Artificial intelligence is increasingly viewed as essential by U.S. government leaders for achieving mission outcomes, yet its deployment is hampered by significant challenges, including a lack of staff knowledge and trust in the technology. Research highlights that over half of the federal IT managers see AI as a high investment priority, but barriers such as insufficient understanding of AI benefits and fears of job replacement persist. Experts recommend focusing on mission-aligned strategies, starting with small, manageable projects like chatbots to build trust and understanding, and addressing skill gaps through training and collaboration with industry experts. Additionally, it's emphasized that AI should be seen as a tool for enhancing efficiency by automating mundane tasks, thus allowing IT professionals to engage in more strategic work. Overcoming these obstacles is crucial for unlocking AI's potential, with initiatives aimed at demonstrating its practical benefits and ease of use to build confidence among decision-makers and stakeholders.