About CATA

Empowering Innovation and Collaboration in the Tech Community

Our Mission

CATA exists to support the advancement of the arts and sciences of telecommunications and information technology fields; promote the professional improvement of its members; and disseminate knowledge of these fields to vendors, users, educators, and the general public.

CATA: Leading the Tech Conversation in Eastern New York and Western New England

Since its inception in 1988 by a visionary group of IT professionals, the Capital Area Technology Association (CATA) has established itself as the premier information technology association in eastern New York and western New England. With a core purpose of sharing knowledge in the IT and telecom sectors, CATA has been a catalyst for innovation and understanding in the ever-evolving world of technology.

Today, our association boasts a diverse membership of over 600 individuals and organizations, encompassing user groups, vendors, consultants, students, and some of the leading technology companies, state agencies, and universities in the Capital Region.

Our monthly meetings, held from September through June, are the cornerstone of our community engagement. These gatherings provide a platform for members to connect, learn, and grow. Each meeting is an opportunity to delve into the latest technological advancements, exchange ideas, and forge new business relationships.

Emphasizing the importance of networking and socializing in our industry, we host a variety of events, ranging from daytime informative sessions to after-hours mixers. Special events like the much-anticipated annual golf tournament in June offer unique networking experiences in more relaxed settings.

At CATA, we're more than just an association; we're a community dedicated to advancing the understanding of technology and its applications. Join us in shaping the future of tech in our region.

Board of Directors

  • President - Eric Pankonin, Converge IP

    The President plays a crucial role in guiding the organization towards achieving its goals and objectives. They preside over all meetings of the Board of Directors and the Association, ensuring that the meetings are conducted efficiently and effectively. As the official spokesperson for CATA, the President represents the Association in various capacities and communicates with external stakeholders, including vendors, users, educators, and the public. They work closely with the Treasurer to ensure the Association's financial health and oversee the budget and investments. Additionally, the President appoints committee chairs, sets their objectives, and ensures their successful operation.

  • Vice President - Joel Conklin, Fortinet

    The Vice President supports the President in their duties and acts as the Chairperson of the Activities Committee. During the President's absence or disability, the Vice President assumes all powers and responsibilities of the President. The Vice President is responsible for providing the Board with a comprehensive calendar of events for all Association meetings, ensuring that the meeting schedule is well-planned and organized. They also actively solicit sponsorships from Vendor Members for meetings and special events, fostering strong relationships with industry partners to support CATA's initiatives.

  • Treasurer - Sean Silvernail, Guilderland Public Library

    The Treasurer holds a vital position in CATA, managing all financial matters of the Association. They have custody of all CATA funds and promptly deposit them into appropriate accounts. Working closely with the President, the Treasurer helps establish and submit budgets for the Association and its committees. They are responsible for making authorized payments and maintaining detailed records of all financial transactions. The Treasurer presents financial reports to the Board of Directors quarterly and provides an annual report to the entire Association. Additionally, they oversee the annual audit and ensure the Association's financial records are accurate and well-maintained.

  • Secretary - Joe Piperata, Cisco Systems

    As the Secretary, this individual is responsible for recording, distributing, and preserving accurate minutes of Board and Association meetings. They maintain records, books, and other relevant documents, ensuring easy access for reference. Serving as a parliamentarian and historian, the Secretary ensures adherence to Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised during meetings and provides essential historical context to the Association's decisions and actions. Additionally, the Secretary manages communications received and sent on behalf of the Association, safeguarding all records and delivering them to their successor at the end of their term.

  • Membership Chair - John Flory, Harborshield Cybersecurity

    The Membership Chair plays a pivotal role in overseeing all membership-related matters within CATA. They are responsible for promoting and maintaining membership in the Association, reaching out to potential individual, organizational, and business members who align with CATA's mission and objectives. The Membership Chair ensures that membership applications are processed efficiently and that all members receive the benefits and privileges associated with their classification. They work to grow the Association's membership base and enhance member engagement and satisfaction.

  • Vendor Chair - Angelo Santabarbara, Siena College

    The Vendor Chair is responsible for managing matters related to Vendor Members within CATA. They facilitate communication and collaboration between the Association and Vendor Members, ensuring that the needs and interests of Vendor Members are well-represented. The Vendor Chair works to enhance the relationship between CATA and its Vendor Members, encouraging active participation and sponsorship in meetings and events. They also oversee the listing of Vendor Members on the CATA website and manage the inclusion of sponsorships and vendor-related content.

  • Program Chair - Kristen Koenig, Harbor Networks

    The Program Chair takes charge of planning and organizing educational programs and events for CATA. They are responsible for developing a diverse and engaging program of activities that align with the Association's mission and objectives. The Program Chair coordinates with various stakeholders, including speakers, trainers, and subject matter experts, to deliver valuable content to the members. They also work closely with other committee chairs and the Board of Directors to ensure a well-rounded program that caters to the professional improvement of CATA's members.

  • Sponsorship Chair - Garbiel Benitez, Schenectady County

    The Sponsorship Chair oversees the process of soliciting sponsorships for CATA's meetings and special events. They actively reach out to potential sponsors, including vendors and other organizations, and communicate the benefits of sponsorship. The Sponsorship Chair works closely with the Treasurer to ensure that sponsorship funds are collected and managed appropriately. Their efforts help secure financial support for the Association's activities, contributing to its successful functioning and the delivery of valuable services to the membership.

  • Social Media Chair - Juliana Pirri, Harborshield Cybersecurity

    The Social Media Chair plays a crucial role in managing CATA's social media presence. They are responsible for creating and curating engaging content for various social media platforms to promote the Association's activities, events, and achievements. The Social Media Chair uses social media as a powerful tool to increase awareness of CATA, engage with members and the broader community, and facilitate communication and interaction among stakeholders. Their efforts contribute to enhancing CATA's brand and reputation in the technology community.

  • Website Chair - Justin Boynton, Just IT Solutions

    The Website Chair takes charge of overseeing the Association's website and ensuring that it remains up-to-date and user-friendly. They manage website content, making necessary updates, additions, and changes to reflect the latest information and events. The Website Chair works closely with other committee chairs to ensure that relevant content, such as meeting schedules, sponsorships, and job openings, is accurately represented on the website. They also collaborate with the Webmaster to maintain the website's functionality and appearance.

  • Past President (2021-2023) - Michael Sweeney, University at Albany

    The Past President serves as a voting member of the Board of Directors and provides continuity from the previous term. They offer insights and institutional knowledge gained from their previous role as President, contributing to the smooth functioning and stability of the Association. The Past President may be consulted by the current President and the Board on matters related to Association governance and strategic direction.

  • Past President (2018-2021) - Tim Hurley, Stark Tech

    The Past President serves as a voting member of the Board of Directors and provides continuity from the previous term. They offer insights and institutional knowledge gained from their previous role as President, contributing to the smooth functioning and stability of the Association. The Past President may be consulted by the current President and the Board on matters related to Association governance and strategic direction.

  • At Large Member - C. J. Day, Crown Castle

    The At Large Members serve as additional Directors who bring valuable expertise and perspectives to the Board. They may be assigned specific responsibilities or tasks by the Board of Directors to address the Association's needs effectively. The At Large Members actively participate in Board meetings and decision-making processes, contributing to the overall success of CATA's endeavors.

  • At Large Member - Ethan Coppenrath, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

    The At Large Members serve as additional Directors who bring valuable expertise and perspectives to the Board. They may be assigned specific responsibilities or tasks by the Board of Directors to address the Association's needs effectively. The At Large Members actively participate in Board meetings and decision-making processes, contributing to the overall success of CATA's endeavors.

  • More Past Presidents

    (Not a Board Position)

    2016-2018 Mike Mahar
    2014-2015 Frank Yuan
    2012-2014 John Keimer
    2008-2012 Jim Mahar
    2006-2008 Joel Conklin
    2004-2006 Mike Mahar
    2002-2004 Eric Pankonin

  • Even More Past Presidents

    (Not a Board Position)

    2000-2002 Alan Rosenberg
    1998-2000 Peter Gray
    1996-1998 Chris Randolph
    1992-1996 Sally McKnight
    1990-1992 Gary Pelton
    1988-1990 Helen O’Connor

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