The Future of Data & AI

Data & AI Think Tank

April 15, 2025 - Dallas, TX

Visionaries

Sean Lewis Arcis Golf
Sean Lewis

Director of IT

Arcis Golf

Think Tank Speaker

Founded in 2013, Arcis Golf is an operator of public and private golf clubs in the United States. They invest in and renovate golf and country clubs and are headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Manoj Balraj Experion Technologies USA Inc.
Manoj Balraj

Co-Founder & President

Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Think Tank Speaker

With 30 years of experience spanning across Business Strategy, Global Sales, and Technology, Manoj Balraj plays a pivotal role in driving organizational growth and is the force behind business strategy and global sales, with an emphasis on product engineering excellence at Experion. His expertise spans product strategy, design, management, and engineering, ensuring Experion remains at the forefront of digital product development. Beyond work, Manoj volunteers as a mentor for youth and has worked with 400+ students as part of entrepreneurship initiatives. He is also passionate about performing arts, theatre, and film, earning him twelve acting nominations and five Best Actor wins at international film festivals.

Praveen Vemulapalli AT&T
Praveen Vemulapalli

CDO Data & Gen AI Architecture Team

AT&T

Think Tank Speaker

AT&T Inc. provides telecommunications and digital entertainment services. The company operates through four segments: Business Solutions, Entertainment Group, Consumer Mobility, and International. The Business Solutions segment offers wireless, fixed strategic, legacy voice and data, and wireless equipment services to business, governmental, and wholesale customers, as well as individual subscribers. The Entertainment Group segment provides video entertainment and audio programming channels to approximately 25.4 million subscribers; broadband and Internet services to 12.4 million residential subscribers; local and long-distance voice services to residential customers, as well as DSL Internet access services; and voice services over IP-based technology, and technical support and other customer service functions and equipment. The Consumer Mobility segment offers wireless services to consumers, and wireless wholesale and resale subscribers, such as long-distance and roaming services. This segment provides postpaid and prepaid wireless voice and data communications services; consulting, advertising, and application and co-location services; and sells a variety of handsets, wirelessly enabled computers, and personal computer wireless data cards through company-owned stores, agents, or third-party retail stores, as well as accessories, such as carrying cases and hands-free devices. The International segment offers video entertainment services to residential customers in Latin America, as well as wireless data and voice communication services in Mexico. This segment provides digital television services under the DIRECTV and SKY brands; postpaid and prepaid wireless services to approximately 8.7 million subscribers under the AT&T, Iusacell, Unefon, and Nextel Mexico brands; and sells a range of handsets. The company was formerly known as SBC Communications Inc. and changed its name to AT&T Inc. in November 2005. AT&T Inc. was founded in 1983 and is based in Dallas, Texas.

Manu Cyriac Harley-Davidson
Manu Cyriac

Head of Digital Products and Software Engineering

Harley-Davidson

Think Tank Speaker

Manu Cyriac is a seasoned technology executive with close to 15 years in digital transformation, software engineering, and technology optimization. He has a proven track record of driving innovation and efficiency for some of the most well-respected brands in the industry. As Head of Digital Product and Software Engineering at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Manu has played a pivotal role in scaling digital platforms, optimizing technology investments, and enhancing customer experiences. His leadership has been instrumental in driving traffic and growth through digital channels by incorporating innovative digital strategies. Previously, Manu held key leadership positions at various Fortune 500 companies worldwide, successfully leading several business transformation programs and strategic initiatives.

Monica Sanchez Fresche Solutions
Monica Sanchez

VP Strategic Transformations

Fresche Solutions

Think Tank Speaker

INNOVATIVE, PURPOSE-DRIVEN, COLLABORATIVE STRATEGIST AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDER | Enabling technology-driven business transformation | Advisor | Speaker - Former Fortune 500 CIO - Change leader in the business with a talent for making things happen - Forward-looking strategist who partners with business stakeholders and C-Level executives to co-create digital strategies - Educator and thought leader that invests in achieving cross-discipline support by educating peers and teams on the opportunities to support IT-driven growth - Accomplished in international markets, delivering products and IT services through a team dispersed in multiple locations ★ Competencies: - Strategy: Business-IT Alignment with Purpose | Collaboration | IT Strategy - Change: Strategic Initiatives | Transformation | Innovation | M&A - People: Team Building | Organizational Leadership | Coaching | Mentoring - Problem Solving: Process Improvement | Strategic Savings | Operational efficiency | Projects Rescue | Crisis management | Turnarounds

Tanweer Surve PNC
Tanweer Surve

Head of Cloud Center of Enablement (CCoE) & Solutions Engineering

PNC

Think Tank Speaker

Over 20 years of proven track record in IT & Business, executing various leadership roles as Technology CTO (Cloud), Head of Enterprise Architecture & Cloud Technologies, Director of IT Infrastructure Shared Services, Solutions Architect, and Business Development Manager. Constructively contributed to the ever growing analytical and technical Business scenarios conceptualizing, implementing and delivering complex Global IT Digital Transformation Programs across NORTAM, EMEA, LATAM and ASPAC with my Technical and Business Management expertise in Business Architecture, Infrastructure Systems Architecture, Data & Application Architecture and Information Security around Cloud Computing. Strategic and delivery focused Senior Technology Leader with deep subject matter expertise. Build cross functional teams by hiring, mentoring several team members and assisting with developing personnel career-paths. Drives alignment of resources, processes and systems to seamlessly support and advance the business strategy of the organization through technology. Adept at planning, leveraging, researching and implementing technologies and effective IT service delivery models to continuously improve all aspects of business. With experience in diverse lines of business across Financial, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Telecom & Technology, highly effective in understanding business requirements and translating them to Architectural Design Requirements which helps in resolving complex technical issues during implementation, quickly and effectively.

Abhilash Kishore Experion Technologies USA Inc.
Abhilash Kishore

Vice President, Product Engineering and Delivery

Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Think Tank Speaker

Abhilash Kishore is a product management expert with 24+ years of experience in building transformative digital products. As Vice President at Experion Technologies, he leads end- to-end product management and engineering—from product conceptualization to scalable deployment — driving innovation across transportation, automotive, hospitality and logistics. A strategic thinker and hands-on leader, Abhilash has played a pivotal role in shaping Experion’s product management excellence over the past 14+ years. His teams have delivered mission-critical products, including EV charging ecosystems, Travel Hospitality Products, IoT-based fleet management products and V2X communication for safer mobility. Beyond work, Abhilash is an adventurer, biker and runner. A former motorcycle rider on Himalaya's rugged terrain, he now finds his rhythm in long-distance running, inspiring his teams to embrace endurance—both in work and life.

Jodi Watkins GTN Technical Staffing and Consulting
Jodi Watkins

Chief Commercial Officer

GTN Technical Staffing and Consulting

Think Tank Speaker

Responsible for client delivery and direction to our Fortune 500 companies. Determine and formulate policies and business strategies and provide overall direction for specialized recruitment teams. Plan, direct, and coordinate sales activities at the highest level of management. Prudently manage the organization’s goals and initiatives in Field Services, IT, Professional Services, MSP vendor relations. Company-wide committee facilitation including planning, production and staff. Assures that the organization and its mission, programs, and services are consistently presented in a strong, positive image. Promotes a culture that reflects the organization’s values, encourages good performance, and rewards productivity. Actively advocates for the organization, its beliefs, and its programmatic efforts. Acts as a liaison between the organization and the community, building relationships with peer organizations when appropriate. Oversees design, delivery, and quality of MSP programs and services. Collaborate to define and articulate the organization’s vision and to develop strategies for achieving that vision.

April 15, 2025

Agenda

All times Central Time

8:30 AM-9:00 AM

Registration


9:00 AM-9:30 AM

Morning Networking


9:30 AM-9:40 AM

Opening Remarks


9:40 AM-10:15 AM
Fireside Chat

The Role of AI in Enhancing Digital Operations

Exploring the transformative influence of artificial intelligence on modern business processes. This session delves into how AI-driven technologies optimize digital operations, streamline workflows, and enhance efficiency. This Vision Voice will share insights into real-world applications, best practices, and the strategic integration of AI, empowering organizations to unlock new levels of productivity and innovation in the digital landscape.


10:20 AM-11:05 AM
Keynote Panel

Next-Level Innovations: Unveiling Gen AI - The Hype, The Reality, and The Future

Executing on Gen AI Transformation in a meaningful way requires asking the right questions. Enterprises need to understand how to extract real value, mitigate risks, and leverage data to guide AI Transformation effectively through the digital noise from supplier ecosystem. This presentation/panel discussion will explore how business leaders can approach AI strategically, ensuring thoughtful implementation that aligns with organizational goals.


10:55 AM-11:15 AM

Coffee Break


11:15 AM-11:50 AM
Fireside Chat

Leading with Data: Insights, Impact, and Governance

Harnessing insights, ensuring meaningful impact, and establishing robust governance structures, enabling leaders to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and foster a data-driven organizational culture effectively. Let's dive into the practical insights into maximizing data's potential, ensuring its relevance, and upholding ethical standards in today's data-driven business landscape.


11:55 AM-12:30 PM
Panel

AI-led Product Engineering and Digital Transformation.

Let's explore the significance of integrating AI into digital strategies, emphasizing its transformative impact on various industries. It delves into key considerations such as data-driven decision-making, personalized customer experiences, and operational efficiency. Additionally, the synopsis highlights the challenges associated with AI implementation, such as ethical concerns and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Through the lens of real-world examples and industry insights, it underscores how a well-executed AI strategy can position organizations for success, driving growth, agility, and long-term sustainability.

In partnership with:
Experion Technologies Inc.

12:20 PM-1:20 PM

Lunch & Networking


1:20 PM-2:05 PM
Panel

Tech and Cybersecurity Leadership in the Era of AI and ML: Navigating Innovation and Responsibility

In the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), CISOs play a pivotal role in leveraging these advancements for enhanced cybersecurity. Strategic integration of AI and ML is essential for bolstering security measures, optimizing decision-making, and driving innovation. CISOs must adopt a comprehensive approach, considering the entire lifecycle of these technologies to ensure both efficiency and ethical use. Establishing robust governance frameworks becomes paramount, addressing biases, ensuring transparency, and minimizing unintended consequences.

Looking ahead, as AI and ML continue to advance, CISOs face evolving challenges and regulatory considerations. Proactive engagement involves staying informed about changing regulations, particularly in areas such as data privacy and ethical AI practices. CISOs should strive for a tech-enabled understanding of AI and ML systems, encompassing deployment, impact, and security measures. This approach positions organizations to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, ensuring responsible and competitive integration of AI and ML into cybersecurity strategies.


2:10 PM-2:45 PM
Fireside Chat

Future-Proofing the Workforce: Upskilling for the Next Era of IT Innovation

The global IT talent shortage isn’t going away — and hiring alone won’t close the gap. To fully capitalize on disruptive technologies like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity, CIOs and IT leaders must prioritize upskilling and reskilling their existing workforce. This panel will dive into how organizations can identify critical skill gaps, create effective upskilling programs at scale, and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation. We’ll also explore how emerging technologies like AI and automation are reshaping workforce demands and what leaders need to do now to ensure their teams are ready for the future.


2:50 PM-3:05 PM
Disruptor

Navigating the Cyber Frontier: CISO Strategies for Effective Risk Management

In the context of effective cyber risk management, the challenge lies in keeping up with evolving technology, particularly during cloud or technology transformations. The adoption of threat intelligence, Gen AI, the metaverse, and machine learning presents both opportunities and challenges, with a need for technology leaders to grasp the security implications. While these technologies enhance cyber risk management, they also offer efficiencies through task automation. Striking a balance between risks and rewards is crucial for gaining trust and staying competitive. Looking forward, organizations must explore innovative approaches to cyber risk management, emphasizing resilience against third-party risks. Collaboration with the leadership team is essential to take an enterprise-wide view of current and future threats, develop action plans, safeguard critical assets, and facilitate quick recovery. Early collaboration with the executive team is encouraged to integrate risk management into transformation strategies and extract maximum benefits from emerging technologies.


3:05 PM-3:25 PM

Networking Break


3:25 PM-3:40 PM
Disruptor

Data Empowerment: A CISO's Guide to Unlocking Strategic Value Safely

CISOs are challenged to redefine their role not only as guardians of security but also as enablers of responsible and innovative data utilization. This directive emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between data protection and leveraging the full potential of organizational data assets. CISOs must collaborate with stakeholders to establish robust data governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations while facilitating the ethical and strategic use of data. By unlocking the value of data, CISOs contribute to the organization's competitiveness, innovation, and overall digital transformation. This session explores strategies for CISOs to harness the power of data responsibly, thereby positioning cybersecurity as an integral driver of business success in the data-driven era.


3:45 PM-4:30 PM
Panel

Cultivating Inclusive Excellence: Driving Diversity in Technology Leadership

Let's explore the imperative of diversity in technology leadership roles, particularly within the CIO and Security domain. From gender and ethnicity to varied professional backgrounds, diverse perspectives foster innovation, resilience, and better decision-making in today's rapidly evolving tech landscape. Join us as industry leaders share their experiences, insights, and strategies for promoting inclusivity, breaking down barriers, and empowering underrepresented groups in technology leadership roles. From fostering inclusive cultures within organisations to implementing proactive recruitment and mentorship initiatives, attendees will gain actionable insights to drive meaningful change and cultivate diverse, high-performing technology teams. Let's chart a course towards inclusive excellence in technology leadership together.


4:30 PM-4:40 PM

Closing Remarks & Raffle Giveaway


4:40 PM-5:30 PM

Cocktail Networking


In Partnership With