Debate: Do You Need Technical Expertise to Lead in the Security Industry?
Speakers
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Sarah CasswaySystems Engineer
M.C. DeanSarah Cassway is a systems engineer with M.C. Dean’s Security & Electronic Systems business unit, where she leads research and development on applying artificial intelligence to transform security operations centers. Since joining M.C. Dean in 2021, she has advanced from operations analyst to systems engineer, supporting enterprise-scale security systems and delivering solutions that improve performance through data, design and training.
Cassway now leads a startup-style team building an innovative AI product for security operations. Her team prototypes, tests and refines capabilities in close partnership with customers, using an iterative approach that ensures technical innovation translates into measurable operational impact.
In addition to her engineering work, Cassway has strengthened pathways for women in engineering and technology through her leadership in the Women at M.C. Dean affinity group. She is recognized for her creativity, collaborative leadership and commitment to advancing the security industry.
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James MarcellaDirector of Industry Associations
Axis CommunicationsJames Marcella is the director of industry associations for Axis Communications, where he is responsible for driving thought leadership, education, standards development, and legislative advocacy through the company’s association partnerships across North America.
Marcella currently serves on the Board of Directors, the Veterans in Security Advisory Board and the Endowment Committee at the Security Industry Association, holds the position of community vice president at ASIS International and serves as co-chair of the Government Relations Committee for The Monitoring Association. Through these leadership roles, he works to shape industry standards, advocate for favorable legislation, and promote professional development across the security sector.
Marcella joined Axis Communications in 1997 as a business development manager for the North American Application Developer Partner program, where he was responsible for identifying best-of-breed software developers to create applications for Axis’s network video products. Throughout his tenure, he has overseen business development in the K-12 and higher education markets and has been involved with the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools since its inception. From 2009 to 2013, he managed the educational services department and played a key role in developing the Axis Academy educational program, which continues to serve the industry today.
Prior to his career in the security industry, Marcella served in the U.S. Navy Reserve as a Corpsman assigned to the U.S. Marine Corps for 10 years, bringing a unique perspective on security and service to his professional endeavors.
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Derek MartinezGlobal Enterprise Account Executive
Konica Minolta Business Solutions USADerek Martinez is a distinguished technology executive and recognized public figure at the intersection of artificial intelligence, digital transformation and human–technology convergence. He specializes in artificial intelligence computer vision and the Imaging Internet of Things, helping leaders reimagine how data, machines and people work together in complex environments.
Martinez serves as an advisor for the Forbes and Harvard Business Review magazines, with affiliations spanning NIST Cybersecurity Education, World Economic Forum Digital Transformation, NASA AI/Machine Learning and the Oxford University AI Society.
