This session explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming government operations, with a focus on practical use cases, ethical and privacy considerations, and strategies for successful implementation. The presentation highlights real-world examples from state and local government, including automation in financial processes, the use of large language models for employee and citizen engagement, and the importance of transparency and data security. Attendees will gain a foundational understanding of AI, learn about its current applications in government, and discover best practices for responsible adoption.

KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Understand the fundamentals of AI: Learn what artificial intelligence is, including its core components like machine learning, deep learning, and statistics.
• Explore practical government use cases: See how AI is being used for tasks such as invoice processing, fraud detection, employee support, citizen interaction, and more.
• Discuss ethical, privacy, and regulatory considerations: Examine strategies for bias mitigation, transparency, data privacy, and compliance with laws and frameworks

CPE 1

Presenters: Mitch Thompson and Sam Hellwege

Presenter: Mitch Thompson (Bio Attached)

Presenter: Sam Hellwege

Sam is a principal at CLA specializing in the state and local government industry. He has been working in auditing and accounting for 13 years with almost all of his experience being with governmental clients. He is a graduate of Drake University and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Sam presents on governmental accounting and GASB topics, including both fundamentals of governmental accounting and advanced issues. Outside of accounting, Sam spends his time outdoors as an avid golfer and hiker.