securing, scaling and optimizing modern applications, Application Programing Interfaces (APIs), hybrid networking and cloud environments. Attendees will experience hands-on labs, customer success stories and deep-dive sessions led by F5 experts that cover topics such as AI-driven application protection, hybrid multicloud networking, Zero Trust strategies and modernizing legacy systems. This symposium provides Government professionals with the opportunity to sharpen technical skills, engage with real-world use cases and connect with a community focused on advancing mission outcomes through secure, high-performing application infrastructure.  

Carahsoft is proud to serve as the host sponsor of F5 Public Sector Symposium 2026, bringing together Government IT, DevSecOps, networking, cloud and application delivery professionals with the experts and technologies that enable mission success. As F5’s trusted Public Sector distributor and a long-standing partner, Carahsoft connects Federal, State and Local agencies with F5 solutions that secure, scale and optimize application delivery across hybrid and multicloud environments. Attendees are encouraged to visit Carahsoft and our ecosystem of partners on the symposium floor to explore Government-ready tools, engage with technical demonstrations and discuss how secure delivery practices can be operationalized within agency programs. 

Team ’26 by Atlassian 

May 5-7 | Anaheim, CA | In-Person Event 

This conference brings together the global community of practitioners and leaders at the Anaheim Convention Center to explore the future of modern teamwork. For DevSecOps professionals, this conference is a vital touchpoint for learning how to bake security and compliance directly into the developer experience. As agencies scale their collaborative environments, this conference highlights the tools and methodologies needed to bridge the gap between building software and maintaining a rigorous security posture. Attendees can expect interactive learning sessions with hands-on guided exercises, demos, best practices and Q&A with Atlassian product experts designed to deepen practical knowledge on agile planning, workflow automation and modern delivery practices, as well as breakout sessions and panels on scalable teamwork exploring how teams solve real-world challenges with Atlassian tools. 

Carahsoft serves as the primary Government aggregator for Atlassian‘s full suite of collaboration, agile and development tools, enabling Public Sector organizations to modernize teamwork and software delivery practices. Through our dedicated Atlassian team, Carahsoft works closely with Federal, State and Local agencies to streamline access to Atlassian solutions via a wide range of Government contract vehicles, helping agencies maximize the value of their Atlassian investments highlighted at Team ’26. 

Red Hat Summit 

May 11-14 | Atlanta, GA | In-Person Event 

Registration for Red Hat Summit 2026 is now live. The event will convene thought leaders, practitioners and IT pioneers to explore innovations in DevSecOps, AI, hybrid cloud, automation and emerging technologies. For Public Sector agencies, this event is the premier destination to learn how to operationalize DevSecOps through hybrid cloud and automation. The 2026 agenda is built around providing technical depth and “beyond the basics” insights to help agencies maximize their investments in secure, scalable infrastructure. Key areas of focus will include application of Red Hat Technologies, AI and emerging tech, community and team innovation and development best practices. 

As a continued sponsor for 2026, Carahsoft will host a 10×10 exhibit in the expo hall. Public Sector attendees can connect with Carahsoft’s Red Hat team throughout the week to explore how open source, hybrid cloud and secure platforms are enabling modernization across their agencies. Planning to attend? Contact the Red Hat team at redhatmarketing@carahsoft.com for strategies to support your IT initiatives and make the most of your time onsite. 

Offset Symposium by Second Front Systems 

May 14 | Washington, D.C. | In-Person Event 

This symposium brings together Government leaders, technologists and mission-focused innovators to explore how emerging software capabilities can be securely delivered to the warfighter at speed and scale. Through expert-led discussions, real-world use cases and collaborative conversations, this symposium highlights how Government and industry can work together to accelerate outcomes while maintaining compliance, security and mission alignment. This event serves as a critical forum for defense and civilian agencies seeking to understand how modern DevSecOps practices can support national security objectives and operational readiness. 

Carahsoft is proud to serve as a sponsor of this event, supporting meaningful collaboration between Government and industry to advance mission-ready software solutions for the Department of War (DoW) and Federal agencies. As a leading aggregator of innovative DevSecOps technologies for the Public Sector, Carahsoft connects defense and civilian agencies with the platforms, tools and expertise needed to accelerate secure software delivery in mission-critical environments. We encourage Government attendees to engage with Carahsoft representatives and our ecosystem of partners at the symposium to explore how our Government contract vehicles and technical expertise can help operationalize the secure delivery practices and emerging capabilities discussed throughout the event. 

DevOpsCon by devmio 

June 1-5 | San Diego, CA | Hybrid Event  

This premier global conference series brings together IT professionals, software engineers, cloud architects and DevSecOps practitioners to explore the forefront of modern software delivery. Attendees will gain deep insights into DevSecOps best practices, Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD), cloud and Kubernetes adoption, platform engineering, observability and automation workflows through expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, bootcamps and interactive learning experiences. With tracks covering DevSecOps and cloud security, CI/CD pipeline optimization, Kubernetes ecosystem advancements and leadership strategies for scaling DevOps in enterprise environments, this conference equips Public Sector and industry teams with the knowledge needed to accelerate secure software delivery and operational excellence.  

Sessions to look out for: 

  • From Perimeter Security to Continuous Trust: Practical DevSecOps for Cloud-Native Platforms 
  • CI/CD Workshop: From Zero to Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery 
  • AI-Driven Observability for Reliable Kubernetes Systems: From Incidents to Self-Healing Infrastructure 

Through our deep relationships with DevSecOps technology partners and solutions providers that participate in DevOpsCon, Carahsoft helps Public Sector agencies engage with the latest methodologies in CI/CD automation, Kubernetes orchestration, cloud-native security and platform engineering. Our extensive partner ecosystem and contract vehicles make it easier for Government IT leaders to adopt the innovations showcased at DevOpsCon and accelerate their secure delivery transformations. 

Carahsoft’s DevSecOps Conference 

July 28 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event 

Carahsoft is excited to announce the fourth annual DevSecOps Conference, an in-person forum dedicated to advancing secure software delivery across the Public Sector. As Government agencies continue to modernize their digital infrastructure, this event serves as a critical meeting point for Government leaders, systems integrators and industry thought leaders to discuss the latest updates in the evolving DevSecOps landscape. By bringing together diverse perspectives, this conference ensures that agencies are equipped to implement security and compliance at every stage of the development lifecycle. Attendees will benefit from a full day of keynote addresses, panel discussions, lightning rounds and networking opportunities focused on mission-critical DevSecOps topics, including secure automation pipelines, DevSecOps and AI integration, cloud security and compliance and cross-agency software delivery transformation. The program will feature a robust agenda of supporting panels and technical sessions designed to provide attendees with a comprehensive look at modern software development, from exploring cloud-native architectures to refining CI/CD pipelines. 

Carahsoft proudly hosts the DevSecOps Conference 2026 as a signature event designed specifically for the Government DevSecOps community. As the premier Government IT solutions provider and trusted aggregator for DevSecOps technology partners, Carahsoft convenes Public Sector leaders, industry specialists and integrators to share insights, explore innovations and advance secure software delivery practices. Through this conference, Carahsoft showcases the breadth of capabilities available through our partner ecosystem and contract vehicles, helping agencies accelerate their DevSecOps journeys and operationalize secure, scalable software development across mission environments. Check out our event site closer to the date for more information. If you are a vendor interested in sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to us at DevSecOpsMarketing@Carahsoft.com. 

Black Hat USA 

August 1-6 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event 

Black Hat USA 2026 remains the world’s leading stage for cutting-edge information security research and highly technical training. For DevSecOps professionals, this event is vital for maintaining the integrity of the Software Factory against emerging vulnerabilities. While many events focus on building and deploying applications, Black Hat offers a unique “hacker’s eye view,” enabling Public Sector attendees to identify better, understand and remediate risks across CI/CD pipelines and cloud-native environments before they can be exploited. Attendees can expect hands-on security trainings for developers and engineers, technical briefings on application, cloud and infrastructure security and Arsenal tool demonstrations. 

Throughout Black Hat week, Carahsoft brings together members of the Government community and industry partners to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. A major highlight for the Government community is the Carahsoft Public Sector Reception held on Wednesday, August 5th. This exclusive event provides a dedicated venue for Federal, State and Local officials to network with industry peers and discuss how to apply the conference’s research findings to their specific mission requirements. 

Conf42 DevSecOps Conference 

October 15 | Online Event 

Conf42 DevSecOps 2026 is a free, online conference dedicated to advancing secure software delivery practices. It brings together DevSecOps practitioners, engineers and security advocates from around the world to share practical insights and technical lessons learned across cloud security, automation, CI/CD pipeline practices, governance, identity management and vulnerability remediation. The event is designed for anyone involved in balancing speed and safety in modern DevSecOps workflows and emphasizes community-driven, thoughtful content over sales-focused presentations. Last year’s highlights included thoughtful DevSecOps keynotes and talks featuring expert insights on embedding security into development pipelines, practical technical content across tracks spanning AI, cloud, infrastructure, security and transformation and community and industry perspectives showcasing real-world examples from practitioners in diverse environments. 

Carahsoft recognizes Conf42 DevSecOps 2026 as an accessible and valuable virtual forum for Government DevSecOps professionals to engage with a global community focused on secure software delivery at scale. Through our broad partner ecosystem, Carahsoft enables Public Sector teams to connect with expert insights and community-led innovation showcased at Conf42. Government attendees can leverage these engagements and Carahsoft’s Government contract offerings to adopt, implement and scale DevSecOps practices within their mission environments. 

Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 

October 19-22 | Orlando, FL | In-Person Event 

The Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo is one of the most influential global conferences for Chief Information Officers (CIOs), senior IT executives and technology leaders shaping enterprise and Government IT strategy. The North America event convenes thousands of attendees each year to explore Gartner’s latest research, frameworks and guidance across digital transformation, cloud adoption, cybersecurity, AI, data and modern software delivery. For Public Sector DevSecOps leaders, this symposium provides strategic insight into how secure software development, platform engineering and cloud-native practices align with broader agency modernization goals. Attendees gain executive-level perspectives on scaling technology initiatives, managing risk and operationalizing innovation across complex environments, making the event particularly valuable for leaders responsible for Software Factories and enterprise DevSecOps programs.  

Carahsoft highlights Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 2026 as a strategic forum for Government technology and DevSecOps leaders to connect with research-driven insights and hands-on solution innovation. With a broad ecosystem of Carahsoft partners sponsoring, exhibiting and presenting across the IT Xpo, Government attendees will have the opportunity to engage with technologies that support secure collaboration, cloud modernization, automation, threat-aware delivery and scalable software engineering. Carahsoft’s Government contract vehicles and expert partner network make it easier for Public Sector agencies to adopt and operationalize the solutions and strategic guidance featured throughout the week. 

OWASP Global AppSec USA 

November 2-6 | San Francisco, CA | In-Person Event 

OWASP Global AppSec USA 2026 is the flagship U.S. conference hosted by the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP). This multi-day event brings together application security professionals, developers, researchers and DevSecOps practitioners to explore the latest strategies, tools and community-driven innovations that improve software safety and secure development practices. Attendees can engage with leading experts, participate in technical workshops, explore the latest open source security tools and collaborate with peers on addressing critical application security challenges. 

Carahsoft highlights OWASP Global AppSec USA 2026 as a must-attend event for Government DevSecOps and secure development teams because it brings together the leading community, open source project maintainers and solution providers shaping modern application security practices. With an active roster of Carahsoft partners sponsoring and exhibiting on the expo floor, Government attendees can explore hands-on demos, engage in technical discussions and discover tools that help integrate security throughout the software delivery lifecycle. Through Carahsoft’s ecosystem and Government contract vehicles, agencies can more easily adopt and operationalize the innovative AppSec solutions and insights featured at Global AppSec. 

KubeCon + CloudNativeCon North America 

November 9-12 | Salt Lake City, UT | In-Person Event 

This event remains the premier gathering for Kubernetes and cloud-native practitioners across the global open source ecosystem. Hosted by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), this multi-day conference brings together thousands of developers, Site Reliability Engineers (SREs), platform engineers and DevSecOps professionals to share real-world learnings, explore emerging technologies and collaborate on advancing secure, scalable cloud-native application delivery and operations. Attendees will benefit from deep-dive technical talks, maintainer-led breakout sessions, lightning talks, co-located project days and hands-on workshops focused on Kubernetes, microservices, observability, CI/CD, automation and cloud-native security. Last year’s highlights included hands-on trainings and workshops providing practical, instructor-led learning opportunities focused on Kubernetes operations, technical breakouts and maintainer-led talks showcasing the latest advancements across the CNCF ecosystem and the Project Pavilion and Expo Hall serving as a central hub for collaboration. 

Carahsoft encourages Government DevSecOps and cloud engineering teams to engage with our extensive ecosystem of cloud-native and DevSecOps partners exhibiting and sponsoring KubeCon + CloudNativeCon North America 2026. Across the expo floor, Carahsoft partners will showcase solutions that support Kubernetes security, containerized application delivery, observability, CI/CD automation and platform engineering. By connecting with these partners onsite, Public Sector attendees can explore how trusted, Government-ready technologies within the CNCF ecosystem can help modernize and secure cloud-native environments. 

As DevSecOps continues to mature across the Public Sector, these events represent essential opportunities for Government IT leaders, developers, security professionals and acquisition teams to stay at the forefront of secure software delivery innovation. From hands-on technical workshops to strategic executive briefings, each gathering offers unique value tailored to different aspects of the DevSecOps journey. Whether you are just beginning to build out your software factory, refining CI/CD pipelines or leading enterprise-wide DevSecOps transformation, these events provide the insights, connections and solutions needed to advance your agency’s mission. Carahsoft is committed to supporting the Government DevSecOps community through our extensive partner ecosystem, Government contract vehicles and active participation at each of these events. We encourage you to attend, engage and leverage these opportunities to accelerate your secure delivery capabilities. 

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

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

Smart Guarding: How AI can be Used to Enhance Vacant Building Security

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After 2020, the landscape of corporate real estate changed dramatically. Companies across multiple sectors, including technology, transitioned from working in office to either hybrid or totally remote models. Vacancy rates on corporate campuses increased to 15-20%, opening companies up to a multitude of liabilities and operational challenges. Artificial intelligence (AI) has brought a new edge to vacant building security. Smart guarding and solar guards elevate the security posture of vacant buildings, defend corporate assets and subsequently deliver a Return on Investment (ROI) through effective security measures.

Risks of Vacant Building Stewardship

Vacant buildings come with a series of unique risks to the company that either owns or leases the building. These locations are particularly attractive for criminal activity, especially trespassing and vandalism. Companies also face other risks such as copper theft and squatting that result in higher insurance claims, causing rising premiums. Further challenges come from the range in potential responses from law enforcement. The crime rate in the area will greatly affect how quickly police respond to the call, or whether they will respond at all if there is not an active incident.

Traditional security models for vacant buildings rely heavily on human patrols and come with their own operational drawbacks. A commonly used term in security, “warm bodyguards,” describes guards that are physically present but only do the bare minimum required to complete the job; in other words, these guards are just a warm body whose physical presence alone is deemed to be enough to deter criminal activity. Depending on the size and scope of the campus, these security measures can cost up to $25,000 per month. The ROI is negligible at best, and companies are often left with an expensive yet ineffective security protocol.

With property vacancy on the rise, companies need a solution that is cost effective but does not sacrifice protection or increase their risk profile. That solution lies in the integration of cutting-edge technology with human security.

The Modern Security Guard: Smart Guarding and Solar Guard

Prior to the existence of AI, the Silicon Valley Model sought to enhance building security by combining electronic access control in a building with a fleshed out in-person security protocol. This gives companies the opportunity to employ security guards with relevant prior experience, such as ex-law enforcement and ex-military members, who have effective communication and customer support skills. The key to success is a combination of the right people on site and the proper technological processes in place.

Sentry AI’s Smart Guarding takes this approach a step further by integrating AI agents into the security protocols. A various range of sensors are installed across the building. These can include:

  • Cameras
  • Microphones
  • Motion sensors
  • Turnstiles
  • Fire detection (smoke detectors, heat detectors, etc.)

With the number of sensors that exist in a singular building, a Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst can get easily overwhelmed by the sheer volume of alerts. An AI agent established at the core of this alert system can absorb the information, interpret the incoming data and pass on the relevant security alerts to the SOC analysts.

The AI agent itself can also be proactive and mitigate ongoing security risks. The AI can impersonate a human guard, using any language, tone of voice or even slang if required. By voicing details such as the intruder’s clothing or appearance, the agent creates the impression of an on-site security guard without actually engaging physically with the intruder. After announcing a security presence, the agent will tell the intruder to leave and threaten police intervention if they do not. The agent can also activate sirens and lights to trigger a flight response from the intruder. This is all managed without human intervention.

Periodically, companies need to install a security solution that does not rely on the network, property owner or landlord. Sentry AI has the Solar Guard solution for these exact situations. The Solar Guard is a self-contained mobile unit with a tall mast and several solar panels. Energy collected throughout the day is stored in batteries contained within the unit to power it throughout the night or in adverse weather conditions. At the top of the mast, the Solar Guard has lights, speakers, a cellular modem and dual lens cameras that give a 360-degree field of vision.

As vacancy rates in corporate buildings continue to climb, companies continue to search for new impactful and cost-effective ways to improve their security posture in their buildings. AI-powered security protocols such as Solar Guard and Smart Guarding decrease the risk to personnel and cut through alert fatigue. By combining modern technological advancements with knowledgeable SOC analysts, companies gain ROI and protect their assets when personnel are not present.

To discover how Smart Guarding can elevate security in your vacant facilities, watch Sentry AI’s webinar, “Using AI to Protect Vacant Facilities.”

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, including Sentry AI, we deliver solutions for Geospatial, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Artificial Intelligence, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Explore the Carahsoft Blog to learn more about the latest trends in Government technology markets and solutions, as well as Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partner thought-leaders.

The Federal 100 Signals Optimization in Federal IT

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The Federal 100 reflects more than individual achievement; it reveals how technology is fueling great things in Federal Government. Serving as a judge this cycle provided a front-row view of the work happening across agencies and the priorities shaping it.

Optimization had been a stated priority for years. Over the past cycle, it became visible in day-to-day decisions. Leaders were recognized for tightening how technology environments operate: setting clearer enterprise direction, reinforcing shared standards and embedding modernization into routine governance.

That shift showed up across security, acquisition, data strategy and workforce systems. Programs moved beyond isolated efforts and began operating with greater cohesion across components.

That pattern was especially visible in national security organizations.

Many of this year’s honorees came from Defense, DHS and Energy. When agencies responsible for the nation’s most demanding missions lead in enterprise alignment, platform standardization and structured governance, it signals that these practices are no longer experimental. They are operational. They are institutional. And they are delivering measurable mission impact.

Enterprise Leadership Drove Alignment

The leaders who stood out had enterprise reach. They worked across organizational boundaries and aligned components around shared priorities.

That leadership showed up in measurable ways: faster ATO approvals, stronger FedRAMP execution and authorization built into delivery rather than added at the end. Identity now anchors security strategy, reinforcing Zero Trust and allowing bureaus to operate on common foundations.

What this means for the vendor community:
Agencies are aligning at the enterprise level and across organizations. Solutions that integrate across components and scale cleanly will move more easily.

Optimization Became the Operating Model

Optimization is now part of how agencies operate. Leaders are simplifying architectures, cutting duplicated data and strengthening shared platforms so systems connect without unnecessary friction. Unnecessary data movement and storage are being designed out of the system rather than absorbed as the cost of doing business.

The impact was measurable:

  • Identity consolidation lowered integration complexity
  • Multi-cloud strategies improved resilience
  • Enterprise data fabrics reduced duplication
  • Shared platforms supported multiple bureaus

What this means for the vendor community:
Agencies need solutions built to integrate cleanly and minimize unnecessary data movement.

AI Moves from Pilot to Program

AI is no longer confined to experimentation. Programs that began as pilots are gaining executive ownership and defined accountability.

For the first time, Chief AI Officer roles were recognized, reflecting formal accountability for the deployment and governance of AI. That shows AI is maturing into the same category as cybersecurity and cloud: a capability that requires strategy, standards and sustained leadership.

What this means for the vendor community:
Fast Proof-of-concepts with a plan to move into production is important. Solutions must support enterprise integration and sustained use.

The Rules of Government Buying Are Changing

Several of this year’s leaders are literally rewriting the rules of Government buying. The FAR rewrite reshapes the governing framework, and OneGov pushes a long-promised goal into practice: aligning agencies around shared buying strategies instead of fragmented procurements. Expanded use of OTAs and CSOs rounds out the shift by speeding access to new technology.

The combined effect is a more coordinated, more flexible acquisition environment.

What this means for the vendor community:
Vendors who understand enterprise procurement strategies, regulatory shifts and alternative purchasing pathways will be best positioned to support their customers effectively.

Workforce Modernization Is Delivering Results

Workforce systems are undergoing substantive modernization. Agencies are eliminating long-standing backlogs and delivering near real-time workforce data to leadership.

Modernization is extending into core business operations and strengthening how agencies hire, manage and support their people.

What this means for the vendor community
Demand is strong for secure, scalable workforce platforms that integrate with enterprise systems and deliver timely insight.

Emerging Technologies Are Strengthening the Mission Edge

Advanced capabilities are being deployed with clear mission impact. Autonomous systems are extending operational reach. Operational technology security efforts are hardening critical infrastructure. Post-quantum planning is addressing future cryptographic risk. High-performance computing is accelerating analysis and modeling tied directly to national priorities.

These efforts reflect growing confidence in deploying advanced technology within demanding mission environments.

What this means for the vendor community:
Government is embracing new and emerging technologies. This shift creates significant opportunities for vendors prepared to innovate and adapt to changing procurement models.    

What This Signals for the Year Ahead

Federal IT is operating with greater urgency and focus, with speed and mission impact as top priorities.

Enterprise leadership coordinates large organizations. Optimization shapes architecture decisions. AI has named accountability. Acquisition frameworks are being revised. Workforce and emerging technologies are delivering measurable outcomes.

The leaders recognized this year are shaping how Government will function over the next decade, not just how it will deploy the next tool. Congratulations to all the winners.

Securing AI Adoption in Government: From Mandates to Implementation

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One of today’s top trends is artificial intelligence (AI), specifically how the Public Sector can adopt it while maintaining the security, governance and oversight essential for mission-critical operations. With AI jumping from number three to one on Federal Chief Information Officers’ (CIO) priority lists and 80% of CIOs under explicit cost savings mandates, the question is no longer whether to deploy AI but how to do so securely at scale.

The recent overhaul of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) marks the most significant rewrite in over 40 years, fundamentally shifting how Federal agencies operate and procure technology. As generative AI (GenAI) deployments move into mission-critical environments, agencies need practical frameworks that balance speed with verification.

Moving From Speed to Velocity

As The Public Sector enters the age of AI, with $4 trillion in Private Sector investment in data centers, agencies face a fundamental design challenge: design AI systems that adapt to human workflows rather than forcing humans to adapt to systems. This distinction matters most in Government and defense contexts where lives depend on maintaining human oversight for deliberate decisions.

The Department of War’s (DoW) Acquisition Transformation Strategy (ATS) offers a proven model of buying outcomes in increments. Instead of funding calendar time through traditional program structures, agencies should fund missions through portfolios that deliver outcomes in weeks or months. This approach structures procurement in modular increments that integrate with evolving architecture while funding capability and delivery, not timelines.

Velocity differs from speed in its directional precision. Agencies can accelerate procurement through fast-lane processes while maintaining governance through evidence gates that verify operational performance, user adoption, cyber risk posture and sustainment realities. This framework preserves ethical obligations while delivering measurable results.

Prerequisites for Secure AI Implementation

Before deploying AI tools in production environments, agencies need foundational elements in place:

GitLab, Securing AI Adoption in Government blog, embedded image, 2026

Policy frameworks that define where AI can be a part of the process and establish clear boundaries for all personnel. Training and enablement programs ensure teams understand governance requirements and security policies. Several Federal agencies have already created AI centers of excellence to help establish standards and create processes around how they are implementing AI.

End-to-end visibility across the entire software delivery process enables agencies to track where AI agents operate and what actions they perform. Without comprehensive visibility, governance becomes theoretical rather than operational.

Contextual accuracy determines output quality, AI systems deliver accurate, usable results only when provided with the right context, making data quality and integration critical prerequisites.

Built-in guardrails must exist before AI implementation. Security scans on every code change and controls preventing critical vulnerabilities from merging into production branches become essential as agencies move into the agentic AI era.

Practical AI Use Cases That Deliver Value

GitLab’s most recent DevSecOps survey reports that AI currently handles about 25% of the work in Public Sector organizations, with leadership targeting 50% automation. The most successful implementations focus on code generation, testing and documentation, areas where AI delivers immediate, measurable impacts.

Federal customers using GitLab’s AI capabilities report significant efficiency gains in code review processes. AI-powered first-pass reviews reduce time while maintaining quality standards. Test generation and legacy code modernization have proven particularly effective.

Compliance automation represents an emerging high-value use case. GitLab teams are developing compliance agents that access code repositories, Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines and security vulnerability data to automatically populate Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) checklists. Security team leaders review and adjust outputs as necessary, reducing administrative burden while allowing teams to focus on strengthening application security posture.

Prioritizing AI Governance Frameworks

With 35% of Public Sector professionals using unofficial AI tools at work, agencies governance frameworks that address shadow IT risks without stifling innovation. A risk-based approach identifies high-impact systems within critical infrastructure and implements controls that prevent systemic failures.

Effective governance prioritizes AI adoption around innovation while maintaining public trust. Agencies must identify high-impact areas and understand system interdependencies, as more systems connect, understanding how one system impacts another becomes essential for appropriate segmentation and risk management.

Building on Secure Foundations

Agencies cannot build on a shaky foundation. Federal AI and cybersecurity strategies must align around building responsibility into the process from the start. This requires shifting from governing static systems to engineering systems that can evolve safely, integrating assurances, accountability and human judgment as foundational design constraints instead of downstream checks.

Before deploying advanced AI capabilities, agencies should strengthen foundational practices, standardizing workflows, implementing security by design and ensuring basic guardrails are in place. AI cannot compensate for weak foundations in the software development lifecycle. The path forward requires doubling down on fundamentals while strategically adopting AI where it delivers clear value.

To learn more about implementing secure AI solutions, watch GitLab’s full webinar, “Cyber in the AI Era: Building Foundations for Secure Adoption.”

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, including GitLab, we deliver solutions for Geospatial, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Artificial Intelligence, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Explore the Carahsoft Blog to learn more about the latest trends in Government technology markets and solutions, as well as Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partner thought-leaders.

10 Healthcare Technology Predictions Shaping 2026 

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Carahsoft, The Trusted IT Solutions Provider for the Healthcare Industry™, supports healthcare organizations in their mission to deliver efficient, high-quality care across the enterprise. Our comprehensive portfolio of healthcare solutions addresses critical needs across clinical systems, patient experience, enterprise operations, infrastructure and more. We help healthcare organizations streamline workflows, reduce administrative burden and improve security, maximizing the value of technology investments. As healthcare continues to evolve through regulatory changes, innovation and shifting care delivery models, these 10 trends represent the most significant opportunities and challenges facing the industry in 2026. 

Interoperability: From Compliance Exercise to Strategic Asset 

The 21st Century Cures Act and the Office of the National Coordinator’s (ONC) Health Data, Technology and Interoperability (HTI)-1 Final Rule have pushed standardized Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR)-based Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and expanded data classes into the market. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Interoperability and Prior Authorization Final Rule adds pressure on both payers and providers to exchange information seamlessly. In 2026, however, organizations that treated these regulations as checkbox compliance activities will watch competitors turn interoperability into operational advantage. 

Real-time data feeds reduce prior authorization delays. Integration platforms surface insights that drive value-based care arrangements. Data warehouses built for exchange, not just storage, become the foundation for population health management. The early adopters are not just meeting regulatory requirements. They are using data exchange to reduce administrative burden, improve care coordination across settings and unlock revenue opportunities that siloed systems leave on the table.  

The Transparent Use of AI in Healthcare 

In 2026, healthcare leaders will shift from asking should they use AI to how to document and explain it. The HTI-1 Final Rule introduced algorithm transparency requirements: disclosure when artificial intelligence (AI) and machine Learning (ML) algorithms influence clinical decisions. Clinical teams need to understand when AI-driven insights are guiding care recommendations, and patients deserve to know when algorithms influence their treatment plans.  

Regulatory bodies expect organizations to prove their AI tools meet safety and efficiency standards. The organizations that move early on AI governance frameworks, establish clear documentation standards and train clinicians on algorithm literacy will be ready when transparency moves from recommended to required.  

AI will also be used as the voice of healthcare. Call center staff miss operational targets by spending 25 minutes on a single call, AI, however, can make 50+ simultaneous calls while giving each patient the time they need. This capability transforms patient engagement at scale. AI enables follow-up with 100% of discharges, identifying interventions that prevent readmissions and materially impact the quadruple aim: better outcomes, better patient experiences, lower costs and improved clinician satisfaction. 

Telemedicine Shifts to Integrated Care Model 

Telemedicine exploded during the pandemic as an emergency solution. In 2026, leading organizations will stop treating telehealth as a separate channel and start embedding it into the care continuum. Digital front doors guide patients to the right care setting, whether that is video, in-person or asynchronous messaging. 

The technology exists and the patient demand has been proven, but what is missing is the operational maturity to weave virtual care into clinical workflows, reimbursement models and quality measurement. Organizations that integrate this technology into their environments will deliver better access without fracturing the care experience. 

The Revenue Cycle  

Healthcare organizations have been exploring AI in clinical settings (ambient documentation, diagnostic support, care coordination), but the revenue cycle may deliver faster more measurable returns. Prior authorization is a prime target. AI can automate the documentation assembly, predict approval likelihood and flag missing information before submission. 

Coding accuracy is another opportunity. Natural Language Processing (NLP) tools can analyze clinical documentation and suggest appropriate diagnosis and procedure codes, reducing claim denials and capturing revenue that incomplete documentation would lead to. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) conversation around AI will shift in 2026. Revenue cycle leaders will demonstrate tangible Return on Investment (ROI): fewer denials, faster reimbursement and reduced administrative costs. These wins will fund broader AI adoption across the enterprise. 

Value-Based Care 

The shift to value-based care has been talked about for years, but 2026 is when data infrastructure limitations become impossible to ignore. Value-based contracts require organizations to track outcomes across care settings, measure quality metrics in real time and identify high-risk patients before they become high cost. Siloed Electronic Health Records (EHRs), fragmented data warehouses and manual reporting processes cannot support these requirements. 

Organizations need integration platforms that pull data from multiple sources, such as inpatient, outpatient, lab, pharmacy and claims. They need analytics tools that surface actionable insights, not just dashboards, and they need governance frameworks that ensure data quality and consistency. 

The healthcare organization succeeding in value-based arrangements are not necessarily the largest or best-resourced. They are the ones that invested early in data infrastructure and developed the analytical capabilities to turn information into action. 

Cybersecurity: From IT Issue to Board-Level Risk 

The proposed changes to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Security Rule published December 2024 represents a significant escalation in regulatory expectations. If finalized in 2026, covered entities will face requirements for data encryption, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), network segmentation, vulnerability scanning and penetration testing. The Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Cybersecurity Performance Goals provide a voluntary framework, but the proposed HIPAA updates suggest these practices may become mandatory. 

Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) who can translate technical risks into business impacts will gain influence. Organizations that invest in both technology controls and governance frameworks will build resilience that extends beyond compliance checkboxes. Organizations that elevate cybersecurity to a strategic priority will be better prepared when threats escalate. 

The Digital Front Door 

Patient expectations have changed. People expect to schedule appointments, complete intake forms and access their health information online. The digital front door is more than a patient portal. It is a comprehensive strategy to meet patients where they are. In 2026, leading organizations will integrate digital patient engagement tools into a seamless experience, reducing administrative burden on staff, improving patient access and generating operational efficiencies. 

However, digital tools that do not connect to existing workflows create more problems than they solve. Integration of patient-facing technology with operational systems eliminates duplicate work and improves patient and staff experiences. 

Rural Healthcare Transformation 

The Rural Health Transformation Program represents the most significant Federal investment in rural healthcare infrastructure with $50 billion over five years, starting in 2026. This funding creates opportunities for technology investments that rural hospitals and health systems, particularly patient-facing solutions, technical assistance for IT and cybersecurity and innovative care models that often depend on digital tools. 

Rural organizations that prepare strong applications will access resources that can transform their operational capabilities. However, rural organizations often lack the IT staff, strategic planning capacity and vendor relationships that larger systems have. The organizations that succeed in securing and deploying these funds will be those that partner with experienced implementation teams, prioritize high-impact use cases and build sustainable technology roadmaps. 

Technology vendors and solution providers should pay attention to this program. It represents a market opportunity to support underserved communities with solutions that improve access, reduce costs and strengthen resilience. 

Workforce Solutions Beyond Scheduling and Talent Management 

Healthcare’s workforce crisis continues as burnout and turnover remains high. Traditional solutions help but do not solve the underlying challenges and impact staffing shortages have on care delivery and patient experience. In 2026, forward-thinking organizations will expand their workforce technology strategy beyond administrative efficiency to include tools that directly reduce clinician burden and improve job satisfaction. 

Clinical and operational technologies improve the work experience, and organizations that recognize this and invest accordingly will differentiate themselves in competitive labor markets. Workforce development technology such as training platforms, competency management systems and career advancement tools can help organizations grow talent internally rather than recruiting externally. This is especially valuable for rural hospitals that cannot compete with compensation alone. The organizations that treat workforce challenges as technology opportunities will build more resilient, engaged and effective teams. 

The Role of Process Automation 

Healthcare has embraced automation is administrative functions like claims processing, appointment reminders and billing. These applications deliver clear ROI and do not require clinical engagement. Clinical applications, however, require different considerations than back-office automation. These workflows involve judgement, variability and patient safety concerns. 

Automation in clinical settings requires trust. Clinicians need to understand how automated processes work, when to intervene and how to escalate exceptions. IT and operational leaders need to ensure automation enhances workflows rather than creating workarounds that introduce new risks. Healthcare organizations that approach automation thoughtfully will reduce burden, improve efficiency and demonstrate that technology can support instead of complicate clinical work. 

These trends represent opportunities for healthcare organizations to leverage technology in pursuit of better outcomes, improved efficiency and stronger financial performance. The organizations with clear priorities, engaged leadership and commitment to implementation will position themselves for success. As regulatory requirements evolve and patient expectations rise, technology partnerships become essential to delivering high-quality care while managing costs and operational complexity. 

Explore Carahsoft’s Healthcare Technology solutions portfolio to discover compliant, secure solutions tailored for healthcare organizations.  

Download Carahsoft’s Healthcare Buyer’s Guide to evaluate solutions that meet your organization’s operational and compliance requirements. 

Contact the Healthcare Team at (571) 591-6080 or Healthcare@carahsoft.com to discuss solutions that accelerate your technology adoption. 

Top 10 Quantum Events for Government in 2026 

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Quantum computing is an operational reality that is rapidly reshaping national security, cryptography and mission-critical data processing across the Public Sector. As adversaries accelerate their own quantum cryptography standards and explore quantum networking architectures, Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, is proud to support Government stakeholders at the forefront of this transformation. Together with our network of leading quantum technology partners, Carahsoft is committed to connecting Government agencies with the expertise, solutions and community they need to navigate the quantum landscape with confidence. Below, we highlight the top quantum events of 2026 and how Carahsoft is helping drive the mission forward. 

Convening to Act: Accelerating U.S. Post-Quantum Cryptography Adoption 

March 17, 2026 | Hyattsville, MD | In-Person Event 

Join the National Cryptologic Foundation for an event centered on Quantum-Resistant Cryptography (QRC) adoption where toady’s cyber leaders unite to accelerate the nation’s transition to post-quantum security. This high-impact forum brings together experts from Government, industry and academia to explore best practices for cryptography inventory and modernization, learn how leading organizations are transitioning to QRC standards and experience live demonstrations showcasing advanced migration tools and techniques. Through strategic dialogue and real-world insights, attendees gain clarity and momentum needed to act on emerging standards and mandates. 

Carahsoft will have a tabletop presence at Convening to Act. Carahsoft partners in attendance include: Safelogic, SandboxAQ, Qanapi, ISARA, Entrust and QuSecure. Carahsoft’s involvement in this event supports published national security priorities by empowering commercial, defense and Intelligence Community (IC) participants to understand and operationalize newly released Federal guidance on Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) deployment. Our team will be present to help organizations strengthen their future-proofing strategies and contribute to securing the nation’s digital infrastructure. 

ATARC Quantum Speaker Series: Accelerating Quantum Innovation Through Standardization 

March 24, 2026 | 1:30-2:30pm ET | Virtual Event 

Join the Advanced Technology Academic Research Center (ATARC) for a high-impact session in its Quantum Speaker Series. This focused 30-minute webinar highlights the work of the Advancing Standardization for Critical and Emerging Technologies (ASCET) Center of Excellence, an initiative dedicated to strengthening U.S. leadership in international quantum standards. Attendees will gain insight into how ASCET is broadening participation in quantum standardization, cultivating the next generation of quantum experts and supporting U.S. Private Sector priorities through training, tools and strategic initiatives. 

Carahsoft recommends attending this webinar from the ATARC Quantum Speaker Series, reinforcing our dedication to advancing U.S. quantum competitiveness. The webinar format provides a platform that enables quantum experts to share their experiences and insights with a broad Government audience, making PQC knowledge accessible to agencies regardless of their location or resources. 

Golden Dome: Quantum Proofing America’s Shield 

April 23, 2026 | 3:00-5:00pm ET | Virtual Event 

The “Golden Dome” for America has moved from vision to reality, creating a massive, interconnected architecture of space-based sensors, kinetic interceptors and Command and Control (C2) networks. However, this “system of systems” is only as strong as the data paths that connect it. As adversaries accelerate their quantum computing capabilities, the encryption protecting on-orbit capabilities, satellite links, ground-based systems and decision-support chains faces an existential threat. 

Quantum-Proofing the Golden Dome is a practical, mission-focused deep dive into hardening the nation’s shield. The architects of the initiative will come together with the builders of the technology to define a clear path for quantum-resilient security in the next 12–24 months. 

Sessions to Look Out For: 

  • The Golden Dome Architecture: Security at Every Segment – A high-level view of the interoperability requirements across the Golden Dome segments. Bob Gourley, CTO at OODA LLC, will outline why the single attack surface of missile defense, space and C2 demands quantum-resilient security. From radar feeds to firmware signing, the specific data paths that are most at risk today will be identified. 

Carahsoft is proud to host Golden Dome: Quantum Proofing America’s Shield at the Carahsoft Conference & Collaboration Center in Reston, VA, bringing together the architects and builders of the nation’s most critical missile defense initiative to chart a clear path toward quantum-resilient security. We are excited to provide a platform for experts in the quantum community to share their critical, real-world insights with Government leaders, defense professionals and technology innovators. 

Quantum Tech World 

June 25-26, 2026 | Boston, MA | In-Person Event  

Step into the future at Quantum Tech World 2026, the premier global summit where quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) converge to redefine what is possible. This event unites more than 1,000 innovators, industry leaders, policymakers and researchers from 40+ countries to explore the breakthroughs shaping the next era of technology. Attendees will have the chance to listen to expert speakers, participate in trainings and earn certifications that will provide the insights, tools and connections needed to drive quantum adoption at enterprise scale. 

Sessions to Look Out For:  

  • Aerospace & Defense: Mission-Critical Quantum Innovation – Quantum technologies are revolutionizing the mission landscape for aerospace and defense, unlocking capabilities in sensing, navigation and secure communications. This panel gathers global leaders from Government, research and industry to discuss how quantum breakthroughs are enhancing resilience, accelerating innovation and securing critical infrastructure in an increasingly complex world. 

Many of Carahsoft’s leading quantum technology partners will be in attendance—including IBM, QuintessenceLabs and ClassIQ—offering attendees direct access to cutting-edge solutions and expertise spanning PQC, quantum networking and quantum sensing. As Carahsoft deepens its engagement with the quantum ecosystem, this event represents a valuable opportunity for Government stakeholders to connect with our partner community and explore solutions best suited to their agency’s mission needs.  

2026 Quantum Computing User Forum 

July 20-24, 2026 | Oak Ridge, TN | In-Person Event 

Get ready to join the global community at the 2026 Quantum Computing User Forum, taking place at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the nation’s premier centers for advanced computing and scientific innovation. The Forum will feature interactive sessions, allowing attendees to explore emerging best practices in quantum application development, software frameworks and simulation techniques. Designed for both current users of the Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP) and the broader research ecosystem, this event offers the opportunity to connect directly with the scientists, developers and technologists shaping the future of quantum computing devices and systems.  

Carahsoft’s expanding quantum portfolio includes a number of partners focused specifically on quantum computing hardware, software and integration, making this an ideal environment for agencies to explore the breadth of available solutions. This forum aligns with our commitment to linking Government agencies with the solutions they need to prepare for the quantum era.  

DoDIIS 

August 9-12, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event 

The Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) is the premier intelligence and defense technology forum hosted by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), convening quantum scientists, engineers and innovators dedicated to shaping how quantum will secure, empower and transform the U.S. defense ecosystem. This year’s theme, “DIA Next: Intelligence Technologies for Battlespace Lethality,” places groundbreaking quantum capabilities at the center of national defense modernization. As intelligence technologies increasingly rely on quantum-inspired algorithms, advanced sensing, secure communications and next-generation computational architectures, DODIIS 2026 offers the opportunity for quantum leaders to engage directly with the mission owners shaping the future of global security. 

Carahsoft is proud to host an expansive partner pavilion at DoDIIS 2026, reinforcing our commitment to connecting Government customers with meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of the solutions available to support their mission. Attendees are encouraged to visit our pavilion, which will feature interactive demo kiosks, exhibitor booths and speaking opportunities, providing access to our broad ecosystem of quantum and intelligence-focused technology partners.  

TechNet Augusta 

August 17-20, 2026 | Augusta, GA | In-Person Event 

TechNet Augusta 2026 is at the center of the nation’s cyber operations dialogue. This principal Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) event, developed with assistance from the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE), brings together military leaders, Government decision makers and industry innovators to explore the evolving challenges and advances shaping the cyber domain. Across four days of mission-focused programming, attendees will dive deep into the technologies, strategies and operational imperatives driving modern cyber electromagnetic activities and unified land operations. Designed to open the lines of communication between defense stakeholders and the commercial sector, TechNet Augusta provides the opportunity to connect and collaborate with leaders and operators at every level as they chart the future of U.S. cyber superiority. 

Carahsoft is proud to support the Government and defense community at TechNet Augusta, hosting demo kiosks where attendees can explore our partners’ quantum and cybersecurity solutions. Carahsoft’s involvement reflects our ongoing dedication to ensuring Government customers have direct access to the expertise and solutions needed to advance their mission-critical technology strategies. 

Quantum World Congress 

September 22-24, 2026 | College Park, MD | In-Person Event 

Quantum World Congress (QWC) is the gathering where leaders across science, industry, Government, finance and education are shaping the future of quantum technology. Since 2022, QWC has served as an international platform for unveiling innovations, accelerating commercialization and forging the partnerships that move quantum from the lab into the real world. Attendees will explore advancements in communications, computing, sensing, materials, security and cross-sector applications. With the National Quantum Initiative Act (NQIA) Reauthorization signaling long-term Federal momentum, QWC delivers the insights, strategy and connections organizations need to lead in the era of quantum advantage. 

Carahsoft is exploring opportunities to expand our presence for QWC 2026 as we continue to deepen our engagement with the quantum community and expand the resources available to our Government customers and vendor partners. Carahsoft’s growing quantum portfolio spans a broad range of mission-aligned solutions, and the QWC represents an ideal opportunity for attendees to engage directly with tools best suited to their needs. 

TechNet Indo-Pacific 

October 27-29, 2026 | Honolulu, HI | In-Person Event 

AFCEA International and AFCEA Hawaii have re-named their signature event TechNet Indo-Pacific. As the largest strategic defense and technology event in the Indo-Pacific Rim, the conference brings together U.S. and allied military leaders, Government technologists, researchers and industry experts to address the region’s most pressing challenges. For quantum professionals, this is an incredible opportunity to explore quantum-enhanced sensing for maritime and space domain awareness, PQC for resilient communications, secure distributed computing at the tactical edge and hybrid quantum-classical tools for intelligence fusion. With exhibitor showcases, mission-focused technical sessions and direct access to decision makers responsible for shaping regional defense strategy, the event provides a powerful platform to influence the future of secure, high-performance capabilities across the Indo-Pacific. 

Carahsoft will have a tabletop presence at TechNet Indo-Pacific, continuing our engagement with military and Government leaders at one of the most strategically important cybersecurity and technology events in the Pacific region. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with our team and explore our partners’ exhibits, which will feature hands-on demonstrations and mission-aligned solutions designed to meet the specific requirements of military and defense agencies operating in the region. 

Super Computing 2026   

November 15-20, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event 

Join the global leaders of HPC, networking, storage and advance analytics at Super Computing 2026 (SC26), an annual gathering that will define the next generation of computational innovation. Attendees can immerse themselves in a technical program built to accelerate discovery, featuring groundbreaking research in architectures, algorithms, machine learning at scale, distributed systems, visualization, data analytics and emerging technologies. The expansive exhibit floor will feature major industry innovators, national laboratories, universities and startups showcasing advanced systems, tools and solutions driving the fastest supercomputers and tomorrow’s exascale-to-quantum workflows. Whether shaping compute-intensive science, engineering extreme-scale systems or advancing quantum-ready architecture, SC26 provides unmatched opportunities to learn, collaborate and lead within the global HPC ecosystem. 

Carahsoft will be an exhibitor at the SC26, showcasing the latest advancements in quantum computing and HPC solutions from our technology partners, including D-Wave, Quantinuum and IBM. Attendees are encouraged to visit Carahsoft’s exhibit to engage with our quantum-focused partner community, gain hands-on experience and learn how quantum computing technologies are transforming operations and driving breakthroughs across scientific and Public Sector missions. 

The quantum era presents both extraordinary opportunities and significant challenges for Government agencies committed to maintaining strategic advantage and protecting sensitive data. The events highlighted above represent the most critical forums for policy dialogue, technical education and cross-sector collaboration as the Public Sector works to operationalize quantum-ready solutions. Whether your agency is just beginning to assess its quantum posture or actively implementing PQC standards, Carahsoft and our trusted partner ecosystem are here to support every stage of that journey. 

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

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

Top 10 FedRAMP Events for Government in 2026 

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As Federal agencies modernize IT infrastructure through cloud adoption, navigating the FedRAMP authorization process while meeting stringent security standards remains essential. FedRAMP provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization and continuous monitoring, enabling agencies to adopt cloud technologies with confidence. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider™, provides expertise and a broad portfolio of FedRAMP-authorized Cloud Service Providers (CSPs), helping both agencies and vendors manage cloud security compliance. Throughout 2026, the FedRAMP community will gather at key events nationwide to discuss evolving requirements, implementation strategies and solutions that accelerate secure cloud modernization. Below are FedRAMP-focused events where Carahsoft and our partners will be present, offering opportunities to connect and explore authorized solutions designed for Federal security needs. 

GovRAMP Symposium 

March 9, 2026 | Washington, DC | 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 NIST, FedRAMP and GovRAMP, Department of War (DoW) and other regulatory frameworks can create a secure, interoperable innovation base for artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. The event concludes with a fireside chat held in conjunction with Billington CyberSecurity and a networking reception. 

As the Exclusive Government IT Solutions Partner for this event, Carahsoft is committed to supporting agencies navigating the path to FedRAMP and GovRAMP compliance through our extensive portfolio of authorized cloud solutions and trusted technology partners. We are dedicated to connecting Public Sector agencies with the FedRAMP-authorized solution providers and compliance expertise they need to simplify their authorization journey and accelerate secure modernization. Through our deep partner ecosystem and longstanding presence in the FedRAMP marketplace, Carahsoft helps Government leaders identify the right solutions to meet their unique security and operational requirements. 

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 learn from one another and bolster future defenses. Attendees can expect expert panels examining emerging threats, evolving regulations and best practices for ensuring transparency, trust and resilience across the technology landscape. The event features critical sessions on protecting digital supply chains and navigating cybersecurity for multiple sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure and education.  

Carahsoft and NightDragon are proud to co-sponsor the State and Local Billington CyberSecurity Summit, reflecting our ongoing commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity and FedRAMP compliance posture of State and Local agencies across the nation. By co-sponsoring the All-Attendee Reception in the Exhibit Hall on Tuesday, March 10th, we are creating valuable opportunities for Government cybersecurity leaders to connect with Carahsoft’s partner vendors, share compliance challenges and discover solutions designed to meet the rigorous standards of Federal and State security frameworks. Our participation underscores Carahsoft’s dedication to ensuring that State and Local agencies have access to the authorized technologies and trusted partnerships needed to protect critical infrastructure and citizen data against evolving threats. 

FedRAMP Community Working Group – Rev5 

April 1, 2026 |1:00-2:00pm ET | Virtual Event 

Join the FedRAMP Community Working Group (CWG) for updates to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-53, Revision 5 (Rev5) – Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations. These public working groups interact primarily through GitHub discussions and are supported by monthly meetings on specific topics. FedRAMP CWG – Rev5 meetings will be held the first Wednesday of every month throughout 2026 and are open to anyone in the community. 

Carahsoft supports Federal agencies by leveraging our expertise in Federal cloud security and compliance. Our team helps Federal agencies identify and acquire secure solutions from our portfolio of FedRAMP authorized CSPs. Additionally, Carahsoft provides support for our vendor partners navigating the FedRAMP authorization process, offering guidance on compliance requirements and best practices. These CWG sessions will feature discussions on updates to Rev5, vital information for professionals in the FedRAMP community. 

FedRAMP Community Working Group – 20x 

April 8, 2026 | 1:00-2:00pm ET | Virtual Event 

FedRAMP’s other CWG meeting will focus on the FedRAMP 20x program, a modernization initiative designed to streamline the Federal cloud authorization process through increased automation, reuse and community-driven approaches. The CWG will take place one week after the Phase 2, Cohort 2 FedRAMP 20x application period ends. Participants will learn more about new opportunities and approaches for CSPs when it comes to navigating the authorization process for Government cloud services. These meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of each month throughout 2026. 

As a trusted partner to Government agencies, Carahsoft facilitates access to our extensive network of FedRAMP authorized CSPs while ensuring solutions align with evolving Federal security standards. Utilizing our extensive industry expertise, Carahsoft provides critical insights and resources throughout the authorization journey to streamline the path to FedRAMP compliance. These CWG sessions offer essential updates on program developments, technical requirements and implementation strategies for secure cloud environments. 

Cloud Security Summit  

April 16, 2026 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event 

As Government agencies embrace cloud transformation, the need for secure, compliant and resilient environments has never been greater. The Public Sector Cloud Security Summit brings together Federal leaders and industry experts to share strategies for protecting sensitive data, modernizing cloud architectures and navigating evolving cybersecurity requirements. Attendees will discover practical approaches to FedRAMP modernization, alignment with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance, Zero Trust implementation, automated monitoring and managing shared responsibility in multicloud and hybrid environments. Sessions will address strengthening cloud supply chain security through enhanced vendor risk management, software assurance and greater visibility across cloud service providers. 

Carahsoft is a tabletop sponsor for the Public Sector Cloud Security Summit and a proud partner of the Advanced Technology Academic Research Center (ATARC). Our team will be available throughout the event to discuss how our comprehensive portfolio of FedRAMP authorized CSPs can help agencies accelerate secure cloud modernization while maintaining compliance. 

DGI Virtual Workshop 

May 7, 2026 | 1:00-3:00pm ET | Virtual Event 

The Digital Government Institute’s (DGI) virtual workshop, Embracing Private Cloud: A Strategic Shift for Government Agencies, explores how Public Sector IT leaders can leverage private cloud architectures to drive digital transformation and modernize legacy systems. Through expert-led discussions and real-world uses cases, attendees will learn how to enable seamless migration, optimize workloads and build resilient hybrid environments tailored to Government needs. Whether planning a cloud transition or refining an existing deployment, this free workshop provides actionable guidance and best practices for IT leaders, architects and program managers driving innovation in Government. 

Carahsoft is partnering with DGI for this event to support Federal cloud security education and compliance initiatives. With an extensive portfolio of FedRAMP authorized solutions, Carahsoft is committed to assisting these educational opportunities that empower Government decision makers to confidently pursue cloud modernization. Our team will be available throughout the event to help connect attendees with the right technology for seamless, secure cloud migration.  

Offset Symposium 2026 

May 14, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event 

The Offset Symposium, hosted by SecondFront, is the premier defense and GovTech event that convenes leaders from Government, the Department of War (DoW) and industry to examine how software-defined capabilities are reshaping national security. Through keynote discussions, expert panels and live technology demonstrations, Offset explores evolving cyber threats, operational challenges and emerging technologies. Sessions emphasize practical lessons learned from real deployments, offering attendees insight into how organizations are overcoming accreditation barriers, integrating commercial technology and delivering capability at scale. The symposium also spotlights FedRAMP and Government cloud compliance, underscoring FedRAMP’s role in enabling secure cloud adoption across the Federal landscape. Offset showcases FedRAMP-compliant solutions, demonstrating how accredited platforms and Development, Security and Operations (DevSecOps) pipelines are being used to deploy resilient, scalable software that supports mission-critical Government operations. 

Carahsoft partner SecondFront returns with one of the year’s most anticipated events focused on accelerating defense innovation and technology adoption. As a gold sponsor, Carahsoft will showcase our broad portfolio of FedRAMP authorized CSPs and engage with defense decision makers seeking to accelerate cloud modernization while maintaining rigorous security standards. Registration for this event is now open! 

GovForward: The ATO and Cloud Security Summit 

July 23, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event 

The Authority to Operate (ATO) and Cloud Security Summit is where Government innovation meets cloud security excellence. Our eighth annual forum brings together Federal, State and Local Government leaders, alongside industry experts and solution providers, to address the evolving security, compliance and modernization challenges facing the Public Sector. The Summit offers a collaborative environment for exploring strategies to streamline the ATO process, advance secure cloud adoption and strengthen cybersecurity posture. The program features engaging keynote presentations and interactive panel discussions, designed to provide attendees with actionable insights into the latest policies, technologies and best practices shaping secure cloud adoption across the Public Sector.  

Carahsoft is proud to host GovForward: The ATO and Cloud Security Summit for the eighth consecutive year, a testament to our long-standing commitment to advancing secure cloud adoption across the Public Sector. Over the years, this summit has grown into one of the most trusted forms for Federal, State and Local leaders navigating the intersection of cloud modernization and compliance, and 2026 promises to be our most impactful year yet. GovExec is pleased to offer continuing professional education (CPE) credits through the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) for qualified attendees, providing valuable professional development opportunities. To get a sense of the depth and quality of programming this summit delivers, explore last year’s resources at our resource hub. Vendors interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact us at GovForward@Carahsoft.com. Stay tuned for a detailed agenda! 

Black Hat USA 

August 1-6, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event 

Black Hat USA 2026 is the premier global gathering where cybersecurity professionals, researchers and industry leaders come together to learn, share research and help shape the future of information security. The event features a comprehensive program of hands-on trainings, expert briefings and keynote sessions. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ground-breaking research covering applied security, exploit development, malware analysis and more. Black Hat USA 2026 encourages collaboration, critical thinking and practical skill building, making it an essential event for professionals committed to staying at the forefront of information security. 

Carahsoft will be hosting a networking reception at Black Hat USA 2026, providing a great opportunity to connect with Government cloud security professionals, industry peers and FedRAMP experts. Join us for meaningful conversations about the evolution of FedRAMP and explore Carahsoft’s portfolio of secure, compliant cloud technologies. Stop by and speak with our team about the cutting-edge solutions in our portfolio that ensure sensitive Government information is secure. 

Billington CyberSecurity Summit 

September 8-10, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Tradeshow 

The Billington CyberSecurity Summit 2026 is the 17th annual gathering of Government and industry cyber leaders, serving as a premier forum for Federal, State and Local cybersecurity professionals to discuss critical threats, policy developments and defense strategies. This three-day summit brings together thousands of attendees and hundreds of expert speakers across more than 40 sessions and breakout discussions to explore topics like AI integration in cybersecurity, Zero Trust architecture, threat intelligence, operational resilience and emerging defense capabilities. The event offers extensive networking opportunities, solution showcases and deep-dive sessions that address the most pressing cybersecurity challenges facing the Public Sector. Sessions have not yet been released for 2026, but previous years have covered topics ranging from AI-driven threat detection to securing critical infrastructure and implementing proactive cyber defense strategies. 

Carahsoft is committed to supporting DoW and Federal cybersecurity professionals at the Billington Cybersecurity Summit 2026 with a comprehensive resource presence featuring educational materials, expert consultations and technology demonstrations. Our cybersecurity specialists will be available throughout the three-day event to provide guidance on implementing Zero Trust frameworks, securing defense networks, addressing compliance requirements and exploring innovative solutions to combat evolving cyber threats. Visit our space to access resources tailored to DoW cybersecurity challenges, connect with solutions providers who understand defense mission requirements and engage in discussions about strengthening your organization’s cyber resilience and operational readiness.  

GovRAMP Cyber Summit 

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

The GovRAMP Cyber Summit brings national thought leaders, cybersecurity practitioners, policymakers and industry experts to address the most pressing security, compliance and modernization challenges facing Government today. Designed as a collaborative forum, the Summit focuses on aligning and operationalizing cybersecurity frameworks, such as FedRAMP, GovRAMP, Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) and more, to help agencies reduce duplication, strengthen compliance and accelerate the secure adoption of cloud and emerging technologies. Through keynote presentations and in-depth discussions, attendees will gain insight into how Government and industry leaders are working to improve reciprocity, streamline authorization processes and balance risk management with operational efficiency.  The Summist also features collaborative learning labs on topics such as AI and machine learning (ML), procurement considerations, authorization timelines and available industry tools. By bringing together voices from across Government and the Private Sector, the GovRAMP Cyber Summit empowers participants to advance secure, scalable technology adoption and strengthen cybersecurity outcomes across State and Local Government environments. 

Carahsoft will serve as the presenting sponsor of the GovRAMP Cyber Summit. With Carahsoft’s extensive portfolio of both FedRAMP and GovRAMP authorized solutions, we are uniquely positioned to support agencies navigating multi-level cloud security requirements. We look forward to connecting State and Local Government leaders with the industry-leading solutions needed to secure and strengthen their agencies’ environments. 

AWS re:Invent 

November 30-December 4, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event 

Join AWS for a week of innovation, collaboration and global representation at AWS re:Invent, the company’s flagship annual conference that brings together tens of thousands of cloud professionals from around the world, including developers, architects, security leaders and business decision makers. This event serves as the stage for major AWS announcements, offering attendees early insight into the latest advancements across cloud infrastructure, AI and ML, security, compliance, data and application modernization. A series of in-depth technical sessions allows participants to explore through strategic, hands-on learning. AWS re:Invent features high-impact keynotes, targeted breakout sessions and an expansive expo floor, where attendees can engage directly with AWS partners and solution providers. 

Carahsoft partner AWS returns with re:Invent, the most impactful cloud computing event of the year. Carahsoft will be hosting a Public Sector networking reception at re:Invent 2026, providing an exclusive opportunity for Government cloud leaders to connect with peers, AWS experts and our network of FedRAMP authorized CSPs. Our team will be present, offering best practices, expert guidance and more! 

RAMPCon: Coalfire 

Date TBD | Location TBD | In-Person Event 

RAMPCon: Coalfire is a two-day, forward-thinking event filled with keynotes, expert panels and candid conversations. Bringing together leaders from Government and industry, the event will examine the evolution of FedRAMP alongside other frameworks such as CMMC and GovRAMP. Attendees will explore the growing role of automation, continuous monitoring and AI-driven security, gaining practical insight into what the next chapter Federal cloud adoption holds, from policy and authorization strategy to operational scale and resilience. 

Coalfire, a Carahsoft partner, returns in 2026 with their impactful FedRAMP event RAMPCon. With our FedRAMP expertise, Carahsoft is here to back this essential gathering of the cloud compliance community. Our team will be at the event, connecting Government agencies with the resources and solutions needed for successful FedRAMP authorization. 

As cloud technology reshapes Government operations, staying informed on FedRAMP requirements, best practices and authorized solutions is essential to secure, compliant modernization. These events offer valuable opportunities to engage with FedRAMP experts, connect with peers and discover cutting-edge cloud security solutions from authorized providers. Whether you are beginning your FedRAMP authorization, optimizing existing compliance processes or exploring new cloud capabilities, Carahsoft and our portfolio of FedRAMP-authorized CSPs stand ready to support your mission. Join us at these premier 2026 events to gain actionable insights, explore proven compliance strategies and see how Carahsoft can help you achieve secure, efficient cloud adoption that meets the highest Federal security standards. 

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

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