As public sector organizations accelerate AI adoption, many continue to face a familiar challenge: bridging the gap between AI ambition and data readiness. In Part 2 of the Government Perspectives interview series, Molly Just-Behr, Global Head of Public Sector at Databricks, joins Dr. Adita Karkera, Chief Data Officer for Government and Public Services at Deloitte, to discuss why governance, trust, workforce readiness, and data sharing are foundational to sustainable AI success.

Throughout the conversation, Just-Behr argues that organizations can move toward AI readiness faster than many assume when governance, metadata management, identity controls, and data hygiene are approached strategically. Rather than viewing governance as a barrier, Just-Behr positions it as an enabler that helps agencies balance innovation, accountability, and public trust.

Key themes from the discussion include:

• AI-Ready Data Foundations: Effective governance, metadata management, PII identification, and access controls create the conditions for responsible AI adoption.
• Trust Through Transparency: Clear decision rights, documented use cases, and strong compliance frameworks help agencies accelerate value while maintaining accountability.
• Workforce Readiness: Upskilling existing public servants enables organizations to build AI capabilities while preserving mission expertise and institutional knowledge.
• Data Sharing as a Strategic Asset: Cross-agency collaboration and data democratization unlock greater opportunities for service delivery, fraud prevention, and AI innovation.
• Mission-Driven AI: Successful AI initiatives remain tied to measurable mission outcomes rather than technology adoption alone.

Looking ahead, Just-Behr envisions a public sector where data is treated as a shared asset and AI becomes a practical tool embedded in everyday operations. As agencies continue modernizing, the conversation highlights why governance, trust, and workforce development remain critical pillars for long-term success.

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