May 6, 2026 · Scheman Building, Ames, IA

AI Security Is Not a Brand: Governance, Risk, and the Reality Behind “Safe AI”

Leadership and Workforce

TRACK Leadership and Workforce
FORMAT Expert Talk
ROOM 204-208

Many organizations are being told that the only “safe” way to use AI is to stay entirely inside a single vendor ecosystem. But security is not determined by brand name, it is determined by governance, architecture, identity management, data controls, and vendor agreements.

This session cuts through the noise to clarify the difference between cybersecurity risk, compliance risk, governance maturity, and vendor comfort zones. Participants will gain a practical framework for evaluating AI platforms based on how they manage data classification, retention, model training policies, authentication, and internal controls, rather than on marketing claims.

The goal is not to argue for or against any specific tool. It is to equip leaders with the right questions to move beyond fear-based decisions and toward an intentional, defensible AI strategy.

Key Takeaways

  • Real cybersecurity risk
  • Perceived risk
  • Compliance risk
Continue the conversation with Doug Jacobson at the Leadership & Workforce Facilitated Discussion — 3:10 PM - 3:55 PM, Room 220-230-240

Transcript from Summit:

Session Transcript