Acxiom & Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas join as sponsors of 2023 Forge Cyber Summit

Paul Montrose, Deputy Chief Information Security Officer at Acxiom to Moderate Panel Discussion on Supply Chain Security 

Paul Montrose, Deputy CISO, Acxiom

Forge Institute announces Acxiom has joined as a Presenting Sponsor of the highly anticipated Forge Cyber Summit 2023, scheduled to take place Oct 4-5 in Little Rock. A global leader in data-driven marketing solutions, Acxiom’s continued commitment to cybersecurity excellence resonates with the Summit’s mission to foster innovation, collaboration, and advancements in the digital security landscape.

At the heart of this partnership is the participation of Paul Montrose, Deputy Chief Information Security Officer at Acxiom, who will be leading a captivating panel discussion during the event on risks to and best practices to secure our nation's supply chain. Montrose brings over 20 years of IT Security experience aligning security strategies to organizations’ direction, while maintaining the balance between risk mitigation and adding value to the business. As a seasoned expert in information security, Montrose’s insights will undoubtedly shape conversations on critical cybersecurity topics, further amplifying the Summit’s impact.

"“It is a privilege to participate in the Forge Cyber Summit, an annual event that tackles the most pressing challenges facing the cybersecurity domain. This year, I’m honored to lead a panel of esteemed national experts who will explore the critical matter of securing the supply chain.

Acxiom and the Forge Institute have partnered for years, collaborating not just on cybersecurity innovation but on workforce development, veteran support, and research as well. Together, we are committed to shaping cybersecurity’s future through proactive solutions and knowledge sharing.” – Paul Montrose, Deputy CISO, Acxiom

The Forge Cyber Summit, slated for October 4th and 5th, will gather industry leaders, experts, and practitioners to explore the forefront of cybersecurity challenges, strategies, and innovations. The event will delve into diverse topics such as supply chain security, emerging threats, data protection, workforce development and much more. With Acxiom’s integral involvement, the Summit promises to foster a dynamic environment that propels the cybersecurity field forward.

The Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation has also renewed their commitment to this state-wide event. 

“I'm thrilled to confirm our continued commitment to sponsor the upcoming Arkansas Cyber Summit powered by Forge Institute. Our continued partnership solidifies both of our organizations’ commitment to securing the nation’s most critical infrastructure against threats from across the globe. This summit provides a unique platform to delve into crucial subjects, from statewide cyber initiatives to the far-reaching effects of global events on our national security.” - Phil  Clark, Director - Corporate Security - Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation

Both Phil Clark and Paul Montrose also serve on the Forge Institute Board of Advisors. 

The Forge Cyber Summit 2023 proudly presents an impressive lineup of sponsors, each playing a pivotal role in shaping this year's event. With Fortinet leading as our Keynote Sponsor, and Acxiom and BreachBits, Inc. as the Presenting Sponsors, the foundation for insightful discussions and groundbreaking innovation is set. We extend our gratitude to Supporting Sponsor Optiv for their valuable contribution. Breakfast Sponsors Gentry Professional Services and GuidePoint will ensure energizing starts to each day, while Champion Sponsors Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance, Check Point Software Technologies,  AR APEX Accelerator, and Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas strengthen the Summit's impact. Together, these sponsors forge the path to an exceptional cybersecurity experience.

Registration for the Forge Cyber Summit closes September 22. Secure your spot and experience the unique blend of cybersecurity content and the natural state by visiting https://www.forge.institute/summit. All attendees must be U.S. Citizens. 

For sponsorship opportunities and further inquiries, please contact summit@forge.institute.

Key Facts

• The 2023 Forge Cyber Summit will take place October 4th-5th, in Little Rock, AR.

• Keynote Speakers include the following: Dane Eglin, PhD (Former Director for Counterterrorism & Global Counternarcotics, National Security Council), Scott Shyne (Chief of the Information Warfare Division, Air Force Research Laboratory), Jim Richberg (VP Information Security and Field CISO, Fortinet), Zachary Tudor (Associate Laboratory Director, National & Homeland Security, Idaho National Laboratory) and Tere Brun (retired Chief Compliance and Customer Advocacy Officer at FIS).

• Sponsors of the Summit include Fortinet, Acxiom, Optiv, Breach Bits, Gentry Professional Services, GuidePoint, Check Point Software Technologies, Arkansas Aerospace and Defense Alliance, the Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation, and AR APEX Accelerator.

• Registration to attend the Summit is open, visit www.forge.institute/summit for more information.