From Autonomous Agents to Trusted Systems: Rethinking AI Agents in the Age of Automation

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From Autonomous Agents to Trusted Systems: Rethinking AI Agents in the Age of Automation

ACM Sacramento Chapter presents – Secure and Trustworthy Machine Learning and AI for Multi-Domain Applications

  • A talk by Harsh Verma, Principal Software Engineer in AI at Palo Alto Networks on September 10, 2026

From Autonomous Agents to Trusted Systems: Rethinking AI Agents in the Age of Automation

Abstract

As AI systems evolve from passive tools to autonomous decision-makers, the fundamental question facing enterprises is no longer what AI can do, but what AI can be trusted to do. This talk explores the paradigm shift from building intelligent models to engineering trustworthy, production-grade AI systems, where autonomy, security, and accountability intersect.

Drawing from real-world experience in deploying large-scale AI systems, Harsh Verma examines how autonomous agents are redefining system design, enterprise security, and operational control. The session introduces the transition from a “creator economy” of models to a “curator economy” of decisions—where trust, validation, and governance become core architectural concerns rather than afterthoughts .

Attendees will gain insight into:

Why traditional security and identity models break down in agent-driven environments

The emerging risks of goal-driven systems, including policy drift and unintended behavior

How enterprises can design trust layers for AI—combining observability, intent validation, and human-in-the-loop systems

Whether humans remain necessary in critical decision loops, and where to draw that boundary

This talk challenges conventional thinking and provides a forward-looking framework for building AI systems that are not only intelligent—but reliable, secure, and aligned with human intent.

Agenda:

6:00 - 6:15 pm PST : Networking

6:15 - 6:30 pm PST : Intro, Housekeeping and Chapter Activities

6:30 - 6:40 pm PST : ACM Sacramento Chapter Summer 2026 Preceptorship Program

6:40 - 7:40 pm PST : Talk by Harsh Verma on From Autonomous Agents to Trusted Systems: Rethinking AI Agents in the Age of Automation

7:40 - 7:55 pm PST : Q & A

7:55 - 8:00 pm PST : Closing Comments and Open Discussions

Note: This will be a virtual event - zoom meeting link will be provided upon registration

ACM Sacramento Chapter Officers

Chairperson - Dr. Harsh Verma
Vice-Chairperson – Dr. Abida Mukarram
Treasurer Emeritus - Michael Brady
Co-Chair, Semantic Web and Webmaster - Savita Farooqui

ACM FCUSD Student Chapter

Chapter Patron: Ms Shanan Spears
Student Coordinators: Ravikrishna Pothannagaari

Harsh Verma

Harsh Verma is a Principal Software Engineer in AI at Palo Alto Networks, focused on advancing autonomous agent systems and intelligent AI strategies. Harsh is also a Forbes Technology Council member and, as a speaker, mentor, and advisor, he brings both technical depth and strategic guidance to leaders adopting next-generation AI capabilities. He drives responsible, scalable AI adoption. His work influences how enterprises innovate, secure, and operationalize the next generation of intelligent systems. Harsh specializes in offering scalable AI solutions, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, delivering impactful conference talks, and advising startups on their AI strategies. Whether it's navigating AI implementation or fostering innovation with AI, Harsh is committed to delivering meaningful results in the tech industry.

His contributions have been recognized through globally respected awards and institutions, reinforcing both impact and influence. He is a recipient of the Global Recognition Award (2026) for measurable advances in enterprise AI and cybersecurity, and also the Globee Awards, which recognize excellence & innovation across global business leadership. He acts as a Senior Member of IEEE, which reflects peer-reviewed recognition of his sustained technical and professional contributions to the field, an honor reserved for individuals demonstrating significant performance and impact.

Beyond the enterprise, Harsh plays a visible role in shaping the broader Data & AI ecosystem. Through mentorship at leading accelerators UC Berkeley Skydeck, judging global AI innovation forums, and publishing thought leadership in Forbes and Hackernoon as a Technical Council Member, he contributes to defining how AI leadership itself is evolving. His work influences not only the organizations he serves but also the next generation of AI systems, leaders, and standards.

Image title

https://sacramento.acm.org/

When

Thu, Sep 10 2026

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM PDT
(Sep 11, 1:00 AM GMT)
Where

Zoom (virtual)

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