Florida Technology Summit Agenda

Christina Shannon is an accomplished Chief Information Officer (CIO) in the CPG chemical manufacturing sector, with a career spanning over two decades. She started her career in a technical capacity, transitioning to senior security leadership roles in Fortune 100 companies, to executive technology and security positions in mid-to-large-sized, private equity-owned firms.
Christina has served as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) four times, gaining extensive experience in developing effective strategies to address enterprise cyber risk across various industries.
As CIO at KIK Consumer Products, Christina focuses on building a high performing team, who partners with the business to realize value through securely exploiting technology.

Synopsis

People and technology helped me beat the odds, and AI should now be used the same way to help people and companies beat the odds and achieve positive outcomes.

Matt’s passion is the application of data analytics to drive value in the Communications and Media domains. With more than two decades of experience leveraging data analytics, Matt has served in various capacities, developing, and supporting a wide variety of network-delivered services. Matt holds an MS in computer science from George Mason University and a BS from UC Berkeley. He currently resides with his family, on Bainbridge Island, in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, where he takes every opportunity to get on the water, or up a mountain, or, via SeaTac, to various points around the globe.

Speaker's Bio

Jenny Lucas has been helping Fortune 100 customers with digital resilience strategies for the last 15+ years throughout her tenure with Splunk/Cisco, IBM, Zerto, Peak10/Flexential and Dell/EMC. She graduated from Georgia Tech and has maintained a passion for making the world better through technology as a result. She was born and raised in Atlanta, Ga and enjoys spending time with her family and 3-year-old son fishing, cooking, and spending time outside.

Synopsis

Sustaining resilient systems, exceptional customer experiences and continuous innovation is increasingly difficult amid rising cyber threats, technical complexity and accelerating change. So how can organizations stay ahead? This session explores how leading organizations take a transformative approach to integrating Observability and Security to enhance resiliency, efficiency, and innovation. Learn from industry peers, discover emerging trends and gain best practices to navigate this evolving landscape. Join us for insights on building a more adaptive and secure digital future.

Derek Carver has been in the IT industry for over 23 years, working in various roles including route/switch engineer, security architect, UNIX administrator and pre-sales engineering and enterprise architect roles. Derek has a Masters of Science in Computer Science and has several security certifications. He lives in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife and he has two children. When not working he enjoys golf, playing the piano and loves the outdoors.

Synopsis

The risk of data loss due to compromised credentials has grown dramatically in recent years leading to billions of dollars in fiscal impact to consumers and enterprises alike. From infostealers to phishing, almost 90% of all data breaches now involve the use of stolen credentials. This presentation discusses the increasing risk of compromised credentials, highlighting key statistics and trends in data breaches and cyberattacks and the role of the modern enterprise browser in mitigating these risks.

* Hear how the Island Enterprise Browser solution enhances credential security
* Understand the risks of malicious extensions and how to govern their usage in the enterprise
* Learn how the effective use of MFA and PAM can reduce or eliminate potential data loss from compromised credentials

Michael Bacon is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 30 years of experience in various technical, product, and marketing leadership roles in several well-known companies. In his current role as Product Marketing Director at Forescout Technologies, he oversees strategic planning and execution of solutions marketing, leveraging his extensive knowledge in cybersecurity solutions and services such as MDR, EDR, NDR, XDR, SIEM, SOAR, and more. His strong communication skills and business experience enable him to engage effectively with a diverse range of audiences, from technical to C-level executives. Throughout his career, Bacon has made impactful contributions such as launching new cybersecurity products and services, driving revenue growth, and enhancing customer satisfaction through innovative solutions. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Bacon holds an MBA in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. His career is marked by a consistent commitment to advancing cybersecurity solutions and strategies.

Synopsis

Specialized threats targeting OT environments have been around since at least 2010, with the reports of Stuxnet. Recognizing the criticality of these devices, Threat Actors have continued evolving, continuing to target OT devices, many of which are inherently insecure-by-design. Research, such as Vedere Labs’ OT:ICEFALL research project and Project Basecamp by Digital Bond from 10 years ago showed how significant the scope of vulnerable devices are that are pervasive in critical infrastructure systems. Today’s SOC needs to not only see those devices and the risks they pose while also ensuring accurate detection of the threats uniquely targeting those OT environments they’re deployed in. This session will explore this unique threat landscape and the capabilities required to combat the threats and automatically mitigate the risks specially targeting Operational Technology environments.

Balancing Technology Innovation with Quality Customer Service

Ray's Topic

Navigating Modern IT Challenges: Efficiency, Security, & Resilience in a Rapidly Evolving Landscape

John's Topic

Reverting AI Backwards When It's Acting Up

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.

Marcus is a security sales overlay with TPx, providing technical expertise on our cybersecurity products and Security Advisory Services offerings. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from the University of Central Florida. Network+ Certification.

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.

Anthony Cusimano has worked in many tech roles for over a decade. He started as a developer, shifted to sales, and masterfully moved into marketing. He is a passionate gamer who stays current on everything technology to ensure he can achieve as many frames per second as possible on his gaming PC. He enjoys speaking at events and has previously shared the stage with astronauts and MARVEL superheroes. Anthony enjoys the nerdier things in life, watching classic movies, building Gundams, and flying questionably legal FPV drones in abandoned mall parking lots. When he isn't geeking out on the latest fad, he and his wife, Sarah, enjoy visiting lesser-known Florida destinations and spoiling their three dogs, Luna, Smudge, and Penny

Synopsis

96% of ransomware attacks target backup data. In the past, having endpoint protection and securing your infrastructure may have been sufficient. Still, today, businesses recognize that security measures will fail, and the threat of ransomware is “when,” not “if”. Ransomware targets backups because bad actors know that if they can take out the possibility of recovery, the ransom is all but guaranteed. Paired with the fact that backup solutions today are often too complex, fragile, and slow to recover, businesses frequently find themselves choosing between a suboptimal recovery option and the risk of paying for a decryption tool that may not even work.
This session shows how to transform your backups from a weak point into your last line of defense against ransomware. Learn how Object First delivers secure, simple, and powerful backup storage purpose-built for Veeam that’s absolutely immutable. With the ultimate ransomware defense, you and your organization become Simply Resilient.

Chad Jones is a highly accomplished Consulting Systems Engineer at Juniper Networks, with a career in the telecommunications and networking industry dating back to 1995. His expertise is centered on the planning, design, and engineering of complex network solutions, including long-haul and metro fiber optic transport systems.
Chad is known for his ability to translate a powerful blend of technology vision and business acumen into high-performance IT strategies. He is a seasoned professional who excels at delivering excellence and building trust within his teams and with partners.

Synopsis

The AI Gold Rush is here—and organizations across enterprise, government, and education are racing to define their AI strategies. But success in AI isn’t just about algorithms; it’s about infrastructure. Join us for an in-depth session on how the new HPE Networking—bringing together the strengths of HPE Aruba and Juniper Networks—empowers organizations to build scalable, secure, and high-performance AI environments.
We’ll explore how HPE’s holistic approach—spanning servers, storage, and networking—enables the creation of AI clusters and AI Factories that deliver real business outcomes. Learn how to design a network architecture optimized for AI workloads, ensure data mobility and security, and leverage automation and AI-driven operations to simplify complexity. Whether you’re in enterprise, state and local government, or education, this session will help you understand how to turn AI ambition into reality with HPE.

With over 30 years of experience in the IT industry, Bill Mylchreest is a seasoned expert in IT channel development and management. His extensive career includes more than 20 years dedicated to IT channel development and management, with a significant focus on cybersecurity for over a decade. Bill possesses in-depth knowledge of the cybersecurity landscape, specializing in endpoint protection, EDR/XDR, and managed detection and response services.
Bill has shared his expertise at numerous notable events, including DataConnectors, FutureCon, and various regional partner events. His passion for public speaking is matched by his enthusiasm for music and outdoor activities, making him a dynamic and engaging speaker.

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.

More Info Coming Soon

Synopsis

How can a SMB Leverage Some of the Emerging Tools:
- Important conversations with the C-Suite
- Selling the vision to Operations
- Stretching beyond break/fix to becoming a business partner
- Vendor relations/ partnering

Neil’s education history includes an MBA in Management Information Systems, a BSEE, and is CompTIA Security+ certified. He is currently a Solution Architect at ESET, with over 30 years’ experience in information security, networking, and storage systems. Neil also has experience as an Adjunct Professor at various technical institutes for over 20 years. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his 2 grandchildren, competing in triathlons, and regular exercise.

Synopsis

As AI reshapes the digital world, cyber threats are growing in scale and complexity. This session explores the essentials of cyber risk insurance—who’s at risk, why coverage matters, and how AI is transforming both the threat landscape and defense strategies. Learn how to leverage AI for proactive protection and how to safeguard your organization.

Mark Benson is a tenured system engineering manager with over twelve years of running large national programs including healthcare at NetApp, Federal Sales at EMC and currently state, local and education at Nutanix. Prior to his sales career Mark was on the customer side for fifteen years at locations such as Florida State University, Florida Dept. of Health and John Deere.

Throughout both phases of Marks career successful project outcome has always been a driving factor. With wide knowledge across the data center stack as well as cloud services, Mark continues to drive innovation into the world of IT through the balance of successful technologies and efficient usage of funds.

Synopsis

Today’s hybrid and multi cloud infrastructures heavily utilize virtualization, software-defined infrastructure and automation. This has provided IT teams with more efficiency and agility but has also compounded security risks. These security threats are more acute for State, local, and education agencies as they carry confidential citizen, student and state information. The agencies and institutions face the constant threat of ransomware and other destructive forms of cyberattacks. Do you have the right infrastructure and processes to improve your security posture across the kill-chain?

Rick Stevenson is the Regional Sales Manager for the Eastern US and UK at CyberFOX, overseeing AutoElevate for privilege access management and Password Boss. With two years at CyberFOX, he combines technical expertise with a commitment to partner service. A proud Wolverine, he holds a degree from the University of Michigan and draws on his experience in the automotive and finance industries.

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.

Travis has been a data management \ data protection specialist for 16 years. First as a Storage Architect at a global hotel chain, then as a presales systems engineer. He has been with Cohesity since 2015 and prior to that he was at EMC. Travis lives in Orlando and works with organizations throughout the Southeast US.

Synopsis

Attendees will learn why clean room architecture is necessary to perform proper forensic investigation during a cyberattack. The workshop will cover preparing and initiating a clean room, how to use it to understand a cyber attacker’s tactics and techniques, and why it helps when developing a mitigation plan for an incident. Specific clean room design strategies, use cases, and actionable next steps will be shared throughout this workshop. The importance of vaulted backup copies to feed a clean room will also be highlighted.

Key Takeaways:
• The purpose of a clean room during the investigation phase of cyber incident response.
• Why building and testing a clean room is a key component of a cyber resilience strategy and a hallmark of the most cyber mature organizations.
• What a digital jump bag is and how it is used to deploy the minimum viable response capability inside a clean room.
• Best practices for clean room architecture including network isolation, environmental prerequisites, and recommended forensic capabilities.
• The role that data protection software and vaulted backups play in feeding data to a clean room.
• How clean room speeds cyber response, reduces RTO, and lessens the risk of re-infection during the mitigation phase of an incident.

Arvin is a distinguished technology leader with over 20 years of experience across Global System Integrators (GSI), Managed Service Providers (MSP), and Cloud Service Providers (CSP). As a Technologist at Hitachi Vantara, he is part of the AI Incubation and High-Performance Computing (HPC) team, advancing next-generation innovations in artificial intelligence and hybrid infrastructure. His expertise in performance optimization, security, cost efficiency, and data governance enables organizations to build resilient AI strategies that balance innovation with operational excellence without compromise.

Synopsis

In an era of rapid innovation and strict global regulations, on-prem AI empowers organizations with complete control of their data on sustainable infrastructure. This approach safeguards compliance, strengthens privacy, and unlocks high-performance innovation, enabling enterprises to scale AI with confidence and resilience

Jeffrey Wheat is a seasoned cybersecurity expert with extensive experience in protecting organizations from sophisticated threats. As CTO at Lumu Technologies, Jeff specializes in strategically implementing continuous compromise assessment, providing deep insights into network vulnerabilities, and enhancing incident response. He is dedicated to educating businesses on the latest cyber threat trends and effective defense mechanisms.

Synopsis

In this session, we’ll examine the most common techniques used by adversaries against businesses across America, and how to defend accordingly. Learn how infostealer malware serves as a prime initial vector for ransomware attacks while also fueling the credential marketplace.

Anthony (Tony P) Pillitiere is the co-founder at Horizon3.ai. Prior to Horizon3.ai, he served for more than two decades in the United States Air Force on highly sensitive missions. His breadth of experience spans from supporting DoD research and development, plus education and training, to on-the-x tactical and enterprise communications across six duty stations and many deployments. Anthony's twilight position was as the former Deputy CTO for JSOC. His biggest passion of all is his amazing wife and children.

Synopsis

Join Anthony “Tony” Pillitiere, Co-Founder of Horizon3.ai, for an engaging session on “Offense-Driven Defense.” TonyP will challenge conventional risk assessment practices and unveil how emphasizing real-world exploitability and impact can revolutionize your security approach. Drawing from over 170,000 autonomous pentests, he’ll share compelling stories and actionable insights that reveal how viewing your cyber terrain through an attacker’s lens can uncover hidden vulnerabilities, optimize resource allocation, and fortify your defenses against advanced threats. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a leading industry trailblazer on why it’s time to “go hack yourself” to build resilience in today’s borderless threat environment.

Andrew Moore has a history of building great operational systems. He has worked in the IT arena for over 17 years and has been instrumental in the successful building of several businesses into multi-million dollar companies.

Synopsis

Businesses need to be aware of the changing threat to their organizations posed by cyber security criminals. This presentation walks business executives through the current issues facing companies, approaches on how to solve these issues and real world tactics employers can utilize for a safer network.

Gary Barlet currently serves as Illumio’s Public Sector Chief Technology Officer where he is responsible for working with Federal and SLED agencies, contractors and the broader ecosystem to build in Zero Trust Segmentation as a strategic component of the government Zero Trust architecture. Prior to joining Illumio, he served as Chief Information Officer for the Office of the Inspector General, United States Postal Service for almost 10 years. He is a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Air Force where he served as a Cyberspace Operations Officer for 20 years where he held key leadership positions, including on the Air Force and Air National Guard CIO staffs.

Synopsis

No Security Prevention architecture will ever be 100% effective. Eventually, even the best-planned barrier will be breached, either from the outside or internally. An “assume breach” Security mindset needs to exist in parallel with efforts to prevent one, and the architecture needs to be able to address breaches which were not detected, and to contain them. Zero Trust needs to plan for the unexpected.

AI and Modern Organizational Security: The Risks AI is Bringing to the Workplace

Rick's Topic

How are Small Enterprise Using AI Tools?

Rich's Topic

How Can Technology Executives Drive Business Model Reinvention Instead of Just Supporting Operations?

Madhavi's Topic

Sustainability & Green Tech

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.

Using AI to Make Humanity Better

Jason's Topic

Leadership Trends & Cybersecurity Risks

Johan's Topic

IT Risk Management

Quintin's Topic

AI & Ethics: It's a Board Issue; Identifying & Managing the Ethical Risk of AI

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.

Damien Lim is a seasoned cybersecurity marketing leader with over two decades of experience in AI, cybersecurity, and technology. As an AI evangelist at Tenable, he leads global initiatives to drive market awareness and strategy for Tenable's AI. His expertise lies in translating complex technology into impactful go-to-market strategies, engaging with analysts and industry leaders to shape the conversation on AI applications related to cyber risk. Damien is also a published co-author on AI in cybersecurity, and he has previously launched industry-leading solutions for organizations ranging from global companies to start-ups, including Fortinet, Palo Alto Networks, FireEye, and StrikeReady.

Synopsis

From defending with AI to securing AI itself, Tenable helps organizations reduce risk across the modern attack surface. This session explores practical strategies for visibility, risk prioritization, and governance that security leaders can act on today.

Partha is a cybersecurity expert, product builder, and entrepreneur. He began his journey as a cyber warfare officer in the United States Air Force, where he honed his practitioner skills in many facets of security operations. Partha then transitioned to the private sector, where he was a Product Leader developing cutting-edge security products at top-tier companies like Datadog and CrowdStrike. Now as a co-founder of a pioneering generative AI cybersecurity company, Partha is dedicated to transforming security operations and tackling today’s most pressing cyber challenges.

Synopsis

In today’s rapidly evolving cyber landscape, traditional security operations often struggle to keep pace with emerging threats and expanding attack surfaces. Discover how Kenzo Security harnesses the power of generative AI to empower security teams to respond to threats more effectively and pinpoint the most critical security issues within their environments. Join us as we explore the capabilities of generative AI in automating security operations, enhancing incident response, and streamlining security workflows. Attendees will gain valuable insights into real-world challenges, the limitations of current solutions, and strategies for leveraging generative AI to modernize their security frameworks and significantly reduce cyber risk.

Leonard A. Lans is an accomplished Sales Leader with over 14 years of experience selling SaaS, professional services, mobility, end-to-end communications, network services & security solutions across a multitude of industries in the Mid-Market space. He plays a critical role in leading a team of professionals responsible for a $20+ million-dollar customer portfolio. His team delivers game-changing solutions to enhance the agility, productivity and global reach of businesses. Using his entrepreneurial mindset, expertise in Consultative Sales and Sales Leadership he's assisted many organizations transform the way their communities live, work and play.

Synopsis

Join us for a conversation about business trends in Tampa and how Verizon is impacting local businesses through their network, products, and community engagement.

Jason is an experienced information technology leader with extensive knowledge in driving innovative business operations throughout high-profile organizations. He is skilled in leading qualified teams within technology driven environments, leveraging current IT knowledge and strategic business planning abilities to achieve operational goals. Jason is also a talented collaborator, experienced in driving communications throughout organizational levels, ensuring the implementation of strategic objectives while integrating innovative technical solutions. Expertise in many areas of IT with the ability to effectively train staff to recognize cost effective and operational solutions. Jason's arreas of expertise include: Leadership, Consultative Communications, Strategic Business Planning, Operational Management, and Contract Negotiations.

Speaker's Bio

Larry is a professional driven by results and guided by a philosophy centered on solving issues rather than attributing fault. With a robust three-decade track record in Information Security and Risk Management, I excel in leading IT risk, cyber security, and information security initiatives. My expertise extends to overseeing global projects that enhance system stability, functionality, and interoperability, always in compliance with current standards and regulations. Known for my leadership and ability to implement efficient business processes, Larry consistently aims to exceed organizational goals and positively affect financial outcomes.

Speaker's Bio

More Info Coming Soon.

Speaker's Bio

Todd Smith is a senior cybersecurity and digital risk executive with over two decades of experience spanning federal intelligence, global banking, and enterprise technology leadership. He currently serves as Senior Vice President and Director of Customer Identity & Access Management (CIAM) at Ameris Bank, where he leads enterprise-wide strategy for digital identity, authentication, and fraud defense protecting more than 600,000 customers and ~$30 billion in assets.
At Ameris, Todd directs the convergence of cybersecurity, fraud, and identity intelligence through a unified fusion framework that integrates behavioral analytics, adaptive authentication, and real-time threat detection. His work has driven major reductions in fraud losses, enhanced customer trust, and established Ameris as a model for holistic identity security in regional banking.

Speaker's Bio

Timothy helps companies to protect their assets and grow their business. Providing an assessment of portfolios, product roadmaps and investment opportunities in high-growth industries. Leveraging three decades of technology and cybersecurity knowledge.

Synopsis

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

Jessica Lynn has held various roles in the cybersecurity industry for the past 9 years. Moving from distribution to channel development to enterprise sales – she has a pulse on the threat landscape that businesses face today in the age of digital. She thrives on helping partners and businesses solve their biggest problems. Today Jessi is Director of Partner Sales with UK based cybersecurity company Glasswall and loves her life at home with soon to be husband-to-be, her 13 yr old son, her 2 cats and a dog.

Speaker's Bio

For the last 5 and a half years Greg Rhein has been one of Glasswall’s Solutions Architects and is currently based out of our Reston VA office. Prior to this he was Security products Sales Manager and Technical Lead of an Arizona based Distributor. Previously to this he has held positions as an Enterprise Product Manager at HP/Compaq and Contract Product Support lead at Apple Computer. He has also worked as a Technical lead while consulting for MGM Studios, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Fox Studios, SunAmerica (AIG) as well as a number of Bi-Coastal Law firms.

Speaker's Bio

Pete Newman is US Sales Director for Glasswall based in the NYC area and has a background in financial and regulatory technology, software and market data. As a Sales Executive, Product Manager and software entrepreneur, Pete has helped large investment banks, wealth management firms and leading online brokers solve business problems with best of breed technology solutions. His company Gotham Software, a provider of compliance solutions for the fixed income market was acquired by Ipreo (IHS Markit) in 2004.

Synopsis

Real time prevention strategy is key to staying ahead of cyber criminals and to keep up with digital transformation and globalization trends. Come learn about an emerging technology – Content Disarm and Reconstruct (CDR) – which aims to restore trust to digital collaboration and give your security and business operations teams a fighting chance to operate in today’s climate. CDR is the next defacto standard to prevention based cybersecurity strategy by shifting from looking for potential bad to what a known good file content looks like. Trust your files again.

James Bowie is an accomplished leader with decades of cybersecurity experience and leadership in threat hunting, incident response, threat intelligence, and security operations. Strong leader and strategist with demonstrated ability to bridge between security, infrastructure, and business needs. Experience leading multiple areas in information technology, including cloud infrastructure and security, with strong results in employee engagement and productivity.

Synopsis

More Info Coming Soon