In this practical and forward-looking session, three certified WBEs share insights on how women-owned businesses can use AI as a strategic asset, not a risk. We’ll explore best practices in AI adoption, how AI is changing recruitment, how to navigate the cybersecurity implications, and why responsible adoption can position your business to win more contracts and RFPs.
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how to assess AI readiness in your organization, reduce security risks, and show up with confidence on procurement lists and vendor evaluations.
This session will help you:
2025 WBE Canada Leadership Award-winning Founder and CEO Nancy De Santis (She/Her/Hers) leads Expertis Solutions Inc., a proudly Canadian, 100% certified women-owned business recognized by WBE Canada and CQCC. Expertis delivers IT and Engineering talent solutions across Canada and the United States. With over 20 years of experience in technology recruitment and HR management, Nancy builds diverse, high-performing teams while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion across tech and engineering ecosystems. She is a role model, mentor and ambassador for women in technology, actively engaged with Queer Tech, the Global STEM Women Congress, RFAQ and YES Montreal.
Her motto? We make IT happen!
Eden Spodek is the founder and CEO of Spodek & Co., a digital marketing and communications consultancy, and a certified leadership and executive coach. With over 30 years of experience helping businesses grow, Eden blends strategic insight with a people-first approach. She co-developed the University of Toronto’s Digital Strategy and Communications Management certificate program and serves on one of Humber Polytechnic’s Program Advisory Councils.
A WBE Canada-certified supplier, Eden is dedicated to empowering women business owners to share their expertise and grow their influence through purposeful thought leadership.
Rachel Clark is a technology innovator with over 35 years of experience in the technology and Information Security (Infosec) fields. Rachel began her career in the military, serving in the United States Marine Corps, and the United States Navy, where she was an electrical engineer and engineered Inertial Navigation Equipment on Trident C-5 Ballistic Missile Submarines.
She attended Morrisville State College, where she received a degree in Journalism, attended Syracuse University and New York University for Information Management and has a Master’s Degree (High Distinction) from the University of Toronto. Rachel has held several executive positions, most notably at Universal Music Group, where she headed the technology practice, as well as American Airlines, Hyundai Automotive, TD Bank Group, and State Street where she was a Vice President of IT Security.
She has several patents in process for advanced analytics, novel processes for risk scoring in the cyber threat space, and mathematical ranking algorithms. She is a sought-after public speaker on STEM, cybersecurity and anti-fraud, as well as Diversity and Inclusion, where she shares her expertise in these areas.
