Google Cloud Security Trains 150+ on Agentic AI with Instruqt at Google Next 2026

At Google Next 2026, Google Cloud Security undertook a significant effort to enhance the practical skills of over 150 security practitioners in Agentic AI, utilizing the interactive Instruqt platform. The "Agentic SOC Experience" was designed as one of the largest hands-on training sessions focused on Agentic AI delivered at a major industry conference this year. This program directly addresses a critical challenge in the software industry: the widening chasm between the speed at which AI features are developed and the rate at which customers can effectively adopt and implement them. Instruqt's platform proved instrumental by providing each participant with a dedicated Vertex AI environment. This immersive setup allowed attendees to engage directly with the tools and build tangible solutions, moving beyond theoretical knowledge to practical application. Tyler Crumpler, VP of Marketing at Instruqt, emphasized that Google Cloud Security's approach at Google Next serves as a benchmark for AI-led companies. He advocated for placing customers in authentic environments with real tools to enable them to create something directly applicable to their work, thereby compounding adoption and skill development. The workshop reflects a broader strategic shift in how the software industry is approaching AI integration. As AI capabilities advance rapidly, the focus is increasingly on enabling users to harness these innovations effectively. According to the 2026 State of Developer Adoption Report by SlashData, a staggering 92% of practitioners encounter at least one significant adoption hurdle. The primary obstacles cited include technology complexity (26%), team misalignment (27%), and outdated content (25%). The initiative by Google Cloud Security and Instruqt demonstrates a proactive model to overcome these challenges. By offering hands-on, real-environment training, they aim to accelerate the practical integration of Agentic AI into security operations centers (SOCs). This not only enhances the capabilities of individual practitioners but also fosters a more robust and adaptive security posture against evolving cyber threats, particularly those leveraging AI. The underlying philosophy is that success in the AI era will not solely depend on shipping the best products but also on empowering users to effectively utilize them.