See highlights from Chris’ session in the above video.
Mastering Transformation: Three Key Strategies for Thriving in Times of Change
Chris Przybysz, CIO, Ideal Industries
Transformation is inevitable in today’s fast-paced business environment. As economic turbulence and technological advancements accelerate, IT leaders often find themselves focused on mere survival. However, with a deliberate and mindful approach, transformations can become powerful opportunities for growth and success.
Drawing from a rich 25-year journey of business deals, digital transformations, and professional reinvention, Chris Przybysz uncovers three guiding principles that consistently lead to thriving amidst change. Join us to discover how to leverage these timeless tenets to not just navigate but excel in the ever-evolving landscape of modern business. Prepare to look beyond the horizon and turn transformation into a strategic advantage.
Chris Przybysz
CIO, Ideal Industries
Chris Przybysz (shibish) is one of those rare people who always knew what he was meant to do with his life. He developed a passion for technology as a child and was writing complex computer programs at the age of 10. Chris has been helping others understand complicated machines and systems ever since. His IT career began after earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Marquette University. His early career was technical in nature, holding programming, engineering, and architecture positions.
After earning a master’s degree from DePaul University, Chris transitioned to senior leadership roles. The first 25 years of his IT career was anchored in a commercial lighting facility in Racine, WI. In 1996, he started as a Y2K Programming Intern at Ruud Lighting and now Chris is Chief Information Officer for IDEAL Industries. His mission remains the same: Apply urgency, closure, and context to navigate our dynamic technology landscape and drive results that have a positive impact on the enterprise.
John Thompson, Bestselling Author, Speaker, Global Head of Artificial Intelligence, EY
See highlights from John’s session in the above video.
AI – What’s next? – GenAI and Beyond
John Thompson, Bestselling Author, Speaker, Global Head of Artificial Intelligence, EY
AI has been used in commercial settings with great success for at least 20 years. GenAI exploded onto the scene about 2 years ago and shows no signs of slowing in innovation, adoption, and value realization. What does the next few years hold for us in relation to GenAI? What is next after GenAI? What does Causal AI look like and bring? And, finally what will composite AI applications composed of Traditional AI, GenAI, and Causal AI look like and bring to us? Come to this session, bring your questions and we will discuss these ideas and more. Your views and ideas are welcome. Let’s talk!
What will you learn:
What is next in GenAI from the perspectives applications and technology.
What is Causal AI.
What happens when you build composite applications containing all 3 Pillars of AI.
John Thompson
Bestselling Author, Speaker, Global Head of Artificial Intelligence, EY
John is an international technology executive with over 37 years of experience in the fields of data, advanced analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI).
John is responsible for the global AI function at EY. His role is to actively lead the design, development, implementation, and use of innovative AI solutions, including Generative AI, Traditional/Classical AI, and Causal AI, across all of EY Service Lines and functions and for EY’s clients. The team is comprised of – an Applied AI Research group, a product development organization, and an AI Consulting Practice.
We are thrilled to have John Thompson speak at this year’s Annual Conference on October 1 in the IT Track. Hear a bit more about him and what you can expect to hear from him at the conference in this exclusive interview with our conference’s Master of Ceremonies John Stofflet:
Boardroom Briefings: Effective Engagement through Cybersecurity Communications
See highlights from Gina’s session in the above video.
Boardroom Briefings: Effective Engagement through Cybersecurity Communications
Gina Yacone, CISO, Trace3
In the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the role of chief information security officers (CISOs) and chief information officers (CIOs) extends beyond managing digital threats; it encompasses the critical task of communicating complex security matters to the board of directors. This talk dives into the art and science of presenting cybersecurity issues to the board, transforming what could be a daunting task into a golden opportunity for leadership demonstration, risk understanding enhancement, and advocacy for vital resources.
We’ll explore the best practices for preparing and delivering compelling cybersecurity reports to the board. The presentation aims to provide practical strategies for CISOs and CIOs to convey the significance of cybersecurity in a manner that not only resonates with board members but also mobilizes their support for key initiatives, including the adoption of robust security policies and the promotion of a culture prioritizing cyber hygiene.
Gina Yacone
CISO, Trace3
Gina holds the position of Regional and Advisory Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Trace3, focusing on the Mountain State Region and resides in Denver, Colorado. Her role includes advising senior security leaders on emerging trends in cybersecurity, identifying and addressing security gaps, developing robust defense mechanisms, and implementing targeted, advanced security measures to protect critical digital information. Additionally, Gina leads compliance efforts within her region and provides virtual CISO (vCISO) services to two organizations.
Dedicated to continuous professional development and community involvement, Gina has earned a master’s degree in Cybersecurity from the University of New Hampshire’s School of Engineering. She has or has held numerous security certifications, including those from ISC², ISACA, HITRUST, and CompTIA, as well as vendor specific certifications. Recognized as an influential voice in cybersecurity, she spoken at over 100 conferences and is a member of organizations such as the Colorado Technology Association (CTA), InfraGard, Information Systems Security Association (ISSA), ISACA, and Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS). Currently, Gina is ISSA Denver’s Vice President.
Transforming IT from Back Office to Strategic Partner: A Journey of Innovation and Collaboration
Jody McDonough, CIO, and Sara Gilbertson Ley, Customer Service Manager, Sub-Zero Group
See highlights from this session in the above video.
Transforming IT from Back Office to Strategic Partner: A Journey of Innovation and Collaboration
Jody McDonough, CIO, and Sara Gilbertson Ley, Customer Service Manager, Sub-Zero Group
Join Jody McDonough and Sara Gilbertson Ley as they share the compelling story of Sub-Zero’s IT transformation. This session will delve into how the IT department evolved from a traditional back-office function to a strategic partner driving business value. Discover how Jody and Sara fostered a shared vision that aligned IT initiatives with business goals. They will discuss the development of a department-sponsored cost model, a value delivery system, and a comprehensive success measurement framework. Attendees will gain insights into the practical steps and strategies they employed to achieve this transformation.
Learn about the challenges they faced on their journey, the milestones they achieved, and their plans for future innovation. This presentation is a testament to the power of collaboration, strategic vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence in IT and customer service. Whether you are an IT professional, business leader, or interested in digital transformation, this session will provide valuable lessons and actionable insights to help you drive similar change within your organization.
Jody McDonough
CIO, Sub-Zero Group
Jody McDonough is currently the CIO for global manufacturing of luxury appliances at Sub-Zero Group. He is responsible for the organization’s traditional IT resources along with the IoT and Analytics functions, with direct product responsibilities.
Prior to his current role, he was responsible for a global insurer’s Strategy, Architecture and Innovation group implementing and operationalizing global analytics operations supporting business objectives. He has over 30 years in various IT roles and entrepreneurial developments across multiple industries.
Sara Gilbertson Ley
Customer Service Manager, Sub-Zero Group
Sara Gilbertson Ley is the Customer Service Manager at Sub-Zero Group, where she enhances the customer experience through strategic guidance and innovative content development. She leverages her XM Fundamentals Certification and expertise in Azure DevOps Services to lead a team in creating impactful product content and integrating customer feedback into product enhancements. Sara’s mission is to foster product connection, improve the customer experience, and support employee growth, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the organization. She holds a BA in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Steering Committee members provide guidance on track content, topic suggestions, and speaker selection. Thank you to the 2024 IT Track Steering Committee:
Sean Asp Director of IT, Foremost Farms
John Kreul CIO, Jeweler’s Mutual
Kris Cherukuri Independent
Lisa McDonough Director of Client Solutions, FarWell
As the IT Practice Director, Heidi Rozmiarek leads the technology practice of the UWEBC. She works with member companies to ensure education, research, and advisory service offerings are aligned with the needs of the membership. Heidi brings over 20 years of experience helping companies achieve operational success by leveraging technology and data through her work in consulting and senior leadership positions in software development, data management, and enterprise applications. Heidi’s diverse background includes extensive experience in the healthcare industry, where she spent over a decade leading technology and analytics initiatives for healthcare providers, insurers, and life sciences companies.
Heidi holds an MBA from the University of South Dakota, a BS in Computer Science, Marketing, and Finance from Morningside University, and a Master’s Certificate in Accounting from Edgewood College.
