Description

Protecting Identity and Information in the Age of AI

Join members and guests for the Charlotte Area Chamber May Lunch Meeting. Come see some familiar faces and meet new connections while enjoying a fabulous lunch at the Hyatt Centric SouthPark. 

In today's digital age, protecting identity and information has become more critical than ever. Our panel of experts will discuss the latest trends, threats, and solutions in cybersecurity, focusing on the impact of artificial intelligence. Learn how AI is reshaping the landscape of data protection and what steps you can take to safeguard your personal and business information.

* Registration is required, and lunch will be provided with every registration for event.

Agenda:

11:30AM - 12:00PM - Networking and Visiting Sponsor Tables
12:00PM - 1:00PM - Curated Program for Business Professionals

Who Should Attend:

• Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
• IT Professionals and Cybersecurity Experts
• Law Enforcement and Legal Professionals
• Anyone interested in AI and data protection

What to Expect:

• Expert Insights: Hear from leading professionals in technology, law enforcement, and finance.
• Interactive Discussion: Engage with panelists through Q&A sessions.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry peers and professionals.

Why Attend:

• Stay Informed: Learn about the latest trends and threats in cybersecurity and AI.
• Gain Practical Knowledge: Discover actionable strategies to protect your business and personal information.
• Build Connections: Network with experts and peers in the field.

Date: May 22nd, 2025
Time: 11:30am- 1:00pm
Location: Hyatt Centric Southpark Charlotte
3100 Apex Drive
Charlotte NC 28211

Parking in the garage adjacent to the hotel building

Cyber Security and Technology Panel

Moderator: 

Tim Timmons
Director of Technology, Dove Technologies

Tim Timmons is a seasoned IT leader with over two decades of experience in managed services, systems engineering, and technology management. Since 2020, he has served as the Director of Managed IT Services at Dove Technologies, where he has been instrumental in scaling the company's managed IT offerings, emphasizing client modernization and security. 

Prior to his tenure at Dove Technologies, Tim held significant roles in the healthcare and education sectors. As a Senior Systems Engineer at McLeod Health, he managed Active Directory, developed PowerShell scripts, and provided support for over 8,000 users across multiple devices. In his role as Director of Technology at Clarendon School District 3, he oversaw the centralization of connectivity and spearheaded infrastructure modernization efforts. 

Tim's early career includes experience as an IT Consultant and Support Technician at Rocketwise, Inc., where he delivered comprehensive IT support across various sectors. He holds a degree from Charleston Southern University and is based in Florence, South Carolina.

In his current role, Tim leads a dedicated team focused on delivering secure, scalable, and forward-thinking IT solutions. His strategic approach and commitment to excellence have significantly enhanced Dove Technologies' service offerings, positioning the company as a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of today's digital landscape.

Panelists: 

Detective Chris McNeil
Cyber Crimes Division, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department

Chris McNeil is a veteran detective with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, where he has served since 1999. A trailblazer in his field, he co-founded CMPD’s Cybercrimes and Digital Forensics Unit in 2004 and has since become a recognized expert in computer crime investigations and the forensic handling of digital evidence.

Chris holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Appalachian State University and an A.A. from Wilkes Community College. He has completed over 1,200 hours of specialized digital forensics and cybercrime training through institutions such as the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and the U.S. Secret Service. He has also served as an instructor with Central Piedmont Community College's American Academy of Applied Forensics and contributed to cybercrime curriculum development for the U.S. State Department.

A decorated officer and U.S. Army veteran, Chris is also a member of the U.S. Secret Service Electronic Crimes Task Force and has been qualified as an expert witness in federal court. His dedication to justice, community service, and the evolving field of digital forensics continues to set the standard within the law enforcement community.

David Cooper
SVP of Information Technology, Skyla Credit Union

With over 25 years in Information Technology, David currently serves as Senior Vice President of Information Systems at Skyla Federal Credit Union, where he leads data analytics, security operations, and software development. He has spent 18 years at Skyla, playing a key role in major initiatives—including the largest credit union merger in North Carolina’s history.

David began his career as a programmer developing secure systems for the aviation and financial sectors. A UNC-Chapel Hill graduate in Mathematical Sciences, he has been recognized for his leadership with honors such as CU Times Trailblazer IT Executive of the Year and a CIO of the Year finalist by Charlotte Business Journal.

A frequent speaker at industry conferences like Jack Henry Connect and Symitar, David covers topics from cybersecurity to AI in financial services. He also serves on advisory boards for SecureWorks and Jack Henry and actively gives back through leadership roles in Gaston County’s Scouting community.

Jacquie Spearman
Program Director for GCAP at SBTDC

Jacquie Spearman serves as the Program Director of the Government Contracting Assistance Program (GCAP) at the North Carolina Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC). With over two decades of leadership experience, she specializes in strategic planning, process improvement, and financial management, aiding small to medium-sized businesses in navigating the complexities of government contracting.

Prior to her tenure at SBTDC, Jacquie contributed to economic development in Enterprise Zones in Northwest Indiana as a Business Advisor for the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC). She also held the position of Financial Operations Director for Alumni Development at the University of Chicago and operated her own consulting firm focused on strategic and management services.

Jacquie holds a degree from Purdue University’s School of Technology and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Procurement Professional (CPP). She is currently pursuing her MBA at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

A native of Gary, Indiana, Jacquie is dedicated to empowering businesses in North Carolina through GCAP, providing strategic insights and support to enhance their competitiveness in government contracting.