Introduction
Innovation isn't just happening in Silicon Valley.
Some of the boldest digital transformation in North America is happening right here in Alberta — and at the center of that movement is Janak Alford, the Deputy Minister of Technology & Information for the Government of Alberta.
In our latest episode, we dive into how Alberta is designing a future where AI amplifies human capability, supports small business growth, and strengthens public service.
If you care about where work, creativity, and government are heading, this conversation matters.
AI in Public Service: From Administration → Intelligence
Alberta's approach to AI is not about replacing people — it's about unlocking capacity.
Janak explains how AI is being used to:
- Automate repetitive, manual processes
- Support faster, more informed decision-making
- Free public servants to focus on strategy, creativity, and problem-solving
"AI is a productivity multiplier."
The goal isn't a smaller public service — it's a more capable one.
Empowering Small Businesses to Move Faster
AI isn't only transforming government.
It's leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs.
When small business owners use AI to automate admin and streamline customer engagement, they gain something incredibly valuable:
Time to build.
In a digital economy, agility isn't just beneficial — it's decisive.
A Culture of Builders
One of the strongest themes from this conversation is Alberta's push to celebrate builders — the people who don't just talk about innovation, but create it.
The future belongs to people who build, not just consume.
Alberta is investing in creativity, experimentation, and real-world problem solving — and that cultural shift is becoming a competitive advantage.
The Age of Ability: Humans + AI Together
We're entering a moment where:
- AI handles the repetitive work
- Humans focus on judgment, creativity, and imagination
Janak calls this the Age of Ability — a future where capability is less constrained by time or capacity, and more limited by what we choose to pursue.
This isn't speculative. It's already happening.
Challenges → Opportunities
Yes, there are obstacles:
- Mindset change is hard
- Innovation requires trust
- Technology adoption takes courage
But the opportunity is larger than the risk.
With the right foundation, Alberta can:
- Solve long-standing public challenges
- Enable more resilient, adaptable businesses
- Become a leader in digital public service
And that work is underway.
Listen to the Full Episode
This conversation is packed with insight, clarity, and forward-looking ideas.
🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms
Whether you're in public service, tech, business, or simply curious about where things are going — this is a powerful and inspiring episode.
— Code To Cloud Team