7 reasons to attend the 2024 AWS IMAGINE conference for education, state, and local leaders

Leaders in education and state and local government know that technology is changing at a rapid pace. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies present more opportunities for institutions and agencies to make data-driven decisions, accelerate research, create personalized and convenient student and citizen services, automate processes, and more.

But how can you turn these opportunities into reality?

That’s the central theme of this year’s AWS IMAGINE conference for education, state, and local leaders presented by Amazon Web Services (AWS).

From July 23-24 in Austin, Texas, join more than 500 leaders across education and state and local government to learn how advancements in cloud technology are shaping the future of education and public services. There is no cost to attend; register now to secure your spot.

Read on for seven more reasons to attend—plus one special perk for Texan attendees.

1. Learn the latest strategies and innovations in education and public service

The AWS IMAGINE conference features 25-plus breakout sessions from some of the nation’s top thought leaders to inspire your own technology roadmap. Sessions will focus on how institutions and agencies can do more with less, including digitally transforming with generative AI, and learning about ready-to-use solutions and other mission-driven technology from AWS and AWS Partners.

Learn directly from representatives of the Texas Education Exchange, Austin Independent School District, and University of East London who used the cloud to modernize their legacy systems and processes. Hear the Texas Workforce Commission discuss the critical importance of integrating AI competencies into existing programs and from industry employers on AI skill development. Discover how the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is exploring AI and machine learning (ML) technologies to enhance operational efficiency, improve response times, safeguard frontline personnel, and more.

Other breakout sessions will feature:

• Best practices for developing generative AI applications in public sector organizations, with special focus on fairness, transparency, and accountability in real-world examples;
• State department chief information officers (CIOs) discussing how they accelerate data maturity, modernization, analytics, and responsible AI adoption on AWS;
• How educators, administrators, and other leaders in the education space are driving transformation for teacher and student mental health;
• Evaluating generative AI readiness in essential areas like data, security, and leadership so you can walk away with actionable frameworks to assess your institution’s maturity and journey;

2. Get inspired by top thought leaders and proven solutions

In the keynote address, Kim Majerus, vice president of global education and US state and local government for worldwide public sector at AWS, will discuss how generative AI can make organizations across all industries and around the world more efficient, responsive, and effective in achieving their missions.

Majerus will be joined by Amanda Crawford, the executive director of Texas Department of Information Resources (TXDIR) and the chief information officer (CIO) for the State of Texas; and Heather Lyke, the director of athletics at the University of Pittsburgh. Together, these leaders will discuss not only the innovative spirit at the heart of their work, but also how technology, paired with human ingenuity, can change the world.

3. Earn continuing education credits for Texan IRMs

Texans, take note—TXDIR has approved AWS IMAGINE breakout sessions to qualify for Information Resource Manager (IRM) continuing professional education (CPE) credits. Texas state agencies are required to have an IRM who is responsible for making sure information resources are acquired appropriately and managed effectively in compliance with regulations and agency policies. The AWS IMAGINE conference is a no-cost way for Texas state leaders to earn CPE hours and gain valuable technology insights to support their teams and constituents.

4. Network with leaders and peers

The AWS IMAGINE conference will bring together more than 500 business and information technology (IT) leaders from renowned organizations across the country. At the Expo and throughout the conference, attendees can meet like-minded professionals and form valuable connections to improve student and citizen experiences.

Attendees can also attend a workshop on generative AI or data modernization with other leaders seeking to solve the same problems (these activities require separate registration but are highly sought after).

5. Connect directly with AWS experts

Do you have a specific question for an AWS Cloud expert? The AWS IMAGINE conference is the place to ask: AWS teams that specifically serve education and state and local government customers will be on-site to discuss your needs and how the cloud can support your organization. Plus, opportunities abound to engage with AWS Partners that can design and develop ready-to-use solutions to help your team and organization meet goals faster. Some partners you’ll find in the Expo include Pearson, Zscaler, Pluralsight, and Udemy to name a few.

6. Skill your workforce with AWS Training initiatives

If you’re curious about how to grow your cloud skills, or bring cloud training and solutions to your teams, the AWS IMAGINE conference for education, state, and local leaders can help. Representatives from AWS Training & Certification, AWS Educate, and AWS Academy will be on-site to help provide more information for how best to support your schools, teams, and communities with the cloud training they need to succeed.

7. Explore one of the most vibrant cities in the US

Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” but that’s just the beginning. Home to unique attractions and world-class museums, the capital of Texas has a unique vibe that’s all its own. Spend a day exploring sculpture gardens and historic homes, zipline through the Hill Country, or get a hands-on experience at a number of STEM museums. Make a bucket list of activities to enjoy with your team, new connections from the conference, or on your own. 

Register for AWS IMAGINE now

Feeling excited? There is no cost to attend the AWS IMAGINE conference for education, state, and local leaders, but space is limited—register today to secure your spot.