Strategic Influence: Leading Innovation in Uncertain Times

Today’s EdTech leaders must be more than operational managers. They must be strategic influencers, system thinkers, and agents of change. In this highly interactive session, four nationally recognized education technology leaders share battle-tested strategies for navigating disruption, influencing district culture, and leading beyond your job title. Attendees will explore how to build trust across silos, elevate team performance, and align technology to learning, especially in a post-ESSER, AI-saturated era. Grounded in real-world leadership stories, the session offers frameworks and tools you can use immediately to build momentum, mentor emerging leaders, and drive sustainable innovation. Whether you’re an aspiring CTO, aSuperintendent navigating tech integration, or a seasoned leader seeking fresh perspective, this session will leave you energized, equipped, and ready to lead with intention and clarity in 2026 and beyond.

This session brings together four veteran education technology leaders with decades of district experience to share practical leadership strategies grounded in the CoSN Framework of Essential Skills, particularly Leadership & Vision, Strategic Planning, and Communication & Collaboration. While the presenters draw on concepts refined through their professional collaboration, the content will be delivered in a refreshed, scenario-based format using case studies, live polling, and participant interaction.
Attendees will examine how to lead through ambiguity, build internal champions, and align tech initiatives with instructional outcomes, skills vital to navigating current challenges like AI integration, policy shifts, and cybersecurity threats. The session will offer tools for mentoring up-and-coming talent, influencing stakeholders without formal authority, and sustaining innovation without burnout. Participants will receive leadership conversation prompts, implementation templates, and change management tools.
This session strongly supports CoSN’s strategic goals by enhancing the member experience, fostering meaningful leadership networks, and enabling participants to respond nimbly to emerging challenges. Leaders will leave with renewed clarity and a toolkit for leading courageously in times of uncertainty.