Allison Ritz is an experienced leader in the technology sector, with a strong background supporting some of the world’s largest government contracting organizations. A certified APMP member, Allison is a recognized thought leader and frequent speaker at GovCon events, sharing insights on the power of strategic connections. Her passions lie in driving success by helping organizations realize the value of meaningful relationships. With a firm belief in the importance of planning, process, and thoughtful execution, Allison excels at making SaaS solutions personal, fostering long-lasting, profitable client relationships.
Free Virtual Event
Optimize24
A free virtual event tailored specifically for capture, proposal, contract, and business development professionals in the GovCon space. Hosted by VisibleThread, this one-day event is designed to provide the insights, strategies, and solutions you need to optimize your entire proposal process—from solicitation review to final submission.
Date & Time
December 10, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (ET)
Save the Date!
With over 2000 professionals expected to attend, this event is packed with expert-led workshops, engaging keynotes, dynamic panel discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. Gain practical knowledge on critical topics, including:
- Risk Management & Mitigation
- Compliance in GovCon Proposals
- Integrating AI into Proposal Writing
- Improving your Win Rate %
- Industry Trends & Innovations Shaping 2025
Register to Attend
What You’ll Get:
- Access from anywhere: Join virtually from any location.
- Free materials: All event recordings, slides, and bonus resources will be available to registrants after the event.
- Exclusive insights: Learn from GovCon experts and innovators, and stay ahead of the trends that will shape 2025.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with the best in the business.
Register now and get ready to Optimize your 2024 GovCon strategy.
Meet our incredible speakers
Fergal McGovern
CEO and Founder
VisibleThread
Fergal McGovern
CEO and Founder
VisibleThread
Fergal is the founder and CEO of VisibleThread. Works closely with our strategic accounts including 11 of the top 15 US government contractors. Fergal’s vision is all about building trust, engagement, and understanding through AI-powered solutions that streamline operations and foster collaboration.
Dolores Kuchina-Musina, Ph.D.
CEO/Founder
REXOTA Solutions
Dolores Kuchina-Musina, Ph.D.
CEO/Founder
REXOTA Solutions
Marcia Watson
President
BTW & Co
Marcia Watson
President
BTW & Co
I am a proven leader in the field of proposal operations. I formerly led the Proposal Operation Group of a large tribally-owned company, where I collaborated with executive stakeholders and business development teams to ensure pipeline opportunities reflected strategic growth objectives and incorporated strategies focused toward winning. During my tenure, the organization grew from $600M in contract wins to well over $2B in FY23.
Allison Ritz
Director of Product Marketing
VisibleThread
Allison Ritz
Director of Product Marketing
VisibleThread
Jeff Shapiro
Government Contracting Advisory and Regulatory Assurance Partner
CohnReznick LLP
Jeff Shapiro
Government Contracting Advisory and Regulatory Assurance Partner
CohnReznick LLP
Jeff is a Partner at CohnReznick, where he specializes in serving the Government Contracting industry, providing comprehensive contract audit and advisory services. With over 20 years of experience as a CPA and MBA, Jeff has a distinguished career in financial management, Federal Government contract auditing and compliance. His extensive background includes significant roles at a Big 5 firm, within the Federal Government, and across a diverse range of commercial enterprises. Jeff has expertise in performing financial statement audits, federal contract/systems audits, internal audits, and compliance audits on both domestic and international fronts.
Chloe Norwood
Field Marketing Specialist
VisibleThread
Chloe Norwood
Field Marketing Specialist
VisibleThread
As a dedicated and results-oriented Field Marketing Specialist with a passion for orchestrating impactful events, Chloe has skillfully managed a diverse range of events. Her approach involves meticulous planning, precise coordination of logistics, and a keen eye for creating an immersive event atmosphere for attendees. Chloe’s commitment to end-to-end management ensures that every detail, from collaborating with industry professionals to on-site operations ensures a seamless experience.
Erin Green
Capture Manager
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Erin Green
Capture Manager
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
As a successful Capture Manager at Amazon Web Services, Erin is responsible with identifying and pursuing opportunities for AWS to provide solutions to state and local governments. She ensures that AWS stays up to date with industry trends and technologies while building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders. Erin has been a Member Board of Director for three years where she dedicates her time to supporting APMP’s global expansion.
Karthik Koutharapu
Bid Management Leader & CTO Ambassador
Core42.ai & APMP HQ Board of Director
Karthik Koutharapu
Bid Management Leader & CTO Ambassador
Core42.ai & APMP HQ Board of Director
Steve Skeldon
Capture and Proposal Industry Leader | APMP International Board Director
Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc.
Steve Skeldon
Capture and Proposal Industry Leader | APMP International Board Director
Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc.
Michele (Sheli) Sandell, CLSSGB
Bid & Proposal Systems Executive
WickedPoint
Michele (Sheli) Sandell, CLSSGB
Bid & Proposal Systems Executive
WickedPoint
Kyle Peterson
Vice President of Account Strategy & Customer Success
VisibleThread
Kyle Peterson
Vice President of Account Strategy & Customer Success
VisibleThread
Kyle Peterson is a seasoned leader in Customer Success and Contracts Management. As Vice President of Account Strategy & Customer Success at VisibleThread, he drives initiatives to enhance RFP and contract clarity and compliance, ensuring maximum customer value. Previously, he managed $500M+ contracts at Sierra Nevada Corporation, ensuring FAR/DFARS compliance and leading key negotiations. With a strong background in operations and contracts analysis, Kyle excels at optimizing processes and delivering exceptional customer outcomes.
Natasha Adams, PMP, CKM, CLSSGB
Partner
WickedPoint
Natasha Adams, PMP, CKM, CLSSGB
Partner
WickedPoint
Micheál McGrath
VP of Marketing and Business Development
VisibleThread
Micheál McGrath
VP of Marketing and Business Development
VisibleThread
VP of Marketing & Business Development at VisibleThread, Micheál is a seasoned professional known for producing thought leadership communication events with organizations like Capital One, HSBC, Deloitte, McDonald’s, and IKEA. His frequent appearances at IABC events and as a Marketing Lecturer at MTU Cork demonstrate his dedication to inspiring and educating fellow marketers.
Agenda: Eastern Time (ET)
9:00 AM
Demystifying AI – Understanding how it impacts Capture and Proposal Development
“Generative AI is not a replacement for human creativity, but rather a tool that can augment and enhance it” – Sam Altman, CEO, OpenAI
Join us for an engaging discussion on AI & how it fits into Government Contracting. We’ll outline where AI applies in the Capture and Proposal development process & show how products (including VisibleThread) will evolve to automate many of these tasks using GenAI. We’ll cover the right and wrong use cases for GenAI, security & hallucinations, and what you need to know to use it well. This will be a practical, no-nonsense session, with lots of useful takeaways.
Fergal McGovern, CEO and Founder, VisibleThread
Steve Skeldon, Capture and Proposal Industry Leader, Chickasaw Nation
10:00 AM
How to Build Responsible Generative AI Solutions at Scale
In an era where generative AI is not just a buzzword but a transformative force, the keynote “How to Build Responsible Generative AI Solutions at Scale” aims to illuminate the path forward for leaders and innovators in technology. AI Executive and Microsoft MVP, Noelle Russell, drawing from extensive experience at Microsoft, IBM, AWS, and beyond, unfolds a visionary yet pragmatic approach to responsible AI development.
Noelle Russell, Chief AI Officer and Microsoft MVP in AI
11:00 AM
VisibleThread’s Secure AI Launch
This talk is your exclusive opportunity to get a first look at the cutting-edge AI feature set integrated into our products.
Our team is committed to pushing the boundaries of what AI can do while prioritizing your security. During this event, we will not only showcase the new AI capabilities but also provide insights into our upcoming roadmap for even more enhancements in both VT Writer and VT Docs.
At VisibleThread, we understand that harnessing the power of AI should never come at the expense of security. Therefore, we will share our rigorous approach to incorporating GenAI into our products, ensuring that your data remains protected and your information confidential.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness the future of AI-powered content analysis and creation, all within a secure and trusted environment.
Fergal McGovern, CEO and Founder, VisibleThread
Eoin Wren, VP of Engineering, VisibleThread
11:50 AM
Unlocking AI Opportunities: Small Businesses Thriving in Government Contracting
Join us as we delve into the world of government contracting with Neil McDonnell, the visionary Founder and President of the GovCon Chamber of Commerce, who boasts over two decades of expertise in this field. Neil has successfully secured government contracts from various agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, HHS, VA, Transportation, Interior, Energy, and the Executive Office of the White House.
In this captivating talk, Neil will unveil the tremendous potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for small businesses navigating the intricate landscape of government contracting. With AI rapidly transforming business operations and interactions with government agencies, Neil will share invaluable insights into how small enterprises can harness AI-driven solutions to not only survive but thrive in this highly competitive arena.
Discover a wealth of strategies and best practices that can empower your small business to fully embrace AI while ensuring compliance and success in government contracting. Neil McDonnell’s extensive expertise and track record make this session a must-attend for small business owners and professionals eager to unlock new opportunities and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
Neil McDonnell, Founder and CEO, GovCon Chamber of Commerce
12:40 PM
Incorporating AI into your Shipley Process
Join us for a game-changing session featuring two dynamic experts in business development and proposal management: Amy McGeady, Senior VP of Strategic Services, and Marty Humm, VP of Innovation, both from Shipley Associates. They will guide you through the transformative journey of integrating AI into your Shipley Process.
Amy McGeady, with over 15 years of experience in business development, strategy, market positioning, and proposal management, brings valuable insights to the table. Her expertise is certified as an APMP Professional, and she’ll show you practical ways AI can enhance your Shipley Process for better business outcomes.
Marty Humm is revolutionizing proposal development by exploring innovative techniques and approaches, including virtual proposal centers and generative AI. Join him on this thrilling journey into the future of proposal management.
Discover how AI can optimize your business development and proposal management efforts, propelling your organization into the new era of contract success. This session promises to be an eye-opener for professionals eager to stay ahead in the industry’s evolution.
VisibleThread is committed to pushing AI boundaries while ensuring security. We’ll showcase new AI capabilities and provide insights into our roadmap for further enhancements in VT Writer and VT Docs. Rest assured, our approach to incorporating GenAI into our products prioritizes data protection and confidentiality.
Don’t miss out on witnessing the future of AI-powered content analysis and creation within a secure and trusted environment.
Marty Humm, VP of Innovation, Shipley Associates
Amy McGeady, SVP of Strategic Services, Shipley Associates
1:30 PM
Making a Business Case for AI Technology
Join us for an enlightening session led by Elif Acar-Chiasson, an esteemed executive with a deep passion for innovation, talent development, and fostering growth through technology. As the Executive Vice President of Talent & Innovation at CSRS, Elif brings a wealth of experience in corporate strategy, management, and operations to the table.
Elif is committed to driving digital transformation and tackling complex challenges head-on, all while nurturing a culture of innovation and continuous learning within her organization. She understands the pivotal role that AI technology plays in today’s business landscape and believes in empowering employees at all levels to seek and create knowledge for enhanced effectiveness and competitive advantage.
In this engaging talk, Elif will share invaluable insights on how to make a compelling business case for AI technology adoption. Discover the strategies and approaches that can help your organization harness the transformative potential of AI, whether it’s in improving operational efficiency, enhancing customer experiences, or staying ahead of industry trends.
Drawing from her expertise and previous keynote presentations, Elif Acar-Chiasson will provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to navigate the evolving landscape of AI technology and make informed decisions that drive your business forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a seasoned executive and take your organization’s technology strategy to new heights. Join us for “Making a Business Case for AI Technology.”
Elif Acar-Chiasson, Executive VP, Talent and Innovation, CSRS
2:20 PM
Women in Tech: Connecting, Innovating, and Empowering with AI
Join us for an engaging roundtable discussion hosted by a Women Networking with Women board member, an organization dedicated to achieving the highest standards for women-based professional groups and providing exceptional resources and global networking opportunities for professional women.
In this inspiring session, we bring together top professionals who have excelled in the fields of proposal management and government contracting. These women have not only broken through the barriers in the tech industry but have also harnessed the power of AI to drive innovation, foster connections, and empower others.
Explore their experiences, challenges, and triumphs as they share their unique journeys in the tech world, emphasizing the role of AI in their careers. Discover how these women have utilized AI to make significant impacts in proposal management and government contracting, whether it’s in streamlining processes, enhancing decision-making, or fostering collaboration.
This roundtable discussion is a platform for meaningful conversations about the intersection of technology, gender diversity, and empowerment. Join us for “Women in Tech: Connecting, Innovating, and Empowering with AI” and be inspired by the stories and insights of these exceptional women who are making a difference in the world of tech..
Laura Harte, Senior Proposal Manager, Leidos
Erin Reddick, Founder, ChatBlackGPT
Lisa Stanley, Project Manager, Aptive Resources
Jocelynn Hartwig, Lead Consultant, Excella
3:10 PM
Level Up by Leveraging AI
Join us for an insightful session hosted by Uniqueka Walcott, a seasoned communication professional with a passion for storytelling and a track record of successfully leading proposals ranging from tens of thousands to billions of dollars for federal, state, international, and municipal clients. Uniqueka’s diverse experience and extensive involvement in AI-related discussions make her the ideal guide in exploring the critical topic of gaining buy-in for AI.
Artificial Intelligence is poised to revolutionize the way we engage with clients, manage employees, and drive innovation. In this session, Uniqueka will draw from her rich background as a member of AECOM’s AI Task Force and her extensive experience as a moderator and speaker in various AI-related forums. Her insights will provide you with practical strategies and techniques to navigate the adoption of AI within your organization, all while ensuring that your job remains secure.
Explore the evolving landscape of AI, learn how to communicate its benefits effectively, and gain the confidence to champion AI initiatives within your workplace. Uniqueka’s curiosity about the future of work, as demonstrated through her Career Conversations podcast, where she interviewed experts across diverse professions, including AI and machine learning, positions her as an authority on the subject.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join Uniqueka Walcott and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully advocate for AI. “Level Up by Leveraging AI” is a must-attend session for professionals looking to harness the potential of AI while securing their place in the workforce of tomorrow.
Uniqueka Walcott, Proposal Manager and Writer, AECOM
3:45 PM
Empowering Leadership with AI: An Expert Roundtable Discussion
Following an enlightening session with Uniqueka Walcott on “Level Up by Leveraging AI” we invite you to join a thought-provoking roundtable discussion featuring Uniqueka herself and Amanda Haven, Founder of Illuminate Marketing Collective. This is a unique opportunity to engage with two industry experts and gain valuable insights into the world of AI adoption in your career.
Amanda Haven, with her extensive expertise in proposal management, strategic planning, proposal writing, and presentation development, has made a significant impact in her field. Her speaking engagements at prestigious events, including APMP, SPMJ, and PSMJ Resources, reflect her deep knowledge and experience in the industry.
During this roundtable discussion, you’ll have the chance to ask questions, share experiences, and delve deeper into the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating AI into your professional journey. Uniqueka and Amanda will provide guidance on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of AI, offer practical advice on incorporating AI into your work, and address any concerns you may have about the impact on your career.
Whether you are a seasoned professional looking to adapt to the AI-driven future or a newcomer eager to explore AI’s potential, this roundtable is the perfect forum to exchange ideas and gain valuable insights. Join us for an interactive and informative session that promises to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace AI while advancing your career.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage with two experts who have successfully integrated AI into their respective fields. Register now for the “Roundtable Discussion: Navigating AI Adoption in Your Career” and be part of this insightful conversation shaping the future of work.
Amanda Haven, Founder, Illuminate Marketing Collective
Uniqueka Walcott, Proposal Manager and Writer, AECOM
4:30 PM
AI Roundtable: APMP Leaders sharing Insight into Key Considerations
Concluding our eventful day, join us for an engaging and insightful AI Roundtable discussion featuring esteemed leaders from various APMP chapters. This session offers a remarkable opportunity to engage with experienced professionals and gain valuable insights into the key considerations surrounding Artificial Intelligence in the field of proposal management.
Our panel of APMP leaders brings a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives to the table, ensuring a well-rounded discussion that covers a broad spectrum of AI-related topics. Whether you are a seasoned APMP member or new to the field, this roundtable provides a platform to ask questions, share experiences, and deepen your understanding of how AI is transforming proposal management.
Expect to hear about the latest trends, best practices, and real-world challenges faced by professionals across different APMP chapters. The collective wisdom of these leaders will provide you with valuable takeaways and actionable advice to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in the context of proposal management.
Whether you have questions about AI tools, data security, ethical considerations, or simply want to explore how AI can enhance your proposal management efforts, this roundtable is the ideal forum for open and informative discussions.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with APMP leaders, gain insights, and be part of a dynamic conversation that is shaping the future of proposal management. Join us for the “AI Roundtable: APMP Leaders Sharing Insights into Key Considerations” and wrap up the day with valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.
Steve Skeldon, Capture & Proposal Industry Leader, Chickasaw Nation
Karthik Koutharapu, APMP International Board of Director
Sarah Miranda, Proposal and Capture at ACT1 Federal
Erin Green, Capture Manager at Amazon Web Services
5:00 PM
Close
“All the presenters were excellent and the topics covered were pertinent and informative. I appreciated the format.”
“I’ve been to Coachella, and I’ve been to the Visible Thread Summit. I can confirm… the hype is real. The Coachella of bid and proposal conferences!”
“The VT summit has been very eye opening and enlightening. It’s been great to hear how other visible thread users are using the technology. I definitely see value in attending.”
