Workforce Advisory Council

Amy Carr

Vice President of Marketing, SaaS Alerts

Amy Carr is Vice President of Marketing at SaaS Alerts, a cybersecurity company that provides MSPs with a platform to manage and protect their customers’ core SaaS business applications from cyber threats. Amy has more than 20 years of experience in marketing and over 12 years of experience in the managed service provider industry. In her current role, Amy is responsible for building brand awareness for SaaS Alerts, as well as demand generation and pipeline creation for the global sales organization. Prior to joining SaaS Alerts, Amy was Senior Director of Marketing for Addigy, and held numerous product marketing and demand generation leadership roles at ConnectWise and SoftServe.

Robert Forget

CRO, Credivera

Robert Forget currently serves as the CTO for Aware360. In this role, Mr. Forget is key in technology research and integration reviews including both devices and software. Robert also manages technology partners and strategic sales efforts for custom solutions leveraging the Aware360 platform. Previously Mr. Forget worked for Vecima Networks Inc., in positions of increasing responsibility starting in business development and moving through the organization as Director of Sales, AVP of Product Management and finally as VP of Telematics.

Robert ran his own consulting firm from 2000-2004, specializing in electronics design and systems implementation. Robert has a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Physics from the University of Saskatchewan, an MBA and is a certified Professional Manager. Mr. Forget currently serves on the board of directors for the Canadian Institute of Management and has been active on the boards of many organizations from such diverse areas as technology associations, housing developments, politics, and not for profits.

Caitlyn Jopp

Vice President of Community & Engagement, Channel Program

Caitlyn Jopp is a seasoned professional with a decade of experience in forming meaningful relationships within the Channel. With a passion for event management and demand gen marketing, she has worked with leading companies like IT Glue and Auvik Networks. Jopp is a three-time honoree of CRN's Women of the Channel and recipient of CompTIA's first-ever Future Leaders award. As the VP of Channel Community and Engagement at Channel Program, she brings her expertise to foster a vibrant and collaborative community. Jopp is a dynamic speaker, sharing valuable insights to empower professionals in the evolving channel landscape.

Kieran Blanks, MBA

Vice President, Workforce Systems, Cortex

Kieran N. Blanks, the Vice President of Workforce Systems at Cortex Innovation District, is a prominent figure in workforce innovation. Nationally recognized, he has engaged in critical discussions on the future of work, notably with the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce about the CHIPS and Science Act and with Congressmen on tech workforce strategies. His background includes advising entities like IBM, CompTIA, and the United Nations, reflecting his commitment to equitable tech access and inclusive economic growth. Mr. Blanks, who has collaborated with government, corporate, and policy leaders, is dedicated to bridging access and opportunity gaps for marginalized workforce communities. He champions the idea that technology should be a unifying, uplifting force. His diverse educational journey, spanning Morehouse College, the University of Rochester, and international programs in London, Bangkok, and the Middle East, provides him with a unique global perspective. This rich experience enhances his local and global influence.

Cynthia Schreiner

Sr. Director, Community & Events, CyberQP

Cynthia has worked in the Channel for 18 years, both with a Managed Service Provider and with Vendors. At CyberQP, Cynthia is a Senior Director, running Community & Events. She is focused on building lasting communities and experiences, advocacy, and supporting MSPs as they grow and evolve. In Tampa, Cynthia volunteers with her daughter's local music group and the Girl Scouts of America.

Heather Simek

Vice President, Rj2 Technologies

With over 12 years of experience as a Vice President at RJ2 Technologies, I have been leading and building teams that deliver exceptional customer service and innovative solutions. I have a strong background in team building, customer service, and leadership, and I have successfully managed multiple projects, contracts, and partnerships across various industries and sectors. I am passionate about empowering and developing my team members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture, and exceeding customer expectations. I am always looking for new opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to the mission and vision of RJ2 Technologies, as well as the wider field of technology and innovation.

Desraie Thomas

Channel Development Manager, The Chanel CRO

Desraie is an accomplished sales professional who has demonstrated exceptional channel success. Bringing over a decade of client management and sales development experience within multiple industries, Desraie is known for her focus on customer success through the development of long-term relationships. With a background in the telecommunications industry, she has a comprehensive understanding of the technology industry and the IT Channel’s role in its success. Ask her about her dogs, Batman and Robin!

Joel Williams

Market Director - Chicago & St. Louis, Robert Half

Joel Williams has been with Robert Half for 7.5 years serving as the Market Director for their Technology and Creative Staffing divisions in Illinois and Missouri. In this role, he is responsible for facilitating strategy and growth for the contract & direct hire placement teams for technology and creative in Chicagoland and St. Louis. Joel has a Bachelor's Degree of Business Administration and Marketing from Lindenwood University, and is a proud father of three children.