Why Attend?

The Summit is more than just a conference. It’s where the region’s technology leaders come together to shape the future of AI-driven enterprises.

What Will You Gain?

Learn from the Best

Hear directly from IDC analysts, global experts, and pioneering CIOs on how to scale AI, GenAI, and agentic systems across industries.

Discover Real-World Use Cases

Gain insights into how leading organizations are implementing AI-driven automation to improve agility, resilience, and customer value.

Future-Proof Your Strategy

Understand the long-term business implications of agentic systems, ensuring your organization thrives in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Master AI Security & Trust

Explore strategies to tackle data privacy, AI observability, model integrity, and digital trust challenges.

Cloud as the AI Foundation

Discover how cloud platforms, edge computing, and 5G enable scalable, secure, and sovereign AI deployments

Key Themes

Regulation for Value Creation, Not Just Compliance

Frame Canada’s forthcoming Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) and related provincial privacy frameworks (such as Quebec’s Law 25) as catalysts for responsible innovation. Rather than viewing regulation as a limitation, position it as a design opportunity to build trusted, transparent, and auditable AI systems through principles like risk-by-design, data lineage, and model governance.

Data Sovereignty and Operating Models

Address Canada’s growing focus on data residency, digital sovereignty, and cross-border data flows, particularly with U.S. and global partners. Emphasize the role of sovereign and hybrid cloud strategies in mitigating extra-territorial data access risks while enabling collaboration and compliance.

From Pilot to Production

A limited share of AI proofs of concept move into production in Canada, mirroring global trends. Leaders need clear roadmaps that include MLOps frameworks, performance controls, and business outcome tracking to ensure AI projects evolve from experimentation to scalable, enterprise-wide adoption.

Data Foundations First

Many Canadian organizations still face fragmentation and silos across their data ecosystems. Strengthening data integration, governance, and observability (as well as modernizing platforms for flexibility and scalability) remains essential for building a foundation that can fully support AI and analytics maturity.

Event Highlights & Key Topics

Data Value Reinvention in the Age of AI

Organizations are shifting from thinking about “using AI” to “leveraging data for AI value,” integrating data maturity practices like cataloging, lineage, and observability to fuel model performance and business impact.

Scaling AI: From Pilot to Enterprise Deployment

Moving beyond experimentation, leaders create robust MLOps pipelines, governance frameworks, and change strategies to embed AI into core operations at scale with sustainability and reliability.

Trust, Transparency and Responsible AI

Embedding fairness, bias mitigation, auditability, and explainability across the AI lifecycle helps build user confidence, regulatory alignment, and long-term trust in intelligent systems.

Data Sovereignty, Governance and Interoperabilit

Balancing data residency, regulatory constraints, and cross-border flow requires hybrid cloud strategies, shared governance models, and interoperable architectures that meet business needs.

Generative and Agentic AI: The Next Frontier

As generative and agentic models go beyond assistance, leaders focus on guardrails, cost/risk trade-offs, hybrid model design, and alignment with existing AI systems.

Infrastructure Evolution: Edge, Cloud and AI Platforms

Deploying AI at scale depends on modern, flexible infrastructure spanning edge and cloud, optimized for latency, throughput, cost, sovereignty, and workload distribution.

Business Value and ROI from AI & Data

Translating AI and data experiments into measurable business outcomes demands clear KPI frameworks, strong business cases, and scalable use cases tied to financial value.

People, Culture and AI Readiness

Success requires preparing teams with AI literacy, reskilling, cross-functional collaboration, and leadership that navigates resistance and embeds data-driven habits into daily workflows.

Ecosystems, Partnerships and Innovation Models

Advancing AI and data at scale entails co-innovation via startup alliances, consortia, vendor collaborations, open data spaces, and shared platforms that accelerate adoption.

Future Regulation and Strategic Foresight

Anticipating evolving global AI regulations, embedding compliance early, and running scenario planning for regulatory shifts helps organizations stay ahead in a dynamic policy landscape.

Join Us!

Don’t miss the AI & Data Summit 2026 San Francisco—Building Intelligence that Creates Real Value.

Agenda

Thursday, June 4, 2026

All times are listed in Pacific Standard Time.

One Day Event

8:30 am

Registration and Networking Breakfast

Informal networking and welcome, setting the tone for a strategic day.

9:00 am

IDC Greetings and Welcome

Summit Chair introduces the event’s strategic themes and objectives.

Keynote

One Day Event

9:15 am

IDC Keynote: Agentic AI at Scale: Accelerating Innovation While Managing Risk

How organizations are deploying agentic AI to drive rapid innovation, while navigating complex regulator requirements around data privacy, security, and ethical AI

Philip Carter | IDC

Group Vice President, Worldwide Thought Leadership Research

Read Bio

10:00 am

Sponsor Keynote #1: Driving Business Value with AI & Data

Measuring ROI, accelerating innovation, and aligning data initiatives with business outcomes

10:45 am

Morning Coffee Break

Time off to think, network and share insights.

11:15 am

Panel Discussion: Data as as strategic Asset

Discuss balancing governance, compliance, innovation and business value

12:00 pm

End-User Case Study #1

Scaling AI in Financial Services – From Pilot to Production.

12:30 pm

Networking Lunch

1:30 pm

Sponsor Keynote #2: Future-Proofing Data Architectures for AI

Sponsor explores hybrid cloud, data pipelines, and sovereignty.

2:15 pm

End-User Case Study #2

AI for Healthcare Innovation: Delivering Patient Outcomes with Trust and Compliance.

3:15 pm

Fireside Chat: The Human Side of AI and Data

Discuss on skills, culture, and change.

Join Us!

Don’t miss the AI & Data Summit 2026 San Francisco—Building Intelligence that Creates Real Value.

Winners 2025

CIO Awards Canada – Winning Projects 2025

2025 CIO Awards Canada Winners

Acres Enterprises Ltd.
ALDO Group
Alpha Auto Group
ATB Financial
BCI
Bell Canada
BGC Engineering and Cambio Earth
Bombardier
Bruce Power
CAA Club Group of Companies
Canada Life
Canadian Tire Corporation
Carmens Group
CIMtech Green Energy
City of North Bay
City of Richmond
Electrical Safety Authority
EQ BANK
FIT FOODS LTD
Germain Hôtels
IBM
Infrastructure Ontario
Investment Management Corporation of Ontario
Island Health
Lexis Nexis
Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment
McCain Foods
Metalab
MIRLIN TECHNOLOGIES
Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP)
OpenText
PHSS Support Services
QDoc Inc.
RapidCents Inc
Rogers Bank
Samsung Electronics Canada
Sparrow BioAcoustics
Sun Life
TD Bank Group
TechBlocks Inc.
The Regional Municipality of Durham
The Regional Municipality of Peel
Toronto District School Board
Toronto Hydro
TransForm Shared Service Organization

Visit the 2025 press release here

Join Us

Don’t miss the CIO Summit & Awards Canada 2025—where innovation meets recognition.

IDC & IBM Accelerate Toronto 2025

Unlock Innovation with Trusted AI and Hybrid Cloud

Why Attend

Discover how to move from AI promise to enterprise reality with trusted insights, proven strategies, and powerful peer connections.

First-hand perspectives from IDC and IBM thought leaders on hybrid cloud and AI.

Real-world case studies on scaling AI securely and efficiently.

Actionable strategies for balancing innovation, compliance, and ROI.

Opportunities to connect with fellow IT executives and decision-makers.

An exclusive networking experience at the Hockey Hall of Fame, including access to interactive exhibits and the Stanley Cup.

Agenda

Thursday, October 16, 2025

One Day Event

12:30 pm

Check-in & Networking Lunch

2:10 pm

Inside the Innovation Journey of Trusted AI and Hybrid Cloud by Design

Today, companies are facing an inflection point in their business strategy, shifting from a traditional focus on cost reduction to generating new value through innovation using AI and other technologies. Leading companies are striking a balance between performance and innovation, adopting the latest hybrid cloud platforms, and leveraging data and AI to extract enhanced user experiences. Learn how digital infrastructures must evolve to remain competitive, resilient, and prepared for what’s next.

Zane Adam

VP IBM Cloud, Infrastructure, IBM

2:35 pm

Intel Gaudi 3 & IBM: Revolutionizing Enterprise AI

Join us for an enlightening discussion on Intel’s groundbreaking Gaudi 3 AI accelerator and its seamless integration with IBM’s services. Gaudi 3, not just a GPU, is a purpose-built AI accelerator, offering superior performance and scalability for generative AI workloads. Collaborating with IBM, Intel provides an open-development solution on IBM Cloud, balancing innovation with cost-efficiency. Real-world use cases, including Intel’s own chatbot and one for the Paris Olympics, highlight Gaudi 3’s transformative potential. This partnership ensures secure, compliant, and efficient AI scalability for enterprises, shaping the future of corporate AI.

Speaker

Zane Adam

VP IBM Cloud, Infrastructure, IBM

Speaker

Asma Aziz

Canada General Manager, Intel Corporation

2:55 pm

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

The rise of generative AI is opening up new opportunities for businesses – but only if cloud infrastructure can keep pace. In this session, we’ll explore how hybrid cloud architectures can provide a robust, scalable foundation for deploying AI models. With a focus on security, compliance, and performance, we’ll discuss designing robust infrastructures that enable businesses to drive innovation and maintain and, where possible, build a competitive advantage in an increasingly complex technological landscape. Listen how successful companies have built a solid infrastructure foundation to successfully implement AI projects, adding value to their business and their clients at the same time

Speaker

Asma Aziz

Canada General Manager, Intel Corporation

Speaker

Shomron Jacob

Head of AI & Platform, Iterate

Speaker

E.G. Nadhan

Chief Architect, Field CTO Organization, Red Hat

Speaker

Zane Adam

VP IBM Cloud, Infrastructure, IBM

3:15 pm

Afternoon Break & Stanley Cup Photos

3:45 pm

Hot Topic Discussion Tables

Join a discussion topic that best meets your needs.

Agentic AI Adoption in the Enterprise
Securing AI and Cloud
Strategies for Building a Future-Ready Enterprise
Proving AI ROI

Speaker

Manav Gupta

VP Technical Sales & CTO, IBM Canada

Speaker

David Kliemann

Head of Cloud Risk, IBM Cloud

Speaker

Thiru Venkatachalam

VP & Senior Partner, IBM Hybrid Cloud Consulting

Speaker

E.G. Nadhan

Chief Architect, Field CTO Organization, Red Hat

4:30 pm

The Hybrid Cloud Model: Navigating Innovation, Security, and Risk Management for a competitive edge

Adopting a hybrid cloud operating model is no longer just one of several options, but a necessity. In this session, we would like to discuss with you how companies can establish a secure and compliant cloud architecture that accelerates their growth and ability to innovate. Learn how a hybrid cloud approach can help companies manage complexity, respond more quickly to market demands and comply with industry-specific regulations, while minimizing risks in an increasingly digital world. Listen how successful companies have leveraged cloud technology to drive innovation, increased efficiency, and create competitive advantages in their respective industries, such as recent e-health platform solutions use cases.

Speaker

Greg Clawson

Vice President North America Sales, Utimaco

Speaker

Douglas Carter

Senior Vice President of Technology Operations, CIBC

4:50 pm

AI at the Crossroads: C-Suite Priorities, Tech Modernization and Value

As AI adoption evolves from GenAI to agentic systems, C-suite leaders are recalibrating strategies to unlock business value while navigating risks. This session draws on IDC’s latest research to examine the current state of AI maturity, highlight emerging use cases, key predictions, and the business benefits fueling enterprise adoption. Learn which strategic decisions will shape the next wave of AI deployment and drive meaningful outcomes.

Tony Olvet

Group Vice President, Worldwide C-Suite and Digital Business Research, IDC

5:15 pm

Networking Reception

Enjoy the exhibit along with cocktails and canapés at the Concourse Level.

6:00 pm

Event Concludes

Subject Matter Experts

Tony Olvet

Group Vice President, Worldwide C-Suite and Digital Business Research

IDC

Read Bio

Zane Adam

VP IBM Cloud, Infrastructure

IBM

Read Bio

Michael Hainsworth

Contributing Editor

IDC + CIO

Read Bio

Shomron Jacob

Head of AI & Platform

Iterate

Read Bio

Manav Gupta

VP Technical Sales & CTO

IBM Canada

Read Bio

David Kliemann

Head of Cloud Risk

IBM Cloud

Read Bio

Thiru Venkatachalam

VP & Senior Partner

IBM Hybrid Cloud Consulting

Read Bio

Greg Clawson

Vice President North America Sales

Utimaco

Read Bio

E.G. Nadhan

Chief Architect, Field CTO Organization

Red Hat

Read Bio

Douglas Carter

Senior Vice President of Technology Operations

CIBC

Read Bio

Asma Aziz

Canada General Manager

Intel Corporation

Read Bio

Tony Olvet

Group Vice President, Worldwide C-Suite and Digital Business Research

IDC

Tony Olvet is Group Vice President, Worldwide C-suite and Digital Business Research at IDC. His team’s global research focuses on the connection between business transformation and digital investments across enterprises. Tony’s analysis and insights help vendors, IT professionals, and business executives make fact-based decisions on technology strategy and digital business.

Tony has worked with clients across a variety of organizations including global IT manufacturers, enterprise software vendors, telecom service providers, financial institutions and public sector organizations. He has been quoted in major business and industry media including CIO Magazine, The Globe and Mail, CBC and The Financial Post.

He is also a frequent public speaker delivering keynote presentations at conferences, IDC webinars, and virtual events for clients. Tony is member of IDC Canada’s senior leadership team and is based in Toronto, Canada.

Event Sessions

Thursday, October 16 2025 4:50 pm | Location:

AI at the Crossroads: C-Suite Priorities, Tech Modernization and Value

Zane Adam

VP IBM Cloud, Infrastructure

IBM

Zane champions product management and partner ecosystem offerings for all IBM Cloud solutions, with a focus on core IaaS offerings and workloads, including SAP, VMware, HPC, and IBM Power for regulated markets. He holds over 25 years of product management and business development experience inside the cloud arena across IBM Cloud, HPE, and Microsoft.

Event Sessions

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:10 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Inside the Innovation Journey of Trusted AI and Hybrid Cloud by Design

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:35 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Intel Gaudi 3 & IBM: Revolutionizing Enterprise AI

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:55 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Shomron Jacob

Head of AI & Platform

Iterate

Shomron Jacob is the Head of AI & Platform at Iterate, where he has lead the development and deployment of enterprise-scale autonomous AI systems. With over 10 years of experience in AI, Shomron comes with hands-on ML engineering to executive leadership, driving innovation in generative AI implementation across Fortune 500 clients.

Currently spearheading Iterate’s autonomous AI platform strategy, Shomron specializes in architecting hybrid cloud solutions that balance performance, compliance, and scalability for enterprise deployments. His recent work includes optimizing large language model deployments for financial services and healthcare sectors, implementing production-grade OCR systems for insurance claims processing, and developing agent orchestration frameworks that leverage both on-premise and cloud infrastructure.

A regular speaker at industry events including MLOps World GenAI Summit, Shomron brings practical insights from deploying cutting-edge AI models in regulated environments.

Event Sessions

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:55 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Greg Clawson

Vice President North America Sales

Utimaco

Greg Clawson is a technology executive with deep expertise in cybersecurity, post-quantum encryption, IoT, AI, and enterprise IT systems deployed in public and private data centers. He has led global teams of more than 100 engineers and IT professionals, delivering secure ERP logistics and supply-chain platforms with industry-leading performance and customer satisfaction. At Utimaco, Greg has advanced the adoption of encryption platforms by major global banks, technology firms, and government agencies on premise and in the cloud especially as it relates to payment processing and general purpose data security.

Event Sessions

Thursday, October 16 2025 4:30 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

The Hybrid Cloud Model: Navigating Innovation, Security, and Risk Management for a competitive edge

E.G. Nadhan

Chief Architect, Field CTO Organization

Red Hat

E.G.Nadhan (goes by Nadhan) is a Chief Architect in the Field CTO Organization at Red Hat, bringing 25+ years of experience in open enterprise transformation. He specializes in strategic thought leadership around business outcomes that makes a strong case for open platforms of innovation using solutions of today that incorporate technologies of tomorrow. Nadhan is an IBM Quantum Senior Ambassador and is the regional lead for Quantum Ambassadors in the Central Region, North America

Event Sessions

Thursday, October 16 2025 3:45 pm | Location: Tim Hortons Room

Hot Topic Discussion Tables

Join a discussion topic that best meets your needs.

Agentic AI Adoption in the Enterprise
Securing AI and Cloud
Strategies for Building a Future-Ready Enterprise
Proving AI ROI

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:55 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Asma Aziz

Canada General Manager

Intel Corporation

Asma Aziz is a seasoned technology executive with over 20 years of global experience, having lived and worked in six countries across North America, Europe, and Asia. She currently serves as the General Manager of Intel Canada, where she leads the company’s strategic initiatives, business growth, and engagement with key stakeholders across the country.

Asma has spent 19 years at Intel Corporation, shaping the end-to-end IT ecosystem across semiconductors, software, and hardware. She has extensive experience in Marketing, with a proven track record of penetrating untapped markets and identifying new growth opportunities. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving impactful campaigns, strengthening strategic partnerships, and leading projects that deliver tangible bottom-line results.

Event Sessions

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:35 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Intel Gaudi 3 & IBM: Revolutionizing Enterprise AI

Thursday, October 16 2025 2:55 pm | Location: TSN Theatre

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Venue

Address: Hockey Hall of Fame
Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street,
Toronto, Ontario M5E 1X8

The Hockey Hall of Fame is located in the heart of downtown Toronto at the corner of Yonge & Front Streets in Brookfield Place (lower concourse level), a short walk from many Toronto attractions, including:

Scotiabank Arena
CN Tower
Rogers Centre
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Eaton Centre

show on map Plan your trip

Join IDC and IBM at the iconic Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto for an exclusive afternoon of insights, networking, and innovation. Discover how trusted AI and hybrid cloud are transforming enterprises, hear real-world success stories, and connect with peers who are leading the way. Cap off the day with a cocktail reception and exclusive access HHOF concourse exhibits and games.

Registration is open

Don't hesitate, space is limited!

Why Attend?

Discover real-world strategies from CIOs who are transforming organizations through digital innovation, resilience, and data-driven leadership.

Celebrate Canada’s most innovative IT leaders and organizations.
Gain exclusive insights on AI, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and cloud modernization.
Network with CIOs, CTOs, IT strategists, and business leaders from top industries including banking, manufacturing, energy, government, and more.
Be inspired by real-world success stories driving measurable business value.

View agenda

What Will You Gain?

Attending this event offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of the solutions and trends that are transforming public administration. During the event:

Learn how Canada’s top CIOs and IT leaders are applying AI, cloud, and cybersecurity strategies to modernize operations and build resilience.

Gain actionable insights on aligning IT with business priorities to drive growth, efficiency, and measurable outcomes across your organization.

Hear real-world success stories from peers leading digital transformation and uncover lessons you can apply to your own strategic initiatives.

Expand your professional network by connecting with CIOs, CTOs, and innovation leaders shaping the future of Canada’s public and private sectors.

Join Us

Don’t miss the CIO Summit & Awards Canada 2025—where innovation meets recognition.

CIO Summit & Awards Canada 2025

Celebrating Innovation. Honouring Excellence. Inspiring Leadership.

The CIO Summit & Awards Canada 2025 brings together Canada’s top IT leaders and innovators for a day of strategic insights, networking, and celebration. Join us on November 13, 2025, at The Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto as we recognize the 2025 CIO Awards Canada winners—organizations and teams that are leveraging technology to transform business, deliver measurable impact, and shape Canada’s digital future.

About the CIO Awards Canada

The CIO Awards Canada celebrate Canadian organizations and their IT teams that are using technology in bold, innovative ways to drive growth, resilience, and customer success.

Award winners are recognized for excellence in two key areas:

IT Innovation – Redefining how business is done through cutting-edge technology.
Business Value Delivery – Achieving measurable impact and real-world results.

Winning a CIO Award is more than an honour—it’s a mark of enterprise excellence and a recognition that the entire team can take pride in.

2025 CIO Awards Canada Winners

This year, we proudly honour Canada’s most innovative technology-driven organizations, including:

List of winners View the 2025 press release here

Event Highlights & Key Topics

At the CIO Summit Canada 2025, you’ll gain insights and strategies to future-proof your leadership in a fast-changing digital landscape:

Strategic Leadership in the AI Era

Driving growth and innovation with digital-first strategies.

Innovation with Business Impact

Balancing emerging technologies with measurable business goals.

Cloud, Data & Cybersecurity

Building modern, resilient IT infrastructures.

Smart Resource Management

Rethinking IT investments and vendor strategies.

Real-World Insights

Lessons from CIOs and IT leaders driving transformation across industries.

This event isn’t just for CIOs—it’s for all IT leaders, rising executives, and innovators shaping the future of technology in Canada.

Expert perspectives

Hear directly from industry experts as they share their perspectives on the technologies and strategies redefining the future. Gain valuable knowledge and practical takeaways to help you navigate tomorrow’s business landscape.

Keynote

10:10 am

IDC Keynote: Completing The Agentic Journey

A critical next step as enterprises transition from the AI pivot to AI alignment with the business is the enablement of functions with agentic AI across the organization. Rick Villars, IDC’s GVP, Worldwide Research will provide IDC’s latest views on how Agentic AI will influence enterprises’ IT spending plans in the next several years. He will also provide guidance on three critical developments that will make or break the agentic transition.

Rick Villars | IDC

Group Vice President, World Wide Research

Read Bio View Slides

#AI & Data Management #CIO

#AI & Data Management #CIO

VIEW FULL AGENDA View all speakers

Partners

View all partners

CIO Awards Canada promo video

Venue

Address: 1 Harbour Square, Toronto, ON M5J 1A6

Nestled in the harbour with seamless downtown access, The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto offers you a serene city escape in the centre of it all.

The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto

Parking at The Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto offers both self-parking and valet parking options for $60 per day. Please note that The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto does not have electric vehicle charging stations. Additionally, off-site self-parking is available for various costs. There are several alternative public parking garages and lots within walking distance if you prefer to use those. For locations and pricing visit SpotHero or BestParking for more information.

show on map

Join Us

Don’t miss the CIO Summit & Awards Canada 2025—where innovation meets recognition.

FutureIT Calgary

Strategic Insights and Tech Trends Shaping Your IT Roadmap

Welcome to FutureIT

This premier event is designed to equip IT professionals with the strategic insights, emerging technology trends, and real-world case studies needed to build a successful IT roadmap.

With sessions tailored to address the fast-changing tech landscape, FutureIT Calgary brings together: 

C-level executives, IT strategists, and security leaders. 
Insights on AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. 
Networking opportunities with industry peers, IDC Analysts and top technology partners.

At FutureIT, we provide the insights and tools you need to develop and implement an IT strategy that meets your specific business goals. Join us to learn from seasoned CIOs, technology leaders, analysts and solution providers who have transformed their roles to focus not just on tools, but on creating impactful strategies that advance their businesses.

FutureIT will be one of the most strategic and inspiring events on your calendar. Engage with fellow IT leaders to explore critical topics such as: 

Preparing for emerging technologies 
Navigating the world of AI
Communicating effectively with key stakeholders to prioritize IT & security initiatives 
Building digital trust internally and with customers 
Leveraging technology to enhance user experiences

Why Attend?

Expert Perspectives

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur. Dui egestas in senectus suspendisse enim.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur.

10:45 am

AI Adoption: From Experimentation to Industry Transformation

After two years of intense experimentation, AI costs are decreasing, technology suppliers are delivering AI capabilities in volume, and enterprises are organizing around what it will take to roll out AI at scale. Bob Parker, IDC Senior Vice President, will share data from IDC’s Global AI Maturity Model Benchmark study plus insights from IDC’s annual CEO study.

Bob Parker | IDC

Senior Vice President, Enterprise Applications, Data Intelligence, Services, and Industry Research

Read Bio

Bob Parker

IDC

Senior Vice President, Enterprise Applications, Data Intelligence, Services, and Industry Research

Bob Parker is a Senior Vice President responsible for several areas of research at IDC. Bob leads the global industry research teams which includes coverage of healthcare, government, retail, energy, manufacturing, and financial services as well as a cross industry group looking at emerging topics such as blockchain and robotics. Additionally, Bob leads our teams in the enterprise applications space, services, and the IDC coverage of data intelligence which includes coverage of artificial intelligence.

Bob has been conducting industry research for over twenty years including five years at AMR Research before joining IDC. Prior to entering the research field, Bob spent over fifteen years in various Information Technology and Operational management roles in the manufacturing industry including serving as the Chief Information Officer at Eastern Technologies, a defense contractor.

Event Sessions

Tuesday, June 24 2025 3:45 pm | Location:

Building Smarter IT: Reducing Technical Debt and Unlocking AI Efficiency

As organizations race to integrate AI, IT leaders are under pressure to balance innovation with sustainability and cost controls. This session brings together senior technology executives to explore how AI can streamline operations while reducing long-standing technical debt. Learn how to assess and scale AI tools effectively, track meaningful success metrics, and avoid the pitfalls that often undermine digital progress. Walk away with actionable strategies to modernize workflows, increase productivity, and build an AI-ready foundation—without dragging legacy challenges into the future.

Tuesday, June 24 2025 10:45 am | Location:

AI Adoption: From Experimentation to Industry Transformation

VIEW AGENDA VIEW ALL SPEAKERS

What people say

Global influencers shared powerful stories of how they confronted challenges — and created opportunities from them

Lorem Ipsum Dolor Sit Amet Consectetur

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quam felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu.”

Head – Digital Transformation, KEC International, an RPG Company

Lorem Ipsum Dolor Sit Amet Consectetur

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quam felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu.”

Head – Digital Transformation, KEC International, an RPG Company

Event Gallery

Our Partners

Our partners are an integral part of the event experience

VIEW ALL PARTNERS

Venue

Calgary TELUS Convention Center – Macleod Hall
136 8th Ave SE, Calgary,
Alberta, Canada, T2G 0K6

Calgary TELUS Convention Center

The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre is a premier event destination situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Calgary.

The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre occupies the block between Centre Street and Macleod Trail SE, along 8th Avenue SE. Enter through the main doors at 136 8th Ave SE and follow signs to Macleod Hall.

show on map

Directions

By CTrain

The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre is conveniently accessible via the CTrain. The nearest station is Centre Street, located just steps away from the venue. For more information, view Calgary Transit routes and schedules here.

Walking

Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, the Convention Centre is easily accessible by foot. It is situated along the +15 Skywalk system, which connects to numerous hotels, restaurants, and parking facilities in the area.

Driving

Drivers can access the Convention Centre via 1 Street SE or 8 Avenue SE. Parking is available in nearby lots, including the Convention Centre’s own underground parking. For more parking information, click here.

By Bus

Several Calgary Transit bus routes stop near the Convention Centre, offering convenient access from various parts of the city. For route maps and schedules, visit Calgary Transit.

Tech Rally Mobile

Hosted by Dell Technologies, Intel, and Microsoft

What is Tech Rally Mobile?

Tech Rally Mobile is a traveling showroom that brings the latest Dell client products and accessories for a hands-on experience. Come join us and Dell’s team of specialists to have all your client device questions answered

When will Tech Rally Mobile be in Calgary?

Tue, Jun 24, 2025

9:30 AM – 2:00 PM (MT) – Customers / Partners / Resellers

Where will Tech Rally Mobile be located?

Stephen Avenue (8 Avenue SW), In front of Calgary TELUS Convention Centre – South Hall

Knowledge Hub

Identity Security 2024: Mapping the Threats and Goals

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient.

Name Here

Company

Position, Job Role

Learn More

Ransomware in EMEA – The Threats and Defenses

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient.

Name Here

Company

Position, Job Role

Learn More

The Critical Role of Governments in EU Cyber-Resilience

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient.https://event.idc.com/event/cio-futureit/agenda/

Name Here

Company

Position, Job Role

Learn More

Stay tuned for exciting news!

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur. Dui egestas in senectus suspendisse enim.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur.

Why Attend?

What Will You Gain?

Key Themes

Event Highlights & Key Topics

Data Value Reinvention in the Age of AI

Scaling AI: From Pilot to Enterprise Deployment

Trust, Transparency and Responsible AI

Data Sovereignty, Governance and Interoperabilit

Generative and Agentic AI: The Next Frontier

Infrastructure Evolution: Edge, Cloud and AI Platforms

Business Value and ROI from AI & Data

People, Culture and AI Readiness

Ecosystems, Partnerships and Innovation Models

Future Regulation and Strategic Foresight

Join Us!

Agenda

AI & Data Summit San Francisco

One Day Event

Registration and Networking Breakfast

IDC Greetings and Welcome

IDC Keynote: Agentic AI at Scale: Accelerating Innovation While Managing Risk

Philip Carter

Event Sessions

IDC Keynote: Agentic AI at Scale: Accelerating Innovation While Managing Risk

Sponsor Keynote #1: Driving Business Value with AI & Data

Morning Coffee Break

Panel Discussion: Data as as strategic Asset

End-User Case Study #1

Networking Lunch

Sponsor Keynote #2: Future-Proofing Data Architectures for AI

End-User Case Study #2

Fireside Chat: The Human Side of AI and Data

Join Us!

2025 CIO Awards Canada Winners

Join Us

IDC & IBM Accelerate Toronto 2025

Unlock Innovation with Trusted AI and Hybrid Cloud

Why Attend

Agenda

IDC & IBM Accelerate Toronto 2025

One Day Event

Check-in & Networking Lunch

Inside the Innovation Journey of Trusted AI and Hybrid Cloud by Design

Intel Gaudi 3 & IBM: Revolutionizing Enterprise AI

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Afternoon Break & Stanley Cup Photos

Hot Topic Discussion Tables

The Hybrid Cloud Model: Navigating Innovation, Security, and Risk Management for a competitive edge

AI at the Crossroads: C-Suite Priorities, Tech Modernization and Value

Networking Reception

Event Concludes

Subject Matter Experts

Tony Olvet

Zane Adam

Michael Hainsworth

Shomron Jacob

Manav Gupta

David Kliemann

Thiru Venkatachalam

Greg Clawson

E.G. Nadhan

Douglas Carter

Asma Aziz

Tony Olvet

Event Sessions

AI at the Crossroads: C-Suite Priorities, Tech Modernization and Value

Zane Adam

Event Sessions

Inside the Innovation Journey of Trusted AI and Hybrid Cloud by Design

Intel Gaudi 3 & IBM: Revolutionizing Enterprise AI

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Michael Hainsworth

Event Sessions

Shomron Jacob

Event Sessions

Scaling AI for Innovation: The Role of Hybrid Cloud in Harnessing Generative AI

Manav Gupta

Event Sessions

Hot Topic Discussion Tables

David Kliemann