Session Abstract:

In today’s interconnected world, embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is more important than ever. This abstract explores the significance of DEI, the personal and organizational benefits it offers, and actionable steps individuals can take to foster an inclusive environment. By understanding and implementing DEI principles, we can create a more equitable society that values and leverages the unique perspectives and talents of all its members.

Speakers:

Emily Dilday is a Global Principal Business Solutions Manager for SAS’ Industrials and IoT Division, where she leads the successful engagement of partner-driven solutions powered by SAS technology. Emily coordinates a cross-functional team comprising R&D, customer advisory, support & enablement, and marketing experts to ensure channel partner success. Before joining SAS, Emily spent over two decades at Cisco, where she led teams in Information Technology, Enterprise Information Security, IoT/Network Security, and Customer Experience. She holds a B.S. in Math and Computer Science from Meredith College, an M.B.A. from Pfeiffer University, and has completed professional certification in project management from Stanford University. Emily is also a licensed Project Management Professional, certified by the Project Management Institute. As a leader in the Tech and IoT industry, Emily is passionate about supporting women in STEM and helping students pursue STEM careers through mentorship and advocacy. She chairs the IoT Community Women in Technology Center of Excellence and volunteers as a group mentor for AI4ALL and NPower.
Erika Franco Acevedo is a Senior Solutions Architect at Cisco, specializing in Industrial IoT, manufacturing, and Industry 4.0. With over 15 years of experience in networking and 7 years focused on industrial automation, Erika helps global manufacturers design secure, scalable, and resilient network architectures that drive digital transformation.
She is a key contributor to Cisco Validated Designs, including the Cisco and Rockwell Automation Converged Plantwide Ethernet (CPwE) architecture, and collaborates with industry leaders like Rockwell Automation and Schneider Electric. A certified PROFINET engineer and former representative in the ODVA Conformance Interest Group, Erika brings deep insight into the intersection of IT and OT networks. Known for her ability to simplify complex technical concepts and bridge the gap between teams, Erika is also an advocate for women in engineering and believes that balance, curiosity, and human connection are essential to innovation.
Mahesh Tomar is a global technology executive with extensive experience leading innovation in the communications and cloud industries. He has successfully driven digital translation initiatives including transitioning legacy products to cloud native SaaS solution, and holds 10 patents for his contribution to product and IP development. A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, Mahesh is passionate about building high-performing teams enriched by diverse perspective. He believes the inclusive cultures not only drive better outcomes but also create spaces where innovation can thrive. “ I have registered to the event.
Chandra Storrusten is the CEO and Chief Value Creation Officer of Visible Value, where she brings a bold, purpose-driven approach to guiding organizations through pivotal moments of growth, transformation, and transition. With a deep commitment to unlocking the power of individuals and aligning them with organizational purpose, Chandra designs and delivers strategies that turn complexity into clarity—and opportunity into momentum. She partners with leaders to uncover untapped potential, build resilience, and lead with authenticity. For more than 20 years, her work has empowered leaders and teams to navigate change with confidence, aligning passion and capability to drive sustained growth and impact. Chandra’s passion for transformation extends beyond her client work into meaningful contributions through board service and thought leadership. She has served as an advisor to the Transformative Leadership in Disruptive Times program at the George Washington University School of Business and currently serves on the Board of Advisors for NC TECH. Chandra earned an Executive MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, where she also served on the Alumni Council. Dr. Michelle Flemmings, HealthTech CMIO & WOC Advocate | Executive Coach | Women’s Career Development Catalyst | Empowering Women of Color | Keynote Speaker | Oracle Alum   Jelane Caspar serves as the Communications Ecosystem Development Executive for Oracle Communications. With over 30 years of experience in the telecom industry, Jelane has led strategic client teams across a variety of verticals for organizations such as Sprint, Focal, AT&T, Vodafone, and Oracle.Joining Oracle in 2021 as a Global Vice President in the Strategic Client Group, she led teams supporting North American communications and media companies. In her current role, Jelane is dedicated to fostering growth by expanding partnerships, both internal and external, particularly dedicated to the Oracle Enterprise Communications Platform (ECP).A passionate advocate for client-focused collaboration, Jelane thrives on driving innovation and delivering measurable business success. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is actively involved in charitable initiatives and serves as Vice Chair of the Board for Neighbors Link, a non-profit organization. Jelane earned her degree from Michigan State University and continues to leverage her expertise and leadership to make a positive impact both professionally and within her community. Niyati Doshi is a Global Principal Business Solutions Manager in SAS’s IoT Division, with over 12 years of experience in management consulting delivering strategic technology solutions across financial services, government, fintech, and manufacturing sectors. In this role, Niyati collaborates with customers and enables partners to develop innovative, data-driven IoT solutions leveraging SAS that transform real-time data into actionable insights, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making.  She holds a B.S. in Business administration from North Carolina State University. Niyati is also a licensed Project Management Professional, certified by the Project Management Institute. Beyond her professional endeavors, Niyati is dedicated to mentoring early-career professionals and students from diverse educational backgrounds. Guiding individuals in exploring various career paths in STEM and technology, emphasizing that a traditional STEM degree isn’t the only route to success in these fields.