2026 Q2 Tech Talent Collaborative

The Tech Talent Collaborative is a business-led partnership designed to facilitate peer exchanges among employers in the Digital Tech Sector. 2026 marks 4th year, co-chairs Ashlye Hernandez & Ramona Jackson. Quarterly Meetings on Wednesdays 4-5 Business Meeting 5-6 Networking: MARCH 4, MAY 27, AUG 26, OCT 21.

The group identified key priorities going forward: strengthening a coordinated effort to deepen educational partnerships, spotlighting homegrown success to attract high-caliber talent and investment, and building resilient talent pipelines. 

May 27 Speakers:

• Toni Pence, UNCW, Computer Science Department Chair, Associate Professor
  • ​Holds degrees from Clemson University and Winthrop University
  • Dedicated educator whose teaching centers on computer science, with emphasis on data structures, VR, and human-computer interaction
  • The Computer Science Department offers undergraduate programs in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, IT, Digital Arts, Intelligent Systems Engineering and Software Engineering
  • Graduate Programs in Computer Science & IS and Data Science & AI

• Geoff Stoker, UNCW, Associate Professor in the Cameron School of Business
  • Holds CS degrees from University of Maryland, University of Virginia, and West Point
  • Worked at CYR3CON, an AI-driven cybersecurity startup and served over 24 years in the US Army UNCW currently offers two programs of study validated under this program (BS in Information Technology with Cybersecurity Concentration and BS in Cybersecurity), as well as additional programs supported by affiliated faculty (e.g., Cybersecurity Minor, MBA with Cybersecurity Specialization, etc.).

• Sam McLeod, CFCC, Workforce Training Director
  • ​CFCC's Economic and Workforce Development division provides short-term job training and apprenticeship opportunities that prepare students for in-demand careers within various industries.
     

• Melissa Watson, CFCC 
  • Wilmington native who has worked at CFCC in IT education since 1999
  • Department Chair for Business, IT, and Public Service
  • Teaches IT courses and enjoys collaborating with local economic partners to provide great IT workers for the area