The Future of Iowa’s Tech Industry – Challenges, Opportunities & Influence
LEADERSHIP TRACK / FIRESIDE CHAT
ROOM 317-318 / APR. 8 / 11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
About this session
What forces are shaping Iowa’s technology sector today? Industry-leading technology executives Debbie Dean and Jason Katcher will explore key trends, challenges, and emerging growth opportunities. They’ll share insights on the priorities of tech leaders and what’s next for the state’s tech ecosystem. Designed to be interactive, this session encourages open dialogue—bring your questions and engage directly with the executives driving Iowa’s tech future.
Speakers
Debbie Dean
Vice President, Health Analytics Solutions
General Dynamics Information Technology
With more than 25 years of experience leading Federal health information technology (IT) initiatives, Debbie serves as the Vice President of Health Analytics for General Dynamics Information Technology. With a Master’s Degree in Health Care Administration, Debbie leads multidisciplinary teams supporting some of the nation’s largest data reporting initiatives, advanced analytics, and complex systems for numerous programs across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. With oversight of more than 200 technical staff, Debbie oversees a diverse portfolio of high-profile business initiatives at the intersection of health data, strategy and innovation. These programs center on advancing the Government’s high priority health IT initiatives, quality reporting and analytics projects, and payment evaluation programs. Debbie specializes in innovative analytic solutions, health data storytelling and communication insights to drive organic and strategic growth of complex, multi-stakeholder programs.
Kim Huffman
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
Workiva
As CIO, Kim ensures Workiva’s technology capabilities empower employees to deliver world class products to customers. She oversees all aspects of the Workiva’s Business Technology organization including Business Systems, AI, Data & Analytics, Operations & Support and Enterprise PMO.
Kim’s experience building and scaling technology organizations and leading business transformation spans over 20 years. She has a strong track record of delivering value through technology to enable companies to grow and scale. During her career, she has held several technical leadership roles at pre IPO and public tech companies including SAP, Adobe, Health Equity, Navan and Elastic.
Kim received her Bachelor of Science in Finance & Business Administration from University of Southern California and her MBA in International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management. She is also a founding member of firstboard.io, an organization focused on increasing the representation of women on boards.
Jason Katcher
Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer
ITA Group
Jason Katcher is Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer of ITA Group. He serves as an innovative strategic leader who has demonstrated success in several industries, directing and leading organizations through challenging business needs by leveraging innovative technology solutions and intuitive business processes. Jason is a true change agent with diverse expertise in management, operations, technology and leadership.
Moderator
Brian Waller
President
Technology Association of Iowa (TAI)
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