Joe Dana is a multi-media journalist in Phoenix covering public education, energy policy and climate.
Reports on schools examine:
-funding, academics and policy debates in the nation's first universal private voucher program, launched in 2023
-how federal, state and local tax dollars support three systems of education in Arizona (school districts, charter schools, ESA private vouchers)
-how billions of dollars flows from the state, to private voucher accounts, and then to education vendors, tutors, and retailers like Amazon. This multi-year investigation has led to an ongoing public records lawsuit brought by investigative reporter/colleague Craig Harris against the AZ Superintendent and Treasurer.
Joe's series, Power & Influence, examines climate and justice concerns in Arizona's energy sector. His stories exposed faulty customer service at Arizona's largest utility in 2019, prompting a $25 million class settlement. A 2025 investigation about utility shut-off deaths during extreme heat was credited by the AZ Attorney General for helping lead to a $7 million civil settlement for low-income customers.
Joe gets easily distracted, chasing random stories about stuff like birdwatching technology, the science of art therapy and what its like to walk Arizona's first barefoot forest trail.

Joe Dana is a multi-media journalist in Phoenix covering public education, energy policy and climate. Reports on schools examine: -funding, academics and policy debates in the nation's first universal private voucher program, launched in 2023 -how... Show more

Marieke arbeitete in mehreren Projekten an der Hochschule Osnabrück zu den Themen KI im Gesundheitswesen sowie digitale und KI-gestützte Hochschullehre. Seit Oktober 2025 koordiniert sie das Projekt "Innovative Lehr-/Lern-Tools entdecken, testen, bereitstellen" innerhalb des Digitale Lehre Hub Niedersachsen.

Marieke arbeitete in mehreren Projekten an der Hochschule Osnabrück zu den Themen KI im Gesundheitswesen sowie digitale und KI-gestützte Hochschullehre. Seit Oktober 2025 koordiniert sie das Projekt "Innovative Lehr-/Lern-Tools entdecken, testen, ber... Show more

Over 25 years of experience in Conflict Resolultions and Countering Violent Extremism. Internationally acclaimed expert with numerous speeches and papers. Since 9 years actively consulting government agencies and economic global players. Strong focus on taking human actors into account to make holistic solutions possible.

Over 25 years of experience in Conflict Resolultions and Countering Violent Extremism. Internationally acclaimed expert with numerous speeches and papers. Since 9 years actively consulting government agencies and economic global players. Strong focus... Show more

Hari Vamsi Krishna is a wastewater infrastructure analytics specialist focused on GIS, spatial-temporal analytics, and data-driven decision-making for municipal infrastructure systems. His work combines geospatial intelligence, condition assessment analytics, enterprise data management, and business intelligence to support infrastructure planning, rehabilitation prioritization, and operational performance improvement. He has experience developing analytical frameworks, dashboards, and digital workflows using GIS, Power BI, Python, and enterprise geodatabases. His research and speaking interests include infrastructure intelligence, predictive analytics, sewer rehabilitation planning, and digital transformation in utility asset management.

Hari Vamsi Krishna is a wastewater infrastructure analytics specialist focused on GIS, spatial-temporal analytics, and data-driven decision-making for municipal infrastructure systems. His work combines geospatial intelligence, condition assessment a... Show more

Espen Holtebu started his career as a solar engineer before moving into data engineering. A strong foundation in SQL and analytical thinking made the transition natural and fun.

Today Espen works with modern data platforms in the public sector, helping teams navigate the shift from legacy, GUI‑based tooling to code‑driven, transparent workflows. He focuses on practical enablement, organizational change, and building sustainable ways of working with data at scale.

Outside of work, Espen enjoys fishing and spending time in nature with his family.

Espen Holtebu started his career as a solar engineer before moving into data engineering. A strong foundation in SQL and analytical thinking made the transition natural and fun. Today Espen works with modern data platforms in the public sector, he... Show more

Prior to becoming the Senior Assessment Strategist at Riverside Insights, Dr. Lisa Micou championed students’ social-emotional needs as the Intervention & Training Specialist for Social Emotional Learning in a large division in VA, as a nationally certified school psychologist at both the elementary and high school levels in suburban Chicago and VA, and as an SEL4VA Leadership Team Member. She received her master’s and doctorate in psychology at Northern Illinois University and earned her post-master’s certificate in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from the University of Richmond where she now serves as an adjunct professor.

Prior to becoming the Senior Assessment Strategist at Riverside Insights, Dr. Lisa Micou championed students’ social-emotional needs as the Intervention & Training Specialist for Social Emotional Learning in a large division in VA, as a nationally ce... Show more

Dr. Richard L. Watkins is a scientist, strategist, and advocate working at the intersection of research, policy, and society. He is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of The Science Policy Action Network, Inc. (SPAN), where he is responsible for setting the organization’s overall direction and service strategy. He leads the development of SPAN’s consulting offerings and operational infrastructure, with a focus on impact across education, innovation, and public health.

Dr. Watkins holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a B.S. in Psychology from Fayetteville State University. His scientific background informs a systems-level approach to policy advising and program design, particularly in areas such as school safety, mental health, and science-based governance.

A dynamic communicator and bridge-builder, Dr. Watkins also hosts The Richard Watkins Podcast, a platform for thought leaders across disciplines. His work continues to shape public conversations and institutional strategies through science, equity, and community engagement.

Dr. Richard L. Watkins is a scientist, strategist, and advocate working at the intersection of research, policy, and society. He is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of The Science Policy Action Network, Inc. (SPAN), where he is responsible for setting ... Show more

Aufgewachsen in einem mehrsprachigen Umfeld, interessiere ich mich besonders dafür, wie Sprachen erworben werden und wie sich das eigene Selbstbild in verschiedenen Sprachen verändert. Fachlich liegen meine Schwerpunkte auf Mehrsprachigkeit, kultursensibler Sprachbildung und kritischen Perspektiven auf Native-Speakerism.

Aufgewachsen in einem mehrsprachigen Umfeld, interessiere ich mich besonders dafür, wie Sprachen erworben werden und wie sich das eigene Selbstbild in verschiedenen Sprachen verändert. Fachlich liegen meine Schwerpunkte auf Mehrsprachigkeit, kulturse... Show more

Ingeniero de Sistemas con más de 12 años de experiencia en banca, especializado en innovación tecnológica, automatización y liderazgo en transformación digital. Actualmente es Gerente Adjunto de Estrategia Tecnológica e Innovación en el BCP y fundador de Techspira, una comunidad que inspira a profesionales a integrar la tecnología con propósito, educación y ética. También enseña y comparte conocimientos sobre IA, habilidades del futuro y liderazgo digital.

Ingeniero de Sistemas con más de 12 años de experiencia en banca, especializado en innovación tecnológica, automatización y liderazgo en transformación digital. Actualmente es Gerente Adjunto de Estrategia Tecnológica e Innovación en el BCP y fundado... Show more

Dr. Vincent Chiew, a founder of Axis Cogni-Solve Limited. The company provide “Peace of Mind” consulting and professional development solutions. He has over 35 years of experience in global security, engineering, business transformation, project management, quality, safety, AI, and IT. This includes practically all critical infrastructure sectors, from enterprise to industrial and military industries. He has also taught at vocational centers, colleges, and universities up to the postgraduate level. He enjoys Ballroom, Latin, and Country Western dancing with his wife socially.

Dr. Vincent Chiew, a founder of Axis Cogni-Solve Limited. The company provide “Peace of Mind” consulting and professional development solutions. He has over 35 years of experience in global security, engineering, business transformation, project mana... Show more

After studying law and earning master’s degrees in political science and Chinese, Armony launched her first business in 2007 to create her own job following an illness. Since then, she has been working to promote digital accessibility through conferences, training sessions, writing a book, contributing to book chapters, and authoring articles…

After helping to draft version 3 of the General Framework for Improving Accessibility (RGAA), she joined the working group updating the technical framework for RGAA 5.

Armony has founded and led several companies, the most recent being Koena, but she now operates as a freelancer under the brand Itsula. She offers expertise, auditing, strategic consulting (multi-year digital accessibility plan), and training in digital accessibility and text simplification using the European Easy to Read (ETR) method.

After studying law and earning master’s degrees in political science and Chinese, Armony launched her first business in 2007 to create her own job following an illness. Since then, she has been working to promote digital accessibility through confere... Show more

Nandipa Sozoyi is a PhD candidate, transdisciplinary researcher, and systems thinker working at the intersection of Indigenous Knowledge Systems, digital infrastructure, spatial governance, and emerging technologies. Her research explores how knowledge systems function as adaptive infrastructures that inform contemporary challenges in AI, sustainability, governance, and technology design.

She is the founder of Noncedo Development Collective, a South African systems design and research initiative focused on ethical development architectures, knowledge infrastructures, and innovation ecosystems. Her work spans academic research, community innovation, and applied platform development, including community-based initiatives through Zithulele Development Collective and IKS SoMbo Connect, an emerging initiative exploring how Indigenous knowledge can be translated into digital and institutional systems.

Nandipa’s work has received innovation funding, featured in innovation showcases and collaborative initiatives, and increasingly bridges architecture, systems thinking, and technology futures. She also contributes to higher education through research mentorship and studio teaching while building models that connect research, communities, and emerging technologies.

Nandipa Sozoyi is a PhD candidate, transdisciplinary researcher, and systems thinker working at the intersection of Indigenous Knowledge Systems, digital infrastructure, spatial governance, and emerging technologies. Her research explores how knowled... Show more

Hemanth Tadepalli serves as the Cybersecurity & Compliance Subject Matter Expert (SME) at May Mobility, a company revolutionizing mobility through advanced autonomous vehicle technology. His career spans notable roles at prestigious organizations, including management consulting firm AlixPartners, cybersecurity leader Mandiant, tech giant Google, and Michigan-based cybersecurity startup SensCy.

Hemanth’s research focuses on advancing cybersecurity in critical areas such as autonomous vehicle security, Internet of Things (IoT) security, threat intelligence, risk management, API security, and election security. He was appointed by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to the Advisory Task Force overseeing statewide election security and integrity. Throughout his career, Hemanth has consistently demonstrated expertise in implementing and maintaining security measures to safeguard systems, networks, and data from cyber threats.

In addition to his technical contributions, Hemanth has published numerous articles on cybersecurity and emerging technologies, showcasing his thought leadership. He is a sought-after speaker, invited to present at prominent cybersecurity conferences, serve as a distinguished panelist, and share insights on technology-focused podcasts. His impactful work has earned him accolades, including the 40 Under 40 recognition from Oakland County, Michigan, and the Governor’s Service Award for his philanthropic efforts and community service in cybersecurity.

Hemanth earned his bachelor's degree from Kettering University in Computer Science with a concentration in cybersecurity and minors in Pre-Law, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. He also pursued his Master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Information from the University of California, Berkeley, further advancing his research and expertise in the field. Hemanth currently serves in office for the City of Troy and is a Board of Director for Kettering University.

Hemanth Tadepalli serves as the Cybersecurity & Compliance Subject Matter Expert (SME) at May Mobility, a company revolutionizing mobility through advanced autonomous vehicle technology. His career spans notable roles at prestigious organizations, in... Show more

Mosongo Danfold is a Tech Policy Advocate & Cybersecurity and Forensics Engineer. He is the founder of TECH.PATHS, an initiative that equips African youth with digital literacy, mentorship, and pathways into technology careers. Often referred to as a tech diplomat and statesman, he works at the intersection of cybersecurity, digital governance, and youth empowerment. His work bridges technical cybersecurity expertise with practical policy design, always advocating for ethical, sovereign, and inclusive digital futures. The role of young Africans in shaping the continent's technology agenda.

Mosongo Danfold is a Tech Policy Advocate & Cybersecurity and Forensics Engineer. He is the founder of TECH.PATHS, an initiative that equips African youth with digital literacy, mentorship, and pathways into technology careers. Often referred to as a... Show more

Heather joined the California AfterSchool Network (CAN) team as the Policy and Outreach Director in December 2018. She previously worked for the Expanded Learning Division at the California Department of Education where she oversaw the development and implementation of strategic plan efforts that reshaped the Division to focus on providing high-quality expanded learning opportunities for California’s youth. She currently oversees CAN’s work around advocacy and policy,
data and research, communications and events, and other outreach efforts. Heather has over 14 years of publicly policy experience starting with her participation in the California Executive Fellowship program, and specifically over 10 years supporting afterschool/expanded learning programs. Heather received her BA in Political Science from CSU Fullerton and was part of the 8th cohort of White-Riley-Peterson Policy Fellows.

Heather joined the California AfterSchool Network (CAN) team as the Policy and Outreach Director in December 2018. She previously worked for the Expanded Learning Division at the California Department of Education where she oversaw the development an... Show more

Martino Bettucci est fondateur de P2Enjoy Studio, organisme spécialisé dans l’IA, le NLP et la blockchain. Conférencier, formateur et co-créateur du salon IA-WEB3 Event, il accompagne professionnels, écoles et organisations dans la compréhension des technologies émergentes et de leurs usages concrets. Il intervient régulièrement sur les enjeux d’intelligence artificielle, d’automatisation, de Web3 et de transformation des pratiques métiers.

Martino Bettucci est fondateur de P2Enjoy Studio, organisme spécialisé dans l’IA, le NLP et la blockchain. Conférencier, formateur et co-créateur du salon IA-WEB3 Event, il accompagne professionnels, écoles et organisations dans la compréhension des ... Show more

Estudió la licenciatura en matemáticas en la Universidad de Guadalajara, después ingresó a la maestría en ciencias de la computación en el Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN (CINVESTAV) unidad Guadalajara, en donde también realizó su doctorado en ciencias con especialidad en robótica y visión computacional.

Actualmente esta trabajando en la empresa Intel en la habilitación de características de procesadores Intel en diferentes distribuciones de Linux. También es docente del Instituto Tecnológico de Jalisco unidad académica de Zapopan.

Por su afición a Linux sus compañeros lo conocen como miguelinux.

Estudió la licenciatura en matemáticas en la Universidad de Guadalajara, después ingresó a la maestría en ciencias de la computación en el Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN (CINVESTAV) unidad Guadalajara, en donde también realiz... Show more

I serve at Kozenji Temple and speak on Buddhism, compassion, grief, and everyday well-being. I aim to make Buddhist wisdom practical, accessible, and relevant to modern life.

I serve at Kozenji Temple and speak on Buddhism, compassion, grief, and everyday well-being. I aim to make Buddhist wisdom practical, accessible, and relevant to modern life. Show more

Sergej Gil is currently an Expert for LXD Facilitation and Research-Related Teaching and Learning at the University of Cologne. There, he is part of the Innovation Platform for Future-Relevant Competencies. Prior to that, he was E-Learning Manager at the Kolping University of Applied Sciences for Health and Social Affairs.

Sergej Gil is currently an Expert for LXD Facilitation and Research-Related Teaching and Learning at the University of Cologne. There, he is part of the Innovation Platform for Future-Relevant Competencies. Prior to that, he was E-Learning Manager at... Show more

Presenter Biography:
Matt is a certified project management and change management professional with over 20 years of experience managing people, projects, and teams in various industry sectors that include higher education, major retail, technology, and manufacturing. In his current role as Senior Manager of Business Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University, Matt manages a team of professional business consultants responsible for leading enterprise change efforts. He oversees the Business Innovation Office practices, operational processes, and reporting. Additionally, Matt is responsible for Carnegie Mellon University’s major IT projects program. You may recognize Matt, he was on the closing panel at the 2023 conference and facilitated sessions in 2024 and 2025.

Presenter Biography: Matt is a certified project management and change management professional with over 20 years of experience managing people, projects, and teams in various industry sectors that include higher education, major retail, technology,... Show more

Information Security specialist and cybersecurity enthusiast with a robust background in offensive operations and digital investigations. His expertise is backed by industry-standard certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Pentest+, Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM), and CERT Incident Response Process Professional.

After years of experience in the Brazilian corporate sector, he currently serves as a Police Agent at the Civil Police of the Federal District (PCDF). In this role, he leads the design and implementation of Offensive Security (Red Team) solutions and Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) operations.

As a key member of the CSIRT (Computer Security Incident Response Team), he acts as a senior analyst, responding to critical cyber events with high social impact. His current research focuses on the industrialization of cybercrime and the development of automated forensic pipelines for large-scale threat hunting.

Information Security specialist and cybersecurity enthusiast with a robust background in offensive operations and digital investigations. His expertise is backed by industry-standard certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Pentest+,... Show more

Komes is a highly experienced leader in Data and AI in Thailand with over 15 years of expertise. He is also recently recognized a Microsoft MVP in Responsible AI. Komes has played key roles as Principal AI Evangelist at KBTG, part of Kasikorn Bank, one of the top banks in Southeast Asia, focusing on data transformation and AI strategy. He also committed to raising the country's understanding of responsible AI usage and development. By teaching at reputable business schools and speaking at public events, he shares vital knowledge to improve AI literacy and promote the responsible use of AI. Since returning to Bangkok, he's been leveraging data and AI not only to enhance business profitability but also educate thousands of Thai people to boosting productivity with AI.

Komes is a highly experienced leader in Data and AI in Thailand with over 15 years of expertise. He is also recently recognized a Microsoft MVP in Responsible AI. Komes has played key roles as Principal AI Evangelist at KBTG, part of Kasikorn Bank, ... Show more

Passionate and experienced educator with over 15 years of experience within the education industry, specializing in faculty administration, organizational leadership, and curriculum development. Adept in overseeing the overall management of educational programs while remaining committed to the organization’s mission and vision. Dynamic communicator with a proven ability to build lasting relationships with teachers, students, and parents. A motivational leader who enjoys actively engaging with all educational partners. Strategic planner and program designer; developed strategic plans, implemented and monitored change initiatives. Sought out collaborator by top leadership within the organization to lead positive outcomes for the betterment of students and faculty.

Passionate and experienced educator with over 15 years of experience within the education industry, specializing in faculty administration, organizational leadership, and curriculum development. Adept in overseeing the overall management of education... Show more

Funcionario de Orden y Seguridad Pública con 17 años de servicio en Carabineros de Chile, desempeñándose durante 9 años como Encargado de Ciberseguridad en la Dirección TIC.
Integrante de diversas mesas interinstitucionales vinculadas a la gestión de la seguridad pública, proyectos de vigilancia y control, y políticas de Estado.
Ingeniero en Informática y Ciberseguridad, Licenciado en Educación, Diplomado en Seguridad de la Información, DevSecOps y Ciberseguridad en el Sector Público.
Certificado como Hacker Ético y Arquitecto Cloud AWS.
Magíster en Tecnologías de Información en la Universidad de Chile. (Candidato a Magister)
Estudiante de Doctorado en Ingeniería y Ciencias con la Industria en la Pontificia Universidad Católica.
Ha liderado proyectos de integración de inteligencia artificial en entornos críticos, orientados a la prevención del delito y la protección de infraestructura pública.

Funcionario de Orden y Seguridad Pública con 17 años de servicio en Carabineros de Chile, desempeñándose durante 9 años como Encargado de Ciberseguridad en la Dirección TIC. Integrante de diversas mesas interinstitucionales vinculadas a la gestión d... Show more

A strategic Software Engineer and AI specialist with over 15 years of experience in driving digital transformation and technology education. Currently leading Future Coders for Software as Founder and Chairwoman, focusing on bridging the gap between academic learning and industry demands through Generative AI and Robotics.

As a Google Developer Group (GDG) Organizer, actively building tech ecosystems and empowering developers across the MENA region. This community leadership is complemented by a role as an International Judge for global robotics competitions and an Executive Director for national educational initiatives under the Ministry of Education.

Deeply invested in the intersection of AI and Strategic Management, with a proven track record of mentoring startups and leading large-scale training programs for government sectors. Passionate about leveraging autonomous AI agents and project-based learning to shape the future of technology in emerging markets.

A strategic Software Engineer and AI specialist with over 15 years of experience in driving digital transformation and technology education. Currently leading Future Coders for Software as Founder and Chairwoman, focusing on bridging the gap between ... Show more

Aleja es una profesional multidisciplinaria con formación en desarrollo web y emprendimiento en startups. En sus 5 años de experiencia, ha demostrado su capacidad para adaptarse a nuevos desafíos y liderar equipos de alto rendimiento desde Growth Marketing hasta Inteligencia Artificial. Como mentora y conferencista, comparte su conocimiento para empoderar a emprendedores tecnológicos y acelerar la adopción de la IA. Es una activa líder y embajadora de comunidades como GOYN Bogotá, AWS Women Colombia, Women TechMakers y Notion Colombia; también disfruta de viajar, crear contenido y conectar con su comunidad.

Aleja es una profesional multidisciplinaria con formación en desarrollo web y emprendimiento en startups. En sus 5 años de experiencia, ha demostrado su capacidad para adaptarse a nuevos desafíos y liderar equipos de alto rendimiento desde Growth Mar... Show more

She studied artificial intelligence and subsequently worked as a pre-service/in-service teacher trainer and as an expert on pedagogical innovations in computer science education for Národný projekt IT Akadémia - vzdelávanie pre 21. storočie. She is currently a computer science teacher and school ICT coordinator at the School of Applied Arts in Košice, where she heads the Laboratory of Intelligent and Interactive Technologies in Art. She is the author of several methodological publications, teaches courses for computer science teachers, and also works as a teacher at the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice.

She studied artificial intelligence and subsequently worked as a pre-service/in-service teacher trainer and as an expert on pedagogical innovations in computer science education for Národný projekt IT Akadémia - vzdelávanie pre 21. storočie. She is c... Show more

Ben Linders is an Independent Consultant in Agile, Lean, Quality, and Continuous Improvement, based in The Netherlands. Author of Getting Value out of Agile Retrospectives, Waardevolle Agile Retrospectives, What Drives Quality and Continuous Improvement. Creator of the Agile Self-assessment Game.

As an adviser, coach and trainer he helps organizations with deploying effective software development and management practices. He focuses on continuous improvement, collaboration and communication, and professional development, to deliver business value to customers.

Ben is an active member of networks on Agile, Lean, and Quality, and a well-known speaker and author. He shares his experiences in a bilingual blog (Dutch and English), as an editor for Culture and Methods at InfoQ, and as an expert in communities like Computable, Quora, DZone, and TechTarget. Follow him on twitter: @BenLinders.

For an overview of the presentation and mini-workshops that I have given, visit https://www.benlinders.com/presentations/

Ben Linders is an Independent Consultant in Agile, Lean, Quality, and Continuous Improvement, based in The Netherlands. Author of Getting Value out of Agile Retrospectives, Waardevolle Agile Retrospectives, What Drives Quality and Continuous Improvem... Show more

J’ai commencé à travailler en mode Agile, utilisant les principes et valeurs associés en 2009 année où je suis devenue maman Pour moi, faire le parallèle entre ma vie professionnelle et mon rôle de parent est devenu une évidence et une nécessité au fil du temps D’un naturel pragmatique et ayant besoin d’être dans l’action, j’accompagne mes enfants, tous deux ayant des troubles DYS, avec mes pratiques agile depuis maintenant 10 ans Eux me permettent également d’enrichir mes méthodes de mise en place de la méthode Agile en entreprise.

J’ai commencé à travailler en mode Agile, utilisant les principes et valeurs associés en 2009 année où je suis devenue maman Pour moi, faire le parallèle entre ma vie professionnelle et mon rôle de parent est devenu une évidence et une nécessité au f... Show more

Alex Malebranche is a dynamic keynote speaker, founder, and mental health advocate drawing from over a decade worth of tech and military experience. That background provides a unique outlook on how to manage mental health no matter how it presents.
After years at Amazon and Amazon Web Services, globally, Alex made the move into starting his own tech company, PlaneAhead. Though not turning out to be the next Google, Alex successfully raised VC capital as a solo founder and made strides in entrepreneurship before joining GitHub to help launch their company’s first startup program.
His passion as a founder is evident but within that, Alex is driven by creating greater opportunities for underrepresented founders and continuing to push the boundaries of inclusiveness in tech and venture capital.

Alex Malebranche is a dynamic keynote speaker, founder, and mental health advocate drawing from over a decade worth of tech and military experience. That background provides a unique outlook on how to manage mental health no matter how it presents. ... Show more