More than 1,000 information systems scholars, researchers, educators and industry professionals gathered in Reno Aug. 20-22 for the 2026 Americas Conference on Information Systems (AMCIS). The event drew a record number of participants from 47 countries to explore emerging trends in information systems under the theme, "The Next Transformation." 

Organized by the Association for Information Systems, AMCIS came to Northern Nevada after seven years of planning by an international organizing team led by faculty from the University of Nevada, Reno who navigated multiple delays caused by the COVID pandemic and associated issues.  

"This conference was years in the making," said Dave Croasdell, professor of information systems and AMCIS 2026 conference co-chair. "Bringing AMCIS to Reno gave us an opportunity to showcase our University, our community and our region to colleagues from around the world." 

The University's Department of Information Systems was among the conference's gold sponsors, while several faculty members served in leadership and volunteer roles. The department hosted a reception that brought together information systems and AI leaders from around the world.  

"One of the highlights of the conference for our department was the reception," said Jason Talaei, professor and chair of the Department of Information Systems and one of the conference’s program chairs, "It gave us an opportunity to showcase the direction of our department and the College of Business while creating meaningful connections that can lead to future collaborations."  

The event provided an opportunity to discuss how the College of Business is preparing students for an AI-driven future through new programs, curriculum development and industry engagement. As organizations adapt to rapid technological change, the University is working to ensure students are prepared for the workforce. 

“We are seeing this transformation directly in how we think about education at the University," Talaei said, “In our department, we have been developing an AI-focused curriculum that gives students opportunities to learn about emerging areas.” 

The College also offers an online Undergraduate Certificate of AI in Business designed to help students build foundational AI literacy and gain a deeper understanding of its applications in business.  

Other highlights included a keynote by Missy Young, senior fellow and former chief information officer at Switch, on the opportunities and challenges surrounding the rapid growth of data centers. President Brian Sandoval was able to attend the keynote, a moment Talaei said underscored the University's commitment to information systems, artificial intelligence and technology-driven innovation.  

Conference attendees also connected through networking events across Northern Nevada, including a gathering at the National Bowling Stadium. It was a very special treat to share this iconic venue with friends from around the world. 

For Croasdell, AMCIS 2026 represented both a professional milestone and a chance to strengthen connections across the discipline. During the conference, he received the 2026 AMCIS Outstanding Conference Service Leadership Award, recognizing nearly three decades of service to the information systems community dating back to AMCIS 1996 in Phoenix. 

"Hosting an international conference like AMCIS brings scholars and professionals from around the world to experience our community and see the growth and innovation taking place here," Croasdell said.