Robin K. Thomas

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Nithish Tharakan

Nithish Tharakan – Cybersecurity & Systems Engineering Leader

Current Role:

• Principal Staff I – Cybersecurity Solutions | Motorola Solutions (Jan 2023 – Present)
  • Leading cybersecurity solutions and strategies in a hybrid work environment.

Professional Experience – Motorola Solutions (21+ Years)

• Cyber Security Engineer (Jan 2021 – Mar 2023)

  • Strengthened cybersecurity frameworks and implemented security solutions.

• Principal Staff Systems Engineer (Sep 2012 – Dec 2020)

  • Led systems engineering initiatives to enhance operational security and efficiency.

• Senior System Engineer (Apr 2008 – Sep 2012)

  • Specialized in systems architecture and implementation for mission-critical environments.

• System Engineer (Apr 2003 – Apr 2008)

  • Designed and implemented technical solutions for secure communications.

Education:

• Master’s Degree in Information Security | DePaul University (2005 – 2008)

Licenses & Certifications:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) | ISC2
  • Issued: Feb 2022
  • Expires: Feb 2025

Location:

• Chicago, Illinois, USA (Hybrid)

With over 21 years of experience in cybersecurity, systems engineering, and secure communications, Nithish Tharakan plays a critical role in developing advanced security solutions at Motorola Solutions.

Vinod Panicker

Vinod Panicker – Technology & Data Management Leader

Professional Summary:
Vinod Panicker is a technology leader with over 15 years of experience in building high-performing, innovative global teams and delivering data management and analytics solutions.

Current Role:

• Director, Head of NAM Cards Data – Global Consumer Technology | Citigroup (Aug 2001 – Present)
  • Leads data strategy, management, and analytics for North America (NAM) Cards Data.
  • Drives innovation in data solutions to support consumer banking technology.

Previous Experience:

• Software Engineer | GlobalSight (Feb 2000 – Jul 2001)
  • Developed enterprise software solutions for global clients.
• Software Engineer | Iridium (Jun 1997 – Jan 2000)
  • Worked on telecommunications and satellite technology solutions.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Electronics & Communications Engineering | Mahatma Gandhi University

Core Skills:

✔ Data Management & Analytics
✔ Technology Leadership
✔ Consumer Banking Solutions
✔ Enterprise Software Development

With extensive experience in technology strategy, data analytics, and financial services, Vinod Panicker continues to lead cutting-edge innovations in the banking industry.

Bobby Jacob

Eapen Kuruvilla

Eapen Kuruvilla – Technology Leader & Cybersecurity Expert

Professional Summary:
Eapen Kuruvilla is a seasoned technology leader with over 30 years of experience in business development, program management, wireless communication, and software development.

Current Role:

• Senior Principal Engineer | Noblis (2020 – Present)
  • Leads the surface transportation cybersecurity portfolio.
  • Supports the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) in deploying Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology, enhancing safety, traffic efficiency, and autonomous driving.

Previous Experience:

• US Cellular, Nokia, and Alcatel-Lucent
  • Developed and deployed 5G solutions to advance wireless communication technology.
• C-DoT (Before moving to the U.S. in 1995)
  • Developed digital telephone switching systems, improving landline accessibility in India.

Education:

• Master’s Degree in Computer Science | Stevens Institute of Technology, New Jersey
• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science | TKM College of Engineering, Kerala

Interests & Hobbies:

Beyond technology, Eapen is an avid pickleball and chess player and regularly participates in local tournaments.

With a strong background in cutting-edge technology and cybersecurity, Eapen continues to drive innovative solutions in transportation and communication systems.

Abraham Joseph

Abraham Joseph – Senior UNIX Project Engineer & IT Specialist

Professional Summary:

Armed with a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from NIT Bhopal and an MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering from UIC Chicago, Abraham Joseph has dedicated over 35 years to the engineering and IT sectors in both India and the USA. Throughout his career, he held various roles at esteemed organizations such as Tatas, Donnelly, IBM, Discover, Exelon, and Sears before retiring.

A long-standing member of MEANA, Abraham actively contributed to the association for decades, serving as both Secretary and President. He was also deeply engaged with the religious community in Chicago.

As a mentor, he continues to support the engineers’ association, leveraging his skills and experience to foster teamwork, define objectives, and inspire members to achieve shared goals for the greater good.

Core Expertise:

UNIX Systems Engineering & Administration

• Expertise in AIX, Solaris, and Red Hat Linux system design, installation, configuration, and administration.
• Proven ability to support, integrate, and implement OS under controlled processes.

Data Center Infrastructure & Project Engineering

• Specializes in datacenter infrastructure engineering, deployment, and support.
• Hands-on experience with UNIX server migrations, relocations, upgrades, and deployments.

High-Availability & Virtualization

• Led AIX, Linux, and HACMP integration across various architectures, including virtualized environments on pSeries machines.

Recognized Performance & Leadership

• Received excellent appraisals during 7 years with IBM, reflecting his technical expertise and contributions.

Specialties:

✔ Datacenter Infrastructure Engineering & Support
✔ AIX System Administration
✔ UNIX Server Migrations, Relocations & Upgrades

With deep expertise in UNIX system engineering, enterprise IT solutions, and datacenter management, Abraham Joseph continues to drive efficient, scalable, and high-performance IT solutions.

Tony John

Tony John – Architect & Technology Leader

Professional Summary:
Tony John is a technology leader with expertise in enterprise architecture, cloud-native solutions, and business process simplification. He has a strong track record of leading business and technology modernization efforts, with a passion for delivering high-quality results.

Current Role:

• Architect, Advanced – Federal Reserve Information Technology | Federal Reserve System (Aug 2021 – Present)
  • Leading national IT modernization efforts within the Federal Reserve System.

Previous Experience:

• Director of Technology – Emerging Technologies | NielsenIQ (Nov 2020 – Jul 2021)
  • Designed and implemented multi-cloud/cloud-agnostic architecture utilizing GCP and Azure.
• Director, Technology – Nielsen Connect | Nielsen (Jan 2017 – Nov 2020)
  • Delivered cloud-native apps and platform components using Spark/Scala-based data processing and Angular/Java-based apps and APIs.
• Director of Engineering – Innovation Practice | Nielsen (Jan 2015 – Jan 2017)
• Platform Leader | Nielsen (Oct 2011 – Jan 2015)
  • Led the architecture and delivery of Nielsen’s Survey Research Platform.
• Managing Architect | Allstate (Dec 2010 – Oct 2011)
  • Managed enterprise and solution architecture for worldwide call center operations, customer communications, PCI compliance, and agency technology strategy.
• Lead Enterprise/Solution Architect | Allstate (Dec 2001 – Dec 2010)
  • Led technology strategy and digital transformation for Allstate’s Encompass and NorthLight businesses.
• Principal Consultant | Independent Consulting (2001)
  • Delivered technology strategy for Cirqit.com and developed a customer-facing application for the United Center.

Education:

• Master of Engineering Management (MEM) | Northwestern University (2000–2004)
• Manufacturing Systems Engineering | Kettering University (1994–1995)

Certifications & Recognition:

• Google Cloud Certified Professional Data Engineer (2021)
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (2019)
• IBM Analytics Speaker (2013)
• IBM IMPACT SOA Expert Panelist & Speaker (2008, 2009, 2010)

Specialties:

✔ Enterprise Architecture (TOGAF) & Cloud-Native Solutions
✔ Building High-Performing Analytics & SaaS Platforms
✔ Business Process Simplification & Digital Transformation
✔ Technology Leadership & Team Development

Personal Interests & Achievements:

• Naperville Marathon Finisher (2015) 🏃‍♂️
• Chicago Half Marathon Finisher (2008) 🏅

With extensive experience in technology strategy, cloud transformation, and enterprise architecture, Tony John continues to drive business modernization and innovation in the financial sector.

Ajain Kuzhimattathil

Ajain Kuzhimattathil – Business Development & Enterprise Transformation Leader

Professional Summary:
Ajain Kuzhimattathil is a visionary business leader with expertise in enterprise transformation, strategic alliances, and fintech solutions. With over 15 years of experience in payments, supply chain finance, and B2B payments, he has a proven track record of driving business growth, building high-performing teams, and leveraging technology to solve real-world financial challenges.

Current Role:

• Executive Vice President – Business Development & Alliances | GyanSys Inc. (Jan 2025 – Present)
  • Leading strategic growth initiatives and enterprise transformation.

Previous Experience:

• Vice President of Sales | SAP (May 2022 – Jan 2025)
  • Achieved 200% territory growth and expanded market presence with new clients.
  • Multiple club winner as an Account Executive and Sales Leader.
• Senior Account Executive & Business Solutions Manager | SAP (May 2019 – May 2022)
  • Led operational procurement, financial solutions, and B2B payment strategies.
• Global Business Development Manager | Discover Financial Services (May 2013 – Jun 2015)
  • Focused on commercial payments and payment network alliances.
• Solutions Consultant & Payments Business Solutions Consultant | Discover Financial Services (2012 – 2014)
  • Designed and developed architectural blueprints for financial solutions.
• Business Analyst & Program Manager | Patni Computer Systems (2001 – 2002)

Education:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance | Northern Illinois University (2013–2017)
• Bachelor’s Degree | University of Kerala (1997–2001)

Certifications & Thought Leadership:

• Tackling Challenges of Big Data | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (Apr 2013)
• Contributor to patents and publications on machine learning, blockchain, and working capital management.
• Speaker & Thought Leader at various industry events and forums.

Community Involvement & Volunteering:

• Financial Education Volunteer | Junior Achievement of Chicago (2007–Present)
  • Dedicated to economic empowerment and financial literacy initiatives.

Specialties:

✔ Enterprise Transformation & Digital Strategy
✔ B2B Payments & Supply Chain Finance
✔ Business Development & Strategic Alliances
✔ Fintech Innovation & Data-Driven Solutions

With a deep passion for innovation, financial technology, and business transformation, Ajain Kuzhimattathil continues to drive impactful solutions that enhance financial ecosystems worldwide.

Priya Jose

Priya Jose – Technical Sales Engineer & Process Engineering Specialist

Professional Summary:
Priya Jose is a highly experienced technical sales and process engineering professional with a strong background in project development, process optimization, and engineering solutions. She has over a decade of experience in the energy, chemical, and industrial sectors, providing expertise in process engineering, technical sales, and project development.

Current Role:

• Technical Sales Engineer | Honeywell UOP (Dec 2020 – Present)
  • Leading technical sales initiatives and providing engineering solutions to clients.
  • Working in a hybrid environment based in Des Plaines, Illinois.

Previous Experience:

• Project Development Engineer | Honeywell UOP (Aug 2017 – Nov 2020)
  • Developed and managed engineering projects for industrial and energy sector clients.
• Process Engineer | Honeywell UOP (Sep 2014 – Aug 2017)
  • Specialized in process optimization and engineering solutions.
• Senior Engineer | BHP Billiton (Jan 2005 – Dec 2008)
  • Provided engineering solutions for large-scale industrial projects in Johannesburg.

Education:

• Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) (Hons) | University of Pretoria, South Africa

Core Skills:

✔ Process Engineering
✔ Technical Sales & Project Development
✔ Process Optimization & Industrial Solutions

With extensive expertise in engineering, technical sales, and industrial process optimization, Priya Jose continues to drive innovation and efficiency in the energy and industrial sectors.

KOSHY VAIDYAN, PE, LEED AP

Koshy Vaidyan, PE, LEED AP – Senior Electrical Engineer & Industry Leader

Education:

• College of Engineering, Trivandrum (CET)
• Illinois Institute of Technology
• University of Illinois

Professional Experience:

• Former Advisory/Cognizant Project Engineer | NWP/Contractors for U.S. Department of Energy
• Chief Electrical Engineer | STV Engineering Corporation
• Senior Project Engineer | Sargent & Lundy Engineers
  • Worked on Nuclear Power Plants in Illinois, China, and Korea

Project Expertise:

Provided Electrical Engineering Design & Construction Management Services for:

• Industrial, Commercial, Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, and High-Rise Residential/Commercial Buildings in Chicago, Singapore, and Dubai
• Key Projects:
  • O’Hare Modernization Program
  • River City of Chicago & Marina City Renovation
  • Stroger Hospital & Rush Hospital Addition
  • New World Trade Center Buildings, New York
  • Nuclear Waste Disposal Plant, New Mexico
  • Los Alamos Laboratory

Current Work:

• Still providing design services for former employers on a part-time basis.

Licenses & Certifications:

• Licensed Professional Engineer in Illinois, Alabama, Arizona, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, California, and New Mexico
• LEED Accredited Professional | U.S. Green Building Council

Professional Memberships:

• IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
• CEE (Consulting Electrical Engineers, Division of Electrical Association)

Leadership & Contributions:

• Founding President | Malayalee Engineers Association of North America (MEANA)
• Past Director | CEE

With extensive expertise in electrical engineering, energy-efficient design, and large-scale infrastructure projects, Koshy Vaidyan has made significant contributions to the engineering industry worldwide.

LUKE THACHET

Luke Thachet – Senior RF Systems Engineer & Aerospace Specialist

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) | University of Illinois Chicago (1980)

Professional Experience:

Boeing (1984 – 2013 | 29 Years)

• Senior Scientist (2004 – 2013)

  • Chief engineer/architect for automated wideband RF test systems for satellites across all frequencies (baseband to millimeter wave).
  • Led signal budget and RF performance analysis for Boeing test systems.
  • Developed electro-optic based test systems for laser communication satellites.
  • Designed algorithms for satellite testing, including Phase Non-Linearity, Noise Power Ratio (NPR), Noise Figure, and Spurs analysis.

• Senior Staff/Scientist (1991 – 2004)

  • Designed and developed specialized test systems for government and commercial satellite programs.
  • Worked on digital signal processor-based and analog satellites.
  • Developed RF power setting algorithms and calibration systems.

• Staff Engineer (1984 – 1991)

  • Designed satellite flight hardware and developed analog and digital circuits.

Other Experience:

• Project Engineer | Transcom Electronics Limited (1982 – 1984)
  • Designed telephone plug-in modules with analog and digital circuitry.
• Electrical Engineer | General Electric (GE) (1980 – 1982)
  • Designed and tested wireless RF radios.

Current Focus:

• Took early retirement after 29 years at Boeing.
• Interested in consulting opportunities for companies requiring expertise in RF systems, satellite technology, and wireless communication.

With an extensive background in RF systems engineering, aerospace technology, and satellite communications, Luke Thachet brings decades of experience in cutting-edge research and development.

MATHEW DANIEL

Mathew Daniel – Global Business Leader & Industry Expert

Current Role:

• Global Head, Banking & Financial Services Business Division | IBM Corporation
  • Leads the global banking and financial services division.
  • Key member of the IBM Senior Management Leadership Team, driving strategic growth.

Previous Experience:

• Senior Vice President & Global Head, Retail & Consumer Products Group | Tech Mahindra Americas Inc./Satyam Computer Services Ltd.
• Senior Leadership Roles | HCL Technologies Americas Inc., Lucent Technologies Inc., and Xerox Corporation
• Over 36 years of global experience in sales, marketing, and business leadership across the U.S., Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Education:

• Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering | TKM College of Engineering, Kollam (1977–1982), University of Kerala
• MBA in Business Administration | London Business School
• MBA in Business Strategy | Harvard Business School
• Ph.D. (Ongoing) in Marketing Management & Client Acquisition Techniques | Kellogg School of Management, Chicago

Professional Leadership:

• President, Malayalee Engineers Association of North America (MEANA) (2019–2020)

With an extensive background in global business leadership, banking technology, and strategic growth, Mathew Daniel continues to drive innovation and excellence in the financial services industry.

Sinil Philip

Sinil Philip – Financial & IT Professional

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | College of Engineering, Chengannur

Current Role:

• Controller | Healthcare Plus Corporation

Professional Experience:

• University of Chicago
• Thatcher Technology Group
• Accenture
• University of Illinois at Chicago

With a strong background in finance, IT, and healthcare systems, Sinil Philip brings extensive experience in strategic financial planning and technology solutions for the healthcare sector.

STEBY THOMAS

Sabu Thomas

Sabu Thomas – Technology Leader & Entrepreneur

Professional Summary:
Sabu Thomas is an accomplished Information Technology Management Professional and the Founder/CEO of i-medIT Technology Solutions. Under his leadership, i-medIT Technology Solutions has been delivering enterprise-level IT practices and solutions to healthcare-focused businesses and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the Chicagoland area.

Current Role:

• Founder & CEO | i-medIT Technology Solutions
  • Specializes in enterprise IT solutions for healthcare businesses and SMBs.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering | University of Illinois at Chicago
• Master’s Degree in Computer Science | Illinois Institute of Technology
• MBA in Technology Management | University of Phoenix

Professional Involvement & Leadership:

• Malayalee Engineers’ Association in North America (MEANA)

  • Active member since 1992
  • President (2009–2010)
  • Led the submission of a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India, advocating against the illegal export of E-Waste to India.

• Fundraiser Convener – MEANA Scholarship Program (2004)

  • Successfully raised $54,000 to support educational initiatives.

With a strong technical, managerial, and leadership background, Sabu Thomas continues to drive innovation in IT solutions while contributing to community and industry organizations.

Girley Abraham

Girley Abraham – Civil Engineer (Retired)

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering | TKM College of Engineering (1978–1983)

Professional Experience:

• Retired Civil Engineer | City of Chicago

With a strong foundation in civil engineering and years of dedicated service, Girley Abraham contributed significantly to urban infrastructure and development during her tenure with the City of Chicago.

Vinod Neelakantan

Vinod Neelakantan – Business & Finance Leader

Professional Summary:
Vinod Neelakantan is a senior finance and business leader with a strong technology background and a proven track record of driving financial performance and executing business strategies. He has extensive experience partnering with CEOs, CFOs, and senior management to develop strategic business solutions across multiple industries.

Core Expertise:

• Strategic Business Partner

  • Deep understanding of business drivers across sales, marketing, service, supply chain, and manufacturing.
  • Strong ability to translate vision into actionable strategies to achieve business goals.

• Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) & Reporting

  • Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, long-range planning, and capital planning.
  • Skilled in developing technology tools and reports for senior management.
  • Strong analytical skills in handling large data sets to extract meaningful business insights.

• Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)

  • Extensive experience in M&A strategy, deal origination, valuations, deal closure, integration, and performance monitoring.

• Strategy Development

  • Expertise in crafting organizational, business unit-level, and new product development strategies.

• Operational & Continuous Improvement

  • Skilled in global footprint rationalization, operational expense reduction, and business value capture through pricing initiatives.

• Global Experience

  • Extensive experience collaborating with internal teams, customers, and vendors across four continents.

• People Development

  • Passionate about acquiring and mentoring talent, fostering future business leaders.

Education:

• MBA in Finance | University of Chicago (Booth School of Business)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electronics Engineering | Kerala University, India

With a global perspective and expertise in finance, business strategy, and technology, Vinod Neelakantan continues to drive transformational growth and innovation in the corporate world.

Ajit Chandran

Ajit Chandran

Retired | Former Head of Enterprise Architecture Governance at MUFG
📍 Greater Chicago Area

Professional Experience

MUFG

Director, Head of Enterprise Architecture Governance
📅 Sep 2017 – Present (7 yrs 7 mos) | Greater Chicago Area

IBM

Client Technology Advisor (CTA) – Financial Services
📅 2014 – Jul 2017 (3 yrs 7 mos) | Greater Chicago Area

Bank of America

📍 Greater Chicago Area
📅 2001 – 2013 (12 yrs 1 mo)

• SVP – Business Executive, Enterprise Business Controls & Monitoring (2012 – 2013 | 1 yr)
• SVP – Business Executive, IT Standards & Governance (2011 – Aug 2012 | 1 yr 8 mos)
• SVP – Enterprise Architecture (2007 – 2011 | 4 yrs)
• VP, Sr. Architect – Enterprise Architecture (2004 – 2006 | 2 yrs)
• VP, eCommerce Technology Architecture (2001 – 2003 | 2 yrs)

CSC

Sr. Programmer/Business Analyst – eComm Technology Services
📅 1996 – 2001 (5 yrs)

BMO Harris Bank

Sr. Programmer / Consultant – EDI
📅 1996 – 1999 (3 yrs)

Unisys

Independent Consultant at BBL
📅 1994 – 1996 (2 yrs) | Brussels, Belgium

Tata Unisys

Software Engineer – Sr. Analyst
📅 1989 – 1994 (5 yrs)