Shelia Burgess is an inventor, AI practitioner, and technology executive with more than 25 years of experience across cybersecurity, advanced AI systems, electronic warfare, signal intelligence, satellite and laser communications, radar and infrared systems, advanced communications, real-time military simulation, and gameware. Her career bridges deep technical innovation with executive leadership in commercial, defense, and government sectors. She is CEO and Co-Founder of Intufo / Sieben Seven (2014–present), where she leads executive strategy and R&D for disruptive Zero Trust security technologies that embed AI-driven context awareness directly into data, enabling it to self-protect in hostile environments. She has built a global portfolio of patents and trade secrets, inventing cognitive data assets, smart encryption and authentication, autonomous deterministic AI, and secure real-time intelligent communication protocols. Her teams delivered proof-of-concept systems that prevailed in penetration and audit testing with no security breaches. Previously, Burgess was CEO and Co-Founder of Azos AI (1997–2014), where she created a global patent estate for intelligent emergency alerting technologies widely associated with AMBER Alert and helped establish industry standards. She also contributed to FCC efforts supporting the Commercial Mobile Alerting System. Across her career, Burgess has led large-scale, mission-critical programs, managed budgets up to $36 million, delivered defense systems ahead of schedule, and driven early-stage fundraising and patent development. She has held TS/TK/SCI clearances, is patented and published, and has received multiple awards for innovation, including recognition for advancing AI in electronic warfare. A committed STEM advocate, she co-founded the U.S. STEM Foundation and mentors future technologists. She holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Electrical Engineering and completed advanced executive and engineering programs at leading institutions.

Pete Busam is the founder and owner of Equilibrium Consulting, LLC, a management consulting and outsourced marketing firm specializing in assisting channel and technology services organizations with establishing partner relationships, and directing IT channel strategy, design and execution. He has more than 35 years of experience in the channel, where he began as a technician. Since then, he has operated several successful technology services providers and continues to be recognized by clients, partners and channel publications for his outstanding performance, commitment and contributions to the industry. His thought-provoking insights on the channel have been published by numerous industry-leading trade publications, including CRN, ChannelPro, Channel Futures and Channel Insider. An industry thought leader, he has given presentations and participated in panel discussions at numerous channel events over the years. He has also provided commentary on the industry for The Philadelphia Business Journal, Entrepreneur and the Wall Street Journal. Fully committed to the communities he immerses himself in, Pete is an active member with CompTIA, The Sales Association Sales Leader Council, Forbes

Carlson Choi is the Chief Operating Officer at Slide, a next-generation BCDR platform built from the ground up for managed service providers. A former executive at Datto and long-time advocate for MSP innovation, Carlson combines deep product expertise with a passion for simplifying complex technology. At Slide, he leads the company’s go-to-market and operations strategy, helping partners modernize their data protection, automation, and cloud recovery workflows. With more than two decades in tech leadership, he brings a practical, forward-looking perspective on how MSPs can leverage AI and modern infrastructure to drive performance, reliability, and profitability.

With over two decades of experience spanning the Channel, B2B and Retail, Brian Doty is passionate about empowering businesses through technology. At Continuum, Brian played a pivotal role in helping MSPs scale their operations, implement NOC, Helpdesk, and SOC support strategies. Following his success, Brian served as the Director of Sales for a leading Managed Services Provider in Pittsburgh, PA, where he designed comprehensive cybersecurity strategies and MRR growth in monthly recurring revenue. Since 2020, Brian has been a key member of Kaseya's Channel Development Team, collaborating with the MSP community to foster innovation and deliver impactful solutions, delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions to their clients. Connect with Brian on LinkedIn to learn more: linkedin.com/in/briandoty

Chad Falatic is a lead Solutions Consultant for LogMeIn’s IT Solutions group - Specializing in all things mobile device management, Chad brings a decade of experience in support and infrastructure roles to support your MDM journey.

Anjali Fluker is Senior Channel Editor at The ChannelPro Network. She is an award-winning reporter and editor in the news industry for 25 years, specializing in topics including sports, local government, real estate and development, restaurants, and transportation for publications in Detroit, MI, and Orlando, FL.

Brad Gross is the founding partner of the Law Office of Bradley Gross, P.A., a law firm that specializes in transactions involving technology service providers, solution resellers, IT professionals and technology companies worldwide. Brad is one of the leading international legal authorities in cloud transactions, having counseled thousands of MSPs nationwide for over 23 years. He has been listed on fifteen occasions to the national list of Super Lawyers in IT & Technology Law. Brad has his own podcast, TechnologyBradcast.com, that covers security, licensing, and contract issues for MSPs, and sits on the Board of Digitunity, a non-profit organization that helps close the digital divide. He is also the founding partner of MSPTerms, a cloud-based document management platform engineered for MSPs.

Stephen Haley is the Practice Director of the Cybersecurity Services team at CompliancePoint in Duluth, GA. Stephen has over 30 years of corporate technology expertise, with a strong focus on information security and compliance program management while at CompliancePoint, PossibleNOW, IBM, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield. As Senior Practice Director, he oversees the strategic direction and delivery of cybersecurity services, with particular emphasis on security program design and management, risk identification and mitigation, and operationalizing scalable security functions for SMB and enterprise clients. Well-versed in NIST 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), NIST 800-171, CIS Controls, CMMC, FedRAMP, FISMA, and various other security directives, Stephen and his team translate complex regulatory requirements into pragmatic, risk-based programs for long-term success. An active thought leader, Stephen, is a frequent keynote speaker, panelist, and moderator at local Atlanta-area events and national conferences. His overriding mission is to apply his skills, knowledge, and mentorship, in partnership with customers and his team, to solve complex cybersecurity challenges.

Matt Linn is the dynamic Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Thread, a platform that enables managed IT solutions providers (MSPs) to meticulously craft digital service experiences that meet customers where they work. Matt brings a wealth of MSP experience from his 10-year career with RFA, a global leader in technology solutions for hedge funds, private equity, and family offices. Starting in BCDRS and IT compliance consulting, Matt grew through RFA’s relationship management and operations orgs to lead their global sales engineering, marketing, procurement, and RevOps teams on his way to becoming their first Chief of Staff. As COO, Matt leverages his deep understanding of MSP business models and the MSP channel to shape Thread’s partner value equation and execute on the company’s GTM strategy. His fundamental belief in customer centricity drives Thread's value-driven ethos, and his optimism and positivity contributes to the innovative and intentional culture the company is built from.

Chris Massey is Senior Manager of Business Transformation at N-able with over 13 years’ experience in leading Service Delivery, Technical Operations, Product and Marketing teams for an Enterprise MSP. Chris helped grow a service provider from 25 to 280 employees over a decade and was a key part of several organic growth as well as M&A activities for the service provider.

Jake McDuffie is a seasoned sales professional with over a decade of experience finding solutions and driving growth for partners through product and service offering diversification, as well as industry education.

Joining the company as a Cyber Hero in November of 2019, Andrew shares his in-depth knowledge of the ThreatLocker Zero Trust platform as a Senior Account Executive for managed service provider clients (MSPs). He is a valued representative of the ThreatLocker brand, ensuring clients have a smooth and optimal experience across the board.

Helen is a USF Alumni -- Go Bulls! She is an experienced Sales Representative and Account Manager, adept in marketing and lead generation for the IT industry. For the last 5 years, she has been focused on creating customized marketing campaigns to help drive business growth (both tele- campaigns and digital). She is a Maryland native who has come back here, part time, to be with her daughter while she attends college. She also has proud dog-grandmom to Ember.

Nate is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Astoria, a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) dedicated to empowering businesses through innovative IT services and cybersecurity solutions. Astoria is based in the Cleveland Ohio Market and has clients in 5 states. Nate also serves as the Presient of the Board of Directors for his hometown Habitat for Humanity Affiliate. Nate believes greatly in creating a better world for everyone. Outside of work, Nate is deeply committed to his family and enjoys peaceful, introspective activities like hiking, kayaking and gardening. His leadership, vision, and dedication to both his clients and his community set him apart as a transformative figure in the tech industry and beyond.

Michael Siggins is the founder and publisher of The ChannelPro Network. Since March 2007 the network has been providing targeted business and technology information for the IT channel. Via its print and online properties, the network delivers expert opinion, analysis, news, product reviews, and advice vital to business success. Michael is also president and publisher of ChannelPro: The Insider’s Guide to SMB, the only channel media property dedicated to the needs of channel professionals working in the SMB marketplace. Prior to founding The ChannelPro Network, Michael worked for more than 14 years at IDG, the world’s leading technology media, events, and research company.

Dawn Sizer is a CEO and technologist with security, training, and policy specializations. She can make complex technical information relatable for any audience. This is showcased in her writings, speaking engagements, her MSP (3rd Element), and podcast (Rebel Executives). 3rd Element incorporated in 2005 and has made CRN’s MSP 500 list for the last four years. Dawn has been nominated as one of the top women in the channel for the last three years, holds an MBA in IT, as well as industry standard certifications. She sits on Partner Advisory councils of five of the top distributors, security, and cyber insurance companies in the space, as well as The Channel Company for XChange and Women of the Channel. Dawn has been married for more than 25 years to her husband and partner in everything. They have two boys and two goofy dogs, Pilot and Odin.

ChuckStorms is a cybersecurity sales and strategy leader with an MBA in Finance & Strategy from Rutgers University. He has helped build several channel-focused go-to-market programs tailored toward helping MSPs and MSSPs adopt portfolio enhancing services that are built on cybersecurity frameworks. Chuck brings deep expertise in aligning compliance, technology, and growth — and a unique perspective on how AI is transforming the cybersecurity landscape.

Henry Timm is a technology executive, cybersecurity advocate, and community builder focused on one clear mission: build stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a stronger IT industry. As CEO of Phantom Technology Solutions, Henry leads a performance-driven Managed IT Services Provider supporting compliance-focused SMBs across the Midwest. His firm partners with manufacturing, healthcare, and other regulated organizations to modernize, stabilize, and secure their technology environments with solutions designed for long-term reliability and accountability. He is also the cofounder of Rocket Fuel Factory, a business accelerator and incubator built to help MSPs, vendors, and IT consultants scale through community, coaching, and disciplined execution. Through education, strategic partnership, and practical enablement, Rocket Fuel Factory equips leaders to grow with intention rather than drift with the market. Henry is one of the original cofounders of The Tech Degenerates, a global community of MSPs, IT operators, and technology leaders committed to honest conversations, peer accountability, and raising operational standards across the channel. The community is known for cutting through noise, rejecting hype, and creating a space where experienced professionals can challenge each other, share lessons learned, and strengthen the industry from the inside out. With more than two decades of experience spanning IT leadership, cybersecurity, support, and software development, Henry operates at the intersection of technology strategy, operational discipline, and community engagement. He is known for addressing hard truths, guiding teams through meaningful change, and helping organizations build resilience that holds up under pressure. Henry serves in leadership on the GTIA Cybersecurity Executive Council and on the GTIA Global Leadership Committee. He is also an active member of FBI InfraGard. He advises vendors, nonprofits, peer groups, and event organizers committed to raising the bar for professionalism and security across the IT channel. He regularly cohosts MSP Community Live, a livestream series dedicated to elevating the broader IT community, and is a frequent podcast guest and industry contributor sharing insights on leadership, cybersecurity, compliance, and channel trends. His recognitions include CRN MSP 500 and Pioneer 250, Michiana Forty Under 40, the GTIA Community Leadership Award, a nomination for the GTIA Cybersecurity Leadership Award, and nominations for both the CompTIA Community Leadership Award and the Ernestine M. Raclin Community Leadership Award. Outside of his professional work, Henry remains active in initiatives supporting economic development, veterans, disaster relief, and civil rights advocacy. He welcomes opportunities to collaborate with leaders who are serious about building well, serving others, and moving the industry forward with integrity.

Scott Verbus is the co-founder of Linear 1 Technologies, an award-winning Midwest MSP and telecom provider recognized as a Top 25 MSP by ChannelPro Networks and winner of the MSP Titans of the Industry for the Midwest in 2025. With nearly three decades of hands-on IT and cybersecurity experience, Scott leads Linear 1’s growth and innovation strategy, with a focus on operational maturity, cyber resilience, and scalable infrastructure. Known for translating complex technical challenges into actionable, business-driven solutions, Scott is also a contributing author and Amazon Best Seller for Maximizing Business Potential with AI. He speaks regularly to MSPs and business leaders on cybersecurity strategy, operational growth, and leading through transition. Scott credits Linear 1’s success to the EOS framework, a relentless service mindset, and his partnership in both life and business with co-founder Lesley Verbus.

Matt Whitlock is responsible for the strategic direction and technical content of ChannelProNetwork.com. He brings more than 20 years’ experience working in the technology industry to his reviews, analysis, and general musings about all things gadget and gear. Matt’s decade of experience in online media, community management, and web development has been instrumental in propelling the ChannelPro brand into the digital future. Matt also lends his vocal talent (and sense of humor) as host for the ChannelPro Weekly Podcast, a weekly audio program specifically tailored for resellers, VARs, MSPs, and system builders. His spare time is devoted primarily to his wife and two wonderful children as sports cheerleader, amateur chauffeur, opener of jars, target for NERF bullets, maker of coffee and sandwiches, changer of AA and AAA batteries, and fixer of computers.

David Wilkeson has been a serial entrepreneur from the early 90’s until today, building and selling four very successful technology companies. The last endeavor took a Youngstown Ohio based IT company from a small 12-person professional services company to an 85-employee managed services powerhouse. In 2013, he sold his stake in the MSP to pursue consulting opportunities. Currently as CEO of MSP Advisor, he consults with managed services companies throughout North America, UK, Europe, and Australia on their business and financial operations as well as service design and delivery, and facilitates various MSP peer groups. Dave also co-founded an MSP focused financial services company called Instrumental, providing outsourced accounting and specialized CFO services to the industry. He co-authored a thought-provoking new book called Profit and Growth for MSPs: Dragonboats, Catamarans, and Superyachts. He holds various industry and security certifications, including CISSP, CISM, CCNA, and Microsoft MCP.