Overview

September 24
10AM PT, 1PM ET

Register

State and local agencies are under pressure to modernize services, improve outcomes, and manage complex caseloads — all while navigating tight budgets and evolving policy requirements. Artificial intelligence holds promise as a transformative tool, but for many public sector leaders, the path forward is still being defined.

In this installment of our Ask the Expert series, Troy Horton, CIO for Health and Human Services at the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology, shares how the state is exploring AI’s potential in the HHS space. Whether your agency is just starting to look at AI or already experimenting with pilots, this discussion will offer valuable insights into how government leaders are thinking strategically about the future of AI in public service.

What you’ll learn:

  • How Illinois is approaching AI in health and human services
  • Key considerations for launching AI exploration in government
  • Opportunities and challenges for responsible AI implementation

Speakers

Troy Horton headshot

Troy Horton

Chief Information Officer for Health and Human Services, State of Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology

With an impressive tenure spanning three decades, Troy’s hands-on approach to system design and development has paved the way for building reliable, scalable applications. Additionally, his adeptness at managing complex projects, even under tight deadlines, is testament to his commitment to excellence. In his pivotal role as the CIO, Troy wears many hats. He engages directly with agency partners and clients, striving to comprehend their technological aspirations. This, in turn, enables him to craft, coordinate, and deliver integrated tech solutions that resonate. Troy proudly identifies as an innovator, and his flexibility, adaptability, and results-driven approach are evident throughout his illustrious career. Above all, he embodies passion and dedication, attributes clearly mirrored in his professional journey.

 

Kimberly Nguyen-Theunissen

Chief Technical Leader, Enterprise Architect, IBM

Kimberly Nguyen-Theunissen is an IBMer of 26+ years focusing on Innovation with background in Engineering and Emerging Architecture. A thought-provoking technologist, Kim is focused on client-centered innovation, strategy and execution. Enabled by knowledge, experience and expertise, she develops proven strategies for transforming organizations with emerging technologies. As the COO of the Theunissen’s household with a spouse, two young adult children and three fur babies, flexibility is key to inspiring others to reimagine decisions so they can find their voice, change their stories, and become their own hero.

Teri Takai headshot

Teri Takai — Moderator

Chief Programs Officer, Center for Digital Government

Teri Takai is the Chief Programs Officer of e.Republic, the parent company of the Center for Digital Government. She worked for Ford Motor Company for 30 years in global application development and information technology strategic planning. From Ford, she moved to EDS in support of General Motors. A long-time interest in public service led her to the government sector, first as CIO of the State of Michigan, then as CIO of the State of California, and subsequently the CIO of the U.S. Department of Defense, the first woman appointed to this role. She then served as the CIO for Meridian Health Plan. She is a member of several industry advisory boards. Teri has won numerous awards including Governing Magazine’s Public Official of the Year, CIO Magazine’s CIO Hall of Fame, Government Technology Magazine’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers & Drivers, the Women in Defense Excellence in Leadership Award, and the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service.

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