The federal government’s ability to harness AI and defend against evolving cyber threats depends on the strength of its data infrastructure. Yet many agencies still operate on aging, siloed systems that limit agility, obscure insights, and increase vulnerability. Secure, scalable, and interoperable data environments are essential not only to unlock AI’s potential for faster and more informed decision-making but also to protect against threats like ransomware that can disrupt mission-critical operations. This session will examine how agencies are working to modernize legacy systems, enable strategic data sharing, and strengthen governance. Investing in future-ready infrastructure is key to delivering responsive public services and maintaining citizen trust in an increasingly digital landscape.