Uniting Cybersecurity Experts for the Future of AI Governance
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is being adopted at a breakneck pace by various organizations, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more pressing. To address this issue, SBS CyberSecurity is convening financial security experts for its inaugural
Converge Cyber + AI Conference, set to take place on
October 6–7, 2026 in
Omaha, Nebraska. This two-day event is a critical gathering for professionals aiming to transition from AI experimentation to implementing secure strategies within financial landscapes.
A Focused Agenda on Knowledge and Experience
The conference, featuring a comprehensive lineup of
23 planned sessions, will encompass tracks dedicated to governance, technical insights, and AI innovation. Unlike traditional lecture-focused formats, this event prioritizes workshops and interactive experiences to engage attendees. Participants will have the opportunity to join
AI labs, a
live capture-the-flag (CTF) tournament, and a unique
lockpick village to delve into physical security concerns.
Jon Waldman, President and Co-Founder of SBS CyberSecurity, expressed his enthusiasm about the event, stating, "The lineup speaks to the essence of Converge. We've curated insights from top industry practitioners who navigate the complexities of cybersecurity daily. The conference is not merely about lectures; it’s an immersive experience designed for meaningful interactions that equip participants with actionable knowledge."
Keynote Speakers Leading the Charge
The event will feature notable keynote speakers, including
Erich Kron, a CISO advisor at
KnowBe4, who will open the conference by discussing the essential human elements of cybersecurity.
Brian Brushwood, an expert in social engineering and host of the popular YouTube channel
Scam Nation, will conclude the conference, promising to provide attendees with practical takeaways.
Other prominent speakers include:
- - Michael Benardo, a veteran with 35 years at the FDIC, discussing gaps in cyber governance.
- - Tim Leonard, CIO of Commercial Bank of Texas, sharing insights on creating an AI command center using off-the-shelf components.
- - Chad Knutson, CEO of SBS CyberSecurity, focusing on timely decision-making amid live cybersecurity threats, including deepfake technologies.
Addressing Urgent Needs in the Financial Sector
As banks and financial institutions increasingly adopt AI solutions, regulatory expectations are evolving. The Converge Cyber + AI Conference will address these pressing issues, helping attendees understand the current AI landscape and its applications in governance. Highlights include sessions like *