As generative AI, autonomous systems, edge intelligence, and quantum computing reshape global infrastructure, cybersecurity must evolve from a reactive defense into a catalyst for innovation. Highlighted in the IEEE Computer Society’s 2026 Technology Predictions Report as one of 26 pivotal breakthrough technologies, robust security is no longer just a shield—it is the foundational trust mechanism that allows high-risk, high-reward innovation to scale.

Unlocking this next era requires moving beyond ad-hoc patches to build scalable, globally standardized frameworks. AI-assisted security, identity-first architectures, zero-trust models, and privacy-preserving metrics are the building blocks of resilience. Together, they allow systems to withstand evolving threats, satisfy tightening regulatory demands, and operate reliably at scale.

Setting the stage for the 2027 hackathon, this keynote challenges participants to look past perimeter defense and engineer security and standardized protocols directly into the foundation of their builds. By doing so, we enable the safe, rapid deployment of next generation technologies.

Grace Lewis

Grace Lewis is a Principal Researcher at the Carnegie Mellon Software Engineering Institute (SEI) where she conducts applied research on the effect of emerging technologies on software engineering and software architecture principles, practices, and workflows. Grace is also the lead for the Tactical Edge and AI-Enabled Systems (TAS) initiative at the SEI and the 2026 President of the IEEE Computer Society. She holds a B.Sc. in Software Systems Engineering and a Post-Graduate Specialization in Business Administration from Icesi University in Cali, Colombia; a Master in Software Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University; and a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

The IEEE SA 2027 Cybersecurity Hackathon invites innovators from around the world to develop solutions that address modern cybersecurity challenges, particularly those emerging from the rapid adoption of AI.

Participants will explore ways to:

• Protect sensitive data used by AI systems
• Help individuals and organizations understand how their data is used
• Improve transparency, security, and trust in AI-driven environments
• Contribute insights that may inform future IEEE cybersecurity standards

Hosted virtually, the hackathon brings together global talent to build prototypes, solve challenge problems, and collaborate with mentors and industry experts.

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