GovExec’s Zero Trust Summit to Explore Federal Implementation Priorities

GovExec’s in-person Zero Trust Summit: Transforming Strategy into Capability is scheduled for Thursday, November 19, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT. The event will take place at the Carahsoft Collaboration & Conference Center, 11493 Sunset Hills Road, Floor 5W, in Reston, Virginia. Its stated focus reflects a shift in federal cybersecurity from Zero Trust planning toward operational implementation: how agencies strengthen identity controls, protect data, secure networks, and incorporate AI-driven security strategies while supporting mission delivery.

The agenda is positioned around implementation lessons rather than a specific procurement announcement. GovExec says interactive discussions and real-world examples will address practical challenges, adoption, resilience, and the development of mission-ready environments. For government contractors, these topics can help inform market understanding of agency priorities and the capabilities that may be relevant to future solution planning. Participation, however, should be treated as business intelligence and networking—not as evidence that an agency has issued, or is preparing to issue, a particular requirement.

The event’s registration terms distinguish among attendee categories. Government and military personnel may attend for free if they provide a valid .gov or .mil email address. Private-sector attendees, government contractors, and retirees pay $295. Registrations from academic institutions and nonprofit organizations are subject to GovExec review and approval, and the organizer reserves the right to approve or decline them. Media registration is restricted to people with valid press credentials. Contractors should factor the fee and the in-person format into their event plans.

The listed participating technology firms include Google, Maximus, Broadcom, Ping Identity, and Splunk. Their presence may offer contractors an opportunity to hear how technology providers approach Zero Trust-related capabilities and to make professional connections. The source does not identify agency speakers, procurement vehicles, funding, or a contract opportunity, so attendees should avoid drawing conclusions about agency demand or vendor selection from participation alone. Complimentary parking is available at the venue, but the event notice warns that nearby businesses enforce their own parking policies and may tow unauthorized vehicles; the listed attire is business casual.

• Date and time: Thursday, November 19, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT.
• Venue: Carahsoft Collaboration & Conference Center, 11493 Sunset Hills Road, Floor 5W, Reston, VA 20190.
• Core topics: Practical federal Zero Trust implementation across identity, data, networks, and AI-driven security.
• Audience: Government technology, cybersecurity, and policy leaders, alongside private-sector participants.
• Registration cost: Free for government and military attendees using a .gov or .mil email; $295 for private-sector attendees, contractors, and retirees.
• Additional registration rules: Academic and nonprofit registrations require GovExec review; media registration requires valid press credentials.
• Named technology firms: Google, Maximus, Broadcom, Ping Identity, and Splunk.
• Contractor takeaway: Use the summit to monitor implementation themes and support business development; it is not a solicitation, contract award, or guarantee of future agency requirements.
• Logistics: Business-casual attire; complimentary venue parking is available, while unauthorized parking at neighboring businesses may result in towing.