Chris Dixon, senior manager, State and Local Industry Analysis, conducts targeted research aimed at shedding light on the state and local IT markets, and ways for vendors to capitalize on procurement opportunities. In addition to investigating, evaluating, and tracking existing state and local trends, Dixon provides strategic research, analysis, market forecasting, and opportunity analysis.

Todd Kimbriel, Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources and the State of Texas Chief Information Officer, came to public service in 2008 after serving over 25 years in the private sector. He is a lifelong information technology professional, having spent time in all aspects of technology including planning, design, operations, and management. His industry experience outside of public service includes telecommunications, aviation, retail, and import/export. As the CIO of the state of Texas, Kimbriel represents Texas nationally and collaborates with other states in advancing the role of technology in the public sector. Kimbriel graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor of science degree in finance.

Chris Laping has been engaging audiences with disruptive ideas on innovation and roller coaster storytelling. Now, he is hitting the stage as author of his debut book, People Before Things, to take audiences on a journey that focuses on how great organizations take care of people and inspire a culture of change.  Prior to founding People Before Things, LLC, Chris served as SVP, Business Transformation and CIO at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers. In these roles, he was a highly contributing member of a management team that completed a successful turnaround, taking the company from an $8 stock price to $89 in just a few years. Chris has 25 years of technology and change leadership experience across multiple brands and industries and has been widely recognized for his innovative thought leadership. He was named a Top 5 Social Business Leader by The Economist, Social Business Technology Leader by InformationWeek and Premier 100 IT Leader by Computerworld. The work of the teams he led has been spotlighted in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Fast Company and CIO Magazine, among others.

As The NPD Group’s Director of Industry Analysis for Commercial Technology, Michael Diamond offers expert analysis and commentary about the shifting commercial market. Through his focus on driving deeper insights with clients, Michael is improving core business-to-business (B2B) services and helping B2B clients navigate the channel more effectively.

Prior to joining NPD, Michael worked for Ingram Micro for 17 years in market and competitive intelligence, worldwide strategic planning, business intelligence, and North American strategic development. During his time at Ingram Micro, Michael was responsible for analyzing the competitive landscape, developing vendor and customer strategies, identifying trends in vertical and sub-vertical markets, and analyzing near-term and future technology trends. He also presented at vendor and customer-facing events to share industry insights.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Phoenix.

Tom Deierlein was recently named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of The Year, Greater Washington and is the co-founder and current CEO of a ThunderCat Technology a systems integrator that specializes in data center solutions for the Federal government. Tom is a 1989 graduate of West Point, a successful serial entrepreneur, Airborne Ranger, and Wounded Warrior.

Although started only 9 years ago, the company is already ranked #69 on the SP500 and a 4 time member of the Tech Elite 250.  ThunderCat has spent 5 years in a row on the Inc 5000, and was named by Forbes one of "America's Most Promising Companies".  Tom started his career working in sales for Johnson & Johnson and Parametric Technology Corporation in the mid-90's.

A Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient, Tom is a retired U.S. Army Major and Operation Iraqi Freedom Vet. In September 2006, he was shot by a sniper and critically wounded. Originally told he may never walk again he has since completed the Army Ten-Miler and two triathlons.  He has been quoted and featured in Forbes, The New York Times, NBC Nightly News, Wall Street Journal, and FOX News.

In the Fall of 2006 he co-founded the Tom Deierlein Foundation www.tdfoundation.org which provides aid to children of wounded warriors and fallen heroes. They help American Veterans’ families in crisis. Tom is a Certified Peer Mentor with Wounded Warrior Project and USSOCOM Care Coalition.  Tom earned a Masters of Science in Systems Management from the University of Southern California in 1993 and an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business in 2000. He lives with his wife Mary Beth and their three sons in Garden City, NY.

As CEO, Mark Wyllie brings more than 30 years of senior management and sales experience to Flagship Solutions Group. In his current capacity, he is responsible for the day-to-day management and implementation of the strategic and tactical direction of Flagship as well as the integration of services capabilities into responsive customer solutions. In addition, Wyllie is on the board of the South Florida Technology Alliance, a regional nonprofit focused on driving awareness of south Florida as a technology hub.  In 2014, Flagship was awarded with IBM’s highest honor for a business partner, a Beacon Award for Outstanding Community Impact.  This was the first time in IBM’s history a business partner was recognized for their community involvement.     

Wyllie started his career with seven years at GAF Corp., progressing from sales representative to district manager.  Included in his extensive background are key management roles with some of the nation’s most recognized computer and data management firms including Burroughs, NCR and Mail-Well Corp. Wyllie then moved to Champion Solutions Group for seven years as vice president of sales progressing to general manager of the Champion’s services division. Wyllie held the position of senior director at Mainline Information Systems where he had responsibility for the its services suppliers including IBM Global Services, disaster recovery and professional services. Prior to Flagship, Wyllie was COO for Compuquip Technologies, one of South Florida’s largest

Michael Lomonaco is the director of marketing and communications for OST. He joined the $160 million leading solution provider in 2011.  Michael honed his marketing and communications skills while attending Michigan State University. His career has included positions in local, state and federal political and policy work, corporate and nonprofit consulting, and customer relations, public relations, and marketing in the manufacturing sector.  These days, Michael leads the Marketing and Communications team at OST. In this role he is responsible for leading OST’s brand strategy, marketing programs, market insights, and public relations. He has a passion for creating wild outcomes and experiences through his abilities to connect and strategize across the organization, and with customers, partners, and colleagues.

Michael also has a deep connection to service and can be found working with any number of the boards of directors he serves In 2013, 2015, and 2016  Michael was selected as one of Grand Rapids’ “Top 40 Under Forty” business and community leaders.

Joseph (Joe) Bassani retired from the United States Army as a colonel after nearly 28 years of service. He is an expert in strategy development, leader development/coaching, strategic communication and organizational change management.

In the years following the attacks of 9/11, he led the Department of Defense effort to develop a family of interagency/intergovernmental homeland defense plans. His efforts led to the formation of the CBRNE Consequence Management Response Force, an all-hazards response plan for the Washington DC Metropolitan area, a national pandemic preparation and response plan, as well as a number of sensitive, classified plans and programs. Bassani is a seasoned combat leader, having commanded at every level in the Army, from a platoon to brigade.

In his post-Army career, Bassani worked in the banking industry as Senior Vice President for Operation and Chief Information Officer for a commercial bank in the Philadelphia area. He has consulted for several Fortune 500 companies in technology (software and hardware manufacturing sectors), upstream, unconventional oil and gas exploration, global electronics distribution and healthcare.

Bassani holds a Master of Science degree from the National Defense University (Strategy), a Master of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma (Communication) and a Bachelor of Arts degree (English) from Western New England University. He is a graduate of the Defense Information School and the National Defense University’s Joint Advanced Warfighting School. He also completed the Darden/SNL Executive Program in Bank Financial Leadership at The Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia.

Bill Jones continually drives bottom-line performance for our events business. He leads a team of operations, customer service, venue planning and event systems that support The Channel Company’s renowned brands. Drawing from his extensive knowledge of the event and conference industry, Bill is responsible for new business development tools, profitable execution and custom engagements for the group. His event expertise spans launching and managing programs, including on-demand conferences, virtual events, live events, conferences, road shows and partner events.

David DeCamillis serves as vice president of sales and marketing for Platte River Networks. He focuses on keeping his company’s brand fresh and vibrant but also staying in front of prospects so Platte River can continue to grow. For two decades, DeCamillis worked in financial consulting and production in a wide range of industries. Starting in the late 1980s, he worked as a syndicate manager and consultant in private equity funding.  After 12 years, DeCamillis transitioned into event production, working as an overseas concert promoter and producer in partnership with MTV Asia.  In 2008, DeCamillis started his tenure as head of business development with Platte River before assuming his current role. Platte River has grown to become a leading national provider of IT managed services and has received numerous technology, service and growth awards.  Outside of work, DeCamillis is an avid runner, biker, hiker, skier, reader and traveler. He enjoys public speaking and spending time at the beach and the mountains with his family.

Himanshu Verma joined WatchGuard in 2016 as director of product management, with a primary focus on delivering WatchGuard products and solutions to the managed security service provider market. Prior to WatchGuard, Verma held product management roles for the Enterprise Authentication-as-a-Service division of SafeNet (now Gemalto), a world leader in data protection. Verma has also held various roles in engineering and research and development, working on various information security and data protection technologies. He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Science and Engineering.

Bryan Ferren has led high-growth software, IT and B2B companies to success for more than 25 years. As Zift’s chief revenue officer, he is focused on redefining the channel technology landscape via enterprise channel management. A proven business operations, sales and international business development pro, Ferren joined Zift after working with SmartPath and Aprimo, where he managed strategic accounts with Intel, Target, CitiGroup and Nestle.

Derek Gabbard is an accomplished technology and security executive with more than 20 years' experience in information technology and computer and network security. As OPAQ’s SVP of partnerships and alliances, Gabbard leads the company’s channel initiatives and growth. He previously served as the president of FourV Systems, the innovator of GreySpark technology–a business intelligence system used for analyzing the compliance and automation maturity of information security operations. Gabbard also served as the CEO of LookingGlass Cyber Solutions, an industry leader in cyber threat intelligence serving the commercial, U.S. Federal civilian agencies and U.S. Defense Department and intelligence communities. Prior to LookingGlass, Gabbard served as senior member of the technical staff at the world-renowned CERT at Carnegie Mellon University. He developed a series of industry best practices for information security controls and processes as well as strategy and standards for cyber security program for the Department of Defense and U.S. Air Force. Gabbard started his career as a communications and computer systems officer in the Air Force, where he worked in support of tactical communications missions throughout Central and South America. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy. 

Frank Rauch is Vice President of VMware’s Americas Partner Organization. In this role, he is responsible for indirect routes to market for the Americas which include, Solution Providers, Corporate Resellers, Public Sector Partners, OEMs (Cisco, Dell, EMC, HP, IBM, Lenovo, Net App, VCE), System Integrators / System Outsourcers, and Distributors.

Prior to VMware Frank was HP’s Americas Vice President and General Manager of Enterprise Channels. He also held VP roles in strategy and direct sales with HP. Frank started his career with IBM in sales and executive staff roles.

He and his teams have been recognized with over 40 channel awards. Frank has been personally recognized with 5 Channel Chief awards and has been ranked in the top 25 Channel Executives.

Frank is a graduate of Drexel University with degrees in Marketing and Computer Systems Management. He lives in the Philadelphia area and is active with youth ice hockey and on several non-profit boards.

Christopher Rigas serves as the HPE Business Development Manager at D&H Distribution.  With a successful career in technical channel sales, Rigas offers all D&H channel partners his expertise in industry-leading HPE solutions for their datacenter requirements. Rigas operates as an extension of a solution provider's sales team and will co-sell with them to drive HPE business.  Prior to joining D&H, Rigas served two tours in the U.S. Army as a Quick Reaction Force Combat Medic in Iraq.  

As the head of the channel program at ADT, Zack is responsible for the new partner growth, direction, and strategy of the channel program. Through his work in developing an enterprise-grade security suite for small and mid-size businesses, Zack has shown his passion about protecting businesses from cyber-attacks.  Through his work directly with MSP’s, Zack has helped provide cyber security solutions for customers all through the U.S and Canada. Zack resides in Dallas, Texas, and has been with ADT for 5 years.

George Pashardis is Regional Vice President of Sales for ePlus Technology, inc. a leading provider of integrated solution suites for enterprise networking, security, unified communications, data center and storage, and also offers complete IT sourcing and fulfillment services.  ePlus Technology serves a side variety of organizations in both the public and private sectors, including the Fortune 500, Healthcare, Federal, State and Local Government, K12 and Higher Education, as well as many other vertical markets.  The diverse set of IT solutions offered by ePlus Technology are complemented with a suite of on-demand supply chain solutions, a variety of leasing and financing services, and a range of Consulting expertise.

ePlus has been recognized by the Channel Company as one of North America's top technology integrators.

George brings over 25 years of experience in Sales & Marketing, with over 20 years in Sales Management to his role as Regional Vice President of Sales for ePlus Technology.  George joined ePlus in May 2004 with ePlus’ acquisition of Manchester Technologies, where he was Director of Sales. Prior to Manchester, he served as Area Director for Elcom Intl.

George has served on several Advisory Boards in the past such as Comptia, Samsung, NEC, 3COM, Hewlett Packard and Lenovo and is also a former Member of the International Who’s Who of Information Technology. George is a current member of the Advisory Board for the Channel Company.

Chris Bennett is a performance improvement consultant & coach. He is a leading facilitator in North America on human potential sales, problem solving and sales management effectiveness. Bennett has helped RBC, Telus, Shaw Communications, Bell, Cisco, Soft Choice, Great West Life, AT&T, Allstream and others improve their skills and financial results. His practical, proven approach is focused on producing massive, measurable financial impact. Bennett is committed to his own on-going journey of being the best he can be while helping and inspiring others on their own paths toward fulfillment and peak  performance. 

Mark Sher, Intermedia’s Vice President of Product and Marketing for Cloud Voice, is a 23-year telecom veteran. Mark leads Intermedia’s product marketing and product management for all cloud voice services for both indirect and direct channels. Prior to Intermedia, Mark held the position of vice president of marketing and product management for AccessLine Communications, a leader and innovator in the Hosted PBX and SIP Trunking space and an early telecom SaaS pioneer. With AccessLine, Mark directed the initiatives to develop and bring to market both Hosted PBX and SIP Trunking. Mark’s entire career has focused on delivering telecom services to businesses of all size with a focus on creating easy to purchase, easy use and easy support services. Mark has a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Washington State University.

Eric Roach is Intermedia’s Global Vice President of Field Channel Sales and Distribution. In this critical role, Eric is responsible for creating and leading the Company’s new Field Channel Sales team, as well as overseeing the management of the Distribution, Strategic Community, and Master Agent businesses. Lastly, Eric has management responsibility for Intermedia’s European business, based in the United Kingdom.

Roach is an industry veteran with nearly 25 years of experience in national and international channel-building success. Eric recently spent the last 10 years at Microsoft, demonstrating true impact and influence across multiple sales and management roles. Most recently as Global Account Director, Eric Roach was accountable for overseeing the growth, profitability, strategy and partner experience of Microsoft’s largest worldwide business partner, Ingram Micro. The scope of responsibilities included managing revenues of $2.5b annually across 45 countries. Previously, Eric managed the sales teams for multiple Partner Team Units (PTU’s) in the US Subsidiary. He holds the honor of being a three-time Microsoft Circle of Excellence winner, as well as a 100% Achievers Club member in seven of his 10 years with the company.

Bob Skelley serves as The Channel Company’s Chief Executive Officer. Prior to his role as CEO, Bob led the company’s PartnerDemand Services group, providing demand generation and marketing services that drive revenue for both IT solution providers and vendors. Bob has over 20 years of experience in channel development, business development, sales and marketing. Prior to The Channel Company, Skelley held numerous channel executive positions including Vice President of Global Channels and Alliances for Infinio, Executive Director of North American Channel Sales for Dell, Global Vice President, Channel Strategy and Operations for EqualLogic and Director of U.S. Distribution and VAR Channel for Microsoft.

In less than a decade, Luis Alvarez has grown the Alvarez Technology Group from a small two-person consultancy to the premier IT solution provider on the California Central Coast, delivering IT services to more than 200 companies throughout the state. A visionary who never shies away from exploring exciting new technologies that might give his clients a competitive advantage, Alvarez specializes in working with executives and managers of small and mid-sized businesses, sharing his expertise by advising them on trends, analyzing their systems for improved performance and planning how IT can help achieve their business goals.

Chad provides project management expertise to the Patriots Honor Board of Directors. A highly skilled business leader, he leverages prior military experience as a U.S. Marine with a successful consulting firm career to bring commitment, invaluable perspective and strong community connections to the breadth of Patriots Honor programs.

“I’m ready to hit the ground running with Patriots Honor Organization,” said Chad. “My company, Enterprise Networking Solutions, Inc., has proudly supported Patriots Honor with donations from the proceeds of our annual golf tournament. It’s time to step up my personal involvement with this outstanding charity. Patriots Honor is doing good things for our injured military veterans and service members, and I want to personally be a part of that.”

Chad is a native of Sacramento, Ca. and a father to three amazing and talented children. He joined the Marine Corps in 1995, serving around the world as part the Marine Corps Marine Expeditionary Forces. During service to his nation, Chad returned to school, earning a degree in Computer Applications and Networks from Coleman College, San Diego, Calif. In 2001, he returned to Sacramento to pursue a career in IT consulting.

Driven by a mission to share knowledge and empower his peers to recognize their full potential, Chad has been Vice President of Business Development at Enterprise Networking Solutions, Inc., since joining the business in 2006. As a skilled and diligent Project Manager and Systems Engineer in infrastructure technologies, Chad leverages more than 18 years of experience assessing needs, gathering requirements, and deploying systems in an Enterprise environment. Today, ENS-Inc, is an instrumental partner with the State of California, working to increase efficiency in IT by leveraging technology to do more, while reducing costs and increasing productivity.

In 2010, Chad founded HSB Solutions, and serves proudly as its President. HSB is a Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise. Providing staffing and hardware and software resell services to the State of California and larger firms looking for active participation from

Following his passion for fellow veterans, children and health, in 2013, he is founded The Urban Gym in Sacramento. This organization follows a simple premise, get outside and get active. All activities are free of charge and Chad considers this organization a small way for him to give back to his community and share the lessons he himself learned regarding fitness and healthy living.

 As EVP and GM of CareWorx, Marco La Vecchia is responsible for the development and growth of its Managed Services strategy across the United States and Canada. Recognized for his pragmatic, entrepreneurial spirit and strategic thinking, Marco offers CareWorx and its customers progressive business development experience gained from a variety of positions and industry sectors. He champions a highly consultative approach to the CareWorx team.  This includes education, training support, and marketing programs that extend beyond Managed Services and focus’ on broader strategies to grow the company. 

In 2015, Marco was recognized as a CRN Channel Chief.  In 2016 and 2017 Marco received an award for Executive of the Year in the Mid-Market space by the Channel Company.