Amina Al Sherif is a technical engineering lead in machine learning and generative AI at Google. She immigrated to the United States in 2010 as a first generation Arab-American. She has spent twelve years in the Department of Defense serving as an Army officer in the Reserves and North Carolina National Guard as a tactical cyber operator and cyber targeter.
Amina has previously worked as an early stage startup executive focused on artificial intelligence innovation and product. Prior to her startup experience, Amina worked at Google as a Cloud Engineer bringing the innovation and power of Google’s capabilities to the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. She focused on big data and machine learning, gaming and simulation, and data privacy and security in cloud computing and analytics.
Amina has worked with the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) as an Arabic, Farsi, and French language enabled Open Source Exploitation Analyst at Fort Belvoir, VA and Fort Bragg. She deployed under Operation Inherent Resolve to Baghdad, Iraq in 2015/2016. In 2016-2017 she deployed to Afghanistan supporting the Special Operations Community. Most recently Amina deployed to Iraq, Syria, Turkey and Israel for a Special Missions Unit out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina supporting cyber-HUMINT operations.
Amina holds a BA in Linguistics and Arabic from the University of Mississippi and a Masters in Professional Studies in Cybersecurity and Information Sciences from Penn State University. She is currently attending the University of Texas in San Antonio to pursue a career in astrophysics at the PhD level. She regularly blogs on Medium documenting her self-taught technical career.
In January 2020, she published her first book An Approach to Machine Learning in Cyber Defense for the Department of Defense. She is also working on a three-part young adult fiction novel series and is currently contracted with Black Rose Writing for publication. She also blogs regularly on her website, https://www.aminaalsherif.camp.

Justin Brown served as Oklahoma’s Cabinet Secretary of Human Services and Director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services from 2019 to 2023. In July 2023, Brown stepped away from state service with confidence in the transition strategy and with a deep desire to continue human services transformation across America through independent consulting.
In 2022 & 2023, Secretary Brown served as Chairman of the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA) Leadership Council and as a member of the Governing Board of Directors, as well as a member of the National Governor’s Association’s (NGA) Core Advisory Board for Children and Families.
As CEO of Global True North, a public benefit corporation that focuses on government transformation, Brown continues to support and catalyze national modernization of the health and human services system. Brown recently joined the Center for Digital Government as a Senior Fellow and founded the Center for Public Sector AI, providing insight and guidance around modernizing government service through adoption of contemporary technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.
In addition to his public service, Brown has built a passion for serving seniors and children through non-profit organizations including the Alzheimer’s Association, Children’s Hospital Foundation, YMCA, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, among others. Brown and his wife, Kelly, have been married for 22 years and have two children, Hannah and Ford.

Jalen A. Byford is a seasoned IT leader with a passion for transforming public-sector agencies into efficient and customer-centric organizations. As the IT Director of End User Services at the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), Jalen has been instrumental in redefining the way state employees and citizens experience government technology services. In 2022, Jalen assumed his role as IT Director at OMES, and his commitment to improving customer service became immediately evident. He embarked on an ambitious mission to place technicians strategically throughout the entire state, ensuring that no agency was more than 40 miles away from essential IT support. Under his leadership, the number of technicians overseeing Oklahoma's 77 counties increased from a mere 30 to a dedicated team of 97, guaranteeing comprehensive coverage.
Jalen's journey to his current role is marked by a rich background in IT and a commitment to making a positive impact. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Psychology as well as being ITIL 4 Certified and a PMP and has accumulated a wealth of experience working with notable organizations such as Sprint Nextel and FutureDial. In 2013, he joined the Oklahoma Heart Hospital, where he steadily climbed the ranks, ultimately becoming the Director of Information Technology Support Services in 2020.
For Jalen, the most rewarding aspect of his role is the opportunity to "put the pieces together" and witness the tangible improvements in the state government's service to its constituents. His dedication to enhancing the customer experience is the driving force behind his work, ensuring that every interaction with the government is efficient, effective, and ultimately, a positive one.

Curtis Coleman has had a distinguished, 20-year career in cybersecurity. For over 15 years, he led the cybersecurity program at Seagate, a large multi-national digital storage manufacturing company. In that role, he directed the efforts to implement cybersecurity policies, practices, and technology to ensure the protection of Seagate’s data and systems. Coleman currently serves on Oracle's Cloud Security Advisory Board and has shared his cybersecurity knowledge by serving on advisory boards for other major corporations including Intel, and Salesforce. He holds multiple cybersecurity certifications including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). National cybersecurity conferences frequently invite Coleman to speak to their audiences. He was listed in ExecRank’s “Top 150 Security Executives Rankings” for 2012 through 2017. Academically, Coleman is interested in all aspects of cybersecurity and research in artificial immune systems.
Warning! Do not test out your ninja moves on Professor Coleman. He has weaponry and defense skills. A certified Team USA Archery Coach Level II, NRA Rifle and Pistol Instructor, and Black Belt in Karate, Coleman also enjoys leading a local crew of Venturing Scouts, a coed scouting group for 14-20 years old students.
He is married to Catina and has four children: Jeremy, Brianna, Cianna, and Connor.

Eyal works with clients across the public sector (including higher education and non-profit) to help them take advantage of the Generative AI and AI innovations that are transforming the delivery of customer experiences, organization workforce, and the enterprise. He leads teams of dedicated strategy, consulting, technology, and operation professionals to design, implement and deliver Generative AI solutions that can enable public sector organizations to transform their operations and the customer experiences they offer, simplifying and accelerating how citizens are able to access government services. 
Eyal combines passion and pragmatism to shape innovative solutions that have a positive impact for his clients’ customers.

As Chief Revenue Officer at Access Sciences, his responsibilities encompass revenue strategy development, marketing, business development, sales, market intelligence, and financial performance analysis. Additionally, Trey oversees the company's partnerships and alliances.
Joining Access Sciences in 2021, Trey has over twenty-five years of experience in the technology, research, advisory, consulting, and systems integration services industry. He is a strategic thinker and visionary who is certified as an NFT Expert from the Blockchain Council. Prior to Access Sciences, Trey worked with Beyond Limits AI, Gartner's Research Board and Strategic Account Organization, Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Capgemini, Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), and Whitaker Consulting.
Trey has been a member of the Board of Directors for Houston Tomorrow, a non-profit dedicated to researching and addressing issues resulting from the rapid suburban growth across Houston. Trey was also a candidate for the Texas House of Representatives in 2008 and has worked for the Texas Governor, a US Senator, and US presidential candidate.

Darren Fritz is currently Director of IT Operations and a 25 year veteran at the City of Tulsa. During his time at the City of Tulsa, Darren has been responsible for the first three City websites, introduction of the first firewalls and VPN systems as well as introducing numerous collaborative systems to improve communications and overall IT processes. Darren has skills in technical, managerial, diplomacy and communications arenas as well as vast experience working with local, county, state, & federal governments making him well suited for committee involvement and contribution at any level.
Darren has been directly responsible for the development of the City of Tulsa IT Security Team that is composed of over ten staff members actively pursuing threats, implementing new systems and overseeing daily security processes. For the last six years, Darren has been Director of City of Tulsa IT Operations and is responsible for oversight and advancement of all things infrastructure including servers, databases, data centers, networking, extensive fiber optic networks, phone systems, cloud/premise compute platforms, IT security, advancement of security for SCADA networks, land mobile radio/tower systems, City/County emergency alerting systems and city wide weather sensors.
Darren is a life long resident of Tulsa and University of Tulsa graduate. He is a servant based leader both on the job and in the community serving also as Director of Premarital Counseling for CityChurch Tulsa, creator of B4 OpenGate breakfast ministry for men as well as a board member of Band of Brothers Men's ministry. He enjoys sports, outdoors and competitions including running and cycling where he is a two time state medalist.

Kermit Graham leads System Engineering in State, Local Government, and Education for the Eastern United States.  His organization is responsible for the design and deployment of Fortinet solutions built on integrated security architectures that help solve the business challenges of customers. 
After serving 13 years in the United States Marine Corps., Kermit entered the private sector via the Arrowpoint startup. After being acquired by Cisco, Mr. Graham held various leadership roles across Federal and SLED businesses, both domestically and internationally. With over 30 years of IT experience, he brings extensive knowledge of the Public Sector business.
Kermit and his wife Deonna reside in Austin, TX and are the proud parents of two sons.

Trey Hall is a telecommunications executive with 25 years of experience in broad functional roles spanning engineering, operations, sales, marketing, and corporate leadership. A native to the DFW area and based in McKinney, TX where he lives with his wife and daughter, Trey enjoys lacrosse, animal welfare service, and teaching. Trey’s history includes 15 years at Fujitsu Network Communications and 10 years at Walker and Associates before joining Ciena in January 2022.

As Chief Information Officer at the University of Oklahoma, David oversees a comprehensive portfolio of technologies and services to support all missions across a multi-campus environment. He leads a team that delivers core IT offerings, including networking and telecommunications, data center and infrastructure, enterprise applications, and data services, as well as a full range of academic and research technologies, software development, project management, and user support. Under David's leadership, IT has prioritized significant improvements in cybersecurity, enabling the university to effectively manage cyber-risk, compliance, incident detection, and user training.
With over 30 years of leadership experience, David's passion for improvement is highlighted by his ability to balance operational needs and strategic goals creatively and effectively. Throughout his career, David has demonstrated his commitment to using a platforms approach to deliver the best possible outcomes. He continually looks for new ways to enhance the user experience, improve efficiency, develop an empowered workforce, and ensure IT is helping drive institutional strategic planning. David has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Oklahoma City University and numerous industry certifications.

Mr. Hudson, a Lees Summit, Mo resident, started his career at the Department of Defense before transitioning to the private sector. Aaron has worked for a number of Data Center Equipment Manufactures prior to his time at SHI, where he supports Public Sector agencies in Arkansas, focusing on Data Center solutions and technologies.

Rob Johnson, a graduate of Emporia State University, has worked with the government sector most of his career. He has been a lobbyist, direct sales, and industry consultant. In 2016, Johnson ran for the Kansas House of Representatives in the Kansas City area.
Johnson joined Softdocs in July of 2023 to help build their State and Local government division. His focus is on identifying partnerships and advancing Softdocs market presence in the State and Local Government sector.
Rob is married and has four dogs (Ellie, Denver, Tucker, and Shelby). He and his wife, Lisa, love to travel. Rob is also a big fan of F1, the Kansas City Royals, and the Denver Broncos.

Lindsey Kanaly is an experienced attorney who has served as the Deputy Director of Oklahoma Human Services since Jan. 2023. She oversees the internal business operations for the state’s largest agency, which includes managing a $4+ billion budget. Kanaly also leads eight divisions dedicated to supporting the agency’s workforce and mission including property and project management, finance, procurement, technology, human resources, the Office of Inspector General and business legal operations. She develops and maintains relationships with external partners to bring collaborative efficiencies to the agency and ensure smooth operations. 
Prior to her work as Deputy Director, Kanaly served as the agency’s Director of Contracts and Compliance. She was previously the Deputy General Counsel for the Office of Management and Enterprise Services and attorney for Chesapeake Energy Corporation. Kanaly is licensed to practice law in Oklahoma. 
Kanaly is the proud mother of 19-year-old son who is attending Oklahoma State University. She and her two dogs reside in Oklahoma City where they enjoy working in the garden and building wooden furniture. 

Jeff Maxwell has been doing software development for over 25 years in many different roles. He has worked as a Developer, Technical Lead, Architect, Leader and Security Architect for a variety of industries. Some include Fortune 500 companies, big-brand food and beverage companies and more.
Over the last 5 years, Maxwell has focused on Secure Coding and Secure Development topics and best practices while earning his Masters of Science-Computer Science with a Cybersecurity focus at Oklahoma Christian University

Jonathan joined the DataBank team in 2022, joining the Public Sector team as a Program Manager where he works with clients to design and execute electronic content management systems across an enterprise. His background includes 18 years at Fiserv leading technical teams and establishing standards for software development and deployment. Jonathan is passionate about helping clients grow strategically and implement tools and systems that enhance their organization and create efficiencies. Jonathan is based in the Lincoln, Nebraska area and is an avid golfer when he isn’t watching his two daughters play competitive volleyball. 

Career Healthcare CIO with extensive experience in executive/client relationships, Information Management, Health Information Exchanges, and IT governance & operations. Mr. Miller has held the positions of Chief Information Officer at Baptist Health, Alabama, and Oklahoma Heart Hospital locally, as well as held senior IT positions is Chesapeake Energy, Kerr-McGee and Cerner Corporation. Mr. Miller has been involved in the start-up, operations, and governance of multiple HIE’s both here in Oklahoma as well as in Alabama. Steve holds degrees from Oklahoma State and Southern Nazarene Universities, as well as carries the designation as a certified Chief Information Officer (CHCIO) from the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME).

Robert Newell is in his 2nd career. His first career was in the film industry starting front of the camera and ending as a cinematographer behind it. In that time, he spent 7 years working for the Walt Disney Company in Film Production. In an effort to spend more time with the family he changed careers to stay more at home. For over 20+ years Robb has devoted his abilities to public sector IT. A life long learner he has a Bachelors, 2 Masters (one finished just after a stroke) and a PhD to go with his 18 certifications. He currently serves as the Chief Information Officer of the City of Ardmore, Oklahoma.

40+ years of aligning Information Technology teams and technology to organizational business needs. Leading with efficient management, leadership, communication, technology, business, and financial skills. Experience across a diverse spectrum of organizations has given me a well-rounded perspective and background, enabling me to adapt, grow and change based on organizational needs. Navigating private sectors, from aviation, architectural, manufacturing, construction, and energy and now to public sector government, requires a broad understanding of effective innovation, communication, and management. Challenges and solving difficult situations, motivates me to continue my technology and management path while mentoring future generations well into the future.

An executive government advisor, Carlos is a public sector data practice subject matter expert who specializes in helping organizations leverage data to make informed, actionable decisions. He also works with Chief Data Officers, Geospatial Information Officers, and other data leaders to develop mission-driven data programs.
Prior to joining Amazon Web Services (AWS), Carlos gained 27 years of experience in federal and state government and higher education. Carlos was the first Chief Data Officer for the Commonwealth of Virginia. During his tenure, he helped former-Governor Northam, his executive team, and public health and emergency management professionals respond to the COVID-19 pandemic by leveraging data-driven intelligence products to help keep Virginians safe.

Kevin serves as the Director of Technology Services for the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group, a municipal interlocal cooperative agency with emphases on technology risk, cybersecurity, and cyberliability insurance for cities and towns in Oklahoma. With 23 years of technology experience, Kevin has spent 20 of those years in government technology leadership roles focusing on a wide range of citizen services, including adaptive technologies, K-12 and Postsecondary educational technology, and application development for State natural resources and transportation services. His peer-reviewed research paper, “Immaturity and Moral Hazard in the Cyber Insurance Market” was the featured cover article in the ISSA Journal for October 2019 and named as a “Best of” article for 2019. He has a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity from Oklahoma State University. He was the founding chair of the Oklahoma State advisory subcommittee on web accessibility requirements, a founding officer of the Oklahoma Cybersecurity Coalition, and is currently the President-Elect of the Infragard Oklahoma Members’ Alliance.

Serving as CINO since April 2021, Joni Seymour’s key responsibility is to identify and leverage innovative opportunities across the Cabinet. From restructuring unit organization to streamlining workflows and automating processes, Seymour and the Office of Innovation serve to nurture a mindset for continuous improvement.
Seymour’s transportation career began in 2004 as a technology analyst for Oklahoma Turnpike Authority. Promoted in 2010 and serving as software development manager through 2013, she left for the private sector until 2017 when she returned to OTA.
While at OTA, Seymour oversaw the successful implementation of a system that provided interoperability with partner tolling agencies in Kansas and Texas. This allowed for ease of travel for Pikepass customers and users with similar devices from surrounding states. Seymour also supervised multiple system developments and changes that upgraded the tolling infrastructure and backend systems for OTA, including the switch to All Electronic Tolling.
Seymour earned her associate degree in computer information systems from Oklahoma State University – Oklahoma City in 2011. She went on to complete her Bachelor’s of Science in organizational leadership at Southern Nazarene University in 2015. In 2017, she finished her Master of Business Administration from SNU. She also has attended the 2018 International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association Leadership Academy.
Seymour and her husband, Johnny, live in Yukon and have two adult children. She enjoys gardening and a dark brew of coffee, and cherishes every moment spent with her family, grandchildren and friends.

Michael Toland joined OMES at the Lincoln Data Center as the new State Chief Information Security Officer in May of 2023.
Toland is a dynamic leader with over 20 years of experience as an information technology professional. He specializes in IT security operations and providing proactive defense, and he prides himself in promoting an outstanding IT security culture by facilitating training, testing and coaching.

Leslie Weaver has been recognized as a pioneer across the public and private sectors. As a Chief Technology Officer for OMES, Leslie brings over 20 years of experience managing modernization, migration, and business transformation for organizations such as Oracle, Sonic, and the Federal Aviation Administration. From strategy to execution, Leslie's breadth of technology experience has enabled the state of Oklahoma to implement innovative, holistic solutions that transform the way we work to deliver business value and tangible results. An expert in enabling, empowering, and informing customers through technology and data, Leslie’s goal is to implement holistic solutions that accelerate business delivery, drive citizen-centered services, and continually improve technology systems.
Leslie has served as CTO for the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, the Oklahoma Pandemic Center for Innovation and Excellence, the Public Health Lab, and Oklahoma Department of Health. At the Public Health Lab, she played a pivotal role in modernizing the lab’s infrastructure and tools to increase efficiency, expand testing capability, and enhance data integration. Passionate about serving those who lead Oklahoma to prosperity through health, she is currently partnering and collaborating to modernize and innovate the Department of Health technology service.

Michael Willis was elected Tulsa County Clerk on June 28, 2016 and took office in January 2017. He was born in Tulsa and grew up in West Tulsa and Sapulpa. He attended the University of Oklahoma where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs and Administration, and a Master of Public Administration.
Prior to running for County Clerk, Michael served Tulsa County as Chief Deputy County Commissioner and Public Information Officer for nearly seven years.
Michael is involved heavily in the Tulsa Community. He has volunteered since 2009 as a reserve in area law enforcement and currently serves the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office as a reserve deputy. He is a member of Leadership Tulsa and Tulsa’s Young Professionals, serves on boards including that of the Tulsa Sports Commission, INCOG, Friends of The MET and the OU Master of Public Administration Advisory Board, and has served on several other community and non-profit boards over the years. He also serves as a member of the board and executive committee at American Bank & Trust.
Michael and his wife Marcie live in West Tulsa with their two children. They are members of Boston Avenue United Methodist Church where Michael serves as an usher.
Michael is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation.