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    Executive Biography

    Ronald E. Buford – Empowering Teams to Achieve Excellence Through Integrity and Continuous Improvement.

    Ronald E. Buford is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in operations, logistics, and industrial maintenance. Known for his loyalty, integrity,...

    David E. Brody: Driving Innovation and Leadership to Make a Valuable Contribution to Any Organization.

    Excited to share my journey with over 50 years of experience in both the oil & gas and aerospace industries. From representing major corporations like BP and Exxon to founding innovative aerospace companies such as XTI Aerospace and AVX Aircraft, I've been fortunate to lead cutting-edge projects and secure patents for revolutionary technologies. I'm passionate about driving innovation, contributing to meaningful organizations, and making a lasting impact.

    Kenneth K. Boyer: Pay It Forward, Empower Others, and Foster Lifelong Learning.

    I'm excited to share my professional journey as the Fisher Designated Professor of Operations and Business Analytics at The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on driving transformation in supply chain management, fostering sustainability, and supporting emerging leaders in the field. I’m particularly proud of the impact we’ve made through initiatives like the Pathways Program, where we’ve raised over $800,000 for scholarships and research, while connecting countless students with industry mentors. Whether it's through teaching, research, or speaking at international conferences, my goal has always been to pay it forward and help others learn. Feel free to take a look at my full bio to learn more about my work and passion for education and sustainability.

    Brad Hurlock: Put Others First; Lead with Purpose, Succeed with Impact.

    I'm excited to share a bit about my journey over the past 35 years in business development, sales, and digital marketing. As the CEO of Addison Technologies and AA Shop Marketing, I've had the opportunity to work with amazing teams to turn digital assets into essential tools for business growth. My philosophy has always been to "Help Others First," and I believe that through strategic, data-driven decisions, every company can reach its full potential. Along the way, I've also been involved in various board roles, allowing me to pursue my passion for mentorship and making a positive community impact. I'm always eager to connect with others who share these values and look forward to future opportunities for collaboration.

    Jeffrey K. Savit: Leading with purpose, building communities, and inspiring meaningful change.

    Excited to share my professional journey in nonprofit leadership and community impact! Over the past 40 years, I've had the privilege of leading mission-driven organizations, fostering meaningful relationships, and driving strategic growth. From my work at Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Boston to past roles at Prizmah and the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, each opportunity has allowed me to grow and serve in new ways. As I transition from full-time executive roles, I look forward to sharing my expertise through board service and continuing to support organizations that make a difference.

    Karthik Yenduru: Pioneering Sustainable Innovations to Power a Greener Tomorrow and Drive the Future of Renewable Energy.

    I’m excited to share a glimpse into my professional journey and achievements with you. My career in renewable energy has been shaped by a strong academic foundation, including a Master’s Degree in Renewable Energy from Loughborough University and a thesis on thermochemical energy storage completed at Oregon State University. My work spans various domains, including energy efficiency, solar energy technology, and project management. I’ve recently earned certifications in Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems and Energy Efficiency in Buildings, underscoring my commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. Through my role as a consultant, I’ve focused on designing solar PV systems and integrating battery storage, driven by my passion for environmental sustainability and innovation. As an active member of the European Renewable Energy Research Centre (EUREC) Alumni Network, I strive to contribute to the renewable energy community and foster collaborative growth. I invite you to explore my full biography to learn more about my journey and ongoing efforts to make a positive impact on our planet.

    Dean Reder: Fueling business growth with financial expertise, strategic vision, and a passion for process innovation.

    I'm excited to share a bit about my professional journey! With over 32 years of experience across the agricultural, energy, and food manufacturing sectors, I’ve had the opportunity to lead financial transformations and drive operational efficiency for several leading organizations. From restructuring processes to implementing advanced financial models, I've worked with some incredible teams to fuel business growth and navigate complex industry challenges. I'm passionate about using my expertise in strategic planning, financial leadership, and process optimization to help businesses thrive. As I transition into the next phase of my career, I’m eager to explore new opportunities where I can continue to add value and make a meaningful impact. Let’s connect if you'd like to learn more or discuss how I can help!

    Nick Mayhew: A Distinguished Leader in Aviation Safety and International Business Development

    Nick Mayhew’s career in aviation is a testament to his leadership, expertise, and dedication to safety and innovation. With over 5,400 flight hours and a wealth of experience in both military and commercial sectors, Nick has made significant contributions to advancing safety culture within the rotorcraft industry. His strategic vision and adept navigation of international markets have been pivotal in driving growth and development across multiple domains. As a respected thought leader and advocate for aviation safety, Nick’s impact extends beyond the cockpit, shaping industry standards and fostering a culture of excellence in aviation.

    Mason Johnson: Lead by Example, Inspire Through Action and Achieve Success with Integrity.

    I'm excited to share a bit about my journey in real estate development and business strategy. With over 23 years of experience managing multi-million-dollar commercial and residential projects, I've had the opportunity to oversee every aspect of development—from site selection and construction to property management and investment oversight. As the Chief Operating Officer at J&J Gove Development, LLC, I’m driven by a commitment to lead by example, ensuring that every project I manage upholds the highest standards of quality and success. I'm always open to new opportunities for collaboration and growth, and I look forward to connecting with like-minded professionals who are passionate about creating value and driving impactful results.

    Steve R. Cherek – Accomplished IT Executive & Business Strategist

    Steve R. Cherek is a seasoned IT executive and business strategist with over 35 years of leadership experience in a Fortune 5 company. Throughout his extensive career at ExxonMobil, he has spearheaded global IT initiatives, managed multi-billion-dollar budgets, and influenced corporate strategies across various business sectors. With a strong background in financial planning, business development, and digital strategy, Steve has successfully led diverse teams and large-scale projects that have driven innovation and efficiency across the organization. His technical expertise and executive leadership have earned him recognition as a trusted leader in the IT industry, shaping long-term strategies and transforming business operations on a global scale.

    Ron Watkins: Transforming Vision into Reality, Leading Strategic Initiatives with Innovation and Purpose.

    I’m excited to share my journey and experiences with you. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse fields such as education, consulting, and business development. Currently, as the Associate Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at the University of Illinois System, I’m passionate about driving transformative projects that advance our institution’s mission and impact. My background includes leading innovative COVID-19 testing solutions at Shield Illinois and consulting for Fortune 100 companies. With a PhD in Applied Health Sciences and an MBA in Marketing & Operations, I bring a deep understanding of strategic planning, marketing, and management to my work. I’m committed to advancing strategic initiatives that create meaningful change and am excited to continue making a difference in these areas.

    Ryan Handelman – Cannabis Banking Expert and Industry Advocate

    Ryan Handelman, a leader in cannabis banking, has spent years bridging the gap between financial institutions and cannabis businesses, helping both sides navigate the complexities of a highly regulated industry. As Principal Consultant at RMH Consulting and Advisory, Ryan offers his expertise to banks, credit unions, and cannabis operators, developing tailored programs that promote growth and compliance. With a proven track record, including his role as FVP, Director of Cannabis Banking at Berkshire Bank, Ryan’s strategic vision and deep industry knowledge have positioned him as a key advocate and innovator in the cannabis finance space. His dedication to ensuring cannabis businesses have access to essential banking services underscores his commitment to empowering this rapidly evolving sector.

    Kevin S. Moore: Engineering Resilience with Integrity, Innovation, and Impact; Transforming Structures and Elevating Standards for a Safer, Stronger Future.

    I'm excited to share a bit about my professional journey and the expertise I’ve developed over more than 30 years in structural engineering. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on challenging projects focused on seismic evaluations, retrofits, and innovative building designs both in the U.S. and internationally. My work spans across sectors, with a particular focus on California healthcare facilities, forensic engineering, and resilience in building infrastructure. As a Senior Principal and Region Head at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, I lead teams in delivering safe, functional structures while driving market-driven decisions and strategic capital planning. I’m passionate about mentoring others, fostering innovation, and helping organizations enhance their seismic risk management. Let’s connect to explore opportunities to build stronger, more resilient structures together!

    Jason McClellan: Fueling Success and Inspiring Growth Through Unwavering Honesty and Integrity.

    I'm excited to share my journey of over 20 years in leading teams and driving success across industries like oil & gas, nuclear, and manufacturing. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to oversee multi-million dollar projects, implement strategic business transformations, and optimize operations, all while staying true to my core values of honesty and integrity. I’m passionate about fostering growth, empowering teams, and creating impactful results. If you’re interested in discussing leadership, project management, or business strategy, I’d love to connect and share ideas. Let’s build something great together!

    Catherine Schrader McCann: Visionary CEO and Entrepreneurial Leader

    In the world of business, few leaders demonstrate the resilience and strategic vision that Catherine McCann embodies. With over three decades of experience, Catherine has built and grown successful enterprises across diverse industries, from dry cleaning to logistics. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Best Companies, she transformed a single dry cleaning store into a $10 million enterprise, showcasing her exceptional strategic acumen. Her journey is marked by adept navigation through significant challenges, including an 89% revenue drop during the COVID-19 pandemic, which she overcame through innovation and adaptability. Catherine’s extensive knowledge in strategic planning and entrepreneurship, coupled with her ability to inspire high-performing teams, has established her as a respected leader. Her commitment to effective communication and relationship-building has not only driven her businesses to success but also made her a sought-after speaker and mentor in the professional community.

    Bob Limback- Executive, Consumer Insight Research and Brand Strategy Specialist

    With over two decades of experience, Bob Limback has distinguished himself as an award-winning executive in the fields of consumer insight research and brand strategy, particularly within the automotive industry. His leadership spans major global brands like Chevrolet, Ford, and Cadillac, where he has successfully blended creativity and data-driven insights to deliver impactful campaigns. From pioneering neuroscience-based audience segmentation at Carat to guiding electric vehicle communication strategies at Commonwealth//McCann, Limback's expertise in developing cohesive brand voices and cross-functional collaboration has driven notable industry innovations. Limback’s career is a testament to his ability to lead teams and influence global marketing strategies, contributing to significant brand growth and audience engagement. His hands-on leadership and commitment to driving creative and analytical success continue to make him a sought-after figure in the world of consumer insights and brand strategy.