SIM Detroit Leadership Summit

October 21st, 2025
Days
Hours
Minutes
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About Event

Making a Difference in Metro Detroit

On behalf of SIM Detroit, the summit steering committee, and its advisory board, we invite you to support our community by sponsoring the SIM Detroit Leadership Summit on October 21, 2025, in the amazing One Campus Martius “Elevate” event space.

Our summit will bring together many great IT leaders and thinkers, with a focus on key players from the Michigan region to network, discover the latest technology trends, and share ideas. While there are many technology conferences, the unique aspect of this conference is that all the profits will be used to support SIM Detroit and its charitable initiatives, including scholarships and programming intended to strengthen Metro Detroit’s technology community, and help those who have the desire, but not the means, to pursue a career in a STEM-related field.

As with any conference hosted in the marketplace today, we need your support to be successful. By supporting our summit, the benefits to your organization are amplified: exposure to Michigan’s technology leaders and the satisfaction of knowing your sponsorship dollars will help to benefit those who need it most.

Agenda

SIM Detroit Leadership Summit Agenda

Main Check-In for Attendees

Breakfast & Networking

Welcome, Introduction & Sponsor recognition

Jef Fisk, SIM Detroit, VP Special Events

Opening Fireside Chat: Talent management Approaches for AI Business solutions

John Sartor; GIS Group Manager, Haworth interviewing Sabrina Hebeler, Chief Performance Officer OverPower.ai

networking break

Intelligence to the Edge: IoT Use Cases Driving the Future

Bob Patterson Jr., Chief Strategist, CDW

networking break

Robotics and Automation Unleashed: The Present Power and Future Promise

Alex Shikany, Executive Vice President Association for Advancing Automation (A3)

Lunch, Speakers/Presentations

Chuck Williams, President SIM Detroit 

Non-Profit check presentations, RISE/SOAR presentations, Awards, Non-profit recipient speakers

Fireside Chat - Surviving Transformation: Modern Technology Strategy, Risks, Security, and Ethics in the age of architechtures

Andrea Selke, Principal, Plante Moran & Mihaela Mazzenga, CTO and Founder, Detroit Technology

Afternoon Keynote: Embrace Fear & Fail Forward

Jacob Brown, Founder & CEO, Fail Forward Fast LLC

Networking Break

Essential Tips for Personal Cybersecurity

Mike Lipinski, PlanteMoran

Tech Talk: Securing Data in the Age of GenAI

Karthik Krishnan, CEO, Concentric AI

Closing Remarks & Raffles

Jef Fisk, SIM Detroit, VP Special Events

Steve York, CIO, 1-800 Hansons

Cocktail Hour

Speakers

Keynote Speaker

Jacob Brown

Motivational and leadership speaker

Jacob Brown is one of the most electric voices rising in the world of professional speaking. A former NFL athlete turned serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and transformational keynote speaker, Jacob has quickly become a go-to expert for companies and conferences that want to shift mindsets, build resilient leaders, and transform workplace culture. His high-impact keynotes have earned standing ovations at some of the world’s most respected organizations, including Intel, Meta, LinkedIn, UPS, General Motors, and the Dallas Cowboys as well as top universities like Notre Dame, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

 

As a three-time TEDx speaker and co-founder of Varlo, a global athletic and fitness apparel brand, Jacob brings a rare blend of grit, heart, and strategy to every stage. His insights have been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and Good Morning America, and his #FailForward philosophy has become a movement – reaching millions through viral content and transformational coaching. Jacob doesn’t just motivate – he moves people. His keynotes are part performance, part personal revelation, and 100% unforgettable. He teaches audiences how to embrace failure as fuel, lead through adversity, and step fully into their potential.

 

Off the stage, Jacob is a devoted husband and proud father of four. But on the stage – he’s a force.

ABOUT SIM DETROIT

Building a Strong Network through Shared Interests and Values

SIM Detroit provides technology leaders the unique experience of networking with peers via educational, networking, and other special events throughout the year. An active philanthropic effort engages with various local charitable and educational organizations through volunteerism and other support.

Event Venue

Sitting high atop One Campus Martius is Bedrock’s newest event space. With expansive views of downtown Detroit, this 16th floor venue is perfect for events like ours.

Parking

Parking will be provided in the One Campus Martius Garage.  Final event information and logistics, including details on parking, will be provided via email to participants approximately one week before the event.

Hotel Info

Local Area Hotels that are within walking distance of OCM 16 event space:

PARTNERS & SPONSORS

Our Official Partners and Sponsors

A special thank you to our partners and sponsors whose generosity makes this event possible.
Diamond Sponsor

About CDW

CDW is a leading multi-brand provider of information technology solutions to business, government, education and healthcare customers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. A Fortune 500 company and member of the S&P 500 Index, CDW helps its customers to navigate an increasingly complex IT market and maximize return on their technology investments.
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About Concentric Ai

At Concentric Ai our platform discovers, classifies, monitors, and protects data across cloud and on-premises environments. With AI-driven insights and co-managed services, we help businesses reduce risk, streamline compliance, and eliminate duplicate data records—transforming data from a liability into a well-managed asset.
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Platinum Sponsor

About Dynatrace

Dynatrace is a software intelligence platform that helps organizations ensure their digital systems run smoothly by monitoring applications, infrastructure, and user experiences in real time. It uses AI to automatically detect issues, pinpoint root causes, and even recommend solutions, reducing the need for manual troubleshooting. Beyond just tracking performance, Dynatrace provides deep visibility into cloud environments, microservices, and DevOps pipelines, while also connecting technical data to business outcomes—such as how a slow checkout impacts revenue. In short, it acts like a central nervous system for digital operations, keeping apps fast, reliable, and optimized for both users and businesses. 
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RECEPTION SPONSOR

About Seraphic

Seraphic transforms any browser into a secure enterprise browser, delivering real-time protection against phishing, data loss, and credential theft on both managed and unmanaged devices. Awarded the Frost & Sullivan Global Zero Trust Enabling Technology Leadership Award and trusted by Fortune 500 companies, Seraphic secures the enterprise browser for today’s modern, cloud-driven businesses.
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Lunch Sponsor

About L5.Ai

L5.Ai was founded by Anu Bulusu and Bipin Paracha. The founders pioneered PMO practices and professional services at leading global firms before going on to establish INRY, shaping it into one of the fastest-growing companies in America. Today, they are leveraging their deep expertise in professional services to help companies achieve digital workflow automation using platforms like ClickUp, Kore.ai, Outreach, and Zendesk. L5 is committed to delivering the best possible experience across these tools—whether assisting with migrations from other platforms, or providing comprehensive end-to-end support and resources. Through this dedication, L5 has consistently maintained a top-notch standard, empowering customers to succeed in their digital transformation journeys.
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breakfast Sponsor

About Lumenalta

Lumenalta partners with organizations to accelerate performance through technology, delivering measurable outcomes that align with business objectives. With expertise in cloud solutions, automation, AI, and cybersecurity, they provide end-to-end capabilities essential for scalable growth and operational efficiency. By integrating seamlessly into existing structures, Lumenalta reduces risks, drives rapid execution, and maximizes ROI. Their approach bridges technology, finance, operations, and executive leadership, helping organizations speed time-to-market, optimize costs, and uncover new opportunities.
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Executive Co-Sponsor

About Comcast Business

Comcast Business delivers reliable, high-speed Internet, phone, and TV solutions designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. Its advanced fiber-optic network—capable of speeds up to 100 Gbps—is supported by 24/7 monitoring and dedicated account management to ensure optimal performance. Headquartered in Philadelphia with over 100,000 employees nationwide, Comcast is known for its award-winning service and commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
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About Tenable

Tenable is a cybersecurity firm whose mission is to “isolate and eradicate exposures” that put organizations at risk. Its unified Tenable One exposure management platform gives visibility, insight, and action across attack surfaces from traditional IT to cloud, OT, and identity environments, helping business leaders understand and reduce cyber risk. Serving over 44,000 customers worldwide (including a large portion of the Fortune 500), Tenable leads in vulnerability and exposure management innovation.
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About UiPath/Wonderbotz

WonderBotz, a UiPath Diamond Partner, helps organizations achieve real-time business alignment by turning automation & AI into engines of adaptive performance. At the forefront of Agentic Process Management (APM), WonderBotz enables enterprises to shift from task execution to purpose-driven orchestration, ensuring that agents work in concert toward strategic outcomes. With proven expertise in AI & RPA, we deliver not just technology but lasting enterprise value through insights & partnership.
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About WZC Networking

At WZC Networking, we bring over 25 years of expertise in RF engineering to deliver turnkey wireless and networking solutions—from enterprise Wi-Fi, wireless bridging, and in-building DAS, to private LTE and managed network services. We partner closely with clients across industries like education, healthcare, and enterprise to design, implement, and maintain scalable, high-performance connectivity tailored to each organization’s needs. More than a service provider, we aim to be a strategic partner, focused on long-term relationships, proactive support, and continuous innovation.
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About Horizon3.ai

Horizon3.ai is redefining cybersecurity through a vision of autonomous offense and defense, where AI continuously strengthens security and humans intervene only by exception. Its flagship platform, NodeZero, conducts autonomous penetration testing to uncover exploitable paths, validate security controls, and accelerate remediation before attackers can strike. By combining AI-driven intelligence, continuous learning, and proactive defense, Horizon3.ai empowers organizations to stay ahead of evolving threats with a self-improving, resilient security posture.
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About Epitec

Epitec is a leading IT, engineering, and professional staffing firm founded in 1978 and headquartered in Southfield, Michigan. They provide contract, contract-to-hire, direct hire, executive search, and statement-of-work talent solutions across a range of industries, matching skilled professionals not just to roles but to culture and goals. As one of the largest women-owned staffing firms in the U.S., Epitec emphasizes a personalized, client-centric approach built on listening, trust, and lasting relationships.
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About C3 Technology Advisors

C3 Technology Advisors is a strategic IT consulting firm helping clients evaluate, select, and implement solutions across areas like WAN/SD-WAN, cloud, UCaaS, cybersecurity, and AI. Their “C3 Consulting Cycle” guides clients from needs assessment through vendor selection, implementation, and ongoing lifecycle support. They partner with over 400 technology providers and emphasize unbiased recommendations and long-term relationships.
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About C4 Technology Advisors

C4 Technical Services is a certified minority-owned staffing and consulting firm with 1,100+ consultants in 44 states. We specialize in IT, Digital, Cybersecurity, AI, Cloud, and Dynamics 365, delivering top talent through Contract, Contract-to-Hire, and Direct Placement. Our Skills Assure and T4 Training programs cut turnover by up to 70%, while FinOps and cloud optimization drive 10–40% savings. Quality talent. Agile solutions. Real impact.
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Event Partnership

About Arista

Arista Networks designs and sells high-performance networking equipment for large data centers and cloud computing environments. Its portfolio includes software-driven switches, routers, and automation tools. The company is well-regarded for innovation in cloud-scale networking and software-defined infrastructure.
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About Abnormal

Abnormal Security is a cybersecurity company that protects organizations from advanced email attacks such as phishing, business email compromise, and supply chain threats. Using behavioral AI, the platform analyzes communication patterns to detect anomalies and stop threats before they reach users.
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About Arctic Wolf

Arctic Wolf specializes in managed detection and response (MDR) and security operations. Its platform combines 24/7 threat monitoring, vulnerability management, and security expertise through a concierge delivery model. The company helps organizations improve cyber resilience without needing to build large in-house security teams.
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About Qlik

Qlik provides a powerful analytics and business intelligence platform that enables users to visualize, analyze, and share data insights. Its associative engine allows for flexible exploration across multiple data sources, giving organizations a holistic view of their operations. Qlik’s solutions are widely used for dashboarding, reporting, and predictive analytics.
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About CSI Leasing

Founded in 1972, CSI Leasing has equipment on lease in more than 50 countries, making us one of the largest independent equipment leasing specialists in the world. CSI provides flexible lease solutions for mid-to-enterprise-level organizations in virtually every industry, including healthcare, manufacturing, energy, legal and more. Every lease comes standard with online reporting tools, an easy ordering process and complete disposal solution, including data security and recycling.
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About Qlik

Qlik provides a powerful analytics and business intelligence platform that enables users to visualize, analyze, and share data insights. Its associative engine allows for flexible exploration across multiple data sources, giving organizations a holistic view of their operations. Qlik’s solutions are widely used for dashboarding, reporting, and predictive analytics.
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About Nutanix

Nutanix is a pioneer in hyperconverged infrastructure, simplifying enterprise IT by combining storage, computing, and virtualization into a single software-defined platform. Its hybrid multicloud solutions allow businesses to manage workloads across private and public clouds. Nutanix focuses on flexibility, scalability, and cost efficiency for digital transformation.
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About Apex Digital

Apex Digital is an IT solutions provider that partners with businesses to implement infrastructure, managed services, and digital transformation strategies. Its offerings range from cloud migration and data center modernization to collaboration tools and security solutions. Apex emphasizes tailoring technology to each client’s unique needs for scalability and efficiency.
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About Renodis

Renodis is a managed telecom and mobility lifecycle management provider. The company helps enterprises design, implement, and support telecom networks and mobile device programs. Its services reduce operational complexity and improve cost efficiency for organizations with large or distributed workforces.
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About Zscaler

Zscaler is a global leader in cloud security, known for its Zero Trust Exchange platform that uses cloud-native security services to connect users and devices to applications while protecting against cyberthreats. Its solutions replace traditional VPNs and firewalls with cloud-native secure access and threat prevention.
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About Qumulo

Qumulo offers enterprise-grade hybrid cloud file storage solutions. Its platform is designed for scalability, high-performance workloads, and real-time visibility into data usage. Customers in industries like healthcare, media, and research rely on Qumulo for managing massive unstructured data sets.
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About Island

Island is the creator of the Enterprise Browser, a secure web browser built specifically for business use. It provides enterprises with deep visibility, policy enforcement, and security at the browser level without disrupting the user experience. This allows IT teams to manage sensitive workflows while enabling seamless productivity.
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About Choice Tel & Ring Central

Choice Tel and Ring Central are regional telecom providers focused on delivering reliable voice, data, and internet services to businesses and organizations. They offer managed network solutions tailored to mid-market and enterprise customers, helping streamline communication and connectivity. Their focus is on cost-effective, localized support with scalability as businesses grow.
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Parking SPONSOR

About A-Line Staffing Solutions

A-Line Staffing Solutions is a Michigan-based staffing agency founded in 2004 by a father and son team with over 30 years of experience. What began in a basement with a single placement has grown into a nationally recognized firm specializing in healthcare, IT, and professional recruitment. Guided by the philosophy that “success begins with people,” A-Line focuses on building lasting relationships through its 3Cs: Communication, Creativity, and Commitment. The company prides itself on flexibility, innovation, and caring for its applicants, employees, and clients.
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Thirst Responder

About Vaco by Highspring

Vaco by Highspring is the talent solutions arm of Highspring. With more than 45 offices worldwide and 7 international delivery centers, Vaco by Highspring provides tailored talent solutions—including contract staffing and direct hire—across a wide range of industries. By combining forward-thinking strategies with exceptional talent, Vaco helps organizations seize opportunities and drive meaningful results.
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Advertisement Sponsor

About Executive Search Partners

Executive Search Partners is a U.S. firm led by former CIOs that specializes in senior-level technology recruiting, including roles like CIO, CISO, and director-level positions. With over 20 years in business, they leverage deep IT experience and extensive networks to match candidates not just on skills but also on organizational fit. Their process involves close collaboration and rigorous screening to ensure long-term, high-impact placements.
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About Sentinel

Sentinel Technologies is a leading IT services provider offering cloud, security, communications, and managed service solutions for organizations of all sizes. Its Fortis by Sentinel platform delivers 24/7 security monitoring, incident response, and threat prevention. With over 40 years of experience, Sentinel focuses on aligning technology with business goals to deliver reliable, secure, and scalable IT solutions.
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About 5 Rivers Automation

5 Rivers Automation helps organizations humanize work through intelligent automation solutions. We specialize in robotic process automation, enterprise integration, API development, and AI-powered solutions that eliminate mundane tasks while empowering teams to focus on strategic initiatives requiring human creativity and critical thinking.
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About Cyderes

Cyderes is your global cybersecurity partner engineered to defend against today’s relentless threatscape. With identity at the core, our co-managed model unites AI-powered insights, expert talent, and tailored solutions across detection, response, and offensive security. The result? Organizations that don’t just react – but are engineered to Be Everyday Ready™.
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About Paloalto Networks

Palo Alto Networks is a global leader in cybersecurity, delivering platforms, threat intelligence, and services to enable “cyber transformation.” They pioneered next-generation firewalls that classify and control traffic by application—not just ports—and extend their security model into cloud, network, and operations domains. Their Unit 42 team provides elite threat intelligence, incident response, and security consulting to help organizations stay ahead of evolving cyber risks.
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About GTT

Comcast Business delivers reliable, high-speed Internet, phone, and TV solutions designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. Its advanced fiber-optic network—capable of speeds up to 100 Gbps—is supported by 24/7 monitoring and dedicated account management to ensure optimal performance. Headquartered in Philadelphia with over 100,000 employees nationwide, Comcast is known for its award-winning service and commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
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About Prompts.ai

Prompts.ai is an enterprise platform that upskills teams to collaborate and automate no-code, multi-modal interoperable workflows using optimal LLMs for each task. It provides executives with a command center featuring financial visibility and user control. Leaders can deploy prebuilt prompts and workflows, govern usage, and scale AI safely—driving faster innovation, smarter governance, and higher productivity with sophisticated outputs.
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Please Join us for the SIM Detroit Leadership Summit on October 21, 2025

Please Join us for the SIM Detroit Leadership Summit on October 21st 2025, 7:00am-4:30PM at the One Campus Martius, Event Space 16th floor, Detroit