Brett Ostrum is a seasoned technology executive with over 27 years at Microsoft, currently serving as Corporate Vice President of Surface Devices, where he leads product development, engineering, and program management to drive innovation in Microsoft’s hardware ecosystem. With a deep background in electrical engineering and extensive leadership experience, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of Surface and Xbox devices, overseeing advancements in display, audio, camera systems, RF, power management, and input technologies. His strategic vision and ability to unify cross-functional teams have propelled Microsoft’s hardware division forward, ensuring premium user experiences and market leadership. Throughout his career, Ostrum has demonstrated a relentless commitment to innovation, product excellence, and operational efficiency, solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader in the global technology landscape.

Robert Gassen is a seasoned IT and business development executive with over 50 years of experience in software development, project management, customer support, and entrepreneurship. He has successfully led large-scale enterprise projects, managed teams of up to 60 professionals, and built strategic partnerships with major software companies. Transitioning from IT to photography, he founded HumaNature Photography, growing it into a full-service studio before specializing in real estate photography. Currently, he remains active in the workforce while seeking board and advisory roles where he can contribute his extensive expertise. With a strong background in technology, operations, and business growth, Robert is a valuable asset for organizations looking for experienced leadership and strategic insight.

Patrick C. Thompson is a seasoned IT and telecommunications executive with over four decades of experience driving innovation, efficiency, and cost-effective solutions in higher education. Throughout his tenure at Columbia University, he played a pivotal role in managing enterprise-wide IT services, implementing advanced telecommunications systems, and optimizing billing operations. With expertise in VoIP deployment, financial oversight, and strategic vendor management, Patrick has been instrumental in aligning technology resources with institutional needs. Holding an M.P.A. from Columbia University and a B.B.A. from Baruch College, his career reflects a deep commitment to technological advancement and operational excellence.

Luis Cardenas is a results-driven Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Adjunct Professor, and Continuous Improvement Leader with a proven ability to optimize operations and drive innovation across industries. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and a Master’s in Engineering Management from UMass Lowell, Luis blends technical expertise with global experience gained from roles in manufacturing, healthcare, biotechnology, and defense. Known for his adaptability, strategic vision, and collaborative leadership, he has led transformative initiatives that delivered significant cost savings, streamlined global supply chains, and improved operational efficiency. Currently, as a Senior Process Improvement Engineer at Fresenius Medical Care and an Adjunct Professor at UMass Lowell, Luis continues to advance excellence, nurture future leaders, and champion continuous improvement methodologies to achieve organizational success.

Margaret Morton exemplifies a leadership style rooted in solution-oriented thinking and resourcefulness, making her a trusted figure in the field of cybersecurity. With a proven track record of successfully managing complex security programs across global organizations, she brings an unwavering commitment to mitigating risk while ensuring regulatory compliance. Her deep knowledge of industry standards, paired with her expertise in program and change management, enables her to navigate the dynamic cybersecurity landscape with precision. Whether managing cross-functional teams or spearheading enterprise-wide initiatives, Margaret consistently delivers outcomes that align with both business objectives and security goals. Her strategic vision is complemented by her exceptional communication skills, allowing her to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels of the organization. From preparing executive briefings to influencing policy development, Margaret excels in translating complex cybersecurity challenges into actionable insights, fostering collaboration and driving consensus. As a result, she is not only recognized for her technical expertise but also for her ability to lead with influence and create lasting impact across the organizations she serves.

In today's digital age, strategic leadership in IT is about more than just driving innovation—it's about ensuring that innovation doesn’t come at the expense of system stability. In the article "Strategic Leadership in IT: Balancing Innovation and Stability," we explore how IT leaders can foster creativity while maintaining system reliability and security. By aligning technological advancements with long-term business goals, implementing agile methodologies, and encouraging cross-functional collaboration, leaders can effectively balance the need for innovation with the imperative for operational stability. The article also highlights best practices in risk management, security, and case studies that showcase how organizations have successfully navigated this balance to drive sustainable IT success.

I’m thrilled to share my journey as the Founder and Managing Director of Culliton Channel Consulting. With over 30 years in technology and channel management, I’ve had the privilege of bringing innovative tech brands to market and driving their growth. My roles at Microsoft and SYNNEX, along with various consulting projects across North America, have allowed me to leverage my expertise in strategic partnerships, product management, and go-to-market strategies. I’m passionate about shaping the tech industry and am excited to continue making an impact.