2025’s tech scene was wild. Our experts translated the chaos—AI, cloud, cybersecurity—into something you’ll actually understand. Plus, learn how to avoid a toaster uprising.
The first few wild months of 2025. Yeah… that was something. Tech is moving so fast, it’s like trying to catch a greased-up ferret. Thankfully, our contributors—basically tech-whisperers—guided us through the chaos.
They took all the blinking lights and jargon and turned it into, “Wait, I actually get this!” They didn’t just break down AI—they made it sound less like a sci-fi villain and more like a slightly eccentric but helpful assistant. And the cloud? Yeah, they finally settled the whole “is it just someone else’s computer?” debate.
Seriously, these folks are the reason we’re not out here accidentally buying crypto-kittens or setting our toasters to “sentient.” Cheers to the brainiacs who keep us sane and informed. You’re the real MVPs of the tech-pocalypse.
1Amey Banarse, VP of Solutions Engineering, Yugabyte
Amey Banarse is the VP of Solutions Engineering at Yugabyte, where he partners with Fortune 500 companies to architect cloud-native, geo-distributed applications powered by scalable, fault-tolerant data infrastructure. With deep expertise in data analytics and transactional systems, he helps enterprises modernize with microservices and open-source technologies. Prior to Yugabyte, Banarse served as an Advisory Data Architect at Pivotal, enabling clients to enhance their analytics capabilities through OSS and big data platforms. Originally from Mumbai, he holds a Master’s in Computer Networking & Systems from the University of Pennsylvania. Amey is passionate about bridging business goals with innovative engineering solutions.
Article: How YugabyteDB Future-Proofs Enterprise Data with Scalability and Resilience
2Dr Carl Windsor, Chief Information Security Officer, Fortinet
Dr Carl Windsor is Fortinet‘s Chief Information Security Officer, where he helps shape global product strategy and drive cybersecurity innovation. A CISSP-certified expert with deep experience in network security, Dr Windsor brings a unique blend of technical acumen and commercial insight. His background spans managed service development, technical pre-sales, and large-scale enterprise implementations. Known for his customer-centric approach, he has successfully led complex projects by aligning security architecture with business goals. Dr Windsor is passionate about building resilient systems and fostering strong partnerships across the cybersecurity ecosystem.
3Dan Potter, Senior Director, Cyber Drills & Resilience, Immersive
Dan Potter is the Senior Director of Cyber Drills & Resilience at Immersive, with over two decades of experience in business continuity, crisis management, and operational resilience. He specializes in designing and leading cyber resilience exercises across global financial services and national-level infrastructures in the UK, US, Africa, and the Middle East. Potter has worked closely with executive leadership, boards, and regulators, helping organizations strengthen their response to evolving cyber threats. A trusted regulatory engagement and compliance leader, he blends strategic vision with hands-on expertise. His mission is to ensure businesses are always ready.
Article: The Cyber Threat Landscape Has Changed. Has Your Strategy?
4Douglas McKee, Executive Director of Threat Research, SonicWall
Douglas McKee is the Executive Director of Threat Research at SonicWall, where he leads efforts in uncovering and analyzing emerging cyber threats. A seasoned security expert, he has discovered numerous CVEs and specializes in offensive security, malware analysis, and vulnerability research. McKee is a regular speaker at top-tier security conferences including Black Hat, DEFCON, and RSA, and his insights have been featured in publications like Wired, Politico, and TechRepublic. With over 15 years of experience, he combines deep technical knowledge with strong leadership and communication skills to advance global cybersecurity readiness.
5Eleanor Hecks, Editor-in-Chief, Designerly Magazine
Eleanor Hecks is the Editor-in-Chief of Designerly Magazine, where she leads content strategy focused on UX, web design, and digital marketing. With a career that began in 2012, Hecksl has built a reputation for translating complex design trends into actionable insights for SMBs and creatives alike. Her work spans topics like user experience, branding, and social media, and has been featured in top publications including Smashing Magazine, Fast Company, HubSpot, and Web Designer Depot. Passionate about user-first design, Hecks continues to champion accessible, engaging digital experiences through her writing and editorial leadership.
Articles: Is Augmented Analytics the Next Frontier in Business Intelligence? | Mastering Complex BI Systems with Real-Time Data Streaming Solutions | Taming the Data Deluge: Why Data Orchestration is Critical
6Ilya Smirnov, Head of AI Department, Usetech
Ilya Smirnov is the Head of the AI/ML Department at Usetech, bringing over 15 years of expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning. With a Ph.D. in Physics and Mathematics, Smirnov has authored more than 50 scientific papers in prestigious journals, focusing on applicable analysis. He is a recognized speaker at global conferences, including GITEX GLOBAL and the Tech For Founder Podcast. His thought leadership extends through articles and commentary for outlets like HackerNoon, CMSWire, and PYMNTS, where he explores the intersection of AI and technology innovation.
7Jay Henderson, SVP Product Management, Alteryx
Jay Henderson is the Senior Vice President of Product Management at Alteryx, where he leads the development of cutting-edge analytics solutions. With over 25 years of experience in product leadership across analytics and marketing technology, Henderson has a rare blend of expertise in product management, marketing, and strategy. He’s known for scaling products and organizations by aligning strategy with execution. Prior to Alteryx, he served as SVP of Products at Acoustic, and held leadership roles at IBM, Unica, SPSS, and NetGenesis. Jay holds degrees from MIT’s Sloan School of Management and the Sorbonne.
Article: Data Analysts Evolve: AI Transforms Roles, Not Replaces Them
8Joel Burleson-Davis, SVP Worldwide Engineering, Cyber, Imprivata
Joel Burleson-Davis is the SVP of Worldwide Engineering, Cyber at Imprivata, where he leads the cybersecurity product suite along with AI and data initiatives. With deep expertise in access management and threat mitigation, he drives innovation and secure product delivery to protect mission-critical systems. Prior to Imprivata, he served as CTO at SecureLink, overseeing technology strategy across product, cybersecurity, and compliance. He’s passionate about building high-performing teams and solving complex security challenges in today’s dynamic digital landscape.
Article: Joel Burleson-Davis Tackles Rising Cyber Threats with AI and Passwordless Strategies
9Kathryn Coduto, Assistant Professor, Boston University
Kathryn Coduto is an assistant professor of media science in the Department of Mass Communication, Advertising and Public Relations at the Boston University. Coduto researches the intersections of mass media and interpersonal communication, focusing on how individuals use media to connect with each other and make sense of the world around them. Recent studies have investigated compulsive social media use during major news events and the privacy management practices of individuals across a number of communication technologies, including dating applications and social media. Her work has been published in journals including the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, Computers in Human Behavior, Political Communication, and the Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media.
Article: AI vs. Dating App Fatigue: Can Tech Mend Broken Romance?
10Kelby Green, Chief Technology Officer, VergeSense
Kelby Green is the Chief Technology Officer at VergeSense, where he leads the development of AI-powered spatial intelligence solutions that help organizations optimize their workplace environments. With over a decade of experience in software engineering and product innovation, Green has played a pivotal role in scaling VergeSense from startup to industry leader. Prior to this, he was a founding software engineer at ByteLight and led software engineering at Acuity Brands. Green began his career at Bloomberg LP and brings a strong foundation in systems development and sensor technology.
11Kim Larsen, Group Chief Information Security Officer, Keepit
Kim Larsen is the Group Chief Information Security Officer at Keepit, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience across cybersecurity, IT, and software development in both the public and private sectors. He specializes in aligning business and security strategies, risk management, and threat mitigation tailored to organizational needs. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Larsen is also an experienced board member, advisor, and keynote speaker. He plays a critical role in shaping security governance and resilience for digital-first enterprises.
Article: Streamlining Cybersecurity: Tackling Tool Sprawl Effectively
12Rick Vanover, Senior Director of Product Strategy, Veeam
Rick Vanover is the Senior Director of Product Strategy at Veeam, where he helps shape the future of data protection and availability. With a background in IT administration, virtualization, and cloud technologies, Rick brings deep technical insight and a passion for enabling resilient infrastructures. A frequent speaker and media contributor, he’s also recognized as a VMware vExpert and holds certifications including VCP and MCITP. Rick is known for translating complex tech into practical solutions for IT pros. Outside of work, he’s an active voice in the community and a dedicated family man.
Also Read: Zero Trust Now Extends to Backup Systems Amid Ransomware Surge | Optimizing Cloud Costs: The Key to Data Portability and Security
13Timothy Eades, CEO and Co-founder, Anetac
Timothy Eades is the CEO and Co-founder of Anetac, a cybersecurity startup focused on revolutionizing identity threat detection and response. With over two decades of leadership experience, he has played pivotal roles across the cybersecurity ecosystem as a founder, investor, and board advisor. Eades is also a Co-founder of Cyber Mentor Fund, where he empowers early-stage cyber innovators. He serves on the boards of Enveil, Device Authority, and Cake4Kids, reflecting both his commitment to cutting-edge tech and social impact. Known for his bold leadership and deep industry insight, Eades is a recognized voice in security innovation.
Article: Anetac’s Tim Eades: Reinventing Cybersecurity with Identity-First Innovation
14Todd Boehler, Chief Strategy Officer, ProcessUnity
Todd Boehler is the Chief Strategy Officer at ProcessUnity, where he leads strategic initiatives that drive innovation in third-party risk and cybersecurity performance management. With over two decades of experience across GRC, SaaS, and enterprise software, Boehler has held key roles at Oracle and as CTO of e-Onehundred Group. At ProcessUnity, he has been instrumental in scaling the platform and shaping its product vision since 2014. A recognized thought leader, he brings deep expertise in risk frameworks, regulatory compliance, and customer enablement. His work helps organizations strengthen their governance posture in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
Article: How ProcessUnity’s Todd Boehler Sees the Future of GRC
