Location: Pre-Assembly 2
Exclusive Event for CIRA Members. Invitation Required.
Location: Pre-Assembly 2
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Michael Hingson, a blind 9/11 survivor, best-selling author, and expert on assistive technology, shares powerful insights on the value of accessibility in the workplace and everyday life. Through personal stories, he demonstrates how simple mindset shifts and practical adjustments can remove barriers, creating environments where everyone can participate fully. His message highlights how accessible technology and thoughtful planning not only support individuals with disabilities but also improve experiences for all.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: Foyer
Unlock the full potential of AI by mastering data governance. This session will delve into essential strategies and best practices that ensure compliance and accountability by establishing clear policies. Gain insights on how robust data governance can transform AI initiatives into streamlined, efficient solutions.
Location: San Gabriel A-D
Discover how adaptable tech solutions can bridge the gap for diverse county needs. We'll explore innovative strategies that ensure efficiency and effectiveness across the spectrum of county sizes. Learn how a universal approach can empower counties to overcome unique challenges and streamline operations.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel E
Explore the truth behind common myths and misconceptions about web accessibility. This session will shed light on the realities of making digital content accessible for all. Learn from an expert as he busts myths, reveals best practices and provides practical insights to help your county meet upcoming website accessibility requirements.
Location: San Gabriel E
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Speaker: Caroline Love, Legislative Services Director, Texas Association of Counties
Stay informed about the latest developments in technology-related legislation brewing at the state and federal level. Gain insights into how these updates will affect your county and prepare for future compliance requirements.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel E
Speakers: Melissa Maluski & Jocelyne Figueroa, TAC Communication Services
Social media is a powerful tool for counties to engage with residents, provide timely updates and promote transparency. However, it also comes with risks. This session will explore best practices for content creation and public engagement along with key pitfalls to avoid.
Location: San Gabriel A-D
Speaker: Sabrina Merritt, CEO, October Social Media
Unlock the secrets to powerful AI interactions! In this session, we’ll explore the innovative world of AI prompt engineering, where the right words can lead to groundbreaking results. Whether you're looking to optimize responses, push creative boundaries or simply get more out of your AI tools, this session will provide practical tips, tricks and real-world applications to help you craft prompts that drive success.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel E
Speaker: Kris Rivenburgh, Founder, Accessible.org
Learn to craft a robust framework for web accessibility based on the Department of Justice toolkit. Gain insights into building an inclusive digital environment by implementing key principles and practical steps. Ideal for decision-makers who are involved with county operations, such as procurement and policies.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel E
Location: Pre-Assembly 2
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Speaker: Steve Lerch, President, Story Arc Consulting
Embark on an informative, humorous and inspirational session by a former Google executive that outlines a comprehensive AI roadmap. Learn how to transform visionary ideas into actionable strategies. Discover the key steps and best practices essential for successfully integrating AI into your operations.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel E
Speaker: Robert Ruiz, TAC RMP Associate Director
Decode the secrets to building and maintaining strong vendor partnerships. Learn effective strategies for managing relationships, optimizing performance and driving success. Discover best practices, negotiation techniques and communication tactics to foster collaborative and productive alliances.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Speaker: Ernesto Ballesteros, CISA Cybersecurity State Coordinator
Step into the world of digital forensics with this introductory workshop. Learn the basics of cyber investigations, including how to identify, collect and analyze digital evidence. Gain a foundational understanding of the tools and techniques used by professionals to solve cybercrimes.
Location: San Gabriel A-D
Speaker: Tony Sauerhoff, DIR CISO
Discover the crucial role of involving top executives in cybersecurity. This session covers strategies to engage leaders, align cybersecurity goals and ensure informed decision-making. Learn how to effectively communicate the importance of cybersecurity and foster a culture of security within your organization.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Speaker: Ernesto Ballesteros, CISA Cybersecurity State Coordinator
Dive deeper into digital forensics. This session will cover additional techniques and tools for cyber investigations, including forensic imaging, analysis of digital artifacts and reporting findings. This session won’t make you a forensic investigator, but you’ll walk away with an understanding of what it involves.
Location: San Gabriel A-D
Speaker: Kris Rivenburgh, Founder, Accessible.org
Discover actionable strategies to make your website accessible to everyone, applying guidelines of the WCAG. Learn practical techniques, tools and best practices to help your web content better meet accessibility standards. Ideal for those who make website updates.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: San Gabriel E
Speakers: Jonathan King, Statewide Incident Response Coordinator, DIR
Jeremy Wilson, Deputy CISO, Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR)
A well-prepared incident response plan essential for every county. This session will cover key steps counties should take before, during, and after a cybersecurity incident, including identifying threats, mitigating damage, and ensuring business continuity. Attendees will gain insights on best practices and practical strategies to strengthen their county’s cyber resilience.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: Foyer
Dive into the world of cyber threats in this action-packed session, where you'll learn to identify, track and defend against the latest risks to your network. Featuring a live threat hunting demonstration, this session will showcase real-time attacks and the strategies to counter them. You'll leave with practical, actionable insights to fortify your own network and stay ahead of emerging threats.
Dinner: 6:30-7:30 (provided)
Arcade opens: 7-9:30
Location: San Gabriel A-E
Location: Pre-Assembly 2
Location: Foyer
Speaker: Lori Gracey, Executive Director, Texas Computer Education Association
Dive into the world of artificial intelligence policy development and learn how to create effective guidelines for responsible AI use. This session will explore key considerations, regulatory frameworks and best practices for crafting comprehensive AI policies.
Location: San Gabriel F-K
Location: Foyer
Join us to explore how El Paso County has provided better serve to its constituents with AI-powered kiosks. Learn about the innovative AI solutions implemented to overcome challenges and improve efficiencies, and gain valuable insights to apply in your own county.
Location: San Gabriel F-K