On Tuesday, August 25, Montgomery TechLab hosted the 2026 DAFITC Executive Leadership Luncheon at the Ravello Ballroom in Montgomery, bringing together leaders from across technology, government, academia, industry, and the community for meaningful conversation, connection, and collaboration.
This year’s theme, CONVERGE: Where Mission, Innovation, and Community Meet, was reflected throughout the experience. As emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and evolving workforce needs continue to transform how organizations operate, the luncheon highlighted the importance of bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives to address the opportunities and challenges shaping what comes next.
A Conversation on Leadership & Innovation
The luncheon featured a distinguished panel of leaders offering perspectives from technology, government, national security, higher education, and industry lead by Ms Ashley Devoto, the US Air and Space Force Chief Information Officer.
The conversation was moderated by Dr. Dionne Rosser-Mims, Vice Chancellor of Troy University Montgomery, and featured:
- Jennifer Chronis, Vice President of U.S. Public Sector Sales, Snowflake
- Charleen Laughlin, Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Cyber and Data, U.S. Space Force
- Kendra Charbonneau,VP of Business Development and Growth with Dine Development Corporation
- CMSgt Diane Schaefer, Senior Enlisted Leader for the Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Warfighter Communications and Cyber Systems
Together, the panelists shared insights on leadership, innovation, emerging technologies, and the importance of collaboration as organizations navigate continued change.
Partnership That Makes an Impact
The 2026 DAFITC Executive Leadership Luncheon was hosted by Montgomery TechLab in partnership with Troy University Montgomery, Snowflake, and Dine Development Corporation.
Montgomery TechLab extends its sincere appreciation to our sponsors and partners for making this gathering possible, as well as to our moderator and panelists for sharing their time, expertise, and perspectives.
Thank you to every attendee who joined us and contributed to the connections and conversations that made the luncheon meaningful.
The Executive Leadership Luncheon continues to serve as a platform for strengthening relationships, advancing collaboration, and bringing leaders together around opportunities that support innovation and economic growth throughout Montgomery and beyond.
Together, we lead forward.
Photo Recap
