FutureIT Chicago 2024: Full Event Agenda

Event check-in is now open!

All times listed on the agenda are Central Daylight Time.

Tuesday, June 18

10:30 - 10:40 am
Welcome to Your FutureIT

Setting the stage for the program, we unpack the theme of AI, Data and Tech Leadership: Finding Business Value from Emerging Tech Innovations.

Host
Beth Kormanik Event Content Director Foundry, an IDG Inc. company
10:40 - 11:10 am
Adapt and Execute: Lessons from an Adventurer and a Technologist

Cyril Derreumaux entered the record books when his four-person crew achieved the fastest ocean rowing crossing of a during a 39-day sprint from California to Hawaii. He then accomplished the feat solo in a kayak – the first person to do so. The experiences changed Cyril’s perspective on what was possible. Setting the stage for a day of innovation and leadership, Cyril will share what he’s learned about purpose, value, and embracing technology to achieve our goals.

Keynote Speaker
Cyril Derreumaux Extreme Athlete-Kayaker and Two-Time World Record Holder
11:10 - 11:35 am
Guided Networking

Build professional connections during this lightly structured networking time.

11:35 - 12:10 pm
How CIOs Can Help Drive First-Mover Advantage

In an environment of GenAI-influenced innovation, what can a CIO do position a company to gain an edge and sustain it? In this lively discussion, Dan Roberts and leading CIOs will cover key topics such as how to build a data-centric culture; how to sell your vision up and down the organization; how to win over and engage middle management; and how to deliver a customer-centric model and remain agile.

View slides here.

Speaker
Steve Randich EVP & CIO FINRA
Speaker
Neal Sample CIO Walgreens Boots Alliance
Moderator
Dan Roberts Host Tech Whisperers Podcast; CEO, Ouellette & Associates
12:10 - 12:30 pm
Leveraging AI for Data Insights and Decision Making

The power of AI to convert data’s potential to realize business goals and make critical decisions across an enterprise is immense. With the proliferation of data and its many sources, it’s essential that organizations have confidence in their data. Learn how AI agents or co-pilots can act as intelligent assistants for ensuring trustworthy results for various job functions.

View slides here.

Speaker
Mithu Bhargava Executive Vice President and General Manager Iron Mountain
12:30 - 1:40 pm
Lunch and Exhibits

Pull up a chair and enjoy lunch with your new contacts! Plus meet our sponsors and learn how their solutions can help you overcome your latest challenges.

1:40 - 2:00 pm
Finding Clarity in IT Objectives: Setting the Agenda for Strategic Success

Now in the first year of a five-year transformation plan, the IT department of the Chicago Public Schools is on a mission to build a high-performance organization. Join us for a conversation with Chief Information Technology Officer Norman Fleming about how the state’s second-largest employer is embracing new technologies like generative AI, modernizing its legacy systems and applications, and building momentum on initiatives through collaboration and workforce development.

Speaker
Norman Fleming CIO Chicago Public Schools
Host
Beth Kormanik Event Content Director Foundry, an IDG Inc. company
2:00 - 2:20 pm
Cutting Through the AI Bull$@#*

AI marketing is littered with garbage, which can obscure products and technologies that confer genuine value. During this session, learn to identify different types of AI marketing buzzwords and become equipped with the right questions to ask when evaluating vendor claims.

View slides here.

Speaker
Adam Oliner CEO & Founder Graft
2:20 - 2:50 pm
Hot Topic Discussion Groups

Join a discussion topic that best meets your needs. Facilitated by our partner subject matter experts, take a deep-dive into ideas, common questions, and proven solutions in an interactive, peer-sharing environment.

The Power of AI for Converting Unstructured Data to Structured with Iron Mountain

Close the IT Skill Gap Quicker with Experiential Learning with Skillable

Long-term AI Strategy, Short-term Value with Graft

Moving Apps: Managing Policies, Secrets and Compliance with Splunk

2:50 - 3:10 pm
Networking Break

Enjoy some snacks in our exhibit area. Visit our sponsors to learn how their solutions can help you overcome your latest challenges.

3:10 - 3:35 pm
The Demand for Skilled Talent: Building Future-Ready Teams Through Engagement and Retention

What are the latest hiring trends and challenges IT leaders face in their pursuit of top talent. Based on the insights from Robert Half’s Demand for Skilled Talent report, you’ll learn how to navigate today’s challenging hiring market — including data from proprietary manager and worker surveys — to help you understand how to build and keep the teams you need to keep business moving forward. You’ll learn ways to help avoid hiring pitfalls, keep your teams engaged and retain top talent. Plus, get insights on projects and staffing strategies companies are prioritizing now.

View slides here.

Speaker
Thomas Vick Regional Director Robert Half
3:35 - 3:55 pm
Together Into Tomorrow: Capitalizing on the AI Revolution

The race to harness AI is on, and it presents a unique opportunity for our valued partners. Learn how Splunk, supercharged by Cisco, is accelerating momentum to deliver unparalleled visibility and insights across the entire digital footprint and help organizations capitalize on the AI revolution.

Speaker
Johnathon Cervelli Field CTO Splunk
3:55 - 4:20 pm
GenAI and Trust: How Companies Are Thinking About the Trustworthiness of AI and GenAI Tools

In this session, we’ll unpack the components necessary for trustworthy AI and GenAI according to worldwide research and learn how to navigate ethical considerations, mitigate potential biases, and build trust with stakeholders including customers, clients, and colleagues through effective governance.

View slides here.

Speaker
Grace Trinidad Research Director, Future of Trust IDC
4:30 - 5:15 pm
Networking Reception

Wrap up the day with refreshments while making some final connections to complete your event experience.