About Us

Connect, Collaborate, and Learn at the Southeast’s Premier Technology Event

ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast is your one-stop shop for everything cybersecurity and technology in the Southeast.. This annual conference, co-hosted by the Information Technology Association of the Gulf Coast (IT Gulf Coast) and the AFCEA Blue Angels Pensacola Chapter, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and educators for three days of learning, collaboration, and community building.

Explore the Latest Tech Trends

Dive deep into the latest advancements in technology trends like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity. The conference features insightful discussions on cutting-edge topics like startup tech, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Gain valuable insights from local and national thought leaders while discovering the innovations happening right here in Pensacola, Florida, and along the CyberCoast.

Powering the Future Through STEM Education

ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast is more than just a conference; it’s a force for good. As a non-profit event, proceeds support IT Gulf Coast’s STEM initiatives. This includes funding endowments for the University of West Florida and Pensacola State College, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in technology.

Building a Thriving Tech Community

Established in 2008, IT Gulf Coast is a Pensacola-based non-profit dedicated to fostering a vibrant tech community. Our diverse membership includes students, educators, technology professionals, and businesses of all sizes – from single-person startups to multinational corporations

We focus on promoting business growth, fostering connections, providing valuable educational resources for our members, and igniting a passion for technology in our youth. Through partnerships with leading corporations, we encourage investment and program development that benefits the entire community, regardless of age or background.

In 2023, IT Gulf Coast joined forces with the AFCEA Blue Angels Pensacola Chapter to expand the conference’s programming and broaden its reach. The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) is a global organization that connects people, ideas, and solutions globally to advance the areas of technology and security. The Blue Angels Chapter, named after the renowned U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, brings a wealth of expertise in defense and communications technology. Their involvement has been instrumental in expanding the scope of ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast, incorporating vital perspectives on cybersecurity, defense technology, and public sector IT challenges.

 Join us at ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast and be part of the future of technology!

The collaboration between IT Gulf Coast and the AFCEA Blue Angels Chapter represents a powerful synergy, combining regional economic development efforts with national security and defense technology insights. This partnership not only enhances the quality of the ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast conference but also underscores the importance of bridging the gap between civilian and military technological advancements. Together, these organizations have fostered a dynamic and inclusive platform that continues to drive innovation, professional growth, and regional economic prosperity through the annual ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast conference.

Meet the Team

The ITEN WIRED | TechNet CyberCoast planning team is composed of volunteers from IT Gulf Coast, AFCEA Blue Angels Pensacola Chapter, and other members of our local technology and entrepreneurial community

Jim Rhodes

Community and Public Relations Director
UWF Center for Cybersecurity
Director

Amelia Dixon

Enterprise Architect
Navy Federal Credit Union
Sponsorship

Paris Harman

Intern/Grad Student
Navy Federal/Embry-Riddle
Public Relations

Jack Hierholzer

Retired from Gulf Power
Long Leaf Pine Straw Baron
Conference Navigation and Engagement

Mason Jewell

IT Technician
Escambia County Schools
Programming

James Morris

Senior Program Director
Global Business Solutions (GBSI)
Sponsorship Chair

Mark Nissley

Business Development Lead
Red Hat
Logistics Chair

Sean O'Brien

Navy Account Manager
IBM
Programming Chair

Elizabeth Rasnick

Assistant Professor
UWF Center for Cybersecurity
Logistics

Patrick Rooney

Director
Co:Lab Pensacola
Sponsorship / Programming

Alicia Rosado

               Information Security Officer                MLS Enterprises
Programming

Michelle Sims

 

Programming

Kelvin Singleton

Cybersecurity Solutions Architect
Leidos
Programming

Jay Smith

Managing Partner
Data Revolution
Sponsorship

Shae Vernier

Senior Lead Technologist
Booz Allen Hamilton
Marketing Chair

Dennis White

 

Programming