The 2024 County Technology Conference, held from May 21-24 in Georgetown, Texas, focused on the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological advancements on county operations. The event featured a keynote address by technology futurist Crystal Washington, who sparked significant interest in AI among attendees.
Over 220 participants attended the conference either in person or virtually. Liberty County IT Director Nick Dennis remarked on the extensive information shared about AI's rapid deployment and its implications for county operations. "I learned much about how rapidly it's deploying, how it's going to affect counties and day-to-day operations, how to manage and protect our counties and users, and how we can utilize it to improve what we're already doing," Dennis stated.
Presenters at the conference demonstrated various AI tools currently being used by counties for tasks such as grant writing, budgeting, and email management. Cybersecurity was another critical topic addressed during the sessions. Schleicher County Treasurer Jennifer Henderson noted the importance of these discussions: “They always have the sessions that scare you a little bit,” she said. “You have to go back and see, are you doing good cyber hygiene? Have I changed my passwords? Am I using MFA (multifactor authentication)? Those are always good and timely reminders.”
Web accessibility also garnered attention due to new rules issued by the Department of Justice in April regarding web-based government services under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Chaquinta Fisher, IT support manager and web accessibility coordinator for McLennan County, emphasized inclusivity: “I'm a huge proponent of accessibility because everyone needs to be included to access information,” she said.
Attendees expressed their anticipation for next year's conference while reflecting on this year's benefits. Larry Gatlin, Wheeler County IT administrator, appreciated both the educational sessions and peer interactions: “It's great to connect with people who face the same challenges that I do every day,” he said.
Kerr County Treasurer Tracy Soldan highlighted the conference's significance for all county government personnel: “Everyone working in county government – from IT professionals to elected officials and key support staff – should attend this conference either in person or online," she advised. "Technology changes quickly, and it is important to stay informed.”
