Cybersecurity Roundtable

Ed Link joined the Garmin team in 2006 and serves as Garmin’s Global VP of Information Technology.  As the senior executive responsible for IT, Ed’s role includes strategy and execution for Garmin’s worldwide information systems, including business applications, technology infrastructure, cyber-security, and an extensive global network that keeps Garmin customers and associates connected across the globe.  Ed arrived at Garmin after serving 15 years at Butler Manufacturing / BlueScope Steel where he was similarly responsible for delivery of Butler’s information systems.

Greg Kratofil's experience includes complex technology and commercial contracting transactions, technology and software-based mergers and acquisitions, as well as information security and data breach related issues.

James Stipek knows how to build something from the ground up. He takes great pride in serving his clients as they take their innovations to the next level. James concentrates his practice in the area of intellectual property law, including patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret law. 
James also litigates actions concerning the validity, infringement, and enforceability of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.

As an electrical engineer, he has a broad knowledge of computer-related inventions. He also has experience with electrical components, wired and wireless telecommunications, Internet protocol systems, global positioning systems, computer hardware, computer software, and related computer and network architecture arts.

Michael has been with RSM since joining the firm in September 2004. As a senior manager in the tax services practice, Michael provides expertise in business taxation, including federal and state tax compliance, M&A and entity structuring, other tax planning, and accounting for income taxes. He also has experience in the areas of corporate tax return issues, IRS and state tax return examinations, and tax accounting method issues.

Dr. Bonnesen is the Director/Principal of Summit Technology Academy (STA) at The Missouri Innovation Campus, a national model for preparing high school juniors and seniors for college and for the high wage, high-demand professional workforce. STA serves students from 30 public and private high schools in the KC area.  STA has progressive programs that attract top talent and streamline their accent into key workforce sectors.  Dr. Bonnesen has over 24 years of experience in education.  He has received numerous awards and recognitions within the educational and civic spheres.  He holds a doctorate and specialist’s degree in educational leadership from Saint Louis University. In addition, he also has earned a master’s degree in school counseling and a bachelor’s degree in English education from the University of Central Missouri.

Dave Barnard is an experienced intellectual property litigator and strategy counselor.  He advises clients in a wide variety of industries on protecting innovations, operating safely and growing and protecting brand investments.

Tedrick Housh leads the Global Cybersecurity, Privacy & Data Protection practice at Lathrop GPM.  For about half of his nearly thirty years as an attorney, Tedrick has helped clients address data security and privacy concerns through GDPR and CCPA compliance, adoption of information security and privacy policies, implementation of upstream and downstream vendor contracts, attention to privacy due diligence in corporate transactions, response to regulatory scrutiny and the handling of cyber- and privacy-related litigation. A frequent speaker on privacy and security, he is an IAPP Certified Information Privacy Professional/United States & Europe (CIPP/US & CIPP/E). 

Jill leads a high-achieving team for KCADC—driving new business, talent attraction and capital investment to KC’s 18 county, 50+ city, bi-state region. Jill works with companies and national site location consultants considering the KC metropolitan area for expansion or relocation. Jill holds board/advisory positions with the KC Tech Council, CREW KC and ULI; and is active in 7x24 Exchange, AFCOM, ACCP, IEDC and the state economic development groups, KEDA & MEDC. Jill is a mentor in CREW Network's international Leadership Certificate Program, is engaged with Team Fidelis, combatting Veteran suicide, and on the Queens of the Diamond steering committee supporting the KC MLB Urban Youth Academy. Jill is a 2018 Honoree of the KCBJ Women Who Mean Business.

An independent technology advisor and change management specialist. Entrepreneur, executive and non-profit board experience. Accomplishments have been recognized by a number of companies and national publications. Well known for a customer-first leadership approach that cultivates relationships and partnerships. Welcomes the opportunity to help companies adopt and embrace innovative solutions. A naturally curious person who loves people, sports & laughter. You can learn more about me at LinkedIn and Twitter.
 

Consummate professional with twenty five highly successful years of technical sales and sales leadership experience- helping sales professionals reach their potential while helping clients solve problems, accomplish their strategic objectives, and realize their desired outcomes. 

Trusted advisor and advocate providing clients guidance on technology, innovation, and process transformation covering a wide range of services including Omni-Channel Communications, Contact Center, APIs, Voice, Messaging, CPaaS, SD WAN, Cloud and Security Services, and more.

Diverse professional background in top performing sales and sales leadership roles in organizations ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. 

Katherine joined ExO works in 2021 after 30 years in financial services, sales and management.  She is experienced in marketing communications, creative and technical support in addition to driving top sales results for the Midwest Region for more than 17 years.

Katherine is an avid reader, enjoys coaching and mentoring student athletes and is passionate about climate change and conservation.

Katherine is a Founding Member of the new KC Current NWSL team.

A data and analytics champion who's passionate in working with leaders to build meaningful, data-driven insights.

Neelima Parasker has a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Master’s Degree in Computer Science, and Project Management Professional (PMP®) Certification. Neelima is the Owner, President and Chief Executive Officer of SnapIT Solutions®, LLC, an innovative technology services and solutions company with a mission to unleash our collective human potential to deliver innovative world-class technology solutions. 

As Ascend Learning’s Chief Technology Officer, Ash Siebecker is responsible for innovative strategy designed to mature our technology foundation with a focus on customer delight, efficiency and security.

I've served many business and tech leaders in the Kansas City Metro and Heartland for over 30 years, providing consulting and solutions in every area of the tech stack, to remove complexity, while empowering their vision and business goals.  I appreciate meeting and connecting with people, developing long term relationships, tackling new challenges, am an eternal learner, and love applying new ideas to amplify and accelerate results.  I thoroughly enjoy spending time with my family and friends, working on personal passion projects and enjoying scenic locations.

SOTV is STEM education enrichment and a member of the NASA MIE Alliance.

As Vice President of Business Development, Tom brings over 20 years of experience in the technology sector, and has developed a deep understanding of proactive, high-engagement business models. With diverse experience in healthcare, finance, engineering and transportation markets, and his tenure at a Security First Managed Services Firm, Tom brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the Synetic team.

At Synetic, Tom helps clients securely decommission user devices, servers, and network gear as a source of residual value for IT budget enhancement, while ensuring compliant data security.