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Wednesday, October 26
 

5:00pm EDT

VIP Reception (Invitation Only)
Wednesday October 26, 2022 5:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
TBD

6:00pm EDT

Welcome Reception
Wednesday October 26, 2022 6:00pm - 11:00pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K
 
Thursday, October 27
 

8:45am EDT

BITCON 2022 Kick Off

Blacks In Technology leadership welcomes you to BITCON 2022!

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Speakers
avatar for Dennis Schultz

Dennis Schultz

Executive Director, Blacks In Technology Foundation
avatar for Greg Greenlee

Greg Greenlee

Founder, Blacks In Technology
Greg Greenlee is the Founder of the Blacks In Technology organization.


Thursday October 27, 2022 8:45am - 9:25am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

9:00am EDT

BITCON Career Fair
Meet with corporate recruiters and hiring managers intentionally seeking diverse talent.


Thursday October 27, 2022 9:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Veracruz Exhibit Hall C

9:00am EDT

9:30am EDT

Be The Spark

In today's competitive business world, there's no place for lackluster performance, half-brilliant contributions, or low-burning customer service. When you find your SPARK you shine brilliantly against a backdrop of automation, algorithms, and autonomous cars. You realize you weren't just hired to do a job; your purpose is to surpass all expectations and create memorable moments that surprise and delight your customers. Your SPARK is what distinguishes you from the pack through exceptional PLATINUM service that keeps customers coming back-every time.

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Speakers
avatar for Simon T. Bailey

Simon T. Bailey

Author, Motivational Speaker, Simon T. Bailey Intl. Inc.
A keynote speaker, a success coach, an author, television host, and philanthropist, Simon T. Bailey’s purpose in life is to help you discover your brilliance. Every single person has brilliance within them. The problem is that this brilliance often gets buried by society’s rigid... Read More →



Thursday October 27, 2022 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

10:30am EDT

Book Signing: Be The Spark
Speakers
avatar for Simon T. Bailey

Simon T. Bailey

Author, Motivational Speaker, Simon T. Bailey Intl. Inc.
A keynote speaker, a success coach, an author, television host, and philanthropist, Simon T. Bailey’s purpose in life is to help you discover your brilliance. Every single person has brilliance within them. The problem is that this brilliance often gets buried by society’s rigid... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Acapulco

10:30am EDT

Emerging Tech to Retire Inequality: Focus on Data & AI

Speakers
avatar for Martin Ouko

Martin Ouko

Lead Data Analytics Manager, TIAA
Martin Ouko currently leads TIAA’s Model Lifestyle Management & Execution organization consisting of a highly skilled global team of Data, Pipeline and Model-Ops Engineers, tasked with designing, developing and productionizing elegant technology integrations and orchestrations that... Read More →
avatar for Swatee Singh

Swatee Singh

EVP, Chief Data and AI Officer, TIAA

Sponsors

Thursday October 27, 2022 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

10:30am EDT

Combatting Bias In The Interview Process

Kadima Careers CEO Alan Stein Kadima is on a mission to accelerate 1 million careers by 2040. Kadima empowers underrepresented, underestimated, and underpaid professionals to land great jobs at the world’s best tech companies. He shares his strategies for employers and employees on how to mitigate interview bias.

Speakers
avatar for Alan Stein

Alan Stein

Kadima Careers
I'm a pasty white dude from Brooklyn who has been invited to speak because I get shit done. I've been a leader and hiring manager at Google, Meta, Salesforce, Tableau, and American Express. I've seen all the talk and lack of walk in terms of hiring diverse talent. I'm here to level... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

10:30am EDT

Big Tech's Diversity Responsibility

Black representation in IT is approx. 5% and this number has not moved in over a decade. Research shows that organizations that embrace diversity are more productive, however the tech industry as a whole has been reluctant to change. Where does the responsibility lie to increase diversity in the tech industry? Our panelists will discuss industry accountability for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Moderators
avatar for Kunbi Tinuoye

Kunbi Tinuoye

Founder and CEO at UrbanGeekz, UrbanGeekz
Kunbi Tinuoye is an award-winning British-born journalist and broadcaster based in the United States. She is the founder and CEO of UrbanGeekz.com, a groundbreaking video-centric digital news platform focused on technology, science, business, and startups.Tinuoye is a sought-after... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Tayler James

Tayler James

Director of Research, The Plug
Tayler J. James is a Director of Research for The Plug, with over a decade of experience leading consumer marketing insights and strategy for major media organizations, such as Tegna and The Weather Channel. She joined The Plug to gain experience within the tech space, with the hopes... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

10:30am EDT

The Art of Human Care with Artificial Intelligence

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Hassan Tetteh

Dr. Hassan Tetteh

Surgeon, Author, Humanitarian
Hassan A. Tetteh, MD, MBA, FACS, FACHEDr. Hassan A. Tetteh is a US Navy Captain and Associate Professor of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and adjunct faculty at Howard University College of Medicine. He was selected a 2019 Emerging Leader in Health... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

11:30am EDT

Book Signing: The Art of Human Care with Artificial Intelligence AI
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Hassan Tetteh

Dr. Hassan Tetteh

Surgeon, Author, Humanitarian
Hassan A. Tetteh, MD, MBA, FACS, FACHEDr. Hassan A. Tetteh is a US Navy Captain and Associate Professor of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and adjunct faculty at Howard University College of Medicine. He was selected a 2019 Emerging Leader in Health... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 11:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Acapulco

11:30am EDT

The Future In Color "Road to 2045" FireSide Chat with Founder, Lekiesha French

The Future in Color is a social economic action tank & Global movement to accelerate and grow BIPOC wealth across the Globe. 
Join us as we discuss the upcoming seismic demographic shift in 2045 where BIPOC in the U.S. will become the new majority.
A discussion on the social and economic journey as we transform BIPOC communities by leveraging technology and innovation through accelerated wealth creation strategies including the role of policy and asset management as we democratize capital.  We see the Future In Color as a fundamental shift in how we create wealth and value in BIPOC communities. 

Speakers
avatar for Le’Kiesha French-Merritt

Le’Kiesha French-Merritt

Founder, The Future In Color, Global Initiative
Le’Kiesha French a.k.a. “The PRENEURologist” is a passionate disruptor known for her transformative educational techniques. With a wealth of experience across multiple industries and sectors, she has used her knowledge to move the needle for early-stage startups, educational... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

11:30am EDT

Technical Skills & Tech Meritocracy

Tech has been touted as an industry that values skills above all else and workers are hired and promoted based on merit and role proficiency and not necessarily formal education or college degrees. Executives from organizations the value merit and develop skills discuss the practicality of meritocracy and what it means for the modern tech worker.

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Moderators
avatar for Sherrell Dorsey

Sherrell Dorsey

Founder and CEO, The Plug
Sherrell Dorsey is the founder and CEO of The Plug—a digital news and insights platform covering the Black innovation economy. Her work has been featured in VICE, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, The Information, and more. Sherrell has been a contributing writer for notable publications... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Conor Delanbanque

Conor Delanbanque

CEO & Founder, Strategio
Conor Delanbanque is the CEO and Founder of Strategio, host at the DevOps Diversity Podcast and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree in the Education category. Conor, 30, has worked internationally from London, New York and currently resides in Miami where he’s building Strategio. Their mission... Read More →
avatar for Todd Floyd

Todd Floyd

VP Global Societal Impact Teams, Udacity
Todd has a long career in enterprise software in companies like Siebel / Oracle / BMC and a variety of smaller startups.For the past three years, Todd has developed and run the global societal impact programs and teams for Udacity focusing on delivering scholarships for technical... Read More →
avatar for Anthony Hughes

Anthony Hughes

Co-founder and CEO, Tech Elevator
Anthony is passionate about helping individuals change their lives and fulfill their true career potential. He is CEO and co-founder of Tech Elevator, a demand-driven, in-person and online educational platform helping individuals and companies reskill to meet the massive and growing... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

11:30am EDT

The Future is Digital: Let's Identify Your Superpowers!

It's no secret that technology is changing the nature of work. It's critical to understand how technology is shaping our economy and impacting the labor market. In this session, you will first learn how to face uncertainty as we experience rapid growth of digitization in our economy. These insights will ensure you're able to progress in your career with more clarity and confidence as you navigate the digital reality. One way to stand out in your career journey is to be clear on your unique strengths or "superpowers". Everyone has a distinct set of superpowers but most people have not invested the time to reflect on and identify what theirs are. The second part of this session will provide you with three tangible approaches you can take to help you identify your superpowers and understand how knowing your superpowers can support you in achieving your personal and career goals.

Speakers
avatar for Alixandra Williamson-Carter

Alixandra Williamson-Carter

Senior Recruiting Manager, COOP Careers
Alixandra Carter is a community activist who knows there’s space for everyone in tech. As a Senior Recruiting Manager with COOP Careers, Alix is helping to diversify the tech space with college graduates from public universities by managing the largest pipeline of recruits. Alixandra... Read More →
avatar for Kadeem Fullwe

Kadeem Fullwe

Associate Director, COOP Careers
Kadeem Fuller is a strong advocate of education and the idea of upward mobility. He believes that everyone has the right to a quality education which allows them the ability to chose a career and life that allows them to be successful.
avatar for Adanta Ahanonu

Adanta Ahanonu

Chief Program Officer, COOP Careers
Adanta Ahanonu (she/her) is a nonprofit executive leader with expertise in program management at the intersection of workforce development and higher education, and has a strong passion for helping others achieve their full potential. Currently, she serves as the Chief Program Officer... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

11:30am EDT

Lashes. Love. Tech: Focusing on the Right Measure of Success

“I've always had to be 3 times better than my peers to get the same rewards. Work is a meritocracy. My work will speak for itself. My issue is I need a mentor to help me reach the heights I aim for, and I can’t find the right one.” Women and people of color believe this more frequently than their peers. Are you just starting in tech or well into your career and still experiencing this? How do you thrive when you are the only face that looks like yours in the room? What is pet to threat? What currency is more important, performance or relationship currency? What does all that even mean? Hiphopengineer and Product Management Senior Director Kay Malcolm is going to shed light on these topics, talk cloud, talk tech and tell you how to flip the script. Sharing her journey to leadership in development at a Fortune 100 cloud company….all to a hip hop beat.

Speakers
avatar for Kay Malcolm

Kay Malcolm

Sr. Dir., Product Management, Database, Oracle
Kay Malcolm is a senior director of product management at Oracle. She leads a team of database product managers who develop strategy, key initiatives, infrastructure, and programs to enable our customers, to work smarter, not harder. Her team also helps customers get direct access... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

12:15pm EDT

Power Networking Lunch
Thursday October 27, 2022 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom J

1:00pm EDT

Book Signing: Upper Hand: The Future of Work for the Rest of Us
Speakers
avatar for Sherrell Dorsey

Sherrell Dorsey

Founder and CEO, The Plug
Sherrell Dorsey is the founder and CEO of The Plug—a digital news and insights platform covering the Black innovation economy. Her work has been featured in VICE, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, The Information, and more. Sherrell has been a contributing writer for notable publications... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Acapulco

1:00pm EDT

How to Create Cultivate Student Mobilization in Technical DEI Efforts

This talk discovers the importance of student leadership in cultivating and propelling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts within technical education. Taking a Transformational approach, attendees will hear from a student perspective how a continuous model of change can be sustained by students, and how educators and staff can empower students to take on these roles.

Speakers
avatar for Junia Genevieve Janvier

Junia Genevieve Janvier

DEI Program Manager and Co-Teacher, Boston University | BU Spark!
Originally from Providence, Rhode Island, Junia Janvier is a senior Computer Science major at Boston University. Finding her passions early on, she joined nonprofit organizations such as SistaFire, which focused on developing a collective power to support women and gender-nonbinary... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

1:00pm EDT

Building Better Experiences With Location Intelligence

Speakers
avatar for Anthony Jones

Anthony Jones

Director, Sales, Foursquare
As Director of Strategic Accounts at Foursquare, Anthony Jones manages relationships with leading enterprises such as Uber, Apple, and Facebook, helping them leverage location intelligence to improve user experiences and achieve better business results. Prior to Foursquare, Anthony... Read More →

Sponsors

Thursday October 27, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

1:00pm EDT

Future of Work

Ilya Brown will share his perspective on the future of modern work and what it means for collaboration tools and workplace culture. He will deep dive into how Google Workspace is leveraging the power of AI to deliver and help people thrive in the next evolution of modern work.

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Speakers
avatar for Kunbi Tinuoye

Kunbi Tinuoye

Founder and CEO at UrbanGeekz, UrbanGeekz
Kunbi Tinuoye is an award-winning British-born journalist and broadcaster based in the United States. She is the founder and CEO of UrbanGeekz.com, a groundbreaking video-centric digital news platform focused on technology, science, business, and startups.Tinuoye is a sought-after... Read More →
avatar for Ilya Brown

Ilya Brown

Vice President, Product Management, Google
Ilya is Google's Vice President of Product Management for Workspace Communications and Time Management (Gmail, Hub, Chat, Spaces, Calendar, Tasks, and Groups). Prior to Google, he was VP of Product for Twitter's Health & Safety, Conversation, and Growth teams. Ilya has deep experience... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

2:00pm EDT

The Cyber Talent Shortage: A 700,000 Problem Could Be Your 6-Figure Opportunity

Speakers
avatar for Bryce Pearson

Bryce Pearson

Customer Success Manager, Arctic Wolf
avatar for Kemi Popoola

Kemi Popoola

People Manager, Canada, Arctic Wolf Networks Canada Inc


Thursday October 27, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

2:00pm EDT

“How We Feeling” Black ERG Panel

How We Feelin'? will feature a conversation with employees of our Disney Corporate, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution (DMED) and Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products (DPEP) brands as they share their career journeys and provide insight on Black Culture at Disney in addition to conversations on the Business Employee Resource Groups within the company and the space they have provided to Disney’s Black technologists.

Moderators
avatar for D’Yanna Craighead

D’Yanna Craighead

Sr Manager of Technology, Disney Cruise Line

Speakers
avatar for Gregory Jackson

Gregory Jackson

Sr. Manager, Office of the President, Disney+, Disney
avatar for Horane Henry

Horane Henry

Director, Technical Program Management, Disney Streaming
avatar for Ariem Anthony

Ariem Anthony

Manager, Technical Program Management, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution
 


Thursday October 27, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

2:00pm EDT

Designing a Billion Dollar Startup

Technology has reached a point where it’s easier as ever to launch an app, build a digital product or get a website launched. When creation has become a commodity, how do you find ideas, validate you’re making something worth making, get it to market and get it funded effectively?

In this talk/panel we’ll feature some of those who’ve done it successfully and look at 6 steps to move faster, smarter. You’ll learn the tactics needed to turn insights into ideas worth pursuing and those ideas into products worth loving.

Goals/What You’ll Come Away With:
- How to be productive at work while advancing your side hustle (or idea)
- Learn new validation techniques
- How to effectively survey the landscape
- Getting to satisfaction
- Developing inexpensively
- Turning it into an intra-preneur opportunity

Speakers
avatar for Fritz Desir

Fritz Desir

Founder & Managing Partner, AWSM
Excited to bring a design lens and advocate for the importance of a design-based approach to our startup community.


Thursday October 27, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

2:00pm EDT

How To Be A Black Techie

The best selling author of "How to Be Black" shares his perspective on how to navigate life in a modern technology-centric society.

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Speakers
avatar for Baratunde Thurston

Baratunde Thurston

Writer, Activist, Comedian
Baratunde Thurston is an Emmy-nominated, multi platform storyteller and producer operating at the intersection of race, tech, democracy, and climate. He is the host of the PBS television series America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston [pbs.org], creator and host of How To Citizen... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

3:00pm EDT

Book Signing: How to Be Black
Speakers
avatar for Baratunde Thurston

Baratunde Thurston

Writer, Activist, Comedian
Baratunde Thurston is an Emmy-nominated, multi platform storyteller and producer operating at the intersection of race, tech, democracy, and climate. He is the host of the PBS television series America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston [pbs.org], creator and host of How To Citizen... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Acapulco

3:00pm EDT

Make Room @ The Table | Secrets to A Successful Career in Tech

Technology and innovation is at the center of all we do and experience; creating new career opportunities each and every day. But getting noticed and earning your seat at the table requires you to design a path forward to achieve the career of your dreams. It takes time and investment in yourself. Join Ashley Renee as she shares valuable and actionable advice for how you can strategically position yourself to have a successful career in Tech and earn your seat at the table.

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Renee Colen

Ashley Renee Colen

Editor, Fox News
Ashley Renée is a Senior HR Business Partner at Intuit, a certified professional coach, seasoned executive coach, and an accomplished global human resources professional. She is a passionate and driven visionary, a lover of Jesus Christ, a wife, a mother of 2, and the founder of... Read More →

Sponsors

Thursday October 27, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

3:00pm EDT

Uplifting Intersectional Creativity in Tech

Being Black & trans in the tech world is a two-sided coin. On one side, the tech world has not been welcoming of underrepresented communities. On the other side, it offers economic advancement for many. In this talk, E.C. Pizarro III, entrepreneur, brand designer, and Executive Director of TransTech Social Enterprises, will share his story of working as a creative in tech, explain the importance of supporting emerging tech talent from marginalized backgrounds, and offer his best advice for intersectional thinking professionals to find their footing in tech. Visibility for marginalized communities, in tech, has come a long way - but there is so much more to go! Join the journey with E.C. and TransTech Social as they shift the culture of what it means to be black and trans in tech.

Speakers
avatar for E.C. Pizarro III

E.C. Pizarro III

Executive Director, TransTech Social Enterprises
Edward C. Pizarro III, better known as E.C., works to create cohesive and artistic designs that support his clients in positioning their brands for long-term growth and success. After obtaining his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Art Institute of Virginia Beach in 2012, his career... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

3:00pm EDT

Leading In The New Normal

After a global pandemic, worldwide social justice movements, and accelerated digital transformation, a hybrid workplace and marketplace have emerged, redefining leadership today. It’s a bold new frontier with a new generation of change-makers and leaders equipped to address the complexity and disruption in the new normal. They are Influencers, Innovators, Thought Leaders, and Community Builders setting the pace for what it means to be a leader while amplifying the opportunities for Blacks In Technology. Join us for this discussion of widely respected Black Leaders In Technology breaking new ground and leading the way forward at the intersection of industry, technology, and community.

Speakers
avatar for Jarrett Albritton

Jarrett Albritton

Co-Founder, MagnifHire
After 15+ years in the Tech Industry as an Enterprise Account Executive, Jarrett is now launching Metadata Agency™ (MDA), a music technology start-up, with legendary music executive, Sonja Norwood, mother of Brandy and Ray J. Jarrett’s calling is in promoting Diversity, Equity... Read More →
avatar for Laurie Brown-Goodwine

Laurie Brown-Goodwine

Director of Technology Partnerships, TIAA
Laurie is currently the Director of Tech Partnership at TIAA. Her focus is leading strategic partnerships with top tech companies, industry alliances, nonprofits at TIAA. This includes implementing roadmaps, social media/event planning, internal employee involvement, DE&I and branding... Read More →
avatar for Anthony Mays

Anthony Mays

Morgan Latimer Consulting
Get free mock interviews + expert feedback, workshops, a Discord, and opportunities to fast-track top tech companies with Brilliant Black Minds 👉🏾 ml.tips/bbm-bitcon 🎉A former abuse victim and foster kid straight outta Compton, Anthony D. Mays wears many hats as a public speaker, DEI consultant, writer, tech career coach, and software engineer. Teaching himself how to code at the age of 8, Anthony went on to obtain a degree in Informatio... Read More →
avatar for Mike Roberts

Mike Roberts

CEO, Creating Coding Careers
Mike Roberts is the president and CEO of Creating Coding Careers (CCC), an innovative nonprofit organization committed to diversifying the tech community and creating equitable opportunities for individuals pursuing a career in the industry. With a focus on recruiting and training... Read More →
avatar for Njeri Watkins

Njeri Watkins

Data & Tech Leadership Educator, Njeri Watkins Consulting
Njeri Watkins is a visionary thought leader, business advisor, and corporate trainer,  pioneering new ground at the intersection of business, technology, and community. As a Blacks In Technology (BIT) Chapter Leader & Evangelist, Njeri leads the BIT Corporate Training Programs... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

3:00pm EDT

Broadband Infrastructure: Funding Black Tech Ecosystems

 Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2552909

Most conversations about funding black tech futures fall within two areas. The first area is raising capital for a tech startup. The participants in this conversation are often Venture Capitalist organizations and entrepreneurship support organizations. The second area of conversation is supporting the development of black technologists. Each of these funding areas is important to building a liberatory black tech future. However, they only focus on two pieces of the larger ecosystem and not the entire black tech ecosystem which includes access to the internet and access to computer science courses in middle school. Therefore, this interactive conversation will explore how philanthropy and federal funding/opportunities can strategically separately and collaboratively fund the building of thriving black tech ecosystems in cities which include tech pipeline, digital infrastructure (internet access), venture, digital equity, etc.

Moderators
avatar for Dr. Fallon Wilson

Dr. Fallon Wilson

Co-Founder, #BlackTechFutures Research Institute
Through her work with non-profits, academia, and government partnerships, Dr. Fallon S. Wilson strives to make visible the work of historic and modern-day Black crises solvers. She invests her time into strengthening the tech ecosystem nationwide, especially as it relates both to... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Katarina Smiley

Katarina Smiley

Digital Equity Advisor, NTIA
avatar for Valarry Bullard

Valarry Bullard

Broadband Director, New Jersey State Office of Broadband Connectivity
As the State of New Jersey’s first Broadband Director, Bullard will drive the state’s broadband strategy of equal access for all New Jerseyans and direct substantial federal and state funding that will soon become available by working with industry, communities, and agencies to... Read More →
avatar for Jamye Wooten

Jamye Wooten

Founder & CEO, CLLCTIVLY
avatar for Alejandro Roark

Alejandro Roark

Chief, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, FCC


Thursday October 27, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

4:00pm EDT

Change Your Circle, Change Your Life

The purpose of this philosophy is to enhance your lifestyle and promote your growth. The more circles you touch, the more lives you can change. Jamar explains the methods to transform your excuses into results.

Speakers
avatar for Jamar Jones

Jamar Jones

Founder/Speaker/Author, Foureva Media
Jamar Jones, business owner, speaker, and author of the book, "Change Your Circle, Change Your Life," is a visionary who believes in leadership and subscribes to the notion that we can all connect with each other in a relatable way. From a thriving music career performing for thousands... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

4:00pm EDT

Securing Federal, State and Local Grants

Government grants for startups, nonprofits and small businesses come in three forms: federal, state, and local. Although Federal grants typically offer the most money, they usually have the most competition. This workshop will provide you with a strategy to help you decipher the best approach to applying for funding. You will receive information, resources and the tools needed to help you understand the essentials of government funding, grant readiness and the best approach to securing grant funds for your business.

Who Should Attend? 1. People with limited to no experience in funder research and grant proposal writing. or 2. Anyone who needs a refresher course in the basics of government grant writing. This may include but not limited to: founders, small business owners, executive directors, board and staff members working in nonprofit organizations.

Speakers
avatar for Christiana Russell

Christiana Russell

COO/Partner, Mended Wing Consulting
Christiana Russell, M. Ed is the owner of Mended Wing Consulting, LLC an agency that focuses on strategic grant writing, grant planning and process management services for Universities, Nonprofits, small business owners and entrepreneurs. Christiana’s early years began in South... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

4:00pm EDT

Success in Consulting: Creating a Space at the Table

IT Consulting is a 500-billion-dollar industry and growing in the US. We’ll explore how Black and African Americans fit into this multibillion-dollar industry by leveraging our experiences to propel clients into a diverse technological world. How can Black and African Americans stand out in a white male dominated space? Learn how to enter the market, be successful and gain momentum with your clients. Come hear from our expert panelists with a variety of experiences within the consulting space.

Speakers
avatar for Crystal Harris

Crystal Harris

Director, CapTech Ventures
avatar for Macharia Lamar

Macharia Lamar

Director - Data & Analytics, CapTech Consulting
avatar for Renee Robinson

Renee Robinson

Director, CapTech Consulting
avatar for Anthony Scott

Anthony Scott

Principal, Atlanta Office Lead, CapTech Ventures
avatar for Justin Stroughter

Justin Stroughter

Technical Director, CapTech Ventures
avatar for Michael Whitted

Michael Whitted

Director Software Engineering, CapTech
Michael has over 20 years' experience in application development, deployment, responsive design, and database architecture and administration. He is very adept at identifying ways to use technology to streamline business processes. Michael began his career developing software for... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Woodson

Nathan Woodson

IT Director, CapTech Consulting

Sponsors

Thursday October 27, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

4:00pm EDT

Wealth Building, Cryptocurrency, & NFT's

Blockchain and new technology is changing the rules and pace for building wealth. Learn the basics of financial literacy and wealth building as it relates to Web 3.0, NFTs, and cryptocurrencies as it relates to traditional investments and financial returns.

Moderators
avatar for Sherrell Dorsey

Sherrell Dorsey

Founder and CEO, The Plug
Sherrell Dorsey is the founder and CEO of The Plug—a digital news and insights platform covering the Black innovation economy. Her work has been featured in VICE, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, The Information, and more. Sherrell has been a contributing writer for notable publications... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Trevor Rozier-Byrd

Trevor Rozier-Byrd

Founder and CEO, Stackwell
avatar for Lamar Wilson

Lamar Wilson

Founder, Black Bitcoin Billionaires
A Bitcoin educator since 2013, Lamar recently co-founded Black Bitcoin Billionaires in 2020. BBB’s mission is to arm the disenfranchised with education centered around Bitcoin and financial freedom. The group has amassed over 150,000 members and recently had their first conference... Read More →
avatar for Dana Wilson

Dana Wilson

Founder & CEO, CHIP (Changing How Individuals Prosper)
Dana L. Wilson has over fifteen years of experience in the financial services industry. Dana is the Founder & CEO of CHIP(Changing How Individuals Prosper), a B2B financial services marketplace that makes it easy to find financial professionals of color. In 2021, Investment News recognized... Read More →


Thursday October 27, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K
 
Friday, October 28
 

8:15am EDT

Hip-Hop Dance Lesson Wake Up

Get your blood flowing and start the day with an instructor-led hip-hop dance class.



Speakers
avatar for Kay Malcolm

Kay Malcolm

Sr. Dir., Product Management, Database, Oracle
Kay Malcolm is a senior director of product management at Oracle. She leads a team of database product managers who develop strategy, key initiatives, infrastructure, and programs to enable our customers, to work smarter, not harder. Her team also helps customers get direct access... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 8:15am - 8:45am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

9:00am EDT

Microsoft & Azure - Microsoft's Cloud

Our community wants to work for the best companies with the best culture driving the best technology.  Forbes just published the World's Best Employers and Microsoft is #2.   This session will explore Microsoft - the Culture, the Customer and Partner Solutions (MCAPS) organization and the Azure Cloud.
 
This session will feature Jair Clarke, Global Chief Technology Officer for Microsoft. His team is responsible for commercial systems, business intelligence, and processes across all industries for MCAPS, $150B business.

Speakers
avatar for Jair Clarke

Jair Clarke

Global Chief Technology Officer, Microsoft
Jair Clarke is the global CTO for a $1B+ organization (leading thousands of team members) responsible for commercial systems, business intelligence and processes across all industries for Microsoft Customers and Partner Solutions $150B+ business. Within this organization, Jair is... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

9:00am EDT

Accelerated Learning Through Career Simulation

The Future of Work: Accelerated Learning through Career Simulation

Talent is equally distributed, and opportunity is not - yet.

The traditional education system teaches that the only pathway to a successful career is through a 4-year degree. Yet, on average, this leads college graduates to pay back life-long debt and get stuck in careers that leave them unsatisfied and unfulfilled. Without a clear pathway to post-secondary education and career options, we are not set up for long-term success!

In this session, Marlaina will delve into the need for alternative methods to explore career pathways and continuous upskilling to meet skills that are in high demand. Participants will explore the challenges and benefits of creating and using extended reality (XR), which includes virtual and augmented reality, to power the future of work through accelerated, immersive learning.  

Speakers
avatar for Marlaina Love

Marlaina Love

Founder & CEO, Pipe Dream Academy
Marlaina Love is the CEO & Founder of Pipe Dream Academy. She is passionate about helping career explorers navigate affordable, alternative pathways to a more fulfilling and meaningful career. Love works full-time as a Software Project Manager (Autonomous Vehicles) at Danfoss. Her... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

9:00am EDT

Empowering Technology for Social Justice and the Justice Impacted

Technology can be an equalizer when it comes to social justice and justice impacted individuals. Hear from leaders in this space moving the needle on progress.

Speakers
avatar for Rondalynne McClintock

Rondalynne McClintock

Las Vegas Chapter President, Blacks In Technology Foundation
I am an entrepreneurial leader with experience developing and delivering educational, training, and leadership development programs for corporations and adult learners. By identifying organizational needs, I create evidence-based practices that facilitate employee and business growth... Read More →
avatar for Jazz Hampton

Jazz Hampton

CEO & General Counsel, TurnSignl
Jazz Hampton is CEO and General Counsel at TurnSignl. TurnSignl is a Minnesota-based tech company that provides real-time legal guidance from an attorney to drivers, all while their camera records the interaction.Hampton has been featured on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, MSNBC... Read More →
avatar for Victor

Victor "Divine" Lombard

CEO & Founder, Solvent
DIVINE is a former professional Hip-Hop/Rap recording artist turned techpreneur, and the CEO and Founder of Solvent, a fintech startup focused on financial empowerment and wealth building for the System Impacted. This year, out of thousands of applicants, Solvent was accepted to be... Read More →
avatar for Tansy McNulty

Tansy McNulty

Founder & CEO, 1 Million Madly Motivated Moms (1M4)
Founder of 1 Million Madly Motivated Moms (1M4). 1M4 empowers Black Moms to end police violence by the year 2038 through legislative policy education, financial assistance to impacted families, and encouraging the next generation of Black youth to pursue roles in the justice system... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Fallon Wilson

Dr. Fallon Wilson

Co-Founder, #BlackTechFutures Research Institute
Through her work with non-profits, academia, and government partnerships, Dr. Fallon S. Wilson strives to make visible the work of historic and modern-day Black crises solvers. She invests her time into strengthening the tech ecosystem nationwide, especially as it relates both to... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

9:00am EDT

Intro to Kubernetes: The Cloud OS

Speakers
avatar for Greg Greenlee

Greg Greenlee

Founder, Blacks In Technology
Greg Greenlee is the Founder of the Blacks In Technology organization.


Friday October 28, 2022 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

9:00am EDT

BITCON Career Fair
Meet with corporate recruiters and hiring managers intentionally seeking diverse talent.


Friday October 28, 2022 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Veracruz Exhibit Hall C

9:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

A Day in the Life of a Junior / Senior / Principal Engineer

Many people in our community are working to become technologists. They're studying computer science as bootcamp or college students; they're working in industries adjacent to technology, thinking about going full time; or they're in a role totally unrelated to technology but looking to make a change.

In each of these scenarios, people wonder, "what's it really like working as a software developer, cloud engineer, or technical project manager day to day"?

This session will feature three panelists that can answer this question from different perspectives in their careers based on years of experience:
  • The "junior" level, with 0 to 3 years of experience
  • The "senior" level, with 5 or more years of experience
  • And the "principal" level, with many years of experience
Each panelist will share how they started in their tech-focused career and what some of the bumps and turns have been like along the way. They'll share what their typical day is like along with some of the tools and technologies they use on a regular basis. Additionally, they will share tips and strategies for networking, getting up to speed with technology, and staying abreast of changes in their industries and fields.

Attendees at this interactive session will have the opportunity to ask questions to get answers directly from the panelists.

Anyone considering a role that uses or creates technology will leave this session with a better idea of what it's like working in tech, either just starting or well along the way.

Speakers
avatar for Michael Jenkins

Michael Jenkins

Lead Software Engineer - SRE, The Walt Disney Company


Friday October 28, 2022 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

10:00am EDT

Software Engineering: Hacking the Interview

What's the one thing separating you from a six-figure tech salary, equity, great perks, and benefits? The dreaded technical interview 😱. You don't have to worry though! Interview expert Anthony D. Mays of Brilliant Black Minds and Morgan Latimer Consulting shares the information you need to understand the landscape and prepare well.

In the session, we'll cover:
  • The different types of technical and non-technical interviews you can expect
  • Tips on how to research and prepare well for technical interviews
  • A strategy for tackling any technical interview question
  • Free resources that will help you prepare well, whether alone or with other people

Speakers
avatar for Anthony Mays

Anthony Mays

Morgan Latimer Consulting
Get free mock interviews + expert feedback, workshops, a Discord, and opportunities to fast-track top tech companies with Brilliant Black Minds 👉🏾 ml.tips/bbm-bitcon 🎉A former abuse victim and foster kid straight outta Compton, Anthony D. Mays wears many hats as a public speaker, DEI consultant, writer, tech career coach, and software engineer. Teaching himself how to code at the age of 8, Anthony went on to obtain a degree in Informatio... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

10:00am EDT

It's About Damn Time

In 2015, Arlan Hamilton was on food stamps and sleeping on the floor of the San Francisco airport, with nothing but an old laptop and a dream of breaking into the venture capital business. She couldn’t understand why people starting companies all looked the same (White and male), and she wanted the chance to invest in the ideas and people who didn’t conform to this image of how a founder is supposed to look. Hamilton had no contacts or network in Silicon Valley, no background in finance—not even a college degree. What she did have was fierce determination and the will to succeed. Hear her story and perspective on being underrepresented.

Moderators
avatar for Dennis Schultz

Dennis Schultz

Executive Director, Blacks In Technology Foundation

Speakers
avatar for Arlan Hamilton

Arlan Hamilton

Founder, Managing Partner, Backstage Capital
Arlan Hamilton is an investor and the founder and managing partner of Backstage Capital. In May 2020, Hamilton released her first book from Penguin Random House entitled It’s About Damn Time, which is based on her personal journey into entrepreneurship and venture capital.In 2015... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

10:00am EDT

Creating Music With Python

Have you ever thought about converting code into music and making some really awesome beats? You can do that with jythonMusic! jythonMusic uses Python but it has functionalities like Java. You can create all types of musical genres with this technology and I can show you how to do it through a demo.

In this talk attendees will learn about Jython, an open source implementation of the Python programming language, integrated with the Java platform for music making and creative programming activities .

Attendees will leave this talk with an understanding of Jython libraries for: music making image manipulation building graphical user interfaces (GUIs), connecting to external MIDI and OSC devices music transcription and playback audio looping, computer-aided music composition development of computer-based musical instruments (including hybrid instruments) live performance. Live demo where I will turn my computer into a musical instrument to play music made by Beethoven, Deep Purple, Tupac Shakur, Mozart, and Deep Purple.

Speakers
avatar for Herve Aniglo

Herve Aniglo

Lead Business Systems Analyst, ADP
Herve Viho Aniglo was born in the capital and coastal city, Lome, Togo. Togo is a small country in West Africa located between Ghana and Benin and below Burkina-Faso. He and his family are part of the Togolese ethnic group, Ewe. At a young age, Herve and his family moved to the United... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

11:00am EDT

Book Signing: It's About Damn Time
Speakers
avatar for Arlan Hamilton

Arlan Hamilton

Founder, Managing Partner, Backstage Capital
Arlan Hamilton is an investor and the founder and managing partner of Backstage Capital. In May 2020, Hamilton released her first book from Penguin Random House entitled It’s About Damn Time, which is based on her personal journey into entrepreneurship and venture capital.In 2015... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Acapulco

11:00am EDT

The Evolution of Blacks in Technology

As one of the earliest African American video game designers and the first African American to design a personal computer, my journey in technology has given me insight into how Blacks have migrated to technology over the years.

The journey starts with early African Americans in the technology workforce to the innovators that followed and started a Black Tech revolutionary roadmap. The challenges both inside and outside of the corporate arena to the groundswell of opportunities now available to African Americans is noteworthy, yet we have only just begun.

Speakers
avatar for Edward Smith

Edward Smith

Principal, Imagine That LLC
Ed Smith got the technology bug early on in life, repairing appliances for the folks in the neighborhood. Ed attended Westinghouse Technical High School for Electronics and studied Marketing and Computer Science and Pace University.​After studying microprocessor technology at Fairchild... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

11:00am EDT

The Tech Onramp Via Apprenticeship

In the wake of the murder of George Floyd big promises were made about racial and economic justice. But as we face a severe shortage of skilled software and data engineers the privileged continue to capitalize on opportunities in tech while overlooked talent remains sidelined.

The traditional approach of hiring computer science graduates from prestigious four-year universities or HBCUs is simply not working in all communities. Job postings continue to go unfilled while gritty and talented individuals across the US experience the digital divide.

A new approach is needed. Let’s look together at what we can do right now to create a great migration into new collar careers in tech.


Speakers
avatar for Mike Roberts

Mike Roberts

CEO, Creating Coding Careers
Mike Roberts is the president and CEO of Creating Coding Careers (CCC), an innovative nonprofit organization committed to diversifying the tech community and creating equitable opportunities for individuals pursuing a career in the industry. With a focus on recruiting and training... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

11:00am EDT

Felecia’s Genius Jam Session

Working in this new normal requires you to step into your Zone of Genius, be mentally prepared to design the future, and develop new ways that foster collaboration, culture, creativity, and commitment to working on something much bigger than yourself. In this session, you will learn how to find your north star, step boldly into your personal zone of genius to achieve peak performance, pivot your mindset, become more engaged and impact the innovation economy, and recharge with the ability to take on the world.

This also requires us to re-frame the story that we tell ourselves about how we show up and do our best work. How we execute, how we personally become accountable for our success, and the shared success of others.
Execution is about Commitment, Action, and Accountability.

Felecia's Genius Jam keynote and training are about stepping into your Power, stopping limiting beliefs, and never questioning who you are ever again! She helps you, your team, and the audience steps into their Zone of Genius!

Attendees will walk away from Felecia's session knowing how to:

1. Identify your Zone of Low Return
2. Step Boldly into your Zone of Genius
3. How to better identify their personal Zones of Opportunity.
4. Leave with clear strategies on how to PLAY BIGGER in the innovation economy.

Speakers
avatar for Felecia Hatcher

Felecia Hatcher

CEO, Black Ambition
Felecia is the CEO of Pharrell William’s Black Ambition Opportunity Fund, author of Genius Jam and the Co-Founder of the Center for Black Innovation. Felecia is an innovative powerhouse, personal transformation speaker, entrepreneur and author, who's work shapes the way individuals... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

11:00am EDT

Survival Metrics: Getting Change Done In A Fast, Politically Safe, Data Informed Way

Do you know when you should pivot? What about your ideas, are they being listened to? In fact, even when you are proven right after a horrible launch, do you have that sinking feeling that everyone knew this was a bomb, but just didn’t know how to say it? Being a change agent in an organization, especially one where a product is in flight, is hard. While teams may be happy to talk about strategy and even know what it looks like, the idea of understanding when something fails and HOW to move forward when it does escapes teams. There isn’t a shared language that helps them figure this out. This leaves teams holding their ideas close to the chest. Their fear: an unsure political environment and unclear data will make their insight useless. This leads to “business as usual,” where everyone smiles on Zoom even while initiatives are headed to disaster. Enter Survival Metrics, a framework that helps teams use what's important to the company (think - “values”) and operationalize them as metrics that make change much easier. In effect, teams get a dashboard-like artifact that is understandable to various teams inside of your organization. This helps clarify action steps, makes values very clear, and surface incentives that help teams pivot in a fast, politically safe, and data informed way.

Speakers
avatar for Adam Thomas

Adam Thomas

Principal, Approaching One
Adam ThomasTechnologist, product expert, consultant, speaker, writer, strategistWhat can we learn by following our curiosity, embracing the unknown, and creating amidst chaos?This is the question that propels Adam Thomas’s career as a technologist, product expert, and all-around... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

12:00pm EDT

Book Signing: Imagine That!
Speakers
avatar for Edward Smith

Edward Smith

Principal, Imagine That LLC
Ed Smith got the technology bug early on in life, repairing appliances for the folks in the neighborhood. Ed attended Westinghouse Technical High School for Electronics and studied Marketing and Computer Science and Pace University.​After studying microprocessor technology at Fairchild... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 12:00pm - 12:30pm EDT
Acapulco

12:00pm EDT

Power Networking Lunch
Friday October 28, 2022 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom J

1:00pm EDT

Power of Mentorship and Networking

Professional mentorship is a necessity to gain insight from professionals in your field that have first hand experience navigating the waters of a successful career. Mentors come in all forms; informal, formal, personal and professional. In this session, the panelists will discuss what mentorship is, how you find or become a mentor and who is best served by mentorship.

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Hoffman

Jessica Hoffman

Vice President, CISSP, Provincia Government Solutions
avatar for Katrina Kerr

Katrina Kerr

Customer Success Account Manager, Microsoft
Katrina Kerr, a native of St. Louis and has over 25 years of experience in Information Technology. She is a Customer Success Account Manager for Microsoft. She is passionate about technology and is committed to exposing our kids to tech opportunities. Serving as local chapter president... Read More →
avatar for Gary Rexroad

Gary Rexroad

Retired Executive, Microsoft
Gary is recently retired after 22 years at Microsoft well as a co-founder of the Converge Mentor program. Having spent his professional life in technology and business development, Gary now serves by helping others fulfill their personal and professional aspirations.
avatar for Rondalynne McClintock

Rondalynne McClintock

Las Vegas Chapter President, Blacks In Technology Foundation
I am an entrepreneurial leader with experience developing and delivering educational, training, and leadership development programs for corporations and adult learners. By identifying organizational needs, I create evidence-based practices that facilitate employee and business growth... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

1:00pm EDT

Elevating Gaming in the Black Community

Playing video games has been stignatized by parents in the Black community, however today, professional gamers and esports teams can generate sustainable income through tournaments and sponsorships. Our panel of experts will break down how the Blacks community can turn gameplay into careers.

Speakers
avatar for Marcus Howard

Marcus Howard

CEO, MetArena
Marcus is a lifelong gamer, featured speaker and international startup advisor. He started his career in the gaming industry in 2013, launching ProjectMQ with his twin brother Malcolm to solve game discovery, the biggest problem in the global gaming industry. In 2019, Marcus and Malcolm... Read More →
avatar for Danny Martin

Danny Martin

CEO, ESPOSURE INC.
Danny is a visionary and thought-leader in the esports industry. As the Co-founder/CEO of Esposure Inc. and Esports Subject Matter Expert at SMU, he has aided in the professional development of students, interns, and post-graduates. These students have received esports scholarships... Read More →
avatar for Chibatta Mitch

Chibatta Mitch

Madden God
avatar for Derek Watford

Derek Watford

Director of Product Design, LeagueSpot
Derek Watford is the Director of Product Design at LeagueSpot. He is a military veteran and community activist who believes gaming was the gateway to his successful tech career. He uses that knowledge to help drive the gaming industry forward while advocating for diversity and economic... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

1:00pm EDT

Afro-Futurism: Realizing Wakanda

Speakers
avatar for Kemo A’akhutera

Kemo A’akhutera

CEO, Trep House / Design To Build
I’m Kémo Aakhutera, a servant to Diasporic African People globally. As an Afrofuturistic Generalist and serial social entrepreneur w/ a liberationist agenda, a fitting title would be “Community Development Officer". My approach is "wholistic" in it’s nature and I’m an activist-scholar... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

1:00pm EDT

Charting a Path to the C-Suite

Disney Parks, Experience and Products, Chief Digital and Technology Officer, Gail Evans shares her journey to the C-suite as a Black woman in a male dominated industry.

Moderators
avatar for Dennis Schultz

Dennis Schultz

Executive Director, Blacks In Technology Foundation

Speakers
avatar for Gail Evans

Gail Evans

Chief Digital and Technology Officer, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products


Friday October 28, 2022 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

2:00pm EDT

CLIMBtheCLOUD : Excelling in Cloud Computing Career and Business

Cloud computing is not the next, it is the now and here to stay. In July 2022 Gartner study stated, “the cloud has proven itself during times of uncertainty with its resiliency, scalability, flexibility and speed”.  The question is: Are you prepared to CLIMBtheCLOUD?

Robert Half reported:
  • In 2021-2022: thier top 8 out of top 10 REQUESTED roles were Cloud Computing roles
  • Their #1 PLACED roles in 2021-2022 were Cloud Computing roles
  • The top 8 out of top 10 REQUESTED roles were Cloud Computing roles
  • RobertHalf CONFIRMED a CERTIFICATE was accepted IN LIEU of a degree (AND along side) for all the cloud computing roles that they placed (which was their #1 role in 2021-2022).
So where are YOU in this number?
  1. If you are an educator, administrator or leader is your Cloud infrastructure READY with the right talent?
  2. If you are a student and or talent have you explored your options in the Cloud Computing Careers?
  3. If you are an organization leader have you partnered and identified your next leader, cloud administrator, engineer, consultant or service delivery leader?  
This Session will tell you Where to leverage your cloud career options, Who to partner with, Why you should Pursue the Cloud, What to pursue, How and When! Right NOW! 
THIS POWER PACKED TACTICAL SESSION WAY WILL ENSURE YOU LEAVE WITH TOOLS,TIPS, AND RESOURCES TO PIVOT!
Let’s remove the barriers and bring digital liberation! For our community we know it’s never been about capability but about access! We build tables!!!!

Speakers
avatar for Shirelle Francis, PMP CSM PROSCI OCM

Shirelle Francis, PMP CSM PROSCI OCM

CEO, Founder, iLEAP GROUP LLC
Shirelle Francis, a certified Program Manager, Scrum Master, Organization Change Management Practitioner is an astute Entrepreneur, Wife and Mom. Known for her Commanding presence and Invigorating Communication, Shirelle is the Owner of iLeapGroup Consulting, LLC. A proud advisory... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

2:00pm EDT

From the Court to the Cloud

WNBA star Angel McCoughtry discusses her storied career as an athlete and her pivot to tech with the launch of her new atartup.

Stream Link - https://vimeo.com/event/2556486

Moderators
avatar for Dennis Schultz

Dennis Schultz

Executive Director, Blacks In Technology Foundation

Speakers
avatar for Angel McCoughtry

Angel McCoughtry

Professional Athlete, WNBA
One of the most decorated WNBA stars of all time. Future 1st ballot Hall Of Famer, 2x Olympic gold medalist, #1 draft pick, Rookie of the Year, 5x All-Star, 6x All WNBA Team, 2x scoring champ, 2x steals leader, 8x All WNBA defensive team. Lead the Atlanta Dream to 3 WNBA Finals appearances... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

2:00pm EDT

Authenticity in Voice and Brand

The responsibility of any diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) professional is educating organizations more broadly about a simple truth – we all have an opportunity and responsibility to help drive diversity, equity, and inclusion for change within the workplace. A large part of this journey is creating organizations and cultures where employees of color/Black employees are empowered to bring their authentic selves.

No matter where you sit on an org. chart, or your title, building diverse and inclusive teams and products is everyone’s responsibility and opportunity. But what is personal to each of us is how we build our personal brands and the stories we want told about us and our contributions. And ensuring that those stories show us in our most authentic light.

So, how do you empower individuals to self-activate around personal authenticity and voice?

In this talk, Shareka L. Nelson, Head of Employee Experience, Inclusion and Development, will explore philosophies and tactics around leadership authenticity; sharing best practices and actionable steps for individuals to create cultures where you can be your best self.

Speakers
avatar for Shareka Nelson

Shareka Nelson

Senior Director, Employee Experience and Inclusion, Coursera

Sponsors

Friday October 28, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

2:00pm EDT

Enabling Human Journey in Tech

This workshop is for anyone interested in learning about the world of Information Technology (IT) as told from the perspective of key leaders at CSG. In this discovery session, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable insights into CSG's technology offerings, as well as how those solutions are developed, managed and supported. Whether this is your first introduction into IT or you are already a budding career enthusiast, this workshop is for you!"

Speakers
avatar for Steve Barr

Steve Barr

VP, Software Engineering - Transformational Leadership, Business Strategy and Execution, CSG
Steve is a senior Information Technology leader with over 25 years of diverse experience crossing all areas of software engineering. He has led, developed, and supported mission critical software applications throughout the entirety of the software development lifecycle. Steve played... Read More →
avatar for Calel Clough

Calel Clough

Manager, External Service Desk/EBG Co-Chair, CSG
Seasoned IT leader with over 15 years of experience cultivating dynamic and talented teams within the IT Service Desk. Calel is also privileged to be a Co-Chair of The Black Culture Collective (Employee Belonging Group) leading initiatives to create channels of support and development... Read More →
avatar for David Johnson

David Johnson

Chief Compliance Officer, CSG


Friday October 28, 2022 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

3:00pm EDT

The Power of Your Past

During my talk, I will share precisely how entrepreneurs of color can combine their experiences in life, business, and hobbies to identify gaps in the marketplace, innovate in ways that current market leaders don't, create scalable, industry-leading solutions, and build personal brand credibility along the way.

I spent 15+ years building software, I've had a segment on the #1 faith-based drive time radio show in the U.S. (RadioOne - the Willie Moore Jr. Show - 29 markets) for 5 years. I spent almost 3 years working for Zone 4 records based in Atlanta (working with artists such as Keri Hilson), ran a boutique marketing agency for 5 years, did political strategy for politicians such as Keisha Lance-Bottoms, and helped over 250 people write/publish books.

I was able to parlay all this experience into building my current software platform - www.Blooksy.com – which helps writers, and scholars, write books, academic articles, dissertations, white papers, using Aven (our artificial intelligence research & writing tool).

I think that if we learn to ignore the urge for instant gratification, and learn how to identify white space in the market, our past experience can catapult us into futures we can't even imagine.

Speakers
avatar for Anthony AJ Joiner

Anthony AJ Joiner

Founder, Blooksy Publishing
Anthony ‘AJ’ Joiner is an author, entrepreneur, radio personality, and founder of BLOOKSY.COM - the SAAS platform that uses artificial intelligence to help authors and academics write and publish faster.He spent almost twenty years building software in Corporate America, and has... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

3:00pm EDT

$10,000 Startup Pitch Competition

Startup pitch competition finalist compete for a grand prize of $10,000.

Speakers
avatar for Fritz Desir

Fritz Desir

Founder & Managing Partner, AWSM
Excited to bring a design lens and advocate for the importance of a design-based approach to our startup community.


Friday October 28, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

3:00pm EDT

Collapse the Digital Divide in K -12 Education

This session will introduce the Universal Design Learning model into digital learning to help students be more engaging in the classroom learning. Kelenda will discuss getting students the classroom level technology they need for home learning and developing surveys that understand family technology needs.

Speakers
avatar for Kelenda Allen-James

Kelenda Allen-James

Dir. of IT, Commonpoint Queens
I am a technology leader experienced in bringing affordable technology to mission-driven organizations.I believe in the growth mindset. I believe all people are able to learn technologies that can improve their life and community.As a technology leader, I find it rewarding to work... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

3:00pm EDT

Developing Black Tech Talent Pipelines

Organization and ecosystem leaders from NSBE, OHUB, and BDPA discuss the import of their respective organizations and how they work to develop the current and next generation of Black tech leaders.

Moderators
avatar for Kunbi Tinuoye

Kunbi Tinuoye

Founder and CEO at UrbanGeekz, UrbanGeekz
Kunbi Tinuoye is an award-winning British-born journalist and broadcaster based in the United States. She is the founder and CEO of UrbanGeekz.com, a groundbreaking video-centric digital news platform focused on technology, science, business, and startups.Tinuoye is a sought-after... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Timothy Butts

Timothy Butts

National VP, BDPA
Timothy Earl Butts Sr is a former telecommunication analyst intern at Allegheny Ludlum Steel/Allegheny International who has risen to become vice chair of clinical applications development, an international advisor to clinical IT entrepreneurs, a regional NAACP president who marched... Read More →
avatar for Rodney Sampson

Rodney Sampson

Executive Chairman | General Partner, Opportunity Hub | 100 Black Angels & Allies Fund
Rodney Sampson is heralded as the leading pioneer in building diverse, equitable and inclusive ecosystems from the ground up globally. He is respected as a pioneer and innovator of streaming software and hardware technologies at the start of the 21st century; and was the first Black... Read More →
avatar for Janeen Uzzell

Janeen Uzzell

CEO, National Society of Black Engineers
Janeen Uzzell is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), thelargest Black STEM community impacting society and industry.In her former role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Wikimedia Foundation, Janeen drove process improvement... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

4:00pm EDT

Music & Technology as a Business Growth Strategy

Food and water are considered universal languages by many, but at Share The Vibes, LLC, we recognize music and technology in the same respect. From our heartbeat to our cell phones, music and technology are woven into the fabric of our daily lives. In this session, we will discuss ways to strategically leverage music and technology to accelerate business growth and inspire innovation. Get ready to learn, have fun, and SHARE THE VIBES!

Speakers
avatar for Devin Jenkins

Devin Jenkins

Founder/CEO, Share The Vibes, LLC
Devin Jenkins is a technologist, entrepreneur, creative, husband, and father. He was born and raised in Fitzgerald, GA, and moved to Milwaukee, WI, in 2015 after graduating from Miles College in Fairfield, AL, with a B.S. in Management Information Systems to join General Electric’s... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout R, S & T

4:00pm EDT

Powering the Magic at Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products

Many people in our community are working to become technologists. They're studying computer science as bootcamp or college students; they're working in industries adjacent to technology, thinking about going full time; or they're in a role totally unrelated to technology but looking to make a change.

In each of these scenarios, people wonder, "what's it really like working as a software developer, cloud engineer, or technical project manager day to day"?

This session will feature three panelists that can answer this question from different perspectives in their careers based on years of experience:

The "junior" level, with 0 to 3 years of experience
The "senior" level, with 5 or more years of experience
And the "principal" level, with many years of experience

Each panelist will share how they started in their tech-focused career and what some of the bumps and turns have been like along the way. They'll share what their typical day is like along with some of the tools and technologies they use on a regular basis. Additionally, they will share tips and strategies for networking, getting up to speed with technology, and staying abreast of changes in their industries and fields.

Attendees at this interactive session will have the opportunity to ask questions to get answers directly from the panelists.

Anyone considering a role that uses or creates technology will leave this session with a better idea of what it's like working in tech, either just starting or well along the way.

Speakers
avatar for Rob Smedley

Rob Smedley

VP Technology - Data Science & Engineering, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products
avatar for Tauheedah Muhammed

Tauheedah Muhammed

Lead Product Manager, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products
avatar for Jordan Morris

Jordan Morris

Software Engineer, The Walt Disney Company
avatar for Zoe Cesar

Zoe Cesar

Senior Data Engineer, The Walt Disney Company
avatar for D’Yanna Craighead

D’Yanna Craighead

Sr Manager of Technology, Disney Cruise Line


Friday October 28, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout N & M

4:00pm EDT

Opportunities in Digital Health Post-Pandemic

Due to the recent worldwide COVID Pandemic, healthcare technology has seen a surge in activity.  With over $55 Billion in investments spent on companies in the space, we believe now is the time for new innovation and ideas to transform our healthcare. Hear more on how to start a healthcare technology company, how to think about regulations, and the opportunity for new ideas in making healthcare accessible to all.

Speakers
avatar for Kornelius Bankston

Kornelius Bankston

Managing Partner, TECHPLUG
Kornelius is the managing partner of TECHPLUG. He leads the firm’s strategy and business development efforts. He’s a graduate of Morehouse College (BSc. Chemistry), Emory University (MSc. Biomolecular Chemistry) and the Georgia Institute of Technology (MBA- Management of Technology... Read More →
avatar for Julius Adams

Julius Adams

Attorney, Atoms Law & Consulting, PLLC
Julius Adams is a Litigation Attorney, and founder of Atoms Law & Consulting, PLLC. The mission of the firm, concerns helping people in need, through vigorous representation for legal and business matters.Julius’s legal experience includes litigating cases which involve matters... Read More →
avatar for Theo Harvey

Theo Harvey

CEO, SynsorMed
Theo Harvey is the CEO and Co-Founder of SynsorMed, a digital healthcare company transforming virtual care. Prior to SynsorMed, he advised many hospitals, healthcare systems, and small practices on how technology can transform their current workflows, lower the cost of healthcare... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Breakout P & Q

4:00pm EDT

Black Tech Representation in Media

We'll chat with the co-creators and producers of Nork, a sharp dramedy TV series, two twenty- somethings decide to ditch traditional jobs to start a tech company in their hometown of Newark, NJ, where they encounter challenges from shadowy lenders, overbearing parents, condescending investors, and of course, the city of Newark itself. They'll be joined by a senior executive at Revolt Media and TV to discuss Black tech representation in film and television.

Speakers
avatar for Kunbi Tinuoye

Kunbi Tinuoye

Founder and CEO at UrbanGeekz, UrbanGeekz
Kunbi Tinuoye is an award-winning British-born journalist and broadcaster based in the United States. She is the founder and CEO of UrbanGeekz.com, a groundbreaking video-centric digital news platform focused on technology, science, business, and startups.Tinuoye is a sought-after... Read More →
avatar for Chisa Egbelu

Chisa Egbelu

CEO, PeduL
Chisa is a multi award-winning entrepreneur and television producer. He started his career as a marketing team lead at Google before joining MSNBC, where he produced coverage of the 2016 Presidential Election, and iHeartRadio's Z100, where he worked on America’s #1 Morning Show... Read More →
avatar for Dane Clarke II

Dane Clarke II

Founder & CEO, Pineloft Entertainment
DANE CLARKE II was born and raised in West Orange, NJ. He graduated from New York University Tisch School of the Arts (22’) with a BFA in Theatre as well as a minor in Producing for TV & Film. In 2020 Dane founded multi-hyphenate production company, Pineloft Entertainment. Pineloft... Read More →


Friday October 28, 2022 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

5:00pm EDT

Closing Awards and Dessert Reception

Closing ceremonies will include awards and recognition.

Speakers
avatar for Dennis Schultz

Dennis Schultz

Executive Director, Blacks In Technology Foundation
avatar for Greg Greenlee

Greg Greenlee

Founder, Blacks In Technology
Greg Greenlee is the Founder of the Blacks In Technology organization.


Friday October 28, 2022 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Coronado Ballroom L & K

6:00pm EDT

Madden God Tournament
Friday October 28, 2022 6:00pm - 11:00pm EDT
Veracruz Exhibit Hall C
 
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