Born and raised in St. Louis, MO; Von’s safety & health career began while serving with the United States Air Force (USAF) where she earned several awards and medals during her 20-year military career. Additionally, 6 years served with the TX State Guard, becoming the first African-American Air Force enlistee to attend the US Army Officer Candidate School and becoming a commissioned officer.

She is a retired disabled veteran of Operation Desert Shield/Storm. Attendees and participants in Von’s seminars & her training benefit from her knowledge, compassion, enthusiasm and unique ability to immediately put her audience at ease through practical, personal life experiences.

Von M. Griggs is an internationally recognized certified safety & health professional and consultant who possesses over 30 years of occupational health, safety and environmental experience in various industries. She is founder & lead consultant at Griggs Safety Consultants, LLC.

She has received the coveted Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO) certificate and is an Adjunct Instructor at Texas A&M/TEEX; where she was awarded Wage Instructor of the year for 2021. She has presented for NST/Skillpath and Fred Pryor Seminars; providing training for compliance standards as well as coaching leadership & management skills for women.

Ms. Griggs has been published in USAF publications, industry related and social women magazines and is a contributor to the National Safety Council. She has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland an Associate of Applied Science in Safety from the Community College of the Air Force, and holds numerous industry specific certifications and is a recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awad.
Von considers her greatest achievement is when she is serving others, as an ordained minister and especially as an advocate for female Veterans and domestic violence. Her non-profit; Joy Restored Outreach, LLC; has a direct-desired vision to offer unique service opportunities for unhoused female Veterans with children. She is a certified life coach and serves transitioning female Veterans of all branches of the United States Armed Forces and women facing significant life changes to “rewrite their reality”.

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO; Von’s safety & health career began while serving with the United States Air Force (USAF) where she earned several awards and medals during her 20-year military career. Additionally, 6 years served with the TX State G... Show more

Saibabu Merakanapalli is an Automotive Electrical Functional Architect specializing in Autonomous Steering, Antilock Braking Systems (ABS), ADAS software architectures, and Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) platforms. With advanced engineering experience at General Motors and prior roles at Nexteer Automotive, he designs and validates safety-critical chassis systems that improve vehicle reliability, predictive diagnostics, and accident-prevention capabilities across modern EV and autonomous platforms.

He has deep expertise in AUTOSAR Classic & Adaptive, SOME/IP, Ethernet/TSN-based communication, functional safety (ISO 26262), and model-based development ( IBM Rhapsody). His work spans end-to-end functional architecture, microservices for Software defined Vehicles, network latency diagnostics, and advanced steering/braking control strategies used in next-generation vehicles.

Saibabu is also active in technical research, contributing publications on AI-driven automotive diagnostics, SDV architecture optimization, predictive maintenance, and intelligent chassis systems. He serves as a peer reviewer across engineering journals and frequently writes about advanced vehicle safety innovations that align with U.S. national transportation and EV safety priorities.

Passionate about making mobility safer, Saibabu’s work focuses on saving lives through engineering, advancing the reliability, intelligence, and safety of the modern vehicle ecosystem.

Saibabu Merakanapalli is an Automotive Electrical Functional Architect specializing in Autonomous Steering, Antilock Braking Systems (ABS), ADAS software architectures, and Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) platforms. With advanced engineering experienc... Show more

Staff Engineer at Delta Electronics with 12+ years of experience specializing in secure, scalable enterprise platforms for digital transformation. Expert in cloud migration, legacy modernization, and hybrid infrastructure (Data Management, Hybrid Cloud, Kubernetes).

Staff Engineer at Delta Electronics with 12+ years of experience specializing in secure, scalable enterprise platforms for digital transformation. Expert in cloud migration, legacy modernization, and hybrid infrastructure (Data Management, Hybrid Clo... Show more

Per gli amici, Lucio, classe 1996, sono un informatico e un designer industriale che ha cominciato a fare impresa nel paesello dove sono nato, nel centro della mia amata Sicilia. Ho 2 partit, ehm, 2 attività di cui vado fiero, una è nell'ambito dell'artigianato, settore legno, e l'altra è un'azienda agricola. Sono un perito informatico e dopo aver iniziato gli studi al dipartimento di matematica e informatica all'università di Catania, per imprevisti o forse opportunità, non ho concluso la carriera da programmatore, ho capito che volevo fare altre cose da grande e adesso sto completando gli studi in Architettura e design industriale presso la San Raffaele Roma.
Sono una ex recluta del GDG Catania e ho fatto tanta esperienza nel mondo delle startup, partendo dal brainstorming.
Ho molte skill, ma resto umile, mi piace la musica e la pasta al forno.

Per gli amici, Lucio, classe 1996, sono un informatico e un designer industriale che ha cominciato a fare impresa nel paesello dove sono nato, nel centro della mia amata Sicilia. Ho 2 partit, ehm, 2 attività di cui vado fiero, una è nell'ambito dell'... Show more

Olayiwola is a full stack software engineer at penciledge. He is a curious person who enjoys exploring latest software technologies and mashing them up to create something cool.

Olayiwola is a full stack software engineer at penciledge. He is a curious person who enjoys exploring latest software technologies and mashing them up to create something cool. Show more

I am currently an engineer based in Denver, CO

I am currently an engineer based in Denver, CO Show more

I’m an analytical and results-driven Software Engineer with over 8 years of experience in cloud infrastructure, networking systems, and observability engineering. My work spans across C, C++, Go, and Python, with a deep focus on Azure networking, eBPF, Kubernetes, and performance benchmarking.

At Microsoft, I work on Windows Container Networking and Retina Data Path Observability, where I lead large-scale performance benchmarking efforts and integrate Cilium-based eBPF observability on Windows. I’ve contributed to the eBPF-for-Windows open-source project and led the deployment of the Azure Dependency Agent across multiple global regions—enhancing reliability, efficiency, and customer experience for Azure Monitor and VM Insights.

Before joining Microsoft, I worked at Cisco Systems, where I implemented high-availability networking solutions (In-Service Software Upgrades) and developed GRPC-based CLI frameworks to improve visibility and management across distributed systems. Earlier in my career, I interned at Juniper Networks and Versa Networks, where I built automation frameworks, real-time communication features, and pub-sub IPC models for core network components.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about giving back to the tech community. I’ve served as a hackathon judge and mentor at events such as Tidal Hacks, Uncommon Hacks, Diamond Hacks, and Hackabyte, where I enjoy mentoring student developers and evaluating innovative solutions in AI, networking, and cloud technologies.

I hold a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Southern California (USC) and am currently pursuing a Postgraduate Program in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on machine learning, NLP, and deep learning.

I’m an analytical and results-driven Software Engineer with over 8 years of experience in cloud infrastructure, networking systems, and observability engineering. My work spans across C, C++, Go, and Python, with a deep focus on Azure networking, eBP... Show more

Pavement Engineer

Pavement Engineer Show more

Jeff Hayes is a leadership and team development coach who helps leaders and teams think clearly, collaborate effectively, and navigate complexity with confidence.

With roots in software engineering and decades of experience in coaching and organizational systems, Jeff brings a warm, human-centered approach to improving team dynamics, leadership behaviors, and modern ways of working — including the evolving role of AI in collaboration.

He contributes to the Agile Coaching Growth Wheel community, co-hosts coaching circles, and speaks internationally about leadership clarity, dynamic teaming, and creating environments where people do their best work.

Jeff Hayes is a leadership and team development coach who helps leaders and teams think clearly, collaborate effectively, and navigate complexity with confidence. With roots in software engineering and decades of experience in coaching and organiz... Show more

With 15+ years of experience in the ERP industry, I have progressed from support roles to becoming a Solution Architect, specialising in manufacturing solutions across diverse sectors including plastics, design-driven manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food & beverage. My passion lies in designing and implementing systems that not only streamline business operations but also enhance people's lives by reducing stress and enabling smarter, more efficient workflows. Witnessing the transformative power of technology in driving business growth is what fuels my dedication and passion to this field.
Academically, I hold a BA (Hons) in English Literature and am currently pursuing an MSc in Computer Science with a focus on AI. Alongside my academic endeavours, I maintain professional Microsoft certifications and continue to expand my expertise in the latest technological innovations.

With 15+ years of experience in the ERP industry, I have progressed from support roles to becoming a Solution Architect, specialising in manufacturing solutions across diverse sectors including plastics, design-driven manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, ... Show more

Smith leads the team responsible for growing Dataverse capabilities and transformation to become Microsoft's Copilot data platform for business processes.
He has a deep background in product development, having spent more than 16 years focused on building distributed systems and enterprise software designed to drive digital transformation within corporations across various industries.
His areas of specialty include emerging technologies such as Blockchain, Autonomous Driving, Connected Car, Immersive Experiences, and Generative AI.

Smith leads the team responsible for growing Dataverse capabilities and transformation to become Microsoft's Copilot data platform for business processes. He has a deep background in product development, having spent more than 16 years focused on bu... Show more

Dominic Storey is an IBM Master Inventor and Automation Technical Leader working in the IBM Integration team. He is currently working on the next generation of IBM Integration products including App Connect Enterprise and Designer delivered within the Cloud Pak for Integration. In a previous life, he was Technical Lead for the IBM Integration Bus Industry Team, delivering the Healthcare, Retail and Manufacturing Packs. He also worked within the MQSeries and Message Broker Development teams in IBM Hursley when starting at IBM in 1997, working on many core parts of these products, notably the Message Broker API, Pattern Authoring and Message Broker Explorer.

Contact details: domstorey @uk.ibm.com

Dominic Storey is an IBM Master Inventor and Automation Technical Leader working in the IBM Integration team. He is currently working on the next generation of IBM Integration products including App Connect Enterprise and Designer delivered within th... Show more

Alex is a Systemic Engineer from Cologne, Germany in their 30s.

They have extensive experience designing complex distributed systems, complex team topologies, and care deeply about the human component in tech. They are always looking for ways to create a more inclusive, psychological safe, and productive work environment, all to enable engineers to become the best versions of themselves. In the past decade they successfully worked as a colleague to, manager of, and mentor for many engineers and stakeholders.

Alex is a Systemic Engineer from Cologne, Germany in their 30s. They have extensive experience designing complex distributed systems, complex team topologies, and care deeply about the human component in tech. They are always looking for ways to c... Show more

Pradeep Rao Vennamaneni is a distinguished technology innovator and Staff Software Engineer at Inovalon, specializing in Generative AI, applied machine learning, and large-scale data architecture. He leads initiatives that integrate advanced AI models into enterprise and healthcare systems, transforming complex data into intelligent, actionable insights. With a proven record in building ethical, scalable, and human-centered AI solutions, Pradeep is recognized for driving innovation that bridges technical excellence with societal impact. His expertise spans AI integration strategy, data-driven transformation, and cloud-scale system design. Passionate about shaping the future of responsible AI, he is dedicated to advancing global innovation where intelligent systems empower people, organizations, and sustainable progress.

Pradeep Rao Vennamaneni is a distinguished technology innovator and Staff Software Engineer at Inovalon, specializing in Generative AI, applied machine learning, and large-scale data architecture. He leads initiatives that integrate advanced AI model... Show more

I’m a Microsoft-certified Dynamics 365 F&O consultant specialized in Finance, with 3+ years of experience and a solid background in accounting and treasury management. I help companies implement efficient and standards-based solutions, with a strong focus on methodology and problem-solving.

I’ve worked across industries such as paper manufacturing, healthcare products, food, and industrial companies, among others.

I’m a Microsoft-certified Dynamics 365 F&O consultant specialized in Finance, with 3+ years of experience and a solid background in accounting and treasury management. I help companies implement efficient and standards-based solutions, with a strong ... Show more

Passionate about technology and design, I develop open hardware for 3D printers. For the last few years, I have mentored the Clockworks robotics team, sharing my programming expertise while gaining extensive experience in CAD and 3D printing.

Passionate about technology and design, I develop open hardware for 3D printers. For the last few years, I have mentored the Clockworks robotics team, sharing my programming expertise while gaining extensive experience in CAD and 3D printing. Show more

Rahul Kiran Talaseela is a results-driven Technical Architect and ERP Consultant with over 15 years of specialized experience in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, Power Platform, and AI-powered automation solutions. Based in North Brunswick, New Jersey, he has established himself as a leading expert in digital transformation initiatives, helping organizations streamline business processes and integrate advanced data solutions to enhance reporting, decision-making, and operational efficiency.
Throughout his career, Rahul has been involved in six full life cycle ERP implementations, demonstrating deep expertise across financial, procurement, and manufacturing modules within D365 F&O. His technical proficiency spans advanced programming languages, including X++, C#, and SQL, complemented by extensive experience with Microsoft Visual Studio, Azure services, and modern integration protocols. He has successfully led teams and managed complex projects for notable organizations, including SourceAmerica, Antares Capital LP, and S'well Bottle, consistently delivering innovative solutions that drive business value.
Currently serving as a Senior Application Developer at SourceAmerica, Rahul plays a pivotal role in the organization's Digital Transformation Initiative, migrating legacy applications to Microsoft ecosystem solutions and implementing cutting-edge technologies like Power BI for real-time analytics. His expertise extends to cloud architecture, where he has designed scalable data pipelines using Azure Data Lake, Data Factory, and Synapse for robust data integration and reporting solutions.
Rahul's unique combination of technical depth and business acumen has enabled him to successfully integrate D365 F&O with various third-party systems, including payment gateways, logistics providers, and financial planning platforms. He holds a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology from Sri Kottam Tulasi Reddy Memorial College of Engineering and maintains a technical blog at http://rahulmsdax.blogspot.com, where he shares insights from his extensive experience in the Microsoft Dynamics ecosystem.
His commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, coupled with his ability to leverage AI and intelligent automation technologies, positions him as a valuable partner for organizations seeking to modernize their enterprise systems and drive operational excellence through technology.

Rahul Kiran Talaseela is a results-driven Technical Architect and ERP Consultant with over 15 years of specialized experience in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, Power Platform, and AI-powered automation solutions. Based in North Brunswic... Show more

Sankar Subramanian is a distinguished engineering professional with over two decades of expertise in control and automation systems, specializing in the development and implementation of mission-critical automation solutions across diverse high-tech industries. Currently serving as Staff Control Automation Engineer at LUCID Motors Inc., Sankar brings a unique combination of deep technical knowledge and proven leadership capabilities to advance manufacturing automation technologies.
With more than 20 years of hands-on experience, Sankar has established himself as a leading expert in manufacturing process automation, particularly in cutting-edge sectors including semiconductor lasers, silicon photonics, fiber-optics transceivers, and electric vehicle research and development. His career demonstrates a consistent track record of delivering innovative automation solutions that enhance manufacturing efficiency, improve product quality, and reduce operational costs.
Sankar's expertise spans the complete automation ecosystem, from high-precision robotics and machine vision systems to advanced motion control and servo programming. He has successfully led the development of sophisticated automation tools, including BAR stacker systems for semiconductor manufacturing with precision handling capabilities down to 150-micron tolerances, active fiber aligners achieving ±2μm accuracy, and complex multi-channel optical transceiver assembly systems. His technical proficiency encompasses multiple programming languages (Python, C/C++, C#, LabVIEW), industrial robotics (particularly EPSON systems), machine vision technologies, and advanced data analysis tools.
Throughout his career, Sankar has made significant contributions across multiple industry sectors. At Coherent Inc. (formerly II-VI Inc/Finisar Corp.), he spearheaded process automation initiatives that dramatically improved semiconductor manufacturing throughput while reducing defects. His work at AEVA Technologies focused on developing testing protocols and automation processes for advanced technologies, while his current role at LUCID Motors involves advancing automation technologies to enhance electric vehicle manufacturing processes.
Beyond his technical achievements, Sankar has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, successfully managing and mentoring junior engineering teams to maximize productivity and foster collaborative multi-team environments. His approach combines technical excellence with practical problem-solving, making complex automation concepts accessible to diverse engineering teams.
Sankar holds a Bachelor of Electronic Science from Madras University and a Master of Science in Applied Electronics from PSG College, Bharathiyar University. He is also a National Instruments Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer (CLAD), reflecting his commitment to maintaining current technical certifications in rapidly evolving automation technologies.
Sankar's comprehensive understanding of manufacturing execution systems (MES), data analysis for production optimization, and emerging technologies like machine learning applications in robotics positions him at the forefront of Industry 4.0 initiatives. His ability to bridge the gap between theoretical automation concepts and practical manufacturing implementations makes him an invaluable resource for organizations seeking to modernize their production capabilities. With a proven ability to identify automation opportunities, design robust solutions, and successfully deploy them in high-volume manufacturing environments, Sankar Subramanian continues to drive innovation in control and automation engineering, contributing to the advancement of manufacturing technologies across multiple industries.

Sankar Subramanian is a distinguished engineering professional with over two decades of expertise in control and automation systems, specializing in the development and implementation of mission-critical automation solutions across diverse high-tech ... Show more

Dan has over 20 years of experience architecting, designing, and delivering complex enterprise solutions across diverse industries, including fintech, retail, government, and media. He is currently VP Architecture at 10x Banking, a fintech delivery Core Banking solutions to clients such as Chase UK, WestPac, and Old Mutual.

Dan has over 20 years of experience architecting, designing, and delivering complex enterprise solutions across diverse industries, including fintech, retail, government, and media. He is currently VP Architecture at 10x Banking, a fintech delivery C... Show more

As a seasoned leader in the web development industry, Ian is passionate about managing and mentoring teams to achieve success. With many years of experience in an agency environment, Ian has honed his skills in project management, team leadership, and client communication. He believes in fostering a collaborative work environment where team members feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the success of each project. Ian is committed to developing his team's skills and expertise, providing ongoing training and coaching to help them achieve their professional goals. Through his leadership, Ian has successfully managed teams to deliver high-quality web development projects on time and within budget.

As a seasoned leader in the web development industry, Ian is passionate about managing and mentoring teams to achieve success. With many years of experience in an agency environment, Ian has honed his skills in project management, team leadership, an... Show more

Ex-founder turned VC professional — sourced 300+ startups, deployed ₹3.5 Cr ($420K), and raised ₹7 Cr ($840K). I back bold ideas with founder-first insight and offer a distinct perspective from India, acting as a bridge for global ventures seeking to expand into the Indian market

I’m an ex-EV founder turned startup scout and fund manager, blending deep-tech insight with on-ground ecosystem execution.

For the past two years, I’ve served as Incubation Manager at Vishnu Foundation TBI, where I’ve sourced 100+ startups, deployed ~$500k (₹3.5 Cr) across 15 deals, and helped raise ~$900k (₹7 Cr) in government funding under national startup schemes.

Alongside fund operations, I’ve successfully onboarded 9+ investors and forged 6+ strategic partnerships with incubators, accelerators, and ecosystem enablers — expanding our funding network and support infrastructure for startups. I also lead investment operations end-to-end: coordinating with ICs and legal teams for term sheets, managing founder communication, and tracking portfolio milestones. Additionally, I design and execute investor-facing demo days and conclaves to connect capital with innovation.

Ex-founder turned VC professional — sourced 300+ startups, deployed ₹3.5 Cr ($420K), and raised ₹7 Cr ($840K). I back bold ideas with founder-first insight and offer a distinct perspective from India, acting as a bridge for global ventures seeking to... Show more

Sharanesh R has over 3 years of experience in the semiconductor industry and is currently working as an Sr. Engineer at Tenstorrent. In his current role, he is responsible for RTL Design of Sub-System IP components that are part of High-Performance RISC-V cores. Prior to joining Tenstorrent, Sharanesh interned at APT portfolio, working on various tasks including High Level Synthesis and UVM verification testbenches. He holds a B.Tech. (Hons) with Computing (Minor) in Electrical Engineering from IIT Madras, India.

Sharanesh R has over 3 years of experience in the semiconductor industry and is currently working as an Sr. Engineer at Tenstorrent. In his current role, he is responsible for RTL Design of Sub-System IP components that are part of High-Performance R... Show more

(Spanish version below)

Fernando Oleo Blanco (Irvise on the net) is a young engineer pasionate with libre software and mechanical engineering. Currently, he is working in the energy sector, focusing mostly in the nuclear world, with projects related to fusion energy and Gen IV nuclear reactors. At an early age, his passion of libre software soon met his studies in engineering and both sides have been complementing each other ever since. The software communities he is involved mostly with are CAD/FEM/CFD software and Ada. Additionally, he is always happy to help people learn about software and spread the word on the libre philosophy. However, mechanical engineering is not all: operating systems, music, art, decentralization, rogelikes, typography and unrestricted access to information are also part of his interests.

Fernando Oleo Blanco es un joven ingeniero mecánico e industrial. Actualmente trabaja como diseñador de sistemas nucleares, tanto para reactores de IV generación como la investigación de la fusión. El mundo del software libre le apasiona y representa uno de sus mayores hobbies. Tiene especial presencia en comunidades ingenieriles y de simulación (CAD, FEM, CFD...) y en la comunidad del lenguaje de programación Ada/SPARK. Adicionalmente, Fernando es una mente inquieta a quien le apasiona la música, los rogelikes, la tipografía y la investigación.

(Spanish version below) Fernando Oleo Blanco (Irvise on the net) is a young engineer pasionate with libre software and mechanical engineering. Currently, he is working in the energy sector, focusing mostly in the nuclear world, with projects relat... Show more

I am a data-driven design strategist.
I specialise in transforming raw data into blueprints for intelligent, human-centred services and products. With a career spanning MI, data engineering and data solutions, I see data as a design tool that powers innovation. I champion a design philosophy that places human needs, ethical considerations and user control at the forefront of AI-driven automation.
I advocate for technology designed to enhance, rather than dictates human experience.

I am a data-driven design strategist. I specialise in transforming raw data into blueprints for intelligent, human-centred services and products. With a career spanning MI, data engineering and data solutions, I see data as a design tool that power... Show more

Analytics strategist-builder with 30 years of hands-on technical and leadership experience. Envisions, sells, builds and manages fresh approaches to data-driven decision making for biopharma, agriculture, supply chain and telecom clients. Unlocks value rapidly by bridging business and technical cultures. Thrives when growing new teams.

Analytics strategist-builder with 30 years of hands-on technical and leadership experience. Envisions, sells, builds and manages fresh approaches to data-driven decision making for biopharma, agriculture, supply chain and telecom clients. Unlocks val... Show more

Fatima Zahra Fagroud is a doctor and researcher in computer science, professor of computer science, Huwaei ICT Academy Instructor, IT Trainer, Human AI and Cluster Digital Africa Ambassador, international speaker and Mentor & Judge in IT and Innovation. She obtained her doctorate in computer science (A thesis entitled: "Towards a real-time search engine for IoT connected objects: a new approach based on artificial intelligence" ) from the Ben M'Sik Faculty of Science in 2023. Fatima Zahra is a member of the winning team of the 2nd prize of the 1st cycle of the DDR Award MENA 2021, Global Ambassador of Women In Tech Conference 2024 and Regional Ambassador of the Hackathon of the World Innovation Day of United Nations for the 2022 and 2023 Edition. She was nominated as the best researcher in "Internet of things and information retrieval" by International Research Excellence and Citation Awards and best researcher in "IoT application and IoT devices retrieval" by International Research Awards on Internet of Things and Applications. She is a member of the ABCD index, as well as serving on the review committees of various international journals and conferences. She is chair of the international workshops A2IoT, IA&Nlp and NSCTI and a member of the organizing committee of various national and international workshops and conferences. His research interests include information retrieval, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence and metaverse.

Fatima Zahra Fagroud is a doctor and researcher in computer science, professor of computer science, Huwaei ICT Academy Instructor, IT Trainer, Human AI and Cluster Digital Africa Ambassador, international speaker and Mentor & Judge in IT and Innovati... Show more

Ian Schenkel of Newport Beach is a mechanical engineer turned entrepreneur with more than thirty years of experience in the food industry. Based in Newport Beach, California, he has built a career that brings together technical expertise and business knowledge. Over the years, his work has spanned machinery design, large-scale food manufacturing, private labeling, and product development. He is best known as the founder of a food manufacturing company that has remained successful for more than three decades despite the many challenges of a competitive marketplace.

His career began with a degree in mechanical engineering, which gave him the ability to understand systems and find ways to improve them. In the early part of his professional life, he focused on designing and building machinery, skills that later became essential when he moved into food production. Unlike many who start businesses with only a marketing idea, he entered the industry with a technical foundation. Ian Schenkel Haliburton understood the importance of reliable equipment and how small efficiencies in production could build into meaningful results over time.

Before starting his own company, he worked in several parts of the food business. Through private labeling, he gained an understanding of how to maintain brand identity while meeting the demands of large-scale production. Schenkel also developed expertise in specialized areas such as frozen vegetables and fire roasting. When he decided to establish his own company, he knew the risks involved. Margins were often tight, supply chains were complex, and consumer preferences shifted quickly. Still, he focused on creating a business model that could adapt while remaining committed to quality.

That approach shaped the long-term success of the company. It expanded into new opportunities, refined operations, and built a reputation for consistency. His leadership has always centered on key principles: quality control, efficiency in operations, adaptability, and team development. Ian has invested in training and worked to build a culture where employees feel valued, believing that the strength of the company rests with its people.

His leadership style reflects a balance of technical knowledge and strategic vision. He uses both data and long experience while also listening to his team and keeping attention on long-term goals. Outside of business, he enjoys boating and golf, both of which require patience and adaptability. His connection to Haliburton also provides balance and perspective away from daily responsibilities.

Over more than three decades, he has seen shifts in markets, consumer behavior, and technology. What he has learned is that lasting success comes not from one breakthrough but from consistent improvements made over time. With 33 years in business, his company stands as proof of endurance, adaptability, and trust built with employees, partners, and customers. From his early years as an engineer to his long-standing role as an entrepreneur, Ian Schenkel continues to demonstrate that quality, efficiency, and persistence are the foundation of lasting success.

Ian Schenkel of Newport Beach is a mechanical engineer turned entrepreneur with more than thirty years of experience in the food industry. Based in Newport Beach, California, he has built a career that brings together technical expertise and business... Show more

Creative and Branding Strategist

Creative and Branding Strategist Show more

I love solving problems with technology. Working across the whole spectrum of the M365 product suite, SharePoint, Teams, and the Power Platform apps are the main topics of my day job. Charts and data visualisation with Excel and Power BI are my favourite topics, but I also like a good dig around data with Power Query and DAX. I've been working with SharePoint for over 15 years, building sites, process automation and online integrations. After hours I spend a lot of time in online forums for Excel with the web alias "teylyn". As an end user, I prefer solutions that use the built-in functionality and as little custom code as possible. I've been a Microsoft MVP since 2012.

I love solving problems with technology. Working across the whole spectrum of the M365 product suite, SharePoint, Teams, and the Power Platform apps are the main topics of my day job. Charts and data visualisation with Excel and Power BI are my favou... Show more

Antonio is a highly accomplished Senior Platform Engineer with over a decade of experience in the design, development, and implementation of innovative platform architectures. Having worked with some of the largest defense, financial services, research, and retail organizations in the United States, he is an expert in creating robust, scalable, and secure solutions tailored to the unique needs of his clients. Antonio's deep technical knowledge is complemented by his exceptional communication and collaboration skills. He is adept at fostering strong relationships with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

Antonio is a highly accomplished Senior Platform Engineer with over a decade of experience in the design, development, and implementation of innovative platform architectures. Having worked with some of the largest defense, financial services, resear... Show more