As 2026 approaches, AI innovation is accelerating faster than human readiness — so how can CIOs and IT leaders stay ahead?
In this episode of Gartner ThinkCast, recorded on site at Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo in Orlando, Florida, Gartner experts Chris Howard and Gene Alvarez share key takeaways from three cornerstone sessions: the Opening Keynote, Top Strategic Technology Trends, and the CIO Agenda. They explore how CIOs can walk the “golden path” to value, balance AI ambition with operational readiness, and prepare their teams for a future defined by agility, risk management and tenacity.
Tune in to discover:
Lessons from the Opening Keynote: Where Heroes Are Made
AI and Human Readiness: Two Paths to Value
Preparing for the Future: Marathons and Scenario Planning
The CIO Agenda 2026: Agility, Tenacity and Risk Mindset
Inside the Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2026
Strategy to the Server: Connecting Big Ideas to Execution
Chris Howard | Distinguished VP Analyst, Chief of Research
Chris Howard is Chief of Research for Global Enterprises. In that role, Mr. Howard ensures that Gartner research meets the needs of senior executives, with emphasis on both technical and business leadership at the largest organizations in the world. Mr. Howard regularly interacts with and advises CEOs, board members and other senior executives at the world's largest enterprises. He is the recipient of several Gartner thought leadership awards.
Gene Alvarez | Distinguished VP Analyst
Gene Alvarez offers expertise in technology innovation and strategy. He helps CIOs and other innovation leaders innovate with emerging technologies adoption and strategy. He also leads Gartner's Top Strategic Technology Trends research and contributes to Gartner's Top Strategic Predictions research. He is also an expert on GenAI, AI Agents, polyfunctional robots, CRM and customer experience vision, strategy, architecture and technologies. With over 40 years of business and IT experience, Mr. Alvarez excels in business impact assessments, vendor management, and applications. He has also presented at international events and contributed to various media outlets.
Hosted by: Karen Lockhart
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