Leslie Welch is the Principal Architect, Data & AI at SHI with over 18 years of experience in automation, data analysis and visualization, and strengthening organizations’ knowledge of data. Leslie is a Microsoft MVP and has worked end-to-end in the data arena from capture and ETL to database design/engineering to analysis and dashboard design to ML use cases with a focus on improving productivity, performance, and data quality. She has extensive experience in enterprise deployment of Power BI, both as an admin and Power BI architect, and as a trainer and technical community organizer. She is passionate about data governance, truth-telling in data, and creating collaborative environments across data practitioners and the numerous data stakeholders.

Leslie co-organizes Power BI DC and frequently attends and speaks at data community meetups in the DC metro area, including but not limited to Data Viz DC, Data Science DC, Women Who Code DC, Washington DC Power Platform User Group, and Generative AI DC. Leslie was recognized as a 2023 New Power Woman in Tech by DCA Live, and on the RealLIST Engineers 2024 as one of 15 technologists helping the DMV ecosystem grow.

Leslie Welch is the Principal Architect, Data & AI at SHI with over 18 years of experience in automation, data analysis and visualization, and strengthening organizations’ knowledge of data. Leslie is a Microsoft MVP and has worked end-to-end in the ... Show more

Matej is a Lead Java Engineer at Infinum where he is working on multiple projects. His primary focus is on designing data intensive systems on AWS. He started contributing to Open Source projects at the beginning of his career and is currently a Core Team Member on Spring Cloud AWS and the Lead developer on Spring Data DynamoDb which is currently in development. His love for open source is shown through his contributions to many projects such as Spring Cloud Config, Spring Boot, Dapr SDK, SDKman and many more.

Matej is a Lead Java Engineer at Infinum where he is working on multiple projects. His primary focus is on designing data intensive systems on AWS. He started contributing to Open Source projects at the beginning of his career and is currently a Core... Show more

Jeremy is an international speaker and is currently the Director of DevRel at OneStream Software, previously at CircleCI, Solace, Auth0, and XDA. With almost 30 years in Tech, covering just about every functional area, including support, system and database administration, application and web development, project management, program management, and systems analysis, Jeremy is active in the DevRel and DevOps communities, a co-creator of DevOpsPartyGames.com, and organizer for DevOpsDays Kansas City. A lover of all things coffee, community, open source, and tech, he’s also house-broken, and (generally) plays well with others.

Jeremy is an international speaker and is currently the Director of DevRel at OneStream Software, previously at CircleCI, Solace, Auth0, and XDA. With almost 30 years in Tech, covering just about every functional area, including support, system and d... Show more

Michael Hewitt leads the BI and Analytics team at Hunt Brothers Pizza, based in Nashville, TN. He enjoys data visualization and working with business users to help them leverage data more effectively in their daily jobs. In previous roles, Michael has delivered Microsoft based BI solutions in the healthcare, distribution, and manufacturing industries. He has also had the privilege of developing and delivering custom Power BI training for the Department of Defense. Outside of work, Michael is a husband, father of 3 children, is a leader in his local church, co-organizes the Nashville Power BI user group, and enjoys drumming, woodworking, and hiking.

Michael Hewitt leads the BI and Analytics team at Hunt Brothers Pizza, based in Nashville, TN. He enjoys data visualization and working with business users to help them leverage data more effectively in their daily jobs. In previous roles, Michael ha... Show more

I am a passionate software developer originally from Portugal and currently based in Ireland. I specialize in building robust applications using .NET and am a dedicated advocate for open standards in feature management. As a maintainer for OpenFeature, I contribute to the project's .NET library, help shape its telemetry conventions and support efforts to standardize feature flagging across the industry.
I am committed to creating tools that simplify and enhance users’ daily lives, and I actively share my expertise through technical writing and community engagement.

I am a passionate software developer originally from Portugal and currently based in Ireland. I specialize in building robust applications using .NET and am a dedicated advocate for open standards in feature management. As a maintainer for OpenFeatur... Show more

Sam Debruyn is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and Cloud & Data Platform Architect passionate about modern data platforms such as Microsoft Fabric. In his day-to-day, he designs and implements data platforms that support customers in harvesting the full potential of their data. Sam has over 10 years of experience with Microsoft Azure and often blogs about his adventures in data. He contributes to the data community through blog posts, open-source projects, and speaking engagements at data meetups and conferences.

Sam Debruyn is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and Cloud & Data Platform Architect passionate about modern data platforms such as Microsoft Fabric. In his day-to-day, he designs and implements data platforms that support customers in harvesting the ful... Show more

I'm a lifelong learner with a passion for creative problem-solving. I share my expertise and insights with the data community through talks, video content, and bringing people together with the DATA:Scotland event.

I'm a lifelong learner with a passion for creative problem-solving. I share my expertise and insights with the data community through talks, video content, and bringing people together with the DATA:Scotland event. Show more

My IT journey began as an operations technician hosting data centers, but I discovered my love for the cloud almost a decade ago and specialized in Azure.
I have a deep enthusiasm for the modern Ops role and I thrive on being an enabler, taking ideas from concept to production.
Dedicated many years to enhancing my expertise in data, AI, and IoT/IIoT.

🗣 Passionate about sharing knowledge through public speaking and mentoring.

Currently, I work on enterprise-scale AI, data, and IIoT solutions for large clients in Sweden.
I'm part of the Microsoft Responsible AI Innovation Center in Sweden and contribute to the open-source initiative Enterprise Scale AI Factory.

My IT journey began as an operations technician hosting data centers, but I discovered my love for the cloud almost a decade ago and specialized in Azure. I have a deep enthusiasm for the modern Ops role and I thrive on being an enabler, taking ide... Show more

Andreas has been working in different positions within enterprise during the last two decades. A few years ago his focus was on all things mobile, then it shifted towards building web systems. After that, the focus was on cloud solutions and planet-scale architecture. Nowadays it's producing customer value using AI, for real - not writing chatbots for everything.

Andreas is the AI architect at Voyado, one of Sweden's fastest-growing SAAS companies. In his spare time he spends time with his family, lifts things in the gym, and is involved in OSS as an Aurelia Core Team member.

Andreas has been working in different positions within enterprise during the last two decades. A few years ago his focus was on all things mobile, then it shifted towards building web systems. After that, the focus was on cloud solutions and planet-s... Show more

Sam is a Microsoft Azure MVP. As a technical advisor and investor at several cloud start-ups, he is involved in cloud-native architectures and focuses on Serverless technologies, the Internet of Things, and Artificial Intelligence.
While he is currently technical lead and founder at a SaaS-startup, called Sfinx, he has been working as CTO at Codit, one of the leading European Microsoft cloud partners. In working together with Microsoft, Sam has extensive experience in building data-driven, integrated cloud-based solutions.
Sam has been involved in several industrial IoT projects and has been contributing to the open-source Arcus project, focusing on the Machine Learning aspects.

Sam is a frequent speaker at international events and is active in the Belgian and European Microsoft communities.

Sam is a Microsoft Azure MVP. As a technical advisor and investor at several cloud start-ups, he is involved in cloud-native architectures and focuses on Serverless technologies, the Internet of Things, and Artificial Intelligence. While he is cu... Show more

Dr. Cristian Schuszter holds a PhD in Systems Engineering with a focus on distributed fault-tolerant software architectures and machine-learning based failure prediction. In his day-to-day, he is somewhere between a Data and Full-stack Software Engineer, with a wide range of tech & job exposure both in academia and industry.

For the past 7 years he's been working with various teams in CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research). Currently he's focusing on the architectural directions of the CERN business computing group, with an emphasis on enterprise Java systems and UI.

Dr. Cristian Schuszter holds a PhD in Systems Engineering with a focus on distributed fault-tolerant software architectures and machine-learning based failure prediction. In his day-to-day, he is somewhere between a Data and Full-stack Software Engin... Show more

Diyar Saadi Ali is a formidable force in the realm of cybersecurity, renowned for their expertise in cybercrime investigations and their role as a certified SOC and malware analyst. With a laser-focused mission to decode and combat digital threats, Diyar approaches the complex world of cybersecurity with precision and unwavering dedication. At the core of their professional journey lies real-time security event monitoring a task Diyar executes with exceptional vigilance and expertise. As a respected MITRE ATT&CK Contributor, they have made invaluable contributions to the global cybersecurity community, sharing insights and strategies that help organizations bolster their defenses against evolving cyber threats. Diyar’s impact is further amplified by their role as the discoverer and owner of critical Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), including CVE-2024-25400 and CVE-2024-25399. These achievements underscore their commitment to identifying and addressing systemic vulnerabilities that could otherwise threaten digital ecosystems.

🎤 Speaking Engagements (Selected)

1-DeepSec 2024 – Firmware Forensics

2- Arab Cyber Security Conference

3- CyberSec Global 2025

4- CanSecWest 2025

5- SulyCyberCon

6- Nexus Club

7- Shellmates Club

8- Koya University – Softspace

9- UKH – Cyber Threat Hunting Seminar

10-Tishk University (Workshop Host) – Cyber Security Dept.

11- VulnCon

12- COSAC 2025

Diyar Saadi Ali is a formidable force in the realm of cybersecurity, renowned for their expertise in cybercrime investigations and their role as a certified SOC and malware analyst. With a laser-focused mission to decode and combat digital threats, D... Show more

Mitchel Sellers is globally known as a 17-time Microsoft MVP, an ASPInsider, a DNN MVP, is an MCP (Microsoft .NET, ASP.NET and SQL Server), and CEO of IowaComputerGurus Inc. Sellers has a deep understanding of software development and when speaking focuses on proper architecture standards, performance, stability, security, and overall cost-effectiveness of delivered solutions. This message and his abilities resonate in the technical war room as well as the executive board room.

Mitchel is a prolific public speaker, presenting more than 400 sessions at user groups and conferences globally, such as DevUp, SDN, and Code PaLOUsa. Sellers has been the author of multiple books and a regular blogger on technology topics.

When Mitchel is not working in technology, you will find him flying his airplane, teaching others how to fly, or spending time with his family He is also actively involved in the Open Source Community working diligently to further the movement. Find out more about Sellers at his website http://www.mitchelsellers.com.

Mitchel Sellers is globally known as a 17-time Microsoft MVP, an ASPInsider, a DNN MVP, is an MCP (Microsoft .NET, ASP.NET and SQL Server), and CEO of IowaComputerGurus Inc. Sellers has a deep understanding of software development and when speaking f... Show more

CTO at Software Central. MVP in Intune and Security Copilot. Far too many years in IT, likes PowerShell, Graph and all things Intune

CTO at Software Central. MVP in Intune and Security Copilot. Far too many years in IT, likes PowerShell, Graph and all things Intune Show more

Luke works in the Microsoft Fabric Strategic Accounts and ISV team based out of Dublin. Working with customers and ISVs building platforms with Fabric. Previous to Microsoft, he worked for Aginic - an Analytics consultancy in Australia implementing Azure oriented data solutions. Outside of technology you can find him watching F1 or Rugby

Luke works in the Microsoft Fabric Strategic Accounts and ISV team based out of Dublin. Working with customers and ISVs building platforms with Fabric. Previous to Microsoft, he worked for Aginic - an Analytics consultancy in Australia implementing A... Show more

20+ years of IT experience. 15+ years of experience in SharePoint.

Passionate SharePoint Techie. SharePoint / Microsoft 365 Consultant / Azure Consultant / Power Automate, PowerShell, Cybersecurity

Author/Blogger, Speaker. Avid reader.

Runs the web site https://microsoft365junction.com/

20+ years of IT experience. 15+ years of experience in SharePoint. Passionate SharePoint Techie. SharePoint / Microsoft 365 Consultant / Azure Consultant / Power Automate, PowerShell, Cybersecurity Author/Blogger, Speaker. Avid reader. Runs ... Show more

Azure consultant, AI enthusiastic, M365 wanderer, M365 Migration Specialist, Power Platform Explorer! Keval has been working for many years in IT industry managing different enterprise applications ranging from mid to large scale clients. He is an ex-MCT, speaker and loves to share his knowledge on various Microsoft technologies. He is also a technical community member and organizer.

Azure consultant, AI enthusiastic, M365 wanderer, M365 Migration Specialist, Power Platform Explorer! Keval has been working for many years in IT industry managing different enterprise applications ranging from mid to large scale clients. He is an ex... Show more

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

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

Enterprise Architect with 25+ years of experience delivering data-centric solutions, including big data, cloud, analytics, and data engineering strategies in both enterprise and consulting capacities. Proven expertise in AWS, Azure Cloud, Databricks, MLFlow, and Spark, driving scalable and efficient data solutions. A trusted advisor in enterprise data architecture for both existing and new platforms; Databricks Champion for CGI. Passionate about machine learning and leveraging advanced analytics to drive business value.

Enterprise Architect with 25+ years of experience delivering data-centric solutions, including big data, cloud, analytics, and data engineering strategies in both enterprise and consulting capacities. Proven expertise in AWS, Azure Cloud, Databricks,... Show more

I am a Lead Tech Consultant specializing in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Engagement and the Power Platform. Throughout my career, I have delivered tailored business solutions that help organizations transform their operations using Microsoft Business Applications. As the leader of BizSource, a community user group dedicated to Microsoft Business Applications, I am passionate about fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration among professionals and enthusiasts.

I have had the privilege of speaking at numerous international conferences, where I share practical insights and real-world experiences from complex implementation projects. My approach combines deep technical expertise with a genuine passion for empowering others, making my sessions both informative and engaging. Whether I am guiding teams through digital transformation or mentoring the next generation of tech professionals, I am committed to advancing the Microsoft ecosystem and building a vibrant, connected community.

I am a Lead Tech Consultant specializing in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Engagement and the Power Platform. Throughout my career, I have delivered tailored business solutions that help organizations transform their operations using Microsoft Busin... Show more

Former Microsoft Data Platform MVP
MCSE Data Management & Analytics / MCSE Business Intelligence

Former Microsoft Data Platform MVP MCSE Data Management & Analytics / MCSE Business Intelligence Show more

Hi, I’m Paul Stolk, a Senior Software Developer at Sopra Steria with over 15 years of experience working with Microsoft technologies. I’m passionate about embracing the latest advancements in technology, and I have a particular fascination with artificial intelligence. In 2023, I became a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), a milestone that allows me to combine my love for technology with my eagerness to share knowledge.

I’m excited to step onto the stage and connect with others through insights and experiences from my career. I aim to deliver talks that are not only technically rich but also practical, helping others see the potential of technology in new and inspiring ways.

Outside of work, I love organizing Live Action Role Play (LARP) events and weaving intricate stories for immersive experiences. I believe my storytelling skills and technical expertise give me a unique perspective, and I’m looking forward to bringing that energy into every presentation I deliver.

Hi, I’m Paul Stolk, a Senior Software Developer at Sopra Steria with over 15 years of experience working with Microsoft technologies. I’m passionate about embracing the latest advancements in technology, and I have a particular fascination with artif... Show more

Marcin Szeliga is a Freelance Data Scientist who specializes in working with and teaching SQL Server and Azure, with over 25 years of experience in the field. Marcin has been consistently awarded the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional title since 2006 and is one of only two AI MVPs in Poland.

Marcin is an accomplished speaker at numerous European conferences, a university teacher, and an author of books and articles on the Microsoft data platform. Additionally, he serves on the program boards of the PWN publisher and the Polish Association of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, with a commitment to advancing the field of data science and AI.

As a leader of Data Community Poland and an active member of the Polish data science communities, Marcin is passionate about building a vibrant and inclusive community of data professionals. His dedication to helping others unlock the power of data is evident in his work with clients, teaching students, and collaborating with fellow experts.

Marcin Szeliga is a Freelance Data Scientist who specializes in working with and teaching SQL Server and Azure, with over 25 years of experience in the field. Marcin has been consistently awarded the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional title since 2... Show more

Andreas spent most of his professional life and a career of over 25 years integrating "backend" applications. First inside or between Enterprises and Startups directly, then - "in the cloud".
Before that, Andreas dabbled with Virtual Reality in the 90s. In 2013, he integrated an innovation focus into his work - from Kinect for Windows, Microsoft HoloLens, and Mixed Reality, to a strong focus on Applied Artificial Intelligence. Andreas told audiences years before ChatGPT to look at Generative AI.
He cannot stop talking about technology, which apparently some people like so Microsoft gave him the MVP award. Because he has shown leadership can advise C-levels and business, he also got accepted into the ranks of the Microsoft Regional Directors .
Andreas helps customers as a trusted advisor, external CTO and innovation consultant, he also produces exciting applications and solutions with a great team of skilled individuals.
He acts as CTO Applied AI for daenet.

Andreas spent most of his professional life and a career of over 25 years integrating "backend" applications. First inside or between Enterprises and Startups directly, then - "in the cloud". Before that, Andreas dabbled with Virtual Reality in the ... Show more

Andy is a seasoned data engineer with over a decade of experience in the Microsoft ecosystem, specializing in Microsoft Fabric. With a solid background in software development for retail back-end systems, he brings a unique perspective to building scalable, data-driven solutions. Holding an M.S. in Mathematics, Andy combines analytical rigor with practical engineering to deliver reliable, actionable insights.
After transitioning to data engineering, Andy has become a passionate advocate for evidence-based programming and empowering organizations through trustworthy data. He actively contributes to the tech community by organizing and speaking at user groups focused on Microsoft Fabric, SQL Server, and analytics.
When he’s not working with data, Andy enjoys grilling and smoking, often spending weekends refurbishing old grills and bringing them back to life for another round of great cooking.

Andy is a seasoned data engineer with over a decade of experience in the Microsoft ecosystem, specializing in Microsoft Fabric. With a solid background in software development for retail back-end systems, he brings a unique perspective to building sc... Show more

Gerjon Kunst works as CTO at RawWorks in het Netherlands, focusing on AI, future Workspace and Cloud. He has been awarded the Microsoft MVP tile for his work in AI. Gerjon has 25 years of experience in the IT business starting as a system engineer working his way up to a IT pro with broad and in depth knowledge of AI, Workspace and Cloud. Gerjon is a known presenter on Expertslive, Azure/M365/Citrix User Groups and E2EVC. He has a Podcast called the Impact of AI: Explored with James 'O Regan and as he is a Microsoft Certified Trainer you might have met him in a classroom somewhere

Gerjon Kunst works as CTO at RawWorks in het Netherlands, focusing on AI, future Workspace and Cloud. He has been awarded the Microsoft MVP tile for his work in AI. Gerjon has 25 years of experience in the IT business starting as a system engineer wo... Show more

I'm a passionate engineer, with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering innovative solutions.
My regular work centers on building reliable, scalable systems in Microsoft Azure and creating GenAI-powered solutions.

I love working in complex environments, collaborating with customers, leadership, and engineering teams to design solutions that provide value on both short- and long-term.
I regularly coach engineers and teams, helping both them and myself to grow.

Beyond engineering, I'm keen on sharing knowledge. I write blog posts, speak at conferences, user groups, and actively engage with the tech community.

I'm a passionate engineer, with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering innovative solutions. My regular work centers on building reliable, scalable systems in Microsoft Azure and creating GenAI-powered solutions. I love working in c... Show more

Ivan Šarić is a Senior Software Engineer at Revolut. He works on the expansion team helping open new markets and develop features that are specific to these markets. His work is focused on designing and developing Java Backend Microservices while maintaining high code quality through Domain Driven Design and Test Driven Development.
He previously worked as a freelance Technical Architect and Software Developer through his company Path Variable LLC. That endeavour laster for three years - from April 2021 until April 2024. He has over six years of experience in developing and designing software systems, mostly in the backend and DevOps domains, using technologies such as Java, Spring, MSSQL, React, Groovy, Jenkins, Docker, and more.
He holds an MA degree in Political Science and Government from Central European University, where he studied topics such as democracy, governance, and human rights. He is passionate about exploring different areas of science and technology, and is a minor contributor to the SpaCy NLP library. He is also a strong Linux and Open Source supporter, and a fluent speaker of English, Croatian, and German. He is motivated by solving complex problems, learning new skills, and creating value for his clients.

Ivan Šarić is a Senior Software Engineer at Revolut. He works on the expansion team helping open new markets and develop features that are specific to these markets. His work is focused on designing and developing Java Backend Microservices while mai... Show more

I'm Michele Blum. I was born in Switzerland and have both Swiss and Italian roots. I'm 26 years old, and I can speak English, German, and Italian fluently.

In my leisure time, I engage in activities that reflect my energetic and dynamic personality - gym, kickboxing, and exploring the adrenaline-pumping worlds of cars and motorcycles are a few of my passions.

When it comes to work, my interest lies deeply in tech. I'm particularly drawn to Azure Virtual Desktop, Entra ID, Identity & Access Management, Cloud Security, and Azure Automation with DevOps and Bicep. Additionally, I have expertise in Exchange Online, Exchange Online Protection, Microsoft Defender for Office, Microsoft Intune, and Azure compute and networking. My skills also extend to managing SQL databases and hybrid IT architectures. And yes, a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, I've heard a thing or two about on-premise infrastructures and can navigate them with ease.

Transforming my set of skills and interests into practical experiences, I'm committed to making valuable contributions in the Microsoft community.

I'm Michele Blum. I was born in Switzerland and have both Swiss and Italian roots. I'm 26 years old, and I can speak English, German, and Italian fluently. In my leisure time, I engage in activities that reflect my energetic and dynamic personalit... Show more

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

Over a 100 projects delivered to more than 60 clients worldwide either personally or via a directly managed team of developers. Over 7 million EUR in accumulated savings reported by clients due to these projects.

Personally trained over 50 RPA developers to work with the Power Platform and related software.

Microsoft Business Applications MVP.

7+ years of successfully leading a process improvement and automation agency, specializing in RPA using MS Power Automate (and the suite by Softomotive prior to 2020). Over a 100 projects delivered to more than 60 clients worldwide either personal... Show more