VITA organise la 13e conférence annuelle Commonwealth of Virginia sur la sécurité de l’information
More than 250 cybersecurity leaders, state agency staff and policymakers from across Virginia recently gathered for the 2026 Commonwealth of Virginia Information Security Conference. In its 13th year, the conference focused on how fast changing technology shapes the tools and services people depend on across the Commonwealth.
This year's theme, "The Quantum Mirror: Reflecting on Security in a Multiverse," encouraged participants to explore where cybersecurity stands today and how decisions made now can shape the future. VITA's Acting Chief Information Security Officer Trey Stevens opened the conference by noting that new technologies like artificial intelligence and advanced computing are arriving quickly, and agencies need to be ready for both their benefits and their risks.
After remarks from Virginia Secretary of Administration Traci Deshazor and Virginia Chief Information Officer Mike Watson, conference attendees heard from two keynote speakers. In the morning, Dr. David A. Bray spoke about moving beyond routine checklists and focusing on meaningful, practical steps to reduce risk. After lunch, Karl Cureton discussed how emerging technologies are changing the way organizations need to think about security, emphasizing that protecting decision-making processes is becoming just as important as protecting networks and data.
Breakout sessions throughout the day explored real, everyday challenges Virginians face, including phone-based scams, keeping systems secure as technology evolves, preparing for future computers that may change how information is protected, safely using AI tools and improving access controls across state government. Presenters highlighted that strong leadership, clear communication and thoughtful planning are key to maintaining trust and protecting services Virginians rely on. There were participatory activities, too, including a hands-on lock-picking challenge.
Stevens closed the event by thanking speakers, staff, partners and attendees for their continued commitment to building a safer digital future for the Commonwealth.