Illinois IT Leadership Forum 2025 Banner

Overview

The IT Leadership Forum is a premier event designed for current and emerging public sector IT leaders to explore technological advancements that drive government innovation. The forum emphasizes leadership development, offering participants valuable opportunities to enhance their professional skills, engage in peer networking, and collaborate on strategies to improve public services through technology. This invitation-only event provides a space for leaders to collaborate while addressing the most important policy, management and leadership issues surrounding the future of digital government. Contact us if you’d like to join the conversation!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

Speakers

Brandon Ragle

Brandon Ragle LinkedIn

Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois

In April 2025, Ragle was appointed Secretary and State CIO. In this role, he oversees the state's technology strategy, ensuring seamless operations and driving strategic advancements in digital services for the State of Illinois.
With over three decades of dedicated service in Illinois state government, Ragle has established himself as a seasoned technology executive. His career has spanned roles across various departments, including the Department of Corrections, the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the Department of Insurance, and the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT).
Over the past two decades, Ragle has focused on leveraging technology to drive efficiency and innovation within state government. In 2016, he joined the DoIT as Deputy Chief of Enterprise Applications, quickly rising to the position of Chief of Enterprise Applications in 2019.
In June 2023, Ragle was appointed Deputy Secretary of DoIT and Deputy State CIO, receiving Senate approval for the position in May 2024. In this critical role, he oversees the state's technology strategy and implementation, driving digital transformation initiatives that benefit citizens and businesses alike.

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Robert “Cujo” Teschner

Robert “Cujo” Teschner

Founder & CEO, Vmax Group

After decades of leading high-performance F-15 and F-22 teams as a fighter pilot, Fighter Weapons School Instructor, and Squadron Commander, Cujo concluded that the principles that allow leaders to lead well are universally applicable. Cujo also determined that businesses need to improve their leadership development to thrive in a continuously disruptive environment. Furthermore, he firmly believes that American businesses are the backbone of an economy that helps keep America strong.
And so Cujo is now on a mission: he’s actively helping organizations build leaders who can win in disruption to help keep our economy strong. The most important part of his mission is helping leaders harness the upside of positive, forward-focused accountability to become the best they can be.
Cujo has authored or co-authored three #1 bestselling books to support his mission. He’s built an incredible team of former fighter pilots and US Navy SEALS who have together delivered hundreds of workshops, keynotes, and breakout sessions, helping businesses of all sizes embrace real teamwork by practicing meaningful, effective, forward-focused accountability.

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John Cecala

John Cecala LinkedIn

Government & Higher Education Advocate, Google Public Sector

At Google Cloud, I spearhead collaborations with forward-thinking government agencies and higher education institutions to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and fundamentally transform public service delivery. Leveraging the secure and powerful Google Cloud Platform, I specialize in educating on the ways cutting-edge Cloud and Generative AI technologies help them exceed the evolving expectations of diverse stakeholders. My approach begins with deep listening, enabling me to architect and implement outcome-driven strategies focused on our clients' critical objectives. I am committed to building enduring, trusted partnerships that deliver win-win results. My leadership and proven execution consistently advance Google's mission and the vital work of the governments and schools we serve.

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Agenda

Tuesday, June 10

8:00 am Central

Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-Function

9:00 am Central

Welcome & Event Opening

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom

Jackie White, National Conference Director, GovTech

9:05 am Central

Opening Remarks

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom

Brandon Ragle, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois

9:15 am Central

Keynote – Debrief to Win: Building Teams that Succeed in Disruption

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom

In times of turbulence and disruption, even the best teams can struggle to stay focused, aligned, and accountable. Overcoming these challenges requires a shift in mindset and the right leadership tools to create resilient, high-performing teams. Learn from a former U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons School ("Top Gun") instructor how elite military teams succeed by centering on a shared mission, driving purpose, and embracing accountability as a path to growth, not blame. Walk away with actionable strategies and inspiring insights to help your teams thrive under pressure and achieve lasting success.

Robert “Cujo” Teschner, Founder & CEO, Vmax Group

10:20 am Central

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-Function

10:50 am Central

Concurrent Sessions

Navigating Agency Relationships with Leadership-Level Communication

Sapphire Ballroom

An effective IT strategy is only as impactful as the communication that drives it. From vision-setting to progress reporting, IT leaders must transform complex technical roadmaps into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders. Storytelling is key in making intricate ideas accessible, fostering trust, and ensuring alignment across departments. What makes a strategic message stick? How can leaders ensure their vision resonates beyond the IT team? Are you tailoring communication channels, adjusting cadence, and actively listening to meet the unique needs of each audience? This session will explore actionable techniques to enhance leadership presence, improve cross-functional collaboration, and elevate the visibility and influence of IT initiatives, empowering leaders to navigate agency relationships with confidence and clarity.

When to Lead, and When to Manage?

Ruby Ballroom

IT professionals are often individual contributors, making it tempting to dive into the work and tackle tasks hands-on. But how do we strike the balance between leading our teams through complex challenges and managing them effectively for long-term growth? While it's natural to want to roll up our sleeves, doing so isn't always the best approach for staff development or team empowerment. This session will explore strategies for knowing when to step in and lead by example, and when to take a step back to mentor, guide, and develop your team's skills. By understanding the dynamics between leadership and management, you’ll learn how to foster autonomy, build confidence, and ensure sustainable team success.

12:00 pm Central

Lunch

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom

12:45 pm Central

General Session – Building Innovation & Continuous Improvement in Government

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom

Brandon Ragle, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois

1:15 pm Central

Short Break

1:30 pm Central

Concurrent Sessions

Inspire and Motivate: Building a Culture of Trust and Energy

Sapphire Ballroom

A high-performing team is not built solely on technical skill—it thrives on trust, motivation, and a shared sense of purpose. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, IT leaders must move beyond task management to create an environment where individuals feel valued, energized, and empowered to perform at their best. How can leaders maintain motivation and connection, particularly during times of change and uncertainty? This session will dive into practical strategies for cultivating a high-trust, positive workplace culture that fosters morale, strengthens team bonds, and drives lasting performance. Join us to explore how to inspire your team, fuel their energy, and create a foundation of trust that leads to sustained success.

John Cecala, Government & Higher Education Advocate, Google Public Sector

Honing your Leadership through Osmosis – Shining your Diamonds

Ruby Ballroom

In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, the key to a resilient, future-ready IT organization may already be within your team. Elevating existing talent not only enhances retention and morale but also creates a leadership pipeline rooted in institutional knowledge and firsthand experience. How can we develop the non-technical skills that differentiate leaders from managers in IT roles? What steps can we take to ensure internal talent feels empowered, valued, and prepared for greater responsibility? This session will explore strategies to cultivate leadership at every level, unlocking the full potential of your workforce and building a strong foundation for long-term organizational success.

2:30 pm Central

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-Function

2:50 pm Central

General Session - The DoIT Leadership Trivia Challenge

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom

Can you effectively collaborate under pressure? Dive into this lively, team-based trivia game where attendees join forces with your peers to answer questions on governance, policy, emerging tech, and the pressing issues shaping government today. This isn’t just about winning - it’s about networking, sharing expertise and maybe…just maybe - you might learn something new. Whether you’re looking to meet new people or strengthen existing partnerships, this session offers a unique chance to learn and engage with peers from across the public sector. Are you ready to challenge yourself and lead your team to victory?

3:50 pm Central

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

Diamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-Function

Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.

4:20 pm Central

End of Conference

Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.

Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Center

3000 South Dirksen Parkway
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 529-7777

Get Directions To
Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Center

Advisory Board

Government Representatives

Jason Barth
Head of Human Resources and Talent Management
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois

Jason Bowen
Chief Information Security Officer
IL DoIT

Albert Coll
Chief Administrative Officer
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois

Bill Downing
Chief of Enterprise Architecture
IL DoIT

Jenifer Johnson
Chief of Staff
IL DoIT

Brandon Ragle
Deputy Chief Information Officer
IL DoIT

Lori Sorenson
Chief Technology Officer
IL DoIT

Industry Representatives

John Cecala
Advocate
Public Sector, Government & Higher Education
Google Cloud

Registration Information / Contact Us

Event Date: June 10, 2025

This is an invitation-only event, open to Public Sector only. For more information or to request an invitation, please contact Lindsay Anthis .

If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.

Contact Information

To RSVP and for general assistance contact:

Lindsay Anthis
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1495
E-mail: lanthis@erepublic.com

For assistance or questions concerning Sponsor Logos or Logistics please contact:

Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact:

Heather Earney
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1339
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com

Venue

Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Center

3000 South Dirksen Parkway
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 529-7777

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Room Block

Room Rate: $125/night, single or double.
Rate Cut-Off Date: Friday, May 23, 2025.

To Make a Reservation:
Phone: (217) 529-7777 and reference the Illinois IT Leadership Forum.
Online: Group Reservation Link
If you experience issues booking online, call the hotel directly for assistance.

Rooms are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note, once the room block is full, you will need to make other arrangements for your accommodations with the hotel directly or at a nearby hotel.

Map and Directions

https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/springfield/spicc/hoteldetail/directions

Event Parking

The Crowne Plaza Springfield offers complimentary daily self-parking.