Cortney Nickerson is the Head of Community at Nirmata and a CNCF Ambassador. She is highly active in the cloud native community, co-organizing the CNCF Bilbao Community and various Kubernetes Community Days, serving on the State of OpenCon Advisory Board, and co-hosting the "Code to Culture Platform Engineering Podcast" and "PolicyBytes" podcast.

A recognized speaker at international events, Cortney transitioned from a non-technical background to tech as an early employee (#7) at a startup later acquired by DataDog, where she wrote content for the Data on Kubernetes Community.

Beyond technology, she is a vocal advocate for DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and openly shares her experiences with imposter syndrome. On a personal note, she's also a parent navigating the challenge of getting her kids to bed on time.

Cortney Nickerson is the Head of Community at Nirmata and a CNCF Ambassador. She is highly active in the cloud native community, co-organizing the CNCF Bilbao Community and various Kubernetes Community Days, serving on the State of OpenCon Advisory B... Show more

Tanya is an Author, LinkedIn Top Voice, and AVP at Barclays. A renowned Agile project management expert, cybersecurity specialist, and technology leader, Tanya has inspired thousands with her insights on STEM education, leadership, and innovation. As a Certified Scrum Master and Business Analyst, she has helped businesses optimize project delivery and foster collaboration.

Her book, Discovering The Silver Bullet, offers valuable lessons on Agile transformation and project management. Tanya is also a mentor at AnitaB.org and a WIFM Wolfpack Facilitator, empowering professionals worldwide.

Tanya is an Author, LinkedIn Top Voice, and AVP at Barclays. A renowned Agile project management expert, cybersecurity specialist, and technology leader, Tanya has inspired thousands with her insights on STEM education, leadership, and innovation. As... Show more

Vijaykumar Jangamashetti (VJ), is a seasoned professional with 18 years of experience in Data Analytics, Cloud, and AI. Currently a Trusted Advisor, Staff Cloud Consulting Architect, and Program Manager at Google, he specializes in guiding customers through their digital transformation journeys. VJ's expertise lies in helping customers design, architect, migrate, and modernize their infrastructure, data warehouses, and applications on Google Cloud, enabling them to fully harness the power of cloud computing. Furthermore, VJ offers valuable insights into AI and Generative AI (GenAI), empowering customers to explore new opportunities and achieve success with their AI endeavours. VJ is also a Startups Mentor in Google For Startups Accelerator (GFSA) programmme and holds Google Cloud 13X certifications.

Vijaykumar Jangamashetti (VJ), is a seasoned professional with 18 years of experience in Data Analytics, Cloud, and AI. Currently a Trusted Advisor, Staff Cloud Consulting Architect, and Program Manager at Google, he specializes in guiding customers ... Show more

Pamela Paterson, MS, CBAP, PMP, is a speaker, best-selling author of 12 books, and senior tech consultant specializing in business systems analysis and project management. With a strong background in systems engineering and experience working with over 100 organizations, Pamela has delivered workshops, webinars, and presentations worldwide and authored 10 books, including two international best-sellers. Pamela has also taught project management for over ten years in Toronto, Canada. In 2023, 2024, and 2025 she stands out as one of the most active speakers on Sessionize. For more details, visit her LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelapaterson/, or contact her at pamelatheba@gmail.com.

Pamela Paterson, MS, CBAP, PMP, is a speaker, best-selling author of 12 books, and senior tech consultant specializing in business systems analysis and project management. With a strong background in systems engineering and experience working with ov... Show more

I am the Application Modernization Practice Lead at Protiviti, with over 22 years of experience helping organizations enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and optimize CRM systems. My extensive background in delivering programs and architecture has allowed me to work successfully with multiple clients.

In 2022, I was promoted to Associate Director after serving as a Senior Manager, marking two promotions within the last six years.

I effectively engage with all organizational levels to drive success. Early in my career, I contributed to the growth of an emerging company's IT department, leading a team of developers and designing innovative solutions. This unique professional experience continues to inform my work today.

RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
* Led the development of industry-focused solutions as the program manager.
* Hired, developed, and mentored eight technical engineering resources, successfully placing them on various projects.
* As an engagement manager, contributed to securing large enterprise sales deals and agreement renewals, resulting in multi-million-dollar contracts with several prominent industry accounts.

SPECIALITIES:
Engagement Manager, Solution Delivery, Program Management, Architect in Dynamics 365 CE, Azure Cloud, DevOps, Power Platform, and Domain Expertise.

I am the Application Modernization Practice Lead at Protiviti, with over 22 years of experience helping organizations enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and optimize CRM systems. My extensive background in delivering programs and architecture ... Show more

Raniz is a programmer, architect, speaker and coach at factor10. He is a problem solver who keeps track of the bigger picture. He is prestigeless, likes to get into new domains, and loves sharing knowledge and ideas. Raniz has worked with system- and software architecture at several companies since 2010 and has been with factor10 since 2021. When not working he's into beer brewing, sourdough bread, 3D printing and triathlons.

Raniz is a programmer, architect, speaker and coach at factor10. He is a problem solver who keeps track of the bigger picture. He is prestigeless, likes to get into new domains, and loves sharing knowledge and ideas. Raniz has worked with system- and... Show more

I'm part of the team of experts at Proximo 3, a specialist Microsoft consulting company. Our team provides consultancy and advice on Dynamics 365 CRM and Power Platform projects. I'm a passionate believer in applying change management to CRM projects and a certified Prosci practitioner.

I've been a Microsoft Business Applications MVP, specialising in Dynamics 365 and Power Platform, since 2017.

I'm part of the team of experts at Proximo 3, a specialist Microsoft consulting company. Our team provides consultancy and advice on Dynamics 365 CRM and Power Platform projects. I'm a passionate believer in applying change management to CRM projects... Show more

Bas founded Kimura and is an experienced Data Solution Architect with over 12 years as a consultant in various technologies, currently focusing on Microsoft Fabric.

He speaks, creates YouTube videos, and blogs about these experiences to share his knowledge with the community.

He holds a Microsoft Dataplatform MVP award and is a Microsoft Certified Trainer.

In his spare time he likes to practice sports (Brazilian jiu-jitsu, running, weight lifting) and also to travel with his wife, son, and their dachshund Chester.

Bas founded Kimura and is an experienced Data Solution Architect with over 12 years as a consultant in various technologies, currently focusing on Microsoft Fabric. He speaks, creates YouTube videos, and blogs about these experiences to share his... Show more

Michael works as an independent tech consultant with 20+ years of experience specialized in Domain Driven Design, Team Topologies, Software Architecture and Collaborative Modeling. He is a regular speaker at international conferences and an author. Michael is also an INNOQ Fellow and Team Topologies Advocate.

Michael works as an independent tech consultant with 20+ years of experience specialized in Domain Driven Design, Team Topologies, Software Architecture and Collaborative Modeling. He is a regular speaker at international conferences and an author. M... Show more

Avindra Fernando is a software consultant with over 13 years of experience helping teams build scalable, modern web applications. In 2021, he founded Taprobane Consulting to guide clients through architectural decisions, migrations to newer tech stacks, and the implementation of robust AI-powered development and testing strategies that ensure quality and performance.

He actively mentors engineering teams, leads workshops, and delivers hands-on training. As a regular speaker at tech conferences, Avindra shares practical lessons on concepts and technologies such as Software Architecture, AI-driven development, React, Next.js, E2E Testing, and TypeScript. He leverages his experience to shape future technology direction and accelerate the growth of companies across industries.

Avindra Fernando is a software consultant with over 13 years of experience helping teams build scalable, modern web applications. In 2021, he founded Taprobane Consulting to guide clients through architectural decisions, migrations to newer tech stac... Show more

Strategic technology leader with 19+ years of experience driving product innovation for platforms used by millions. Expert in scaling engineering organizations, architecting high-concurrency systems, and bridging the gap between deep technical excellence (GDE, MVP) and business-centric growth. Proven track record in Fintech, SaaS, and AI-driven automation.

Leadership - Engineering Strategy, Product Roadmap, Talent Acquisition and Mentorship, P&L Management.

Architecture - System Design at Scale, Microservices, Cloud Infra (AWS/GCP/Azure), Distributed Systems.

Innovation - Generative AI/LLMs (RAG), Graph Databases (Neo4j), Performance Engineering.

Strategic technology leader with 19+ years of experience driving product innovation for platforms used by millions. Expert in scaling engineering organizations, architecting high-concurrency systems, and bridging the gap between deep technical excell... Show more

Hafedh is a professional coach, agile coach, and trainer with over 12 years of experience in guiding individuals and organizations toward resilience, adaptability, and improved performance. With a strong foundation in neuroscience, agility, and human sciences, Hafedh integrates these disciplines to offer a comprehensive approach to personal and organizational development. His work focuses on helping teams and leaders navigate change and foster growth in dynamic environments. Throughout his career, Hafedh has been committed to empowering his clients with practical, science-based strategies for achieving long-term success.

Hafedh is a professional coach, agile coach, and trainer with over 12 years of experience in guiding individuals and organizations toward resilience, adaptability, and improved performance. With a strong foundation in neuroscience, agility, and human... Show more

Miguel Llorca is a seasoned technologist and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the IT industry.

Since 2014, he has been honored with the Microsoft MVP award, for his contributions to technical communities. He is also a member of the Microsoft Regional Director program, recognized for his extensive technical and business acumen and leadership within the community.

Additionally, Miguel is a Microsoft Certified Trainer, an instructor and author for LinkedIn Learning, and a regular speaker at industry events and conferences, earning the distinction of LinkedIn Top Voice in 2024 and 2025.

Miguel Llorca is a seasoned technologist and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the IT industry. Since 2014, he has been honored with the Microsoft MVP award, for his contributions to technical communities. He is also a member of th... Show more

Samantha St-Louis is the VP of AI App Innovation at Atmosera, where she leads enterprise-scale AI and agentic system strategy for global organizations. Her work focuses on designing intelligent, scalable AI architectures that move beyond experimentation into real operational and business impact.

With a background spanning cloud architecture, AI engineering, healthcare, and education, Samantha specializes in translating complex AI concepts into clear decision frameworks that executives, architects, and practitioners can actually use. She is known for building systems that connect strategy to execution, whether that means multi-agent orchestration, AI governance, or practical GenAI adoption.

As a Microsoft MVP and Microsoft Certified Trainer, Samantha brings a rare blend of hands-on technical depth and compelling communication. Her talks are pragmatic, honest, and grounded in real projects helping organizations avoid AI sprawl and focus on outcomes.

Beyond technology, Samantha is a strong advocate for women carving unconventional paths into tech leadership. Her own journey informs her work, her teaching style, and her belief that clarity, structure, and courage matter more than traditional credentials.

1. From AI Pilots to Platforms: Designing Enterprise-Grade Agentic AI
2. AI Literacy for Leaders: Making Confident Decisions in an Imperfect World
3. Better Decisions, Not Better Dashboards: How AI Actually Improves Business Outcomes

Samantha St-Louis is the VP of AI App Innovation at Atmosera, where she leads enterprise-scale AI and agentic system strategy for global organizations. Her work focuses on designing intelligent, scalable AI architectures that move beyond experiment... Show more

Agile Coach and Kanban expert (certified Kanban trainer and coach, AKT, KCP), Sébastien has a solid experience in supporting organizations in their Agile and Lean transformation.

He helps teams of all sizes, from the smallest to projects of +150 people, and works daily in collaboration with geographically distributed teams both in France and internationally. Sébastien also has expertise in complex project management, problem solving, and continuous improvement.

After 20 years of experience in a large company, in 2023 he launched his training & consulting company - Kudja.fr - to share his expertise on Kanban.

Agile Coach and Kanban expert (certified Kanban trainer and coach, AKT, KCP), Sébastien has a solid experience in supporting organizations in their Agile and Lean transformation. He helps teams of all sizes, from the smallest to projects of +150 p... Show more

Samir Makwana empowers enterprises and government agencies to harness the full power of Microsoft Cloud—and especially its cutting-edge AI stack—to build secure, value-driven businesses. With 17 years as a software developer, pre-sales engineer, and solution architect, he’s architected end-to-end IT transformations that blend security, automation, and collaboration.

A true AI evangelist, Samir designs PoCs and production systems leveraging Azure AI services (Cognitive Services, Azure OpenAI, Semantic Kernel), Copilot Studio, and Power Platform AI—applying deep prompt engineering, vector search/RAG patterns, and grounding techniques to deliver next-gen user experiences. He’s integrated generative AI agents into Office 365 and custom apps, automated workflows with Power Automate and Logic Apps, and secured data with Zero Trust and Microsoft Purview.

As Founder & Principal Architect of Cloudtrify Inc., Samir crafts both short- and long-term cloud-native and AI solutions that drive ROI, user adoption, and maintainability—always with responsible AI and compliance top-of-mind.

Samir Makwana empowers enterprises and government agencies to harness the full power of Microsoft Cloud—and especially its cutting-edge AI stack—to build secure, value-driven businesses. With 17 years as a software developer, pre-sales engineer, and ... Show more

Clarissa Rodrigues is graduated by University of Vale dos Sinos (UNISINOS), specialist in Software Engineering by Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) and master student in Applied Computing by UNISINOS. With more than 10 years of IT experience, she has been working in different roles and companies, such as a Business Analyst at SISPRO, ADP, SAP and most current Technical Quality & Program Manager at Uber. On her journey, she has been advocated for quality inside QAs work to make sure goods and services are designed, developed, and made to meet or exceed customers’ expectations and requirements.

Clarissa Rodrigues is graduated by University of Vale dos Sinos (UNISINOS), specialist in Software Engineering by Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) and master student in Applied Computing by UNISINOS. With more than 10 years of IT exper... Show more

Ginger Grant is a distinguished Microsoft Data Platform MVP and Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), renowned for her deep expertise in advanced analytics, machine learning, AI, data warehousing, and the evolving landscape of Microsoft Fabric. As a sought-after consultant, Ginger empowers organizations to harness the full potential of their data ecosystems.

Beyond consulting, Ginger is a prolific thought leader and speaker for both keynotes and technical training. She contributes regularly as a columnist for Code Magazine, authors insightful books, and shares practical knowledge on her blog, DesertIsleSQL.com. Her educational impact spans a wide range of technologies, including Azure Synapse Analytics, Python, and Azure Machine Learning, making her a trusted voice in the data community.

Whether on stage, in print, or in the classroom, Ginger’s passion for data and commitment to knowledge-sharing make her a standout figure in the world of data and AI.

Ginger Grant is a distinguished Microsoft Data Platform MVP and Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), renowned for her deep expertise in advanced analytics, machine learning, AI, data warehousing, and the evolving landscape of Microsoft Fabric. As a sou... Show more

I am a Father, International Speaker, Software Engineer, and Architect at Visionet Deutschland GmbH, currently living in Germany. My interests range from technology to travel. I am also interested in coaching, entrepreneurship, reading, vlogging and programming.

I am a Father, International Speaker, Software Engineer, and Architect at Visionet Deutschland GmbH, currently living in Germany. My interests range from technology to travel. I am also interested in coaching, entrepreneurship, reading, vlogging and ... Show more

Kevin Griffin has been running production .NET applications and teaching developers for over two decades. A 16-time Microsoft MVP specializing in ASP.NET Core and Azure, Kevin brings real-world experience from his own SaaS products alongside his consulting work at Swift Kick. He's hosted the Hampton Roads .NET User Group since 2009 and founded RevolutionVA, the nonprofit behind Hampton Roads DevFest. Kevin's talks blend hard-won lessons from production systems with practical advice you can use Monday morning.

Kevin Griffin has been running production .NET applications and teaching developers for over two decades. A 16-time Microsoft MVP specializing in ASP.NET Core and Azure, Kevin brings real-world experience from his own SaaS products alongside his cons... Show more

Sagar is a Staff Android Engineer who has been building apps for 11 years now. He is also a Google developer expert in Android and a co-organizer for Google Developer Groups at Boston and enjoys educating for the mobile dev community.

Sagar is a Staff Android Engineer who has been building apps for 11 years now. He is also a Google developer expert in Android and a co-organizer for Google Developer Groups at Boston and enjoys educating for the mobile dev community. Show more

Himanshu Goil is a technology founder and practitioner focused on implementing artificial intelligence in regulated and public sector environments. As the CEO of Ignatiuz and the founder of TechForGov, he focuses on bringing practical, scalable, and ethical AI to organizations that want to modernize the way they work and serve their communities. He has built and exited ventures such as MyLink and Accelance Partners, along with launching products like ScoutFoto and WebTalkx.

Himanshu is the creator of IGNA™, an AI platform designed to help governments, schools, and enterprises adopt Agentic AI Systems with trust, structure, and measurable outcomes.

With more than two decades of experience across SaaS development, cloud modernization, and intelligent automation, he has led transformation programs for local governments, school districts, nonprofit organizations, and global enterprises. He is a frequent speaker at technology and AI conferences, where he shares insights on Responsible AI, governance, and the practical rise of Agentic AI.

Hi-res picture: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/69vucjz3ihxhlanwnj126/AAhJCIMUrEzfgCw0KD5-_DM?rlkey=1o0tbc19k6d4y4yxc4cxydy6u&st=zudqhsyh&dl=0

Himanshu Goil is a technology founder and practitioner focused on implementing artificial intelligence in regulated and public sector environments. As the CEO of Ignatiuz and the founder of TechForGov, he focuses on bringing practical, scalable, and ... Show more

Michelle Sandford is a Developer Engagement Leader who writes code, builds with GitHub and Azure AI, and learns out loud. She likes sharing what’s useful (and what isn’t), and believes shipping is better than talking about it:

- A community builder, connecting MVPs, user groups, universities, and developer communities into thriving ecosystems that learn together and lift each other higher.
- A technical storyteller, Michelle shapes how the world talks about AI‑powered engineering and Azure innovation bringing clarity, curiosity, and creativity to every conversation.
- A program strategist, designing scalable, repeatable motions that help developers grow their capability and confidence at pace with a rapidly evolving industry.
- A bridge between engineering and the field making sure developers feel heard, supported, and empowered, from the first line of code to the final production push.

Michelle Sandford is a Developer Engagement Leader who writes code, builds with GitHub and Azure AI, and learns out loud. She likes sharing what’s useful (and what isn’t), and believes shipping is better than talking about it: - A community builde... Show more

Shawn Dorward is Vice President of the SMB Division (Fulcrum Group) at sa.global and a seasoned business and technology leader with over 25 years of experience in ERP and CRM implementations. His expertise spans a wide range of industries and organizations—from small family-owned businesses to complex global deployments—driving digital transformation and delivering measurable business value.

Recognized as a 7-time Microsoft MVP for Business Applications, Shawn is deeply passionate about helping businesses maximize efficiency and ROI through strategic use of technology. His dedication to the Microsoft Dynamics community is evident in his frequent speaking engagements at user groups, conferences, and online events across the U.S.

Shawn shares practical insights and productivity tips through his popular blog www.LifeHacks365.com, covering Dynamics 365 (including Dynamics GP and Business Central) and Office 365 tools like Excel and Outlook.

Embracing the next wave of innovation, Shawn is currently exploring the power of AI and Microsoft Copilot. Through his platform www.TheWorldsOkayestShawn.com, he documents his journey with podcasts, blog posts, and life hacks—all designed to help others save time, increase efficiency, and navigate their own Copilot adventures.

Shawn Dorward is Vice President of the SMB Division (Fulcrum Group) at sa.global and a seasoned business and technology leader with over 25 years of experience in ERP and CRM implementations. His expertise spans a wide range of industries and organiz... Show more

Anton is an AWS Community Hero and helps companies around the globe build solutions using AWS, and specializes in infrastructure-as-code, DevOps, and reusable infrastructure components.

He spends much of his time as an open-source contributor on various Terraform & AWS projects, such as Terraform AWS modules (downloaded more than 2 billion times), Terraform best practices ebook (www.terraform-best-practices.com), doing serverless with Terraform (serverless.tf), Terraform Weekly (weekly.tf), Your Weekly Dose of Terraform (http://bit.ly/terraform-youtube).

Anton is an AWS Community Hero and helps companies around the globe build solutions using AWS, and specializes in infrastructure-as-code, DevOps, and reusable infrastructure components. He spends much of his time as an open-source contributor on v... Show more

An AI Specialist and Wizard at Leading EDJE who is known to teach software engineering, AI, and data science concepts in the most ridiculous ways possible. Matt has used machine learning to settle debates over whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie, reinforcement learning to drive the behavior of digital squirrels, data analytics to suggest improvements to his favorite TV show, and AI agents to play board games and create an AI agent with the personality of a dog. Matt is the author of "Data Science in .NET with Polyglot Notebooks" and "Refactoring with C#" as well as several LinkedIn Learning courses. Matt helps organize the Central Ohio .NET Developer Group, runs several blogs and a YouTube channel, has a Master’s of Science in Data Analytics, and is a current Microsoft MVP in AI and .NET.

An AI Specialist and Wizard at Leading EDJE who is known to teach software engineering, AI, and data science concepts in the most ridiculous ways possible. Matt has used machine learning to settle debates over whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie, r... Show more

I began my career as a business and technology consultant, quickly transitioning into implementation and BI development. I’ve used several BI tools along the way—Tableau, Domo, and Spotfire—but Power BI has been the core of my work for many years.

My focus started with data visualization and clear data communication, and has grown to include data architecture and development practices. I’m currently working with Microsoft Fabric and promoting the use of source control and CI/CD to improve the Power BI development lifecycle.

I began my career as a business and technology consultant, quickly transitioning into implementation and BI development. I’ve used several BI tools along the way—Tableau, Domo, and Spotfire—but Power BI has been the core of my work for many years. ... Show more

Jérôme is a professional coach, agile coach, facilitator and trainer.
For 19 years, he has been one of the pioneers who have develop an agile culture within Lectra teams. He is now in charge of a team of internal coaches that he created and who support his company in its many changes.
Passionate about human dynamics, he has developed over the years an expertise in the fields of agility, change management and the management of teams and organizations.
Active member of the Agile community and of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council France, he likes to share his experience and his convictions through conferences and training.

Jérôme is a professional coach, agile coach, facilitator and trainer. For 19 years, he has been one of the pioneers who have develop an agile culture within Lectra teams. He is now in charge of a team of internal coaches that he created and who supp... Show more

8+ years of successfully leading a process improvement and automation agency, specializing in RPA using MS Power Automate (and the suite by Softomotive prior to 2020).

Over 200 projects delivered to more than 100 clients worldwide either personally or via a directly managed team of developers. Over 10 million EUR in accumulated savings reported by clients due to these projects.

Personally trained numerous automation developers to work with the Power Platform and related software.

Microsoft Business Applications MVP.

8+ years of successfully leading a process improvement and automation agency, specializing in RPA using MS Power Automate (and the suite by Softomotive prior to 2020). Over 200 projects delivered to more than 100 clients worldwide either personall... Show more

Geoff Ables is a keynote speaker, best-selling author, and a Microsoft MVP recognized in the Copilot, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and Modern Work (SharePoint, Teams and Viva) categories.

A recognized thought leader on artificial intelligence and people-centric digital transformation, Geoff's most recent book, "The LUCK Principle: Business Results at the Intersection of People and Profit," delivers fresh insight and inspiration into the people, processes, and technologies driving business ROI today.

His firm, C5 Insight, has twice been named an Inc 5000 company, and advises clients on digital customer and employee experience projects.

Geoff is also an avid motorcycle and wine enthusiast and has appeared as a guest on TruTVs's, "The Impractical Jokers."

Geoff Ables is a keynote speaker, best-selling author, and a Microsoft MVP recognized in the Copilot, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and Modern Work (SharePoint, Teams and Viva) categories. A recognized thought leader on artificial intelligence an... Show more