Navigating the AI Readiness Gap: 2026 Talent Strategies

Continued advances in AI will bring new challenges in 2026 to Data & Analytics leaders looking to build their team. A shift is occurring in how AI talent is sourced, what skills need to be developed, what AI roles become more specialized and strategic, and who (or what) is able to do entry-level work. The demand for complex problem solving and emotional intelligence in AI teams increases the importance of having a talent strategy.

Join us for a panel discussion on the talent reality of 2026. Panelists include:
Jacey Heuer, Senior Head of AI, Data Science & Advanced Analytics at Pella Corporation
Kelly Jackson, AVP Analytics at Principal Financial Group
Ryan Ford, VP of HR at Berkley Technology Services
Jack Phillips, CEO and Co-Founder of International Institute for Analytics
Francesca Johnson, Data Engineering Manager at Wellabe

Agenda:
8:30 - 8:45 Networking
8:45 - 9:45 Panel Discussion & Open Q&A
9:45 - 10:15 Round Table Discussion
10:15 - 10:30 Networking