Government, Social Sector & Education

Valued individuals involved in shaping public policies, providing essential services, and promoting education, tirelessly looking to improve society and empower citizens

Darya Yegorina

Darya Yegorina

Dr. Darya Yegorina is a globally recognized thought leader, futurist, and transformational business strategist who empowers organizations and individuals to thrive in the era of digital disruption. With a career spanning 20+ years at the intersection of leadership, technology, and business innovation, Darya is a driving force in digital transformation, AI, and future workforce development.

As a C-level executive, entrepreneur, and mentor, Darya has shaped the success of enterprises, startups, and global initiatives by integrating emerging technologies with strategic growth frameworks. She is a sought-after keynote speaker on leadership, innovation, and the future of work, addressing audiences at major global conferences, corporate summits, and executive retreats.

A passionate advocate for future-ready leadership, Darya believes that true innovation begins with a bold vision and the courage to challenge the status quo. She inspires business leaders to embrace AI, digital transformation, and agile leadership strategies to navigate uncertainty, unlock new opportunities, and foster a culture of continuous learning.

Global Impact & Achievements:
✅ Executive & Board Leadership: C-Level strategist with expertise in business transformation, revenue operations (RevOps), and strategic growth across global markets. Advisor to enterprises, government bodies, and tech innovators.
✅ Digital Transformation & AI Thought Leader: Recognized as a Top Thought Leader in AR/VR, AI, and Digital Transformation by Thinkers 360, shaping the dialogue on the future of business and technology.
✅ Award-Winning Entrepreneur & Speaker: Winner of the Global Female Leader Award in Entrepreneurship, Young European Leader (#EYL40), Women in IT, and featured in Forbes, Inc.com, Business & Finance, and Irish Times.
✅ Future Workforce & EdTech Visionary: Led transformative EdTech initiatives, including EU-backed projects on AI and AR in education, impacting thousands of students across Europe.
✅ Women in Leadership & DEI Advocate: A strong voice in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), mentoring female founders, startup leaders, and executives to break barriers in tech and business.

Speaking & Expertise:
🔹 Leadership in the Age of AI & Digital Disruption
🔹 The Future of Work: Skills, Adaptability & Innovation
🔹 Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers & Building Legacies
🔹 Strategic Growth & Business Transformation
🔹 Inspiring Change: Leading with Purpose & Resilience

Darya’s leadership journey, from entrepreneurial success to executive impact, serves as an inspiration for leaders seeking to drive meaningful change in their organizations and industries. She brings a unique blend of business acumen, technological foresight, and human-centric leadership, making her a powerful voice in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

🚀 Inspire. Lead. Transform. 🚀

Dr. Darya Yegorina is a globally recognized thought leader, futurist, and transformational business strategist who empowers organizations and individuals to thrive in the era of digital disruption. With a career spanning 20+ years at the intersection... Show more

Hector Paulo

Hector Paulo

Entusiasta por entender cada vez mais sobre Transformação e Cultura Organizacional.
Motivado por compartilhamento de conhecimentos: treinar, facilitar e também aprender.

Atua como agente de transformação ajudando organizações e times a atingir resultados significativos sempre acreditando que a diferença está nas pessoas.

Mais de 15 anos de experiência atuando com intervenções utilizando abordagens preditivas, adaptativas e híbridas.
Experiência como Agile Coach responsável por transformação ágil de organizações de TI e outside TI.

Doutorando na área de Transformação Digital e Cultura Organizacional e Mestre em Ciências da Computação.
Docente em cursos de MBA e Pós-Graduação de Gestão de Negócios e Gestão Ágil.

Entusiasta por entender cada vez mais sobre Transformação e Cultura Organizacional. Motivado por compartilhamento de conhecimentos: treinar, facilitar e também aprender. Atua como agente de transformação ajudando organizações e times a atingir r... Show more

Lister Potter

Lister Potter

Lister Potter is a CTO, consultant, and elected Mayor focused on designing systems that scale — in software and in governance.

He leads the architecture of a next-generation multi-tenant platform built around a repository-centric workflow where documentation, architecture decisions, backlog, and code live together. His work explores what it means to build AI-native development environments where clarity and structure are designed in from the start.

Across technology leadership and civic governance, Lister applies the same principle: tools don’t solve systemic problems — well-forged systems do.

Lister Potter is a CTO, consultant, and elected Mayor focused on designing systems that scale — in software and in governance. He leads the architecture of a next-generation multi-tenant platform built around a repository-centric workflow where do... Show more

Sara Peña

Sara Peña

Ingeniera en Electrónica y Comunicación.
Actualmente soy consultora a nivel privado para institución privada y de gobierno.
Profesora en Tecnología Educativa en la Academia Interamericana de Panamá.
Coordinadora de Proyectos Tecnología en FUNDADER

Ingeniera en Electrónica y Comunicación. Actualmente soy consultora a nivel privado para institución privada y de gobierno. Profesora en Tecnología Educativa en la Academia Interamericana de Panamá. Coordinadora de Proyectos Tecnología en FUNDADER... Show more

Patrick C Burke

Patrick C Burke

As the Associate Director of Event Logistics & Student Development at the University of South Florida’s Marshall Student Center, Patrick oversees event logistics, audio/visual production, building operations, budget management, and an extensive team of student leaders and employees. Patrick leads daily operations for high‑impact campus events, manages multimillion‑dollar budgets, directs technology & equipment upgrades, and implements the S.E.E.D. Student Development Curriculum, fostering meaningful student growth aligned with University Objectives & Values.

Patrick is a higher education leader known for elevating student experiences, strengthening operational excellence, and delivering seamless event and facility logistics. With more than a decade of progressive leadership across student affairs, event management, and residential education, he brings a holistic, people‑centered approach to developing teams, optimizing systems, and creating environments where students and staff thrive.

As the Associate Director of Event Logistics & Student Development at the University of South Florida’s Marshall Student Center, Patrick oversees event logistics, audio/visual production, building operations, budget management, and an extensive team ... Show more

Clementine Gribble

Clementine Gribble

Clementine is a powerful and growing industry voice, advocating for lifelong learning for those embracing a career on the mainframe. A long-time member of the mainframe community, she has been with Interskill Learning since starting in our development office during her university placement. Today, she is the backbone of our customer success in EMEAA, championing impactful learning experiences that drive organisational success and professional growth. With a proven track record of driving skills development for organisations of all sizes, she brings a passion for education to every workplace she interacts with. She has a deep understanding of Learning Management Systems (LMS), learning analytics, and the IBM mainframe, enabling her to provide strategic guidance and support to clients. Recognising the need for practical learning solutions, she helps clients balance corporate objectives of efficiency and value with educational solutions that inspire and educate.

Clementine thrives at the intersection of technology, professional development, and customer engagement. Outside of work, Clementine is an avid SCUBA diver who loves exploring the wonderful waters of Britain and beyond.

Clementine is a powerful and growing industry voice, advocating for lifelong learning for those embracing a career on the mainframe. A long-time member of the mainframe community, she has been with Interskill Learning since starting in our developmen... Show more

Emeka Boris Ama

Emeka Boris Ama

Data Scientist enthusiast, Co-Organiser of Pydata Port Harcourt and Team Lead at Port Harcourt School of Ai

Data Scientist enthusiast, Co-Organiser of Pydata Port Harcourt and Team Lead at Port Harcourt School of Ai Show more

Gursimar Singh

Gursimar Singh

Gursimar, a Consultant and Google Developer Educator, is dedicated to empowering individuals through Education, Mentorship, and Open-Source. As an author for freeCodeCamp and Top Contributor, he shares his expertise globally. He's a sought-after speaker at international conferences and universities, fostering a culture of learning. His passion lies in mentoring others, evident in his roles as a Section Leader for Code in Place and Google Cloud Facilitator.

Gursimar, a Consultant and Google Developer Educator, is dedicated to empowering individuals through Education, Mentorship, and Open-Source. As an author for freeCodeCamp and Top Contributor, he shares his expertise globally. He's a sought-after spea... Show more

Frederieke Scheper

Frederieke Scheper

With over 20 years of enterprise Java experience, Frederieke has seen (and probably debugged) it all, from legacy monoliths to reactive messaging systems and the occasional front-end adventure. She’s especially interested in how Domain-Driven Design and reactive principles can help teams build systems that are both robust and adaptable.

Frederieke enjoys helping people grow, whether that’s through mentoring, improving team practices, or just asking the right questions. Outside of work, she’s an active contributor to the Java Meetup in Groningen (NL), where she shares ideas and learns from colleagues in her local community.

When she’s not coding or speaking, you’ll likely find her out on a trail. She once hiked the Grand Canyon and is always looking for the next adventure.

With over 20 years of enterprise Java experience, Frederieke has seen (and probably debugged) it all, from legacy monoliths to reactive messaging systems and the occasional front-end adventure. She’s especially interested in how Domain-Driven Design ... Show more

Chinni Krishna Abburi

Chinni Krishna Abburi

Chinni Krishna Abburi is a Business Intelligence Engineer with 6+ years of experience delivering scalable data solutions. He has led BI modernization, cloud migration, and data automation projects at enterprise scale. His work bridges the gap between data engineering and business insight, and he's actively involved in STEM mentorship and speaking engagements.

Chinni Krishna Abburi is a Business Intelligence Engineer with 6+ years of experience delivering scalable data solutions. He has led BI modernization, cloud migration, and data automation projects at enterprise scale. His work bridges the gap between... Show more

Tim Goree

Tim Goree

In a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed, Tim Goree stands at the crossroads of Education, Business, Technology, and Leadership, guiding both novices and professionals through the intricate landscape of modern tech. With a rich background in technology consulting and a passion for making complex concepts accessible to all, Tim is a beacon for those seeking to understand the future of technology and its impact on our lives.

As a seasoned speaker, Tim has a knack for demystifying AI for non-technical audiences, elucidating its significance in everyday life and the pivotal role it plays in shaping our future. He dives deep into the heart of how AI can revolutionize the way we learn, teach, and think about education, highlighting practical applications that can address the challenges faced by today's schools and foster a culture of innovation and inclusivity.

Drawing from his experience as a technology leader and IT mentor, Tim Goree provides invaluable insights into IT leadership in the digital age. He believes in leadership that is not just about managing technology but inspiring teams and keeping them accountable to big visions. His talks offer a roadmap for IT professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills and for organizations striving to cultivate a forward-thinking IT culture.

Beyond the podium, Tim is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of technology leaders, emphasizing the importance of women in tech and advocating for diversity of thought in technical fields. He champions the idea that a successful technology career is accessible to everyone, with the right guidance and opportunities.

Speaking Topics:
- AI Made Simple: Unraveling Artificial Intelligence for Non-Technical Audiences
- The Future of Learning: How AI is Transforming Education and School Culture
- What's Wrong with Schools and How to Fix It: The Disconnect Between What Schools Say and What They Do
- Leading in IT: Essential Leadership Skills for the Digital Age
- Mentorship Programs: The Key to Growth and Diversity in the Technology Field

With a unique blend of expertise, empathy, and enthusiasm, Tim Goree invites you to join him on a journey to explore the intersections of education, business, technology, and leadership. Whether you're an educator looking to innovate, an IT professional seeking to lead, or simply curious about the future of technology, Tim's sessions are a beacon of knowledge and inspiration.

In a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed, Tim Goree stands at the crossroads of Education, Business, Technology, and Leadership, guiding both novices and professionals through the intricate landscape of modern tech. With a rich backgrou... Show more

Renato Amapanqui

Renato Amapanqui

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

Lalit Rawat

Lalit Rawat

Lalit is an Microsoft Azure MVP,MCT & Author of the “Azure Interview Q & A ” book. He likes to share his knowledge through his blog (https://azure4you.com/ ) & manage and share his technical skills in AzureTalk Community, (https://t.me/azuretalk), BITPro & Azure User Meetup group . He has written a number of articles on Microsoft Azure.

He has changed many lives from his articles and his hands-on training programs and workshops. He is Speaker and delivered the session on big platform including MS Global bootcamp, Expert Live India & other events.

Moreover, and to his credit, he has delivered 500+ training sessions to professionals worldwide in Microsoft Azure technologies and other technologies including SCOM, Windows Server. In addition, he provides Instructor-led online training, hands-on workshop.

His technical prowess and capability of exploring new frontiers of technology & imparting them to his aspiring team members are his trademark. His execution is priceless & bringing forth his personal approach will help you realize your dreams, goals, and aspirations into reality.

**MCT & Azure certification**

Certification Link: https://www.youracclaim.com/users/lalit-rawat/badges

Microsoft Certified Trainer Link: https://www.youracclaim.com/badges/d6a15997-b82d-4a91-86f1-8b653b0a4125

MVP Link: https://mvp.microsoft.com/en-us/PublicProfile/5003540?fullName=Lalit%20Rawat

**Achievements**

1. He is awarded Azure MVP Azure Master of the months -2017
2. India mentor Award
3. Authored a book on Microsoft Azure - “Azure Administrator Interview Q & A“
4. Delivered multiple sessions on cutting edge technologies in India and abroad.
5. Wrote 60+ articles on the cutting edge technologies.

Lalit is an Microsoft Azure MVP,MCT & Author of the “Azure Interview Q & A ” book. He likes to share his knowledge through his blog (https://azure4you.com/ ) & manage and share his technical skills in AzureTalk Community, (https://t.me/azuretalk),... Show more

Mr. G (Galeno Chua)

Mr. G (Galeno Chua)

Mr. G is an ai and greentech startup founder, and business coach for startups for the New Zealand Government, United Nations Development Programme in Cambodia and for the Social Tides programme for ai and impact startups across the EU.

His sustainable business approach has won him the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation's Green Business Awards and helped push the sustainable business agenda for organizations such as the United Nations and Oxfam to the Royal Government of Cambodia.

He has a strong belief that empathetic dialogue and design are key life skills to both personal and professional success, and is currently on a mission to solve real world issues through empathy, entrepreneurship and principled leadership.

Mr. G is an ai and greentech startup founder, and business coach for startups for the New Zealand Government, United Nations Development Programme in Cambodia and for the Social Tides programme for ai and impact startups across the EU. His sustai... Show more

Michael Allison

Michael Allison

Michael Allison, is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart Veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author, and international keynote speaker. A globally recognized expert in identity-driven leadership and organizational resilience, Michael transforms adversity into strategic advantage. Over two decades, he has led Marines in combat, managed multi-million-dollar government projects, directed higher-ed programs, and scaled an INC 5000 franchise to successful exit. Michael equips leaders and teams to break internal limitations, guard energy, and thrive under pressure. His signature frameworks—Break The Bottle and Protect The House—blend combat-tested leadership, trauma-informed coaching, and enterprise execution discipline. Michael has delivered transformational keynotes, workshops, and consulting for world-class organizations globally. He empowers professionals to align technical brilliance with human resilience and lead with clarity, creativity, and conviction.

Michael Allison, is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart Veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author, and international keynote speaker. A globally recognized expert in identity-driven leadership and organizational resilience, Michael transforms a... Show more

Megan Potter

Megan Potter

Megan is a career fundraiser with 20+ years international experience. Delivering growth strategies, programs and leading teams. Extensive experience in capital and capacity campaigns, mega and major gifts, bequests, partnerships, community and events fundraising.

Megan is a career fundraiser with 20+ years international experience. Delivering growth strategies, programs and leading teams. Extensive experience in capital and capacity campaigns, mega and major gifts, bequests, partnerships, community and events... Show more

Moiz Penkar

Moiz Penkar

Moiz feels the Internet can be more mindful and friendlier to not just the end-users but also the developers and adopt more lean principles. He has worked in various roles including front-end development, product management, consulting, research (in Human-Computer Interaction), and teaching. He also organises the monthly TED-Style Talks and, if he has any free time left, enjoys some photography, badminton, and squash. You can watch the demo of his PhD thesis prototype here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzyYsQoKb-k

Moiz feels the Internet can be more mindful and friendlier to not just the end-users but also the developers and adopt more lean principles. He has worked in various roles including front-end development, product management, consulting, research (in ... Show more

Giselle Cunanan

Giselle Cunanan

Giselle Dejamco Cunanan is an Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies and Asian American Studies at California State University, Sacramento. Her research centers on the institutionalization and defense of Ethnic Studies, analyzing the racial labor of student activism and key grassroots community organizations. Her current work documents the legislative and political battles that threaten academic freedom and critical pedagogy. She maintains a scholarly focus on U.S.-based Filipinxs and their organizing history in the long struggle for Ethnic Studies curriculum.

Giselle Dejamco Cunanan is an Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies and Asian American Studies at California State University, Sacramento. Her research centers on the institutionalization and defense of Ethnic Studies, analyzing the racial labor of s... Show more

Kevin Saukel

Kevin Saukel

Kevin Saukel war Teil des DigitalChangeMaker Jahrgangs 2020/2021 und studiert zurzeit Erziehungswissenschaften an der Goethe Universität in Frankfurt und Wirtschaftsinformatik an der Technischen Hochschule Mittelhessen.

Kevin Saukel war Teil des DigitalChangeMaker Jahrgangs 2020/2021 und studiert zurzeit Erziehungswissenschaften an der Goethe Universität in Frankfurt und Wirtschaftsinformatik an der Technischen Hochschule Mittelhessen. Show more

Calypso Hernandez

Calypso Hernandez

Calypso is a versatile professional with a unique background in theatre, education, and tech. After years of experience in theatre and teaching, Calypso recently transitioned into the tech industry, working with innovative startups where she applies her skills in communication, design, and collaboration to fast-paced, high-growth environments. This blend of creative and technical experience has equipped Calypso with a deep understanding of how to foster constructive feedback, empower teams, and drive continuous improvement. Calypso also thrives on building strong, connected communities. She brings a fresh perspective on collaboration, communication, and community building in both creative and tech spaces.

Calypso is a versatile professional with a unique background in theatre, education, and tech. After years of experience in theatre and teaching, Calypso recently transitioned into the tech industry, working with innovative startups where she applies ... Show more

Hilary Nicole Ivy

Hilary Nicole Ivy

Hilary Nicole Ivy is a systems thinker, storyteller, and scavenger of strange data. She teaches data analytics and geospatial technologies, leveraging Python, SQL, and satellite imagery. On her off time, she writes speculative fiction and maps imaginary worlds.

Hilary’s career has included adversarial testing of AI at Google, where she led ethical investigations into AI systems, and the Department of Homeland Security, where she tracked fraud across global networks. She’s built adversarial datasets, taught machines to see bias, and helped humans see patterns in the noise.

Now based in Vermont, Hilary teaches at the Community College of Vermont and works as a Business Process Analyst at Vermont State Colleges. She founded Betty Ivy Reads a narrative‑driven data literacy and STEM education platform that helps time‑strapped
faculty deliver engaging, project‑based data science curriculum while protecting academic integrity. She recently returned to school to study studio art, adding visual storytelling to her toolkit of code, maps, and myth.

Hilary Nicole Ivy is a systems thinker, storyteller, and scavenger of strange data. She teaches data analytics and geospatial technologies, leveraging Python, SQL, and satellite imagery. On her off time, she writes speculative fiction and maps imagin... Show more

Sarah Guest

Sarah Guest

Experienced Senior Power Platform consultant with a passion for Canvas apps and Power BI, and a proven track record of designing and delivering end‑to‑end solutions. Drawing on a background in teaching, I have led sessions on inclusion, accessibility and dyslexia, helping educators and organisations build truly supportive environments for all learners.

Today, I channel that same dedication into the tech world—advocating for women in technology, championing the importance of mentoring, and empowering communities to embrace innovation. With a warm, engaging style and hands‑on expertise, I guide audiences through practical strategies for leveraging the Power Platform while fostering inclusive cultures and effective mentoring programmes. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to deepen your skills, I’m here to inspire you to reach new heights.

Experienced Senior Power Platform consultant with a passion for Canvas apps and Power BI, and a proven track record of designing and delivering end‑to‑end solutions. Drawing on a background in teaching, I have led sessions on inclusion, accessibility... Show more

Shubhangi Gupta

Shubhangi Gupta

Shubhangi is a Product and DevRel person who has built a mental health startup and leads a community of 27000+ techies.

She has been leading diversity initiatives in India since 2018 wherein she has empowered underrepresented groups through active mentorship. She leads Google Developer Groups Noida and Women Techmakers Delhi. She is a GitHub Campus Expert who was invited to attend GitHub Universe 2024. She has given 20+ talks including D&I talks at Google DevFest and MLH Hackcon.

She believes technology has the power to reach an equitable world, her communities focus on going Beyond The Binary. Google Developer Groups Noida is the first community to have an equitable diversity ratio in all meetups and events. She also works on inclusion of the queer community in technical spaces.
When she's not at a meetup, she leads support groups and photo walks around Delhi!

Shubhangi is a Product and DevRel person who has built a mental health startup and leads a community of 27000+ techies. She has been leading diversity initiatives in India since 2018 wherein she has empowered underrepresented groups through active... Show more

Rashda Munawar

Rashda Munawar

Rashda Munawar – Author & Educator

Rashda Munawar is a dedicated educator, author, and advocate for a growth mindset. Holding a Master’s degree in Mathematics, she is passionate about fostering resilience and confidence in young learners.

Her debut children's book, Think Big, was inspired by her personal journey as a mother navigating her daughter’s early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Recognizing the power of mindset in overcoming challenges, Rashda strives to equip children with the tools to embrace mistakes, persevere, and think beyond limitations.

Beyond writing, she enjoys exploring growth mindset literature, playing board games, reading, practicing yoga, taking nature walks, and baking. Through her work, Rashda hopes to inspire both educators and young readers to believe in the power of growth and self-discovery.

Rashda Munawar – Author & Educator Rashda Munawar is a dedicated educator, author, and advocate for a growth mindset. Holding a Master’s degree in Mathematics, she is passionate about fostering resilience and confidence in young learners. Her d... Show more

Sarah Schmidt

Sarah Schmidt

seit 2023: Vertretung der Professur für Quantitative Forschungsmethoden im Kontext Sozialer Arbeit an der Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
seit 2017: Leitung des Methodenzentrums Sozialwissenschaften an der Goethe Universität Frankfurt
2014 – 2016: Referentin für Qualitätssicherung in Studium und Lehre an der Goethe-Universität Frankfurt
2013: Abschluss des Promotionsverfahrens (magna cum laude)
2012 – 2014: Hochschulreferentin für Evaluation an der Pädagogischen Hochschule Heidelberg
2010 – 2012: Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin an der Universität Hamburg
2010: Gastdozentur an der Universität Nowgorod (RU)
2008 – 2011: Lehrkraft für besondere Aufgaben an der Universität Hildesheim
2007 – 2008: Mitarbeiterin beim Caritasverband Mannheim
2003 – 2007: Studium der Erziehungswissenschaft und Soziologie an der Universität Mannheim (Abschluss Magistra Artium)

seit 2023: Vertretung der Professur für Quantitative Forschungsmethoden im Kontext Sozialer Arbeit an der Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences seit 2017: Leitung des Methodenzentrums Sozialwissenschaften an der Goethe Universität Frankfurt 2014... Show more

James Paterek

James Paterek

James Paterek serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Millbrook Support Services, Inc., where he helps government agencies locate and hire qualified healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other specialists. He also leads as the Chief Executive Officer of Paterak & Company, a respected organization offering staffing and consulting services to various businesses. With a practical leadership approach, he focuses on building reliable teams and creating opportunities that strengthen organizational performance and community well-being.

James founded COMFORCE Corporation, a company specializing in staffing, outsourcing, and financial services. Under his guidance, the business grew rapidly, expanding its workforce to more than 11,000 employees. The company experienced significant revenue growth, increasing from $12 million to nearly $500 million in two years, while maintaining strong profitability. His efforts in strategic planning, acquisitions, and organic development played a key role in establishing the company as a leader in its field.

Paterek has extensive experience in leading large-scale operations and managing complex business transactions. He demonstrated financial management and organizational leadership skills as the head of a company that successfully raised $300 million in capital and acquired other organizations, generating more than $500 million in revenue. His ability to secure over $600 million in funding for multiple ventures reflects a deep understanding of business development and sustainable growth.

James Paterek is known for his steady leadership and dedication to guiding teams toward shared success. He has emphasized the importance of collaboration, accountability, and clear communication throughout his career. His focus on long-term progress has helped the companies he leads achieve consistent performance while supporting professional growth within their teams. Through these efforts, he has earned respect for his practical approach and results-oriented mindset.

Paterek brings decades of experience acquiring, financing, and integrating service-based businesses. He has completed over twenty-eight acquisitions and raised over $600 million for related ventures. His understanding of capital markets and his experience with public company management highlight his ability to navigate complex business environments. With a balanced perspective and commitment to continuous improvement, he continues to contribute to the success of organizations and the people who power them.

James Paterek serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Millbrook Support Services, Inc., where he helps government agencies locate and hire qualified healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other specialists. He also leads as the ... Show more

Fátima Jaydith Blancas

Fátima Jaydith Blancas

Fátima Blancas is the founder and CEO of iTProve Corporation. For the last fourteen years, she has been a consultant on Microsoft Technology, from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint Online, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams.

She was born and raised, and continues to live, in Mexico City. Fátima is a graduate of the La Salle University, Mexico City Campus. She believes in sharing knowledge to make this world a better place to live in.

She loves to speak about Technology and Education. She has participated as a Guest Speaker at several conferences. She also created the Office 365 Academia Community.
Join her at LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
LinkedIn: fatimablancas
Facebook: /fatimablancasv
Twitter: JaydithBV

Fátima Blancas is the founder and CEO of iTProve Corporation. For the last fourteen years, she has been a consultant on Microsoft Technology, from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint Online, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams. She was born and raised, and ... Show more

Ildar Akhmetov

Ildar Akhmetov

Educator, systems thinker, and lifelong learner. I lead the Computing Programs at Northeastern University’s Vancouver campus, where I work at the intersection of teaching, leadership, and software development. I care deeply about building systems that scale — whether that’s a capstone project, a degree program, or a set of habits that help students grow.

My background blends academia, entrepreneurship, and international experience. Before joining Northeastern, I ran a publishing business in Russia for over a decade — leading a team, streamlining operations, and building internal tools long before low-code platforms became popular. These days, I bring that same bias toward clarity, efficiency, and real-world results into how I teach and lead.

As a computer science educator, I’ve mentored hundreds of students through project-based learning, often partnering with industry and nonprofit clients. I’ve designed and taught 60+ capstone projects, developed AI-focused pathways, and created structures to help students turn their academic work into something meaningful — sometimes even startup-worthy.

I’ve been lecturing, facilitating workshops, and giving talks for over two decades — in universities, industry settings, and more recently, on stage as a Toastmaster. What makes that meaningful to me is the personal journey: I used to stutter as a kid and avoided speaking up whenever I could. These days, I find joy in clarity — not just in what I say, but in helping others articulate ideas that matter. Whether I’m teaching a technical concept or sharing a story from the classroom, I aim for engagement over perfection.

I speak and write about computer science education in the age of AI, teaching across cultures, building entrepreneurial mindsets, and how to preserve cognitive rigor without burning people out. My talks are grounded in classroom experience but often go beyond pedagogy — into leadership, mindset, and systems design.

Outside of work, I’m into distance running, slow travel, strange programming languages, and learning Spanish (with a thick Argentinian accent, apparently). I’m also raising a curious and sporty teenager, which is probably the most humbling teaching gig of all.

Educator, systems thinker, and lifelong learner. I lead the Computing Programs at Northeastern University’s Vancouver campus, where I work at the intersection of teaching, leadership, and software development. I care deeply about building systems tha... Show more

Melissa Smith

Melissa Smith

Melissa Smith is a cybersecurity architect specializing in Microsoft Security and data governance, with deep expertise in Microsoft Purview, and identity-driven security architecture. She works with organizations operating in highly regulated and government cloud environments to design secure, scalable solutions that actually work in the real world.

Melissa is known for delivering deeply technical content in a way that’s engaging, practical, and refreshingly human. As a woman and mom in tech, she brings a perspective shaped by real-world tradeoffs, resilience, and a belief that impactful security careers don’t have to come at the expense of authenticity.

Melissa Smith is a cybersecurity architect specializing in Microsoft Security and data governance, with deep expertise in Microsoft Purview, and identity-driven security architecture. She works with organizations operating in highly regulated and gov... Show more

José Francisco da Costa Neto

José Francisco da Costa Neto

Ingressou na Polícia Militar do Rio Grande do Norte em 2006, onde atualmente exerce o posto de Major. É graduado em Administração Pública (2017) e Mestre em Gestão Pública (2020) pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN).

Atualmente atua na Secretaria Nacional de Segurança Pública do Ministério da Justiça e Segurança Pública (SENASP/MJSP), com experiência em projetos estratégicos e setoriais voltados à modernização da segurança pública. Desenvolve atividades relacionadas ao planejamento de aquisições de bens e serviços, acompanhamento e fiscalização de contratos, bem como à articulação com órgãos federais, estaduais e municipais para identificação de demandas e implementação de políticas, programas e projetos.

Possui forte atuação na integração institucional, na avaliação de resultados de políticas públicas e no fomento ao uso de novas tecnologias aplicadas à segurança pública, contribuindo para o fortalecimento das capacidades operacionais e administrativas das instituições.

Ingressou na Polícia Militar do Rio Grande do Norte em 2006, onde atualmente exerce o posto de Major. É graduado em Administração Pública (2017) e Mestre em Gestão Pública (2020) pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). Atualmente ... Show more

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