Exploring the Future of IT: Insights from Regional CIOs

On September 9, the Pittsburgh Technology Council hosted CIO Insights: Inside the Minds of IT Leaders: Trends, Surprises & the Future of IT at the Courtyard By Marriot Pittsburgh University Center. In this panel, technology leaders from across Pittsburgh gathered for a candid conversation on artificial intelligence, innovation, collaboration, and workforce development.

Moderated by Pedro Barelli (VP of Consulting Services, CGI), the panel included Lee Haller (CIO, Pittsburgh Water), Max Morrow (CIO, R&R Family of Companies), Arif Rahman (CIO, Joy Baking Group), and Jack Wolford (CIO, Schneider Downs).

AI as Both a Tool and a Challenge
The conversation naturally gravitated toward AI (particularly generative AI) and its varied applications. From deploying Microsoft Copilot to streamline workflows at Joy Baking Group, to piloting AI-powered chatbots at Pittsburgh Water to improve customer service, the CIOs shared how they are testing practical use cases while wrestling with change management and user adoption. At the same time, they highlighted the need for responsible governance, with the City of Pittsburgh stressing guardrails to prevent data leaks and misuse.

Innovation Across Industries
Beyond AI, panelists discussed the broader innovation landscape. The City of Pittsburgh shared how its PGH Lab program supports startups by serving as a “first customer,” while Pittsburgh Water is piloting new methods to detect lead service lines without costly excavation. Joy Baking Group outlined its progress toward smart manufacturing, including computer vision for quality control and zero-trust IoT security. Schneider Downs, meanwhile, described how automation and data integration are helping clients navigate rapidly changing financial regulations.

Building Collaboration and Alignment
A recurring theme was the importance of IT leaders building trust and alignment within their organizations. Panelists spoke about governance structures, business surveys, and one-on-one relationship-building with executives to ensure technology investments are tied to real business outcomes.

Preparing the Workforce for What’s Next
Finally, the discussion turned to people, the most critical factor in IT transformation. From upskilling staff on AI tools to addressing cybersecurity threats, the CIOs emphasized the need to balance education, cultural change, and patience as employees adapt to new technologies. For government especially, meeting employees “where they are” is essential to long-term success.

The Bigger Picture
The panel underscored that while AI and innovation often dominate headlines, the true challenge lies in managing change: aligning people, processes, and governance with emerging tools. As Pittsburgh’s technology leaders showed, the future of IT isn’t just about adopting the next big thing, but ensuring it creates real, sustainable value.