Human-Centered Government: AI Across the Employee Lifecycle

Artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape every stage of the government employee lifecycle—from recruiting and applicant screening to workforce development, employee engagement and retention. But realizing its potential requires public-sector organizations to balance innovation with transparency, governance and human oversight. Recorded at the NASPE 2026 Annual Meeting, this episode of State Gov Today examines how state governments are approaching AI in human resources, addressing workforce shortages and modernizing the employee experience while keeping people accountable for consequential decisions. Host George Jackson speaks with: • Sarah Kerley, Chief Administrative Officer, Illinois Department of Central Management Services • Juan Williams, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Human Resources • Byron Decoteau, Louisiana State Civil Service Director • Kayla Leslie, Operations & Member Services Manager, NASPE The conversation explores practical AI applications in recruiting and HR administration, secure government AI environments, skills-based hiring, workforce readiness, labor engagement, public trust and the importance of keeping human expertise at the center of technology-enabled decisions. Learn more and watch additional State Gov Today programs at https://www.stategovtoday.com/.