Business & Management

Professionals who specialize in the organization and oversight of business activities, as well as focus on planning, directing, and controlling company operations

Jorge Bublitz

Jorge Bublitz

Software Engineer with over 30 years of experience in software development, architecture, and management. Holds a Master’s degree in Software Engineering and a postgraduate specialization in the same field. Active member of the Agile Alliance and signatory of the Agile Manifesto, contributing to the evolution of agile practices in the industry.

Expert in Feature-Driven Development (FDD), Lean, Scrum, and certified as a Professional Scrum Master (PSM I).

Author of several publications in specialized magazines, including Clube Delphi, Engenharia de Software Magazine, Mundo PM, and MicroSistemas.

Regular speaker at national and international conferences, including renowned events such as Agile Trends 2023, Agile Brazil 2013 and 2024, Ágiles 2011 (Argentina), CodeRage III, Borcon 2007, and the 6th ConAgile (2024).

Software Engineer with over 30 years of experience in software development, architecture, and management. Holds a Master’s degree in Software Engineering and a postgraduate specialization in the same field. Active member of the Agile Alliance and sig... Show more

Cory House

Cory House

Cory is an author, a 12 time Microsoft MVP, and international speaker. He is founder of reactjsconsulting, where he helps companies transition to React. He has trained over 10,000 software developers at conferences and businesses worldwide. Cory has authored over a dozen courses on JavaScript, React, C#, testing, and web development on Pluralsight and Dometrain. He shares software development tips daily on X as @housecor.

Cory is an author, a 12 time Microsoft MVP, and international speaker. He is founder of reactjsconsulting, where he helps companies transition to React. He has trained over 10,000 software developers at conferences and businesses worldwide. Cory has ... Show more

Tinatin Balavadze

Tinatin Balavadze

Tinatin Balavadze is a Software Engineer at Zalando, working across mobile, AI-assisted development, and workflow design. Before writing code, she built learning systems, coached leaders, and designed programs that helped people think, learn, and scale.
Today, she blends engineering with systems thinking — teaching teams to reduce noise, protect focus, and build workflows that don’t burn out the humans using them.
Her talks connect code, cognition, and career design in ways that help people ship work and stay well.

Tinatin Balavadze is a Software Engineer at Zalando, working across mobile, AI-assisted development, and workflow design. Before writing code, she built learning systems, coached leaders, and designed programs that helped people think, learn, and sca... Show more

Ashley Rivera

Ashley Rivera

I speak to leaders and teams navigating fragmented data, manual processes, and growing organizational complexity who want systems they can rely on, not workarounds.

With over 15 years of experience leading teams and operations, including more than 6 years owning enterprise data architecture, analytics platforms, and automation, I work closely with executive leadership to align data decisions with real business priorities. My focus is not on tools for their own sake, but on clarity, trust, and long term ownership.

I am known for simplifying complex environments, reducing unnecessary tools, and establishing clear standards for data quality and integration so reporting holds up in real world use. Most recently, I led enterprise automation and integration initiatives that generated over $274K in annualized recurring value within a single quarter, while strengthening data trust across the organization.

Audiences value my ability to translate technical complexity into practical, executive relevant guidance that resonates with both leadership and practitioners. My sessions are grounded in real enterprise experience and focus on decision confidence, adoption, and sustainable operating models.

In addition to my full time role, I lead A River of Data, advising founders and finance leaders on designing practical, well governed BI and automation systems that support sustainable growth.

I work best with organizations that care about building technology that works for people, not just systems.

Topics I Speak On

• Making data meaningful for people, not just systems
• Reducing tool sprawl and restoring trust in reporting
• Designing data and automation systems that scale with the business
• From dashboards to decisions: enabling leadership confidence
• Data governance that supports adoption, not friction
• Change management for analytics and automation initiatives
• Bridging the gap between technical teams and executive leadership

Attendees Leave With

• A clear framework for evaluating data and reporting environments
• Practical guidance for reducing manual work and system fragmentation
• A stronger understanding of how trust in data is built and sustained
• Insight into aligning data and automation initiatives with business priorities
• Language and structure for leading change, not just implementing tools

I speak to leaders and teams navigating fragmented data, manual processes, and growing organizational complexity who want systems they can rely on, not workarounds. With over 15 years of experience leading teams and operations, including more than... Show more

Peer Grønnerup

Peer Grønnerup

Peer is a seasoned Data & BI professional with over 15 years of experience delivering enterprise-grade analytics solutions across industries. He recently joined Tabular Editor as a Technical Architect & Community Advocate, where he helps shape the future of semantic modeling while supporting the global data community.

Previously, Peer was a key member of the twoday Microsoft Fabric expert group, where he helped define best practice frameworks for Fabric implementations - ranging from metadata-driven ingestion and transformation patterns to CI/CD pipelines and scalable ways of working across environments.

Peer’s involvement with Microsoft Fabric began in 2022 as part of the early private preview of what was then known as Project Trident. This early engagement has given him deep, practical insights into the platform’s architecture and evolution, making him a trusted authority on modern data engineering with Fabric.

Driven by a passion for community, innovation, and quality, Peer regularly shares his knowledge through blogs, talks, and open-source contributions - empowering others to unlock the full potential of their data platforms.

Peer is a seasoned Data & BI professional with over 15 years of experience delivering enterprise-grade analytics solutions across industries. He recently joined Tabular Editor as a Technical Architect & Community Advocate, where he helps shape the fu... Show more

Scott Sosna

Scott Sosna

Architect, engineer, designer, speaker, writer - professionally I've worn many hats spanning diverse business domains and tech stacks, and know a new challenge awaits!

Conferences allow me to share my experiences and insights to help you navigate our constantly-changing technical landscape with confidence. Though implementations differ, the underlying solutions - and problems within - often repeat. My goal is to share what I've learned so you can recognize patterns and make better decisions in your own work.

Architect, engineer, designer, speaker, writer - professionally I've worn many hats spanning diverse business domains and tech stacks, and know a new challenge awaits! Conferences allow me to share my experiences and insights to help you navigate ... Show more

Thao Tran

Thao Tran

Thao Tran is a visionary entrepreneur, digital wellness leader and marketing strategist with over 15 years of global experience shaping campaigns for some of the world’s most recognized brands. She is the Founder & CEO of Ditox, a pioneering digital wellness company that helps businesses, families and individuals reclaim control over their digital lives.

Thao holds a Bachelor of Business & Commerce from Monash University and has further studied Podiatry, Arts, Branding and Psychology at La Trobe University, Monash University and The University of Virginia. Her career spans senior roles in digital content and marketing strategy for global organizations including Qatar Airways, Pearson, L'Oréal Paris and Maybelline New York. Her campaigns have consistently delivered industry-leading results, including record-breaking engagement rates and market share growth.

As a keynote speaker and mental health advocate, Thao has presented on international stages including Google, Women Who Code, Insight Academy and the International Families & Fathers Conference in Los Angeles, where she champions digital wellbeing, mental resilience and inclusive leadership. She also coaches the next generation of leaders as an industry mentor at La Trobe University and is a guest judge for the international Daddying Film Festival & Forum.

Born in Melbourne to Vietnamese refugee parents, Thao brings a unique lens of resilience, inclusion, and creativity to everything she does. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a Finalist in the Australian Small Business Champion Awards and her work has been endorsed by global thought leaders.

Beyond business, Thao is a multidisciplinary creative who has trained in script analysis and presenting at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), The Acting Career Center, The Actor's Station, The Hub Studio, performed internationally and has appeared in campaigns and productions including Every Bit Different, the TarraWarra Museum of Art, Sports Entertainment Network, White Fever, Gnomes, and All Her Fault. Her creative and marketing work has been featured in prominent media outlets including The Herald Sun, The Sydney Morning Herald, WHO Magazine, NBCUniversal, BBC, ABC, 3AW, National Library of Australia, United States Tennis Association, Digital Entrepreneur, Voyage LA, Fact Magazine and Business Times Journal, reflecting her influence across media, wellness and creative industries. Her experience in the creative industry inspired her to found Ditox, where she now focuses on digital wellbeing, mental health and fostering human connection across communities, including programs that address mental strength and artist wellbeing.

A visionary entrepreneur and creative leader, Thao inspires audiences to reimagine human connection in the digital age. She has lead Ditox and shaping global brands across Australia, London, New York, Los Angeles, and the Middle East and continues to bridge innovation, wellness and digital culture worldwide.

Currently based in Australia, her company Ditox will be expanding in the United States in 2026/2027.

Thao Tran is a visionary entrepreneur, digital wellness leader and marketing strategist with over 15 years of global experience shaping campaigns for some of the world’s most recognized brands. She is the Founder & CEO of Ditox, a pioneering digital ... Show more

Johan Heimar Prieto Benavides

Johan Heimar Prieto Benavides

Johan is a Systems Engineer with over 15 years of experience. He began as a software developer and grew to be a leader in software architecture and DevOps projects, especially in banking and telecom.

Besides his main job, he's passionate about being a speaker and a writer. Johan has even written a book in Spanish called 'DevOps en nuestra lengua', sharing his knowledge and experiences.

He's worked in various fields like state banking and telecoms, always bringing his practical skills to each project. Johan likes to mix new ideas with good management, which has helped many businesses.

On the other hand, constantly seeking to train, learn, and explore new areas in the field of computer engineering.

Johan is a Systems Engineer with over 15 years of experience. He began as a software developer and grew to be a leader in software architecture and DevOps projects, especially in banking and telecom. Besides his main job, he's passionate about bei... Show more

Joanne Gouaillier

Joanne Gouaillier

Je suis tombée dans l'agilité il y a déjà pas mal d'années, sans en connaître le nom. Ce mindset, ainsi que ses valeurs et principes, sont pour moi cruciaux pour toute organisation, toute démarche, tout projet. Non pas que les méthodes liées à l'agilité soient toujours les + adaptées, mais ce mindset fondé sur l'humain, l'écoute, la co-construction, l'adaptation et la création de valeur est transposable à toutes les échelles. Je suis aujourd'hui coach pour les équipes agiles, et j'accompagne aussi l'individu et les organisations à se transformer.

Je suis tombée dans l'agilité il y a déjà pas mal d'années, sans en connaître le nom. Ce mindset, ainsi que ses valeurs et principes, sont pour moi cruciaux pour toute organisation, toute démarche, tout projet. Non pas que les méthodes liées à l'agil... Show more

Haaron Gonzalez

Haaron Gonzalez

I hold a Bachelor of Computer Science with a specialization in networking and am certified as a Microsoft MCP, MCAD, and MCTS. I’ve also been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for 17 consecutive years.

I currently work as a Functional Consultant in the Digital Productivity Team within IT Solutions at Smurfit Westrock, supporting the Digital Workplace globally. My focus is on cloud productivity and digital workspace solutions, helping teams adopt Microsoft 365 tools in practical, scalable ways that improve collaboration and everyday work.

I hold a Bachelor of Computer Science with a specialization in networking and am certified as a Microsoft MCP, MCAD, and MCTS. I’ve also been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for 17 consecutive years. I currently work as a Functional Consultant in th... Show more

Martin Merino Eiró

Martin Merino Eiró

Martín Merino is a partner at BeUpFlow, a team of consultants who develop senior talent to help companies transform and boost their growth. As an Agile Professional, he develops interdisciplinary transformation projects promoting intrapreneurship and applying Agile methodologies. He is a trainer, mentor, coach and content creator.

Author of the book "Lean Blitz: Mejora tu proceso de negocio radicalmente" (https://amzn.eu/d/aFwId7R)

With a degree in Physical Sciences, he has studied Business Innovation Management and Management and specialized in various agile methodologies such as Design Thinking, Lean Startup, Scrum, Kanban, etc. He has been trained as an Agile Coach by the Telefónica Agile Academy and is certified as a Scrum Master Professional, Lean Change agent, Team Kanban Practitioner or SAFe agilist, among others.

With more than 9 years of experience as a strategic and transformation consultant in companies in the telco sector, he has worked on innovation and efficiency projects in operations and network areas, putting models such as Lean Management and Agile into practice.

He is a collaborating professor in the University Expert Program in agile methodologies at the International University of La Rioja (UNIR) in Spain and is part of its mentoring program for university students.

In accordance with his commitment to sustainability and rural and natural development, he lives in a small town far from Madrid surrounded by mountains, forests and enjoying his animals.

Martín Merino is a partner at BeUpFlow, a team of consultants who develop senior talent to help companies transform and boost their growth. As an Agile Professional, he develops interdisciplinary transformation projects promoting intrapreneurship and... Show more

Brian Zimmer

Brian Zimmer

Brian has been an innovation leader at Don’t Panic Labs since its creation in 2010. He currently leads business development and product strategy, consulting with hundreds of businesses of all sizes and stages. Brian leverages a diverse set of experiences in blending software engineering, design thinking, and innovation processes to bring visions to reality.

Additional professional experiences include launching an IT consulting practice, investing in venture deals, and teaching as faculty at the Jeffrey S. Raikes School at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln. Brian has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has attained agile certifications.

Brian has been an innovation leader at Don’t Panic Labs since its creation in 2010. He currently leads business development and product strategy, consulting with hundreds of businesses of all sizes and stages. Brian leverages a diverse set of experie... Show more

Michael Blumenthal

Michael Blumenthal

Michael Blumenthal is a Microsoft MVP and the Microsoft Product Manager at NORC. He leads a team of technology service owners that manage and support NORC's investments in Microsoft technology. His team helps teams of business people be more productive and ensures that the organization gets value from its Microsoft 365 investment. As a technical community leader, he is one of the organizers of the M365Chicago events. As a public speaker, he can be found speaking on business technology topics including M365 service change management, Microsoft 365 Copilot, employee experience and user adoption/user enablement, the modern workplace, business productivity, collaboration, and Microsoft 365. See him year-round at technology events and user groups as well as national conferences such as Microsoft Ignite.

Michael has deep expertise in Microsoft collaboration technologies. After starting his career as a software developer building intranets for conferences, he started working with SharePoint Portal Server 2003 when it was in beta. His life has never been the same. He’s designed, implemented, and supported intranets, extranets, and Internet sites for clients in a diverse set of markets. He’s been leading teams to successfully plan, deploy, and support the broader set of Microsoft 365 collaboration workloads since 2014. Michael holds numerous Microsoft certifications including the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Productivity certification and previously held the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from the Project Management Institute.

Microsoft first recognized Michael as an MVP in 2015. He has also been recognized as an INETA Community Champion in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. He was the first member of the Microsoft Midwest Toastmasters club to obtain the Competent Communicator, Advanced Communicator Bronze, and Advanced Communicator Silver awards.

Michael Blumenthal is a Microsoft MVP and the Microsoft Product Manager at NORC. He leads a team of technology service owners that manage and support NORC's investments in Microsoft technology. His team helps teams of business people be more producti... Show more

Shaurya Agrawal

Shaurya Agrawal

Shaurya Agrawal is a Data & Analytics leader with 25+ years of experience driving transformative initiatives across Tech/SaaS, E-commerce and FinTech. With expertise in AI/ML, Enterprise Data Architecture and BI, Shaurya has led impactful projects, creating customer-centric solutions and modernizing data platforms. As a Board Advisor to Hoonartek and CTO of YourNxt Technologies, a mobile tech start-up, Shaurya shapes global data strategies.

Holding an MBA and pursuing an MS in Data Science from UT Austin, Shaurya leverages data to unlock business value, specializing in unified customer views and personalized experiences.

Shaurya Agrawal is a Data & Analytics leader with 25+ years of experience driving transformative initiatives across Tech/SaaS, E-commerce and FinTech. With expertise in AI/ML, Enterprise Data Architecture and BI, Shaurya has led impactful projects, c... Show more

Varun Kulkarni

Varun Kulkarni

Varun Kulkarni is an AI Product Leader with 10+ years of experience building and scaling AI platforms, Business AI applications, and agentic AI ecosystems across Microsoft, Cisco, and Deloitte. He has launched 10+ 0–1 products reaching 500M+ users and driving $200M+ in revenue. At Microsoft, he leads multiple agentic AI ecosystem initiatives across Microsoft 365 Copilot and Teams, including partner incubation and forward-deployed engineering to help enterprises deploy and scale Modern Work agents with measurable adoption and business impact. Previously at Cisco, he built and launched AI agent platform capabilities for Webex across global markets, and earlier at Deloitte he led cross-functional teams and go-to-market execution for enterprise AI platforms and customer implementations.

Varun is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and serves on the AI Advisory Board at Northwestern University. He also advises AI initiatives and startups through advisory roles with the University of Toronto and the University of Washington.

He holds an M.S. and an MBA from Northwestern University, and is an invited keynote speaker at multiple conferences where he shares insights on AI Agents, Agentic AI Ecosystems, Enterprise AI Transformation, AI Trust and Evaluation, Scaling Developer and Partner Ecosystems, GTM and Business Development

Varun Kulkarni is an AI Product Leader with 10+ years of experience building and scaling AI platforms, Business AI applications, and agentic AI ecosystems across Microsoft, Cisco, and Deloitte. He has launched 10+ 0–1 products reaching 500M+ users an... Show more

Catherine (Cat) Karow

Catherine (Cat) Karow

Cat Karow is the Founder & CEO of ZoraSafe, a zero-trust cybersecurity platform built to protect the most targeted (and most overlooked) users online: seniors, kids, and everyday people navigating a world of AI-driven scams and digital manipulation. After two decades building complex, high-impact systems for others, Cat is now building something that hits close to home: real-time protection with human-first design.

Cat led product at Apple, ran U.S. ops for McLaren F1, and secured systems for the White House. She scaled HiPerGator, built enterprise tools for Fortune 100s, and now heads Tech Ops at GuidePoint Security. She's a founding member of Hack The Box and Women in HPC.

But despite the prestige, Cat’s proudest work isn’t behind firewalls, it’s in the living rooms of people who never had protection in the first place. ZoraSafe is her answer to the digital threat crisis: an AI-powered platform that doesn't just detect scams, but teaches users how to defend themselves in real time. Think scam detection meets Duolingo (with teeth).

A disabled, self-taught technologist who built her career without a degree, Cat blends elite experience with unshakable grit. She’s not just here to talk about security—she’s here to rewire how we think about it.

Cat Karow is the Founder & CEO of ZoraSafe, a zero-trust cybersecurity platform built to protect the most targeted (and most overlooked) users online: seniors, kids, and everyday people navigating a world of AI-driven scams and digital manipulation. ... Show more

Grzegorz Sztandera

Grzegorz Sztandera

I’m an expert in project, product and IT team management, conference speaker, public speaking coach, book author and TEDx organiser.

I work in the financial sector, leading complex tech projects - including those related to digital identity. My role sits at the crossroads of IT, business and governance, where aligning perspectives is a daily challenge. In the past I’ve built DevOps team and entire competence area from scratch, always with a focus on communication, agility and a solid dose of common sense. I don’t believe in blindly following frameworks - I believe in people, collaboration and context-driven decisions.

I speak at conferences across Poland and Europe, running talks and workshops on leadership, agile, communication and teamwork. I also deliver my own trainings based on the LEGO® Serious Play® method. I’m preparing speakers for TEDx events and organising TEDxUniversity of Lodz / TEDxPabianice - events that gathers big audience and strong online engagement.

I hold degrees from the University of Łódź (International Relations and HR Management), MBA from Lodz University of Technology and Illinois State University, and a postgraduate diploma in IT Project Management. Outside of work, I’m a dad of two sons – which is great preparation for agile coaching. I write humorous, educational books for kids and collect the finest corporate memes life has to offer.

I love teaching, creating, connecting – and I always ask one question: “What if we did it differently?”

I’m an expert in project, product and IT team management, conference speaker, public speaking coach, book author and TEDx organiser. I work in the financial sector, leading complex tech projects - including those related to digital identity. My ro... Show more

Mo Salha (Mr.Mo)

Mo Salha (Mr.Mo)

Mo Salha is a business developer and strategist at the intersection of Web3, AI, and digital culture. As Head of Business Development and Shareholder at theMiracle.io, he leads partnerships for the first wallet-native perks and rewards infrastructure integrated directly into MetaMask and other top wallets. theMiracle’s AI-powered clustering engine enables projects and brands to reach verified users through real, on-chain engagement, achieving 50–70% CTRs and redefining user acquisition in Web3.

Mo is also the Founder of AXS Agency, a Web3 consultancy guiding global brands like Diesel, Maison Margiela, Jil Sander, and Marni in leveraging blockchain, AI, and digital innovation to enhance brand engagement and community building.

Before entering Web3, Mo studied Automotive Business Specialization at Mercedes-Benz and served as an Area Manager at Vodafone, where he developed his leadership and growth mindset across large-scale retail and operations. His journey from corporate management to decentralized innovation, positions him as a bridge between traditional enterprise and the new era of digital ownership, identity, and loyalty.

Mo Salha is a business developer and strategist at the intersection of Web3, AI, and digital culture. As Head of Business Development and Shareholder at theMiracle.io, he leads partnerships for the first wallet-native perks and rewards infrastructure... Show more

Lilian Stenholt

Lilian Stenholt

Lilian Stenholt combines tech know-how with a communicator’s mindset – breaking down complexity and building Power Platform solutions that just make sense. With 20+ years of experience in the software world and as a recognised Power App Champion, she’s been leading the charge on governance, UX, and business impact for over a decade.

With a background in both communications and software development, Lilian has a knack for breaking down complex concepts in ways that make sense. Since transitioning to the Power Platform in 2017, she has become an expert in Power Platform Governance as well as creating holistic , user-friendly Power solutions.

Over her career, she has focused on creating tailored digital solutions, with a deep dedication to understanding end-user needs. When building Power solutions, Lilian is especially passionate about creating solutions that ensure a seamless and intuitive experience for the users.

Lilian brings practical insights and a genuine enthusiasm for helping others make the most of the Power Platform, while keeping the user experience at the forefront.

Lilian Stenholt combines tech know-how with a communicator’s mindset – breaking down complexity and building Power Platform solutions that just make sense. With 20+ years of experience in the software world and as a recognised Power App Champion, she... Show more

Ivan Milanov

Ivan Milanov

Ivan is an Engineering Manager, holding a Master’s degree in Software Engineering and IT Management, Microsoft Certified Professional, Scrum Evangelist, Stoic Thinker, and creator of the 3S Method — a practical blend of Scrum, Stoicism, and Systems Thinking.

With 15+ years in software development, including 5+ in leadership, he has worked internationally across Benelux, Scandinavia, the USA, DACH, and Spain. His experience spans hands-on engineering, Agile leadership, people management, and guiding organizations through complex change.

In his role as an Engineering Manager, Ivan thrives at the intersection of technology, people, and resilient leadership. He is passionate about complex projects, AI, asynchronous collaboration, and building strong teams grounded in feedback culture and continuous improvement.

On stage as "The Agile Jedi", he presents his 3S Method to help teams simplify complexity, make better decisions, and stay focused and calm under pressure.

Outside of work, Ivan enjoys guitar music 🎸, basketball 🏀, road trips 🚐, AI, and a slight note-taking obsession.

"Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work." – Aristotle

Ivan is an Engineering Manager, holding a Master’s degree in Software Engineering and IT Management, Microsoft Certified Professional, Scrum Evangelist, Stoic Thinker, and creator of the 3S Method — a practical blend of Scrum, Stoicism, and Systems T... Show more

Ricardo Gonzalez

Ricardo Gonzalez

CTO and Technology Executive with over 28 years of experience driving digital transformation across diverse industries including Telco, Healthcare, Banking, Startups, and Digital Marketing. I specialize in designing and delivering mission-critical cloud solutions for organizations across Latin America, leading high-performing teams in complex environments. Recognized as a Microsoft Regional Director and AWS Ambassador, I have deep expertise in cloud architecture, DevOps, and responsible AI-driven transformation within both the Microsoft and AWS ecosystems. A frequent speaker at industry conferences and a mentor, I am passionate about empowering professionals by sharing knowledge and real-world experiences. I work closely with organizations to bridge the gap between strategy and execution, helping them leverage automation, machine learning, and intelligent platforms to create long-term value, drive innovation, and deliver measurable business impact.

Talk to me about: PaaS, Cloud Computing, IoT, DevOps, Robotics, Machine Learning, Generative AI, Blockchain, Cloud Operations
Https://ricardogonzalez.me

CTO and Technology Executive with over 28 years of experience driving digital transformation across diverse industries including Telco, Healthcare, Banking, Startups, and Digital Marketing. I specialize in designing and delivering mission-critical cl... Show more

Mark Michaelis

Mark Michaelis

Chief Technical Architect, Founder, Author of Essential C# series, Microsoft Regional Director and MVP

Mark Michaelis (itl.tc/Mark) founded IntelliTect, a high-end software development company based in Spokane, Washington. When not leading his company, he teaches at Eastern Washington University, presents conference sessions on technology and leadership, or delivers updates for the next edition of his book.

A world-class C# expert who honed his engineering skills by serving on several Microsoft software design review teams, including C#, Azure, and Azure DevOps, Mark is the author of Essential C# (itl.tc/EssentialCSharp). As a direct result of his work with C# and Azure DevOps, Mark has been a distinguished Microsoft MVP for over 25 years and a Microsoft Regional Director since 2007. A firm believer in autonomy, mastery and purpose, Mark’s management and leadership style enables him to successfully handle a day with only 24 hours in it.

Mark and his wife, Elisabeth, have invested a significant amount of the profit generated by IntelliTect into fighting debilitating poverty around the world. They have done this by thoughtfully partnering with charity organizations to increase access to basic food and water infrastructure, improve educational opportunities, and fight injustices like human trafficking and the systematic oppression of women.

When not bonding with his computer, Mark enjoys Frisbee, soccer, biking, and showing his kids real life in other countries. Mark lives in Spokane, Washington. He is looking forward to finding his next adventure following his return from traversing the length of Africa.

Chief Technical Architect, Founder, Author of Essential C# series, Microsoft Regional Director and MVP Mark Michaelis (itl.tc/Mark) founded IntelliTect, a high-end software development company based in Spokane, Washington. When not leading his com... Show more

Svitlana Samko

Svitlana Samko

Svitlana Samko is a leader and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. With her unwavering commitment to guiding and empowering others, she has made a significant impact on the careers and professional growth of numerous individuals.

As a Technical Project Manager at Verizon Connect and CEO of W2business IT Academy, Svitlana has demonstrated her exceptional mentoring skills by inspiring non-technical individuals to pursue and thrive in the IT field. Her dedication to helping others develop the necessary skills to embark on successful IT careers is truly inspiring.

Svitlana's influence extends beyond her professional roles. She serves as the President at Toastmasters, where she fosters an environment of learning and skill development. Additionally, she is the Lead of Circle of Women Association, actively championing gender equality and promoting opportunities for women in technology.

In recognition of her vast knowledge and expertise, Svitlana is actively involved in various mentoring programs and initiatives. She serves as an e-Mentor for EQUALS Tech4Girls, guiding and supporting young women in their pursuit of tech-related careers. In the ICT Skillnet Future in Tech Mentor Programme, she serves as a Mentor and Coach on the Web Developer path, helping aspiring professionals navigate the challenges of the industry.

Svitlana's dedication to community engagement is commendable. As a Co-organizer of Test IT Meetup and Dublin Agile Project Management Meetup, she fosters a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing and networking. She is also an active volunteer, contributing her time and expertise to organizations such as Junior Achievement Ireland and CoderDojo, where she mentors and teaches young children the fundamentals of computer programming.

Svitlana's impact reaches even further as she actively shares her knowledge and experiences as a champion and speaker at various IT conferences and panels. She has presented at esteemed events such as Agile Lean Ireland Conference, Browserstack ChatGPT Fireside panel, Google GDG Ireland, SnykCon, and EuropeClouds Summit. Her contributions to these platforms have inspired countless individuals and sparked meaningful discussions on the future of technology.

Svitlana Samko is a leader and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. With her unwavering commitment to guiding and empowering others, she has made a significant impact on the careers and professional growth of numerous individual... Show more

Allan Hirt

Allan Hirt

Business continuity, infrastructure, virtualization, and cloud expert, author, bass player, Styxologist, former Microsoft MVP as well as VMware vExpert, and SQLHA founder Allan Hirt has been working with SQL Server as well as clustering in Windows Server for far too long. He currently works for Microsoft as a Principal Technical Program Manager. He loves to travel the world to empower people through sharing his knowledge.

Business continuity, infrastructure, virtualization, and cloud expert, author, bass player, Styxologist, former Microsoft MVP as well as VMware vExpert, and SQLHA founder Allan Hirt has been working with SQL Server as well as clustering in Windows Se... Show more

Fiona Fruhinsholz

Fiona Fruhinsholz

Passionnée par la collaboration, j'explore depuis une dizaine d'années les nouveautés proposées par Microsoft et leur impact sur les utilisateurs.

Passionnée par la collaboration, j'explore depuis une dizaine d'années les nouveautés proposées par Microsoft et leur impact sur les utilisateurs. Show more

Ashraf Ghonaim

Ashraf Ghonaim

Ashraf Ghonaim is a Strategic Management Consultant and his core areas of expertise are: Strategy Management, Performance Measurement, Process Improvement and Data Analytics.

Ashraf holds a Computer Engineering degree and an MBA degree in Strategic Management with special emphasis on IT-Business Strategic Alignment using Balanced Scorecard. He is also a certified Balanced Scorecard Professional, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Project Management Professional (PMP).

Ashraf is the leader of Toronto Fabric & Power BI User Group and he has been a Microsoft MVP in Data Platform (Fabric & Power BI) since 2018. He is also a Microsoft Certified Trainer MCT and he teaches Fabric and Power BI courses at the University of Calgary. Ashraf is a co-author of 2 books about Power BI and Microsoft AI and he is a frequent community events organizer and speakers around Fabric and Power BI.

Ashraf Ghonaim is a Strategic Management Consultant and his core areas of expertise are: Strategy Management, Performance Measurement, Process Improvement and Data Analytics. Ashraf holds a Computer Engineering degree and an MBA degree in Strategi... Show more

Nadia Jiang

Nadia Jiang

Nadia Jiang is an entrepreneur, open-source enthusiastic, and DevRel expert. She currently serves as the Head of Open Source Growth at Ant Group, where she leads initiatives to drive innovation and collaboration within the open-source ecosystem. Previously, she was the COO of SegmentFault, China's largest developer Q&A community, and co-founder of Apache Answer.

Beyond her professional roles, Nadia is a passionate contributor to the global open-source community. She actively participates in organizations such as the China Open-Source Alliance (KAIYUANSHE), the Apache Software Foundation, OpenInfra Foundation, Linux Foundation, FOSSAsia, OpenUK, Chance Open-Source Foundation, China Computer Federation (CCF), and the China Institute of Communications (CIC). Her influence extends across borders, having spoken at major global open-source conferences, including CommunityOverCode Asia/EU/NA, Open Source Summit, State of Open Con, and FOSSAsia Summit.

Her dedication extends to organizing and volunteering for prominent open-source events. She serves as a core organizer and conference chair for events such as CommunityOverCode Asia, Dev.Together Summit China, and OSPO Summit China, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the developer community.

Nadia Jiang is an entrepreneur, open-source enthusiastic, and DevRel expert. She currently serves as the Head of Open Source Growth at Ant Group, where she leads initiatives to drive innovation and collaboration within the open-source ecosystem. Prev... Show more

Sue Bayes

Sue Bayes

Microsoft MVP Data Platform
Microsoft Certified: Fabric Data Engineer Associate, Fabric Analytics Engineer Associate, Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate, Power BI Data Analyst Associate

Over 7 years successfully working as an independent Power BI developer and data analyst within the public and private sector.

Reporting solutions range from project management, planning , financial reporting, specific service sector reporting, bespoke data cleansing and sentiment analysis.

15 years of lecturing in Business and Computing before starting my own business.

I am passionate about data in general and how we can harness information to grow business. Knowledge of R, SQL and C# but main love is Python, M and DAX.

When not in front of the screen, I love to run and walk my dog and be outside.

Microsoft MVP Data Platform Microsoft Certified: Fabric Data Engineer Associate, Fabric Analytics Engineer Associate, Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate, Power BI Data Analyst Associate Over 7 years successfully working as an independent Po... Show more

Lasse Nordvik Wedø

Lasse Nordvik Wedø

With over 25 years of hands-on experience in IT infrastructure, Lasse Nordvik Wedø is a Director at Cyber & Security KPMG Norge. His expertise includes Microsoft 365 Copilot, modern work, user adoption, unified communication, collaboration, identity and access management, device management, cybersecurity and general artificial intelligence. He currently helps customers preparing for Microsoft 365 Copilot and modern work, ensuring they stay secure and maximize their potential within their organizations.

Lasse is also an M365 Apps & Services MVP within Teams and Microsoft 365 Copilot, a prestigious recognition from Microsoft for his technical expertise and community contributions. He has received 11 awards since 2015, and co-authored the book “Lync Server Cookbook” from Packt Publishing. He is an international speaker, author, blogger, and a co-organizer of several events and communities related to Microsoft 365 and other Microsoft cloud technologies. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and insights with peers and customers, and driving innovation and excellence in the IT industry.

With over 25 years of hands-on experience in IT infrastructure, Lasse Nordvik Wedø is a Director at Cyber & Security KPMG Norge. His expertise includes Microsoft 365 Copilot, modern work, user adoption, unified communication, collaboration, identity ... Show more

Stephan Hochdörfer

Stephan Hochdörfer

Stephan Hochdörfer currently holds the position of Head of IT Business Operations at bitExpert AG, a company specializing in software and mobile development. His primary focus is everything related to web development as well as automation techniques ranging from code generation to deployment automation.

Stephan Hochdörfer currently holds the position of Head of IT Business Operations at bitExpert AG, a company specializing in software and mobile development. His primary focus is everything related to web development as well as automation techniques ... Show more

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