Colin Ahern was appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul in June 2022 as New York’s first Chief Cyber Officer. In this role he led the development of the state’s first ever cybersecurity strategy and leads cross-agency efforts to protect New York State from cyber threats. Prior to joining state service, Colin served as First Deputy Director of New York City Cyber Command and Acting Chief Information Security Officer of New York City. Colin worked in cybersecurity in financial services before joining the New York City government.

Colin began his career as an Army officer where he deployed twice to Afghanistan and commanded a cyberspace operations company. His academic and professional writing has been widely published, including by the Association for Computing Machinery and the Washington Post. Colin received a bachelor's degree from Tulane University and a Master of Business Administration from the New York University Stern School of Business.

This panel explores how leaders across the public and private sectors are harnessing emerging technologies, including AI and digital innovation, to transform infrastructure, service delivery, and economic growth. Panelists will discuss real-world applications across multiple industries, highlighting impacts on productivity, access, workforce development, and inclusive growth, as well as opportunities for collaboration and scalable innovation.

This panel examines strategies to protect and strengthen New York’s cyber and physical infrastructure in the face of evolving threats and growing demands. Panelists will discuss policy frameworks, risk management, and public-private coordination, as well as investments in secure infrastructure, cybersecurity, and resilient critical systems. The session will emphasize innovation-driven solutions, workforce training in cybersecurity, and measurable outcomes, including continuity of essential services, cost efficiencies, and scalable approaches for both urban and underserved communities.

This panel explores how digital technologies can improve the daily lives of New Yorkers, with a focus on equitable access, affordability, and digital inclusion. Panelists will discuss efforts to expand broadband, build digital literacy, and improve access to education, healthcare, and government services, as well as how technology can strengthen civic engagement and protect digital rights. Workforce discussions will highlight community-based pathways, apprenticeships, and inclusive training programs that create technology opportunities for historically underserved communities and deliver measurable quality-of-life outcomes.

This panel explores system-level solutions, partnerships, and investment strategies to expand New York’s digital infrastructure. Panelists will discuss scaling broadband and connectivity, co-innovation, and building resilient, energy-efficient networks with a strong focus on cybersecurity, data privacy, and critical infrastructure protection. The conversation will highlight cyber risk management, threat intelligence sharing, secure cloud and 5G deployment, and public-private collaboration to close access gaps while ensuring expanded connectivity is secure, trusted, and aligned with state and city priorities.