In This Story
Associate Professor Alan R. Shark’s 2024 book, AI—A Primer for State and Local Governments: Everything You Need to Know Since Yesterday, has been selected by the American Society of Public Administration’s (ASPA) Section of Science and Technology in Government for the Thought Leadership Award for 2026.
Shark is one of the foremost experts on the use of artificial intelligence in the public sector. He is the former executive director of the Public Technology Institute and cochair of the National Academy of Public Administration’s Standing Panel on Technology Leadership.
Not unironically, the book was written in collaboration with AI—in fact, ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Perplexity AI share authorship on the book’s cover. The cover, incidentally, an intimidating octopus sitting atop a pile of electronic devices and books, was rendered by AI with a prompt by Shark.
The book is designed to serve as a comprehensive guide for state and local government officials, employees, and policymakers attempting to understand and leverage AI's potential. It draws on Shark’s years of teaching and studying the use of technology for the public good.
As the announcement was being made, Shark’s latest book, Artificial Intelligence—Leadership for Public Sector Organizations: Practical Considerations, was published.
“AI is not a fad and is here to stay,” he said. “It will grow, and we as public stewards must stay informed—and yes—remain in control.”
ASPA is the leading professional membership association for public service, representing more than 10,000 professionals through more than 50 local chapters that advance public service excellence in the United States and around the world.