Cyber-Tech Advisory Council Meeting

The Cyber-Tech Advisory Council is dedicated to spreading awareness on the future of technology and cybersecurity in our community. This council aims to foster a robust and secure digital environment for businesses, organizations, and individuals by collaborating with elected officials, community leaders, Chamber Members, technology experts, and relevant stakeholders. 

Areas of Focus: 

• Artificial Intelligence: The council will identify issues relating to the adoption, implementation, and governance of AI in the business environment. This will include advocacy and addressing concerns relating to AI. 
• Cybersecurity and Data Protection: The council will focus on advocating for strong cybersecurity practices to safeguard businesses and individuals from cyber threats, data breaches, and digital attacks. This includes promoting best practices for data protection, secure networks, and raising awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. 
• Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity: The council will work towards improving and expanding digital infrastructure and connectivity within the region. This involves advocating for high-speed internet access, reliable telecommunications, and supporting the development of smart cities and connected technologies. 
• Technology Innovation and Adoption: Encouraging technology innovation and adoption will be a key area of focus. The council will strive to foster an environment that promotes technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies, benefiting businesses and the region. 
• Digital Skills and Workforce Development: To address the evolving technological landscape, the council will advocate for initiatives that promote digital skills training, upskilling, and workforce development. This includes supporting programs that bridge the digital skills gap and prepare the workforce for tech-related opportunities. 
• Digital Privacy and Ethics: The council will advocate for policies that uphold digital privacy rights and ethical considerations in the use of technology. This includes addressing concerns related to data privacy, user consent, and ensuring ethical practices in the development and deployment of technology solutions. 

Role and Responsibilities: 

Members of the Cyber-Tech Advisory Council will serve as strategic advisors, providing expertise and insights on technology-related matters. Through collaborative discussions and information-sharing, they will contribute to the Chamber's official stance on technology policies and digital initiatives. 

Advocacy and Collaboration: 

The council will actively engage with local, regional, and national stakeholders, including government agencies, tech industry leaders, academia, and community organizations. By forming strong partnerships and alliances, the council will advocate for technology-friendly policies, foster innovation, and promote responsible technology use and governance. 

All Chamber Members and their employees are invited to join the meetings and participate in the discussion.

For more information about getting involved with the Cyber-Tech Advisory Council, contact Alyssa Toupal

Registration is required.
Don't know your member login? Contact Hannah

All Chamber Members and their employees are invited to join the meetings and participate in the discussion.

Join Us on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 for our next meeting!
Topic: The Race to AI Fluency: Leadership, Cyber Risk, and the Governance Gap
Speaker: Holly Smithson, President & CEO, Athena

Key Areas for the Topic:

• AI is not a technology race. It is a leadership and risk management race.
• The AI governance ga is the next major enterprise vulnerability.
• Every AI deployment expands the attack surface.
• Competitive advantage will go to organizations that build AI-literate, cyber-aware cultures.

As CEO of Athena, Holly leads efforts to accelerate women and cultivate allies through leadership development, workforce upskilling, and trusted peer exchange. Rooted in one of the nation’s most competitive STEM markets in California, Athena now extends its impact globally, supporting 50 corporate partners representing 1.5M employees and a member network spanning 170+ countries. 

Holly's career spans transformative roles, including leading the launch, merger, and financial turnaround of three mission-driven organizations in cleantech, biotech, and STEM. Previously, Holly served as a Presidential Appointee in President George W. Bush's administration, advancing critical legislative initiatives at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and State Department. She was also a delegate in California Governor Jerry Brown's Cleantech Trade Mission to China.

Her exceptional leadership has earned widespread recognition. Holly delivered the acclaimed TEDx San Diego Talk, "Uncaging the Confidence Within," where she explored the mindset shifts that fuel personal transformation and courageous leadership. She was inducted into the San Diego Women's Hall of Fame in 2023 and named among San Diego's Top 500 Most Influential Leaders from 2018-2024. Additionally, she's been honored as CEO of the Year and Businesswoman of the Year. 

Smithson began her career in broadcast journalism as a News Director and Anchor for television and all-talk radio stations. She is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Executive Leadership Program and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in broadcast communications from East Carolina University.