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Security Journey Announces the Second Annual Security Champions Summit

Security Journey, a frontrunner in secure code training and secure development education, is set to host its second annual Security Champions Summit. This virtual event will occur on October 15-16, 2026, and aims to explore the evolving landscape of security champion programs in the wake of advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).

With technology rapidly changing, particularly with the rise of generative AI, organizations find themselves at a crossroads. A recent survey by Gartner revealed that 81% of CIOs believe generative AI skill gaps hinder meeting business goals. Therefore, merely providing access to new technologies isn’t enough; organizations must educate their workforce on using these technologies securely and effectively. This is where security champions come into play, leading the charge in implementing secure practices within engineering teams and beyond.

Building Programs that Matter

The two-day summit will be structured to provide actionable insights on how organizations can establish and scale effective security champion programs that yield measurable results. The first day will focus on practical aspects involved in running successful security champion programs. Specific tracks dedicated to program leaders and security champions will touch on various topics, such as metrics for success, fostering participation, and securing development processes.

The second day will pivot to how the role of security champions is expanding as AI is integrated into organizational structures. Discussions will center around adapting existing programs to accommodate AI-driven development and how to broaden the network of champions beyond technical teams to include all levels of an organization, including product, compliance, data, and executive leadership.

Michael Burch, Vice President of AI Adoption and Acceleration at Security Journey, stated, “AI is changing too quickly for organizations to treat enablement as a one-time training exercise.” His insights emphasize the crucial role security champions have played in promoting cultural shifts within engineering teams and the potential for this model to empower a wider workforce.

Notable Speakers and Sessions

The summit will feature an array of expert speakers and enriching sessions aimed at providing an immersive learning experience. Among the key sessions:

• - “Security Is Everyone's Job, So Why Doesn't It Feel Like It?” presented by Michael Novack, Principal Engineer at DevAltus.
• - “Same Champion, New Playbook: Folding AI into Your Security Champions Program” by Michael Burch from Security Journey.
• - “Security Champions as an SDLC Force Multiplier: Building Security Maturity Without Building a Security Team”, featuring Anthony Pipia, Senior Application Security Consultant at Optiv Consulting.
• - Sessions tackling operationalizing AI governance, strategies for measuring the impact of security champions, and how to evolve security culture with AI technology.

Experts like Sabrina Lavi, Hiral Humal, and others will share valuable strategies and real-world examples, ensuring participants leave with actionable insights.

Join the Conversation

Registration for the Security Champions Summit is now live. Those interested in participating or learning more about this groundbreaking event can visit Security Journey's official site for additional details.

In summary, the summit not only presents a platform for learning but also serves as a critical juncture where security practices meet the evolution of AI, shaping the future of development and security in organizations everywhere. Don't miss your opportunity to be part of this transformative experience as we redefine the role and scope of security in our increasingly digital world.