The federal government is at a turning point. With budget reductions, workforce downsizing and an increasing demand for digital services, federal CIOs face an urgent need to optimize operations while maintaining mission-critical functions. Generative AI (GenAI) presents a strategic opportunity—not just for cost savings, but for enhancing service delivery, streamlining workflows, and mitigating the risks of talent shortages. In this era of fiscal constraints and technological evolution, CIOs must prioritize three key areas to harness the power of GenAI effectively.