11th Annual Leadership Awards Winners

Outstanding / Innovative Technology Team

Premier Health
Digital Facility Solutions Group

Best Technology Services Company

ATC

Technology Executive of the Year

Jon Rike, City of Dayton

Emerging Technology Leader

Searsa Johnson, CareSource

Most Promising Startup

AXE.AI, Brett Ewing

Unsung Hero

Vanessa Moon, City of Dayton

Technology Educator of the Year

Professor Amir Zadeh, Wright State University

Award of Excellence: College Student Project

Brandon Hubley, Wright State University

Award of Excellence: High School Student

Rhea Pasupuleti, The Dayton Regional STEM School

Technology Project of the Year
The McCracken Group, TMG

The Leadership Awards recognize individuals and teams who exemplify the values of Technology First:
Creating a Community to Share Knowledge, Grow Business, and Build for the Future.

Shining a spotlight on the contributions of information technology students and professionals, the Leadership Awards honors individuals and teams who connect, strengthen, and champion the best-connected network in the Dayton region. The Technology First Leadership Awards promote a vibrant Southwest Ohio technology community. The annual event is sponsored by many local organizations, including SOCHE, Dayton Development Coalition, Montgomery County Business Solution Center, and Project Management Institute – Dayton/Miami Valley Ohio.

Keynote Speaker
David Hart

Bonfire Builders: Inspiring Leaps of Leadership and Community
Join David Hart, a U.S. Army Ranger veteran, professional skydiver, business leader, nonprofit co-founder, father, and community builder, as he shares powerful lessons on leadership, teamwork, and the transformative power of connection. Through compelling metaphors of skydiving and bonfires, David inspires audiences to take bold leaps in life and leadership. He encourages participants to build "bonfires"—communities of authentic support, shared goals, and mutual accountability that provide light and warmth, drawing people together to thrive collectively. Drawing on his unique experiences, from parachuting into challenges as a Ranger and skydiver to fostering unity in professional organizations and nonprofits, David demonstrates how, like the strands of a parachute cord, we are stronger when woven together. This talk will leave you motivated to build bonds, create impact, and lead with purpose in your professional and personal life.

Join the Celebration at the 11th Annual Technology First Leadership Awards!

A night to honor innovation, connect with industry leaders, and celebrate the future of technology. This event brings together the brightest minds in technology to recognize achievements, share insights, and foster meaningful connections. Whether you're a tech professional, entrepreneur, or enthusiast, here’s what makes this gathering worthwhile:

Celebrate Excellence in Technology in Our Region

• Honor visionary leadership and teams driving innovation.
• Support and recognize the achievements of colleagues and peers.

Network & Collaborate

• Engage with industry leaders, innovators, and peers.
• Exchange ideas with potential collaborators or clients.

Experience the Energy

• Enjoy thought-provoking keynote from David Hart. He will share his method of helping organizations accomplish goals through communication and teamwork.
• Experience a night of celebration with the tech community.

Whether you're looking to gain new insights, connect with like-minded professionals, or simply celebrate the power of technology, this event is an opportunity to be part of something bigger. Be part of the excitement—let’s celebrate the best in tech together!

NEW Categories Available This Year

For the full list of categories available for nominations, click here.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available!

Sponsorship opportunities are available, click here for options. Contact sponsorships@technologyfirst.org if you have questions.