California Technology Summit Agenda

Fred Donatucci is an accomplished IT leader with over 25 years of experience driving business transformation and change. His passion for technology started early with his first computer, an Apple IIe. Fred went on to study economics and philosophy, combining his interests in business and technology. He has led IT teams and projects at global companies including Mattel, Honeywell, and Avery Dennison. Known for solving complex challenges, Fred utilizes his breadth of business and technology knowledge to create IT solutions that drive value.

Synopsis

The keynote speech explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on society and emphasizes the importance of human qualities in navigating this change. It highlights the following key themes:
1.) AI as a Complement: AI should be seen as a tool that enhances human capabilities and creativity, not as a replacement for human intelligence1.
2.) Historical Inspiration: The speech draws parallels between the current technological revolution and past upheavals, such as the Industrial Revolution and the founding of the United States, underscoring the need for strong leadership during times of change.
3.) Resilience: The ability to endure and adapt in the face of challenges is essential. Historical examples, like the winter at Valley Forge, illustrate the power of resilience in overcoming adversity.
4.) Collaboration: Effective collaboration is crucial for innovation. The speech cites the Great Compromise from the Constitutional Convention as a model for finding common ground amidst differing perspectives.
5.) Vision: Leaders must articulate a clear vision that extends beyond immediate challenges, similar to how Thomas Jefferson framed the Declaration of Independence with timeless principles of liberty and equality.
6.) Ethical Considerations: As AI is integrated into various sectors, it is vital to consider whether its implementation fosters humanity and equity or leads to isolation.
7.) Role of Soft Skills: Human skills such as empathy and leadership are irreplaceable and essential for guiding teams through technological transformations.
Call to Action: The opening keynot will conclude with a call for leaders to embrace resilience, collaboration, and vision to ensure that the advancement of AI serves humanity positively

Kayla Banuelos is a seasoned Product Marketing Manager with 12+ years of Cybersecurity Industry experience. Holding certifications in CompTia A+, Network+, and Security+, and a Competitive Intelligence certificate in Product Marketing. Kayla is a dedicated Latina Geeks volunteer and avid true crime enthusiast. She has spoken at notable events such as the Latina Geeks Women In Tech Conference and WiCyS San Diego CCPA Panel.

Speaker's Bio

Raymond Neff is a Senior Cyber Security Engineer with 35 years of IT experience, specializing in Cybersecurity for the past 10 years. Raymond brings a wealth of technical expertise, cybersecurity acumen, and an instinct for solution-driven sales, standing poised to offer invaluable assistance to ESET's pre-sale clientele and channel sales partners alike. With expertise in Cyber Security Insurance and key requirements, he has spoken on this topic at multiple Data Connectors. In his free time, Raymond enjoys bay fishing in the Laguna Madre.

Synopsis

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity risk insurance and AI advancements are reshaping business security strategies. Cybersecurity insurance is crucial for mitigating the financial impacts of cyber threats, while AI offers both enhanced protection and new challenges. This presentation explores the evolving cyber insurance landscape and the transformative role of AI in cybersecurity. By integrating these insights, businesses can better navigate modern cybersecurity complexities. Leveraging cyber insurance and AI innovations, organizations can safeguard their digital assets in an interconnected world.

A thought leader in cyber technology, Adam Winston has the depth of knowledge of an industry veteran, with over 20 years experience in the cybersecurity sector. As Chief Security Officer, Adam is driving the company’s Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (VCISO) and technology integration programs, and its evolution as the industry’s leading Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service provider.
Adam’s experience is both broad and deep within the sector, and spans endpoint, network and cloud systems security; audits and architecture; building and managing SOCs; software development and resellership alike; healthcare, education, defense and financial organizations; global enterprises of all sizes. Most recently, he served as VCISO helping customers through new privacy regulations GDPR, CCPA and Bill C-27 and guidance on how to prevent complex malware such as SolarGate and RaaS.
Prior to ActZero, Adam was the Founder and CTO of IntelliGO Networks (acquired by ActZero) and he developed its proprietary MDR software, built to service the threat hunting process. He also had key roles in managed security services for SIEM, NGFW and Penetration Testing performed by the company.
Adam holds a BASc in Computer Science as well as multiple industry certifications and awards for ethical hacking and various cyber technologies.

Synopsis

Join C1st Technologyies and ActZero to explore the latest generative AI and large language model advancements:
• Explore how these technologies are transforming cybersecurity, developing new tools and introducing risks like deepfakes and powerful malware.
• Discover how AI is making complex tech systems easier for everyone to use.
• Learn about the differences between open-source and closed-source security measures.

Torry Williams, Lead Solutions Architect at 11:11 Systems, brings over 20 years of hands-on IT experience, having served as a Programmer, Database Administrator, Network Engineer, and Chief Technology Officer before dedicating the past decade to Solutions Architecture. With six years at 11:11 Systems, Torry is known for designing innovative, scalable IT solutions that bridge technical expertise with business objectives. Outside of his professional achievements, Torry is a goat rancher and private pilot, blending a passion for hands-on work with a spirit of adventure.

Synopsis

Recovery plans are no longer optional—they’re inevitable. In today’s evolving threat landscape, every business will be tested. Whether it’s traditional disasters driven by nature or human error, or modern-day crises fueled by cyberattacks and ransomware, the stakes are higher than ever. How do you ensure your organization is prepared not just to survive, but to recover with confidence? In this session, we’ll cover:
• The key stages of a cyberattack and what they mean for your business
• Best practices to reduce your exposure and minimize impact
• Essential tools and strategies to recover quickly if compromised
• What a real-world recovery looks like—and how to be ready for it

More Info Coming Soon

Synopsis

AI is being touted as the solution to modern networking challenges—promising to simplify operations, improve security, and ease the burden on IT teams. With networks growing more complex than ever, the appeal of AI-driven automation is undeniable. But can AI truly solve the underlying problems, or is it just addressing symptoms? In this presentation, we’ll explore the evolution of network complexity, why traditional architectures are so difficult to manage, and how AI is being applied to address these challenges. We’ll examine the reality behind AI’s promises and whether it can finally deliver the simplicity and efficiency network operators have been chasing for decades. Is AI the breakthrough we've been waiting for, or is there something deeper at play? Let’s find out!

AI as the Allie vs an Employee Threat

Synopsis

The executive roundtables are for attendees with VIP badges only. The roundtables are intended for audience participation so be ready to discuss, receive valuable information, and connect with others for further discussion.

As the Director of the Solutions Architect Team at Horizon3.ai, Aleck is a cybersecurity technologist, strategist, and operational leader with over 20 years of experience. He has a proven track record of securing critical systems for the DoD, DOJ, and global enterprises. An expert in secure network architecture, multi-cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP), and AI/ML, Aleck excels at bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and real-world security challenges.

Synopsis

Join Aleck Brailsford, Director, Solutions Architect at Horizon3.ai, for an engaging session on “Offense-Driven Defense.” Aleck will challenge conventional risk assessment practices and unveil how focusing on real-world exploitability and impact can revolutionize your security approach. Drawing from insights gathered across more than 150,000 autonomous pentests, he’ll share compelling stories and actionable lessons that show how viewing your cyber terrain through an attacker’s lens can uncover hidden vulnerabilities, optimize resource allocation, and strengthen your defenses against advanced threats. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leading industry practitioner on why it’s time to “go hack yourself” and build resilience in today’s borderless threat environment.

David is a Cybersecurity Evangelist at TPx Communications, where he simplifies security and compliance for businesses navigating digital transformation. With 40+ years of hands-on experience across the full spectrum of IT—from early programming and systems architecture to modern cloud ecosystems and threat landscapes—he translates complex security challenges into actionable strategies. A battle-tested technologist, David has led IT businesses, architected networks, and weathered the evolution of cyber threats. Passionate about efficiency and risk reduction, he helps organizations strengthen their security posture without unnecessary complexity.

Synopsis

What if your cybersecurity strategy was a cross-country road trip—with ransomware hiding in the potholes? Discover how to map uncharted risks, pack unseen essentials, and train reluctant copilots before the engine starts. We’ll navigate dark highways where threats loom and rest stops save your engine. Your destination? A future where breaches don’t derail you. Leave with the map to a future where threats don’t define your destination.

Mitchell Spector is the Director of Security Innovation and Risk Solutions at Safe and Sound Security, where he helps organizations navigate the evolving intersection of physical security and IT. With a background in sales and client consulting, Mitchell specializes in bridging the gap between technical solutions and business outcomes. He has worked with organizations across a variety of industries—from local government to enterprise campuses—to help design security strategies that are both scalable and practical. Known for his approachable style and focus on real-world application, Mitchell brings a fresh perspective to the conversation around modern security planning.

Synopsis

As physical security systems become increasingly network-based—from cloud access control to IP surveillance—the line between IT and security has blurred. Yet in many organizations, these two departments still operate in silos, leading to inefficiencies, risks, and missed opportunities. In this session, attendees will learn how forward-thinking organizations are fostering collaboration between IT and physical security teams to improve outcomes across the board. Mitchell Spector, Director of Security Innovation and Risk Solutions, will break down real-world examples, common pain points, and a practical framework for bridging the gap. Whether you're in IT, facilities, or security leadership, this session will equip you to build stronger cross-functional alignment in your own organization.

Aaron Murphy is the Field CTO for the Americas. Aaron has more than 25 years of experience with Enterprise data management including backup, security, availability, DR and governance.
Originally from the UK and now living in New Jersey he has extensive experience in the EMEA and Americas markets including global organizations concerned with data management best practices and regulatory requirements such as those in Finance, Pharmaceutical, Healthcare and Government.
Aaron believes passionately in data science and has championed applications that use data, machine learning and dashboards for competitive advantage. He also believes strongly in the power of automation and API's and loves to talk about integrating Veeam with automation, security, reporting and compliance systems.

Synopsis

Today there are many challenges faced by IT leaders when looking to better prepare, defend, mitigate impact and recover from cyber attacks. This presentation will look at unbiased primary research and trends in the industry and identify challenges that we all face and reveal what organizations are looking for and why in order to develop a better cyber security posture, close gaps, inefficiencies and potential problems.

Larry is an enterprise IT Security Specialist with notable success directing a broad range of network/systems security solutions, integration and performance tuning.

Daniel's Bio

Daniel Marashlian the CTO & Co-Funder of Drata, a compliance company, where he oversees the vision, strategy, and execution of the tech roadmap. Daniel's expertise centers on product, programming, UX, databases, sofrware architecture, and cloud architecture, as well as developing culture and a healthy team structure. Prior to Drata, Daniel was the Co-Funder & CTO of Portfolium, RapidEngage, TweetPhoto, and Pelotonics.

Nemi's Bio

More Info Coming Soon

Shawn's Bio

Shawn Granen is a seasoned professional in the Information Technology (I.T.) industry with a proven track record of engineering, implementing, and managing extremely complex one-off projects. With a career spanning almost 20 years, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to strong leadership, outside of the box thinking, and a dedication to excellence to achieve high level results for his stakeholders and customers.
Currently serving as the Director of Information Technology aboard the USS Midway Museum, Shawn is responsible for engineering, development, and implementation of all their mission critical I.T. infrastructure and technologies. He has been instrumental in modernizing an antiquated network and server infrastructure while making key investments into the USS Midway’s digital experience.

Synopsis

Join us for a panel discussion featuring Larry Hoehn, Vice President of Services at Bird Rock Systems, as we delve into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity risks, overall compliance, and innovation.

For over 20 years, Gibby has excelled as a high-impact cybersecurity leader, building and directing high-performing teams across diverse organizations like Sony Pictures, Solidigm, and PlayStation Network. He fosters culture of innovation while seamlessley integrating security into digital transformations.

Synopsis

*This roundtable is for attendees with VIP badges only.* The Moderator will introduce and begin discussion on the topic. This session is intended for audience participation so be ready to discuss, receive valuable information, and connect with others for further discussion.

Alexandra has over 20 years of experience developing, managing, and supporting global Active Directory environments at the U.S. Department of the Interior, Intel, BBVA, and Nike. In 2020, she transitioned into a Solutions Architect role at a cybersecurity company specializing in identity security and the protection of Active Directory. Throughout her career, Alexandra has led initiatives including merger and acquisition integrations, enterprise-wide IAM implementations, and infrastructure modernization. She remains passionate about identity technologies and brings a deep understanding of Active Directory’s role in securing modern IT environments.

Synopsis

Discussion on protecting identity in Active Directory from cyberattacks. Discus the importance of being able to spot nefarious activity within Active Directory BEFORE it happens and have the ability to block it from happening. Discussion on the criticality of monitoring, alerting and prevention while stressing that securing the identity is essential to secure and protect your data.

Bruce Johnson has worked in the IT industry for over 30 years with IBM, Cisco Systems and now Cradlepoint. He is a security CISSP and has been working in security for over 20 years.

He loves speaking about relevant cybersecurity solutions and how they can address business issues. He has delivered presentations at security events around the world. In his current role, he focuses on 5G networking and security solutions for Cradlepoint.

Bruce has a B.S. degree in Computer Science and Statistics from Brigham Young University. He lives in the foothills of northern Utah and enjoys skiing, mountain biking, and woodworking.

Synopsis

Imagine a world where wires are nearly obsolete. Vehicles, IoT devices, remote offices, warehouses – all seamlessly connected and protected.

Discover how Wireless WANs can revolutionize your business. We'll guide you on how to: :
· Unlock new business opportunities with the power of wireless connectivity.
· Secure your entire network with a robust zero-trust framework.
· Protect your business from cyber threats with advanced security measures.
· Optimize network performance and reliability for seamless operations.
· Deploy private cellular networks where Wi-Fi simply isn't enough.

Join us to see how Wireless can transform your business today.

Wes Spencer, a renowned technology innovator and co-founder of multiple cybersecurity companies, including Perch Security (acquired in 2020), boasts a stellar reputation in the industry. He's been honored with prestigious awards like the 2020 Cybersecurity Educator of the Year by the Cybersecurity Excellence Awards. Wes has been featured in top-tier publications like The Wall Street Journal, Pro Publica, and Dark Reading.

Currently, Wes holds key positions at FifthWall Solutions as Vice President and Channel Chief, specializing in cybersecurity insurance, and also serves as Vice President of Cybersecurity Strategy at CyberFOX, showcasing his significant impact and leadership in the cybersecurity sector.

Synopsis

As cybersecurity evolves, protecting organizations from threats gets tougher. Verizon states 90% of Windows breaches arise from user privileges. Reduce risk by removing Admin rights despite potential frustration. Join CyberFOX to learn how to balance security and user ease, safeguarding your organization.

Michael Soule specializes in product development and innovation for public cloud technologies at Sentinel Technologies, a nationwide managed services provider. He has extensive experience in consulting on identity, governance, and administration for a wide range of customers.

Synopsis

Ensuring a secure identity is crucial in today's cybersecurity practices, but unfortunately, traditional identity practices are outdated and not entirely secure. In this upcoming exploration, we will delve into the challenges that many encounter when attempting to adopt more modern and secure identity practices. Prepare yourself for a wealth of informative insights as well as practical and actionable guidance that can help you improve your security practices.

In addition to being a Data Protection & Privacy Architech with Capgemini, Harvey is also the Director of ISACA Houston. He is very involved in the IS community in Houston and enjoys bringing people together to share knowledge and experience on a variety of topics relating to IT & IS.

David Sledge's Bio

David is an engaging information technology and cyber security leader with more than 15 years of leadership experience in the information technology field. He is enthusiastic about building diverse, collaborative teams while leading by example, genuinely understands the importance of inspiring change through influence, the propensity to connect with people and building relationships through learning from & listening to others. He is driven in the pursuit to growth professionally and personally while working to reach new people to expand the cyber security community.

Clif Triplett's Bio

Clif is a senior executive with broad and in-depth experience and knowledge of nearly all facets of information technology on a global basis. He has significant experience with Fortune 200 companies and industry leaders in the oilfield services, tractor, automotive, aerospace, defense and telecommunication industries. Respected leader, innovator, and change agent with keen ability to quickly assess a situation and create a strategy and architecture that best serves the need of the particular company. Has developed and driven market and internal strategic initiatives for major enterprises, start-ups, turnarounds, divestitures, mergers and acquisitions. Leader acknowledged for integrity, strategic thinking, architectural strength, operational excellence, manufacturing expertise, information security and global business acumen.

Chris Nicolaou's Bio

Chris is a solutions-oriented technology leader with an entrepreneurial spirit. With 20+ years of experience in strategic roles, often at the intersection of IT and new business development, he has expertise in cybersecurity, enterprise architecture (cloud and on-premise), ITIL v3, Lean IT, and Agile as well as business modeling, risk assessment and client engagement. He is also passionate about team development.

Synopsis

This panel will cover an array of differenct topics, come and listen!

Shane Ertz is a tenured industry professional with over 8 years of experience in cloud-managed physical security. He is currently a Regional Sales Manager for Avigilon Alta and helps spearhead cloud adoption to customers nationwide.

Synopsis

The traditional approach to physical security has been to install and manage on-premise systems, often relying on manual processes and siloed systems. However, the rise of cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) has given birth to a new era of physical security: Cloud Managed Physical Security.

David is a transformational technology leader building strategies which drive enterprise business value and efficiency. He sets vision, policies and standards for new levels of success through applying technologies that advance product quality and capabilities at scale. He solves complex business problems with strategic innovating enterprise architectures, delivering end-to-end digital transformation of processes. David has a track record of building a culture of commitment, innovation, and collaboration. Also, he is skilled in attracting and building world-class global teams.

Synopsis

This roundtable is for attendees for executives with VIP badges. This session is intended for audience participation so be ready to discuss, receive valuable information, and connect with others for further discussion.

Steve joined Arcserve as a Solution Consultant in June of 2011. Prior to joining Arcserve, Steve spent five years working as an IT Manager for a Contract Manufacturer in the biotech industry (San Diego, CA) and before that spent seven years as a Sr. Systems Engineer between two local San Diego value-added resellers. His primary focus over the past decade has been educating and enabling customers and partners on the Arcserve portfolio of data protection solutions—including backup/disaster recovery, business continuity and high availability.

Synopsis

When it comes to cyberattacks, catastrophe is just around the corner, and even data security best practices may not be good enough for today’s onslaught of evolving threats. The only way to ensure IT systems and data are safe is to use a multi-layer solution that includes anti-ransomware and other threat prevention technologies and DR for protection against data loss.

Learn how you can prevent cyberattacks and immediately restore business-critical data – no ransom required.

Pat Nurre has been with Absolute for 10 years as a Sales Engineer and is based in Houston, TX. He covers the SLED accounts for the southern states from Mississippi to California.

Synopsis

The secret to the best Cyber Security Hygiene solution. Can you really manage your whole environment if you can’t see the full picture?

Lyndon is a dynamic and energetic technologist and transformational IT leader with a successful history of directing cross-functional teams and staff. He has been instrumental in the successful development and integration of complex enterprise solutions within diverse organizations across multiple verticals and industries with a focus on operational excellence and cost reductions.

Synopsis

More Info Coming Soon

Since 1981 James Del Monte has been a leader in the Houston IT Employment space as an executive recruiter specializing in senior level positions and key technology areas like info/sec. Over his career as President of JDA Professional Services he has filled thousands of positions and helped countless professionals advance their careers. James has shared his views on the employment market, compensation trends and interviewing at several trade groups, conferences, publications and has been top rated for his speaking skills and humor.

Synopsis

This presentation is based on interviews with Houston executives from companies ranging from fortune 100 to 250M. It represents their views of key success factors and what they look for when hiring or promoting.

Clif is a senior executive with broad and in-depth experience and knowledge of nearly all facets of information technology on a global basis. He has significant experience with Fortune 200 companies and industry leaders in the oilfield services, tractor, automotive, aerospace, defense and telecommunication industries. Respected leader, innovator, and change agent with keen ability to quickly assess a situation and create a strategy and architecture that best serves the need of the particular company. Has developed and driven market and internal strategic initiatives for major enterprises, start-ups, turnarounds, divestitures, mergers and acquisitions. Leader acknowledged for integrity, strategic thinking, architectural strength, operational excellence, manufacturing expertise, information security and global business acumen.

Synopsis

SIM Members + IT/IS Managers & Above

Mike Baron is a talented and accomplished IT Executive with proven record of success in leading technology operations, application development, technology deployment, project management, sales engineering, and compliance functions. He is able to liaison between technical and non-technical groups, deliver C-level presentations, and direct modernization and optimizations initiatives.

Fred's Bio

Fred Donatucci has experience in driving digital transformation and process improvement in the manufacturing industry, I am an accomplished and award-winning technology executive and cultural change agent. I recently led the IT organization at New-Indy Containerboard, a leading paper and packaging company, where I oversaw the company's overall technology strategy, digital transformation and ERP implementation efforts.

Israel's Bio

Israel is a highly accomplished and innovative senior IT executive with 30+ years of leadership experience spanning multisite IT operations management, technology optimization, and systems implementation and integration. Creative, customer focused, and determined leader with innate ability to align IT and business initiatives translating technical concepts and IT vision to non-technical leadership and team members. Outgoing people person with exceptional interpersonal skills to effectively build and lead cross-functional teams to meet critical deadlines in diverse environments.

Synopsis

This panel discussion will cover an array of different topics, come & listen! This session will also include audiance Q&A.

David is a Senior AI/ML Engineer at NetApp, where he’s dedicated to empowering developers to build, scale, and deploy AI/ML models in production. He brings deep expertise in building and training models for applications like NLP, data visualization, and real-time analytics. His mission is to help users build, train, and deploy AI models efficiently, making advanced machine learning accessible to individuals of all levels.
Prior to DigitalOcean, he developed advanced conversational AI solutions and drove AI platform growth, specializing in NLP. David frequently shares his insights at industry conferences and workshops, offering hands-on guidance for implementing AI/ML in cloud environments. David's experience includes Kubernetes, VMware virtualization, backup/recovery solutions, and hardware storage adaptor firmware/drivers.

Synopsis

As artificial intelligence rapidly reshapes industries, the risk of adversarial manipulation presents critical security and ethical challenges. AI models, inherently vulnerable to subtle manipulations, can be deceived through techniques such as crafted data perturbations, targeted misinformation, and sophisticated attacks. This session shines a spotlight on the human factor in securing AI systems, highlighting the role of informed teams in identifying, understanding, and mitigating these adversarial threats. Participants will discover how human-driven design and proactive security practices can form the foundation for resilient, trustworthy AI systems. Through real-world scenarios and practical demonstrations, attendees will discover how adversarial attacks exploit vulnerabilities in machine learning systems-and more importantly, how humans can effectively intervene to disrupt these attacks.
This session will present frameworks and actionable strategies to strengthen AI defenses proactively.
Attendees will leave empowered with knowledge and tools to foster secure, reliable, and ethically sound AI practices within their organizations.