The Civic Spark Conference was a hub of energy and insight, but some moments stood out. Our Director of Software Development, Steve Ly, shares his key takeaways on the future of digital government, the power of brave leadership, and why the most impactful conversations often happen outside the main stage.
- Hillary Hartley’s talk encouraged bravery in public service leadership, with insights on making the real costs of inaction visible, creating safe spaces for experimentation, building digital capacity across all parts of government, and recognizing that transformation happens at the ecosystem level, not through one person alone.
- Victor Udoewa presented a powerful session on impossible futures and the ethics of hopelessness, where he touched on futures and pluralism as themes. He advocated for inclusivity, particularly for those who operate from different realities or mindsets, including people who may not have hope.
- Alex Chen's unconference conversation on navigating AI in government highlighted the distinction between deterministic and non-deterministic systems and reminded attendees that generative AI is only one type of AI regardless of the hype around it. This session resonated with Steve, as he’s been thinking a lot on how non-deterministic systems can be incorporated into public services.
Steve also had the opportunity to facilitate an unconference session on digital trust and verifiable credentials, where attendees discussed the importance of establishing trust and giving people more control over their own data.
The event was informative and inspiring, but the many conversations and energy outside the sessions—in the halls, at lunch, and at the afterparty—sparked some of the most meaningful insights and connections. We’re grateful to the organizers, volunteers, speakers, and everyone Steve had the chance to connect with.