Georgia’s 2026 Tech Philosophy: ‘AI Governance Is Security’
As technology increasingly influences governmental operations, the state of Georgia is intensifying its focus on the underlying frameworks that support it. The discourse surrounding AI, modernization, data management, and workforce readiness consistently underscores the critical importance of security.
Security as the Throughline
In a recent interview, Georgia’s Chief Information Officer (CIO) highlighted that almost every significant technology decision revolves around a pivotal question: Is it secure enough to scale? This principle applies across various initiatives, from AI pilots to workforce development and citizen-facing services. What the CIO refers to as “cyber discipline” has become foundational for the state’s technological roadmap in 2026.
While cybersecurity has been a priority for the National Association of State Chief Information Officers for a decade, it has recently been joined at the forefront by AI. Despite AI’s ascent in prominence, the CIO maintains that security remains deeply intertwined with Georgia’s technological advancements. She emphasizes, “AI is No. 1, but you still have AI governance in that, which is security as well.”
Innovation with Guardrails
The Innovation Lab, launched in July at the Georgia Technology Authority’s Atlanta headquarters, serves as a “low-risk environment” for state agencies and local governments to explore emerging technologies, particularly AI. However, this experimentation is governed by stringent security protocols. “In the Lab, we only focus on synthetic data — not production data,” the CIO clarified, ensuring that agencies can test tools without exposing sensitive information.
Furthermore, data minimization has emerged as a guiding principle, encouraging agencies to assess their requirements critically. The CIO insists on focusing solely on the data necessary for specific use cases. For agencies managing sensitive information, such as those in health or human services, the state emphasizes consent and transparency, ensuring residents are informed when their data is utilized in AI initiatives.
Measuring Success by Outcomes, Not Tools
While cybersecurity and AI are often at the forefront of discussions, Georgia’s 2026 priorities are less about specific tools and more about the outcomes they yield. The CIO asserts that improving outcomes for employees directly enhances the experience for residents, shaping how technology investments are evaluated. “When the governor gives us appropriations, we’re not funding technology; we’re funding the outcomes,” she said.
Cyber Resilience Through People
Georgia’s shift towards cyber resilience emphasizes the role of people alongside technological platforms. Large-scale exercises, such as Cyber Dawg, simulate cyber attack scenarios, allowing state agencies to evaluate their defenses and coordination capabilities. Plans are in place to increase the frequency of these simulations beyond the current annual schedule.
Moreover, the state is focusing on workforce development, prioritizing upskilling and reskilling as AI becomes more integrated into daily operations. The CIO stresses, “AI is not just clicking a button. AI is a true mindset — a mindset shift.” Training initiatives are underway to ensure employees can effectively manage AI systems.
Trust as a Deliverable
The combination of cybersecurity, data protection, AI governance, and workforce readiness ultimately aims to enhance citizen trust. “Citizens entrust us with their data. They entrust us with the services,” the CIO notes, highlighting the need for transparency and explainability as technology evolves. “With AI, it’s got to be transparent. It’s got to be explainable.”
As Georgia navigates its legislative session and progresses into 2026, the CIO anticipates a tighter focus on achieving fewer goals more effectively. This approach prioritizes driving real outcomes, enhancing cyber resilience, and continuing to earn public trust.
