Harry Brelsford and Ann Westerheim (https://www.linkedin.com/in/annwesterheim/) discuss their experiences at the Zero Trust World event in Orlando, highlighting the importance of community and networking in the tech industry. Ann, a veteran in the field, emphasizes the value of attending events to stay updated, meet new vendors, and strengthen partnerships. They touch on the stress and burnout in the tech sector, comparing it to high-stress military roles. Ann mentions her upcoming participation in the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) events in Chicago and San Diego, where she will discuss cybersecurity and receive an award for their new trust mark based on CIS controls.
Outline Meeting at Rosen Shingle Creek Harry Brelsford mentions being in Orlando at the Rosen Shingle Creek, expressing a sense of burnout from frequent visits.
Harry introduces Ann Westerheim, who confirms her name and mentions her company, Ikaru. Ann Westerheim shares her positive experience at the event, noting it as her third or fourth Zero Trust World. Ann discusses the importance of attending events to meet new vendors, strengthen existing partnerships, and stay updated on new technologies. The Importance of Community and Networking Harry and Ann discuss the value of attending events for social interaction, as Harry feels lonely working alone in Austin. Ann highlights the supportive nature of the tech community, sharing experiences of receiving helpful advice from strangers. Ann emphasizes the human aspect of tech, noting the sense of camaraderie and shared mission among professionals in the field. Harry and Ann share personal anecdotes about their locations, with Harry mentioning his family's history in Texas and Ann discussing her location in Westford, Massachusetts. State of the Union for the MSP Niche Harry and Ann discuss the unique nature of the MSP niche within the technology sector. Ann notes the openness and collaboration among MSP professionals, which is often praised by outsiders. Ann reflects on the rapid growth and changes in the industry, mentioning the impact of new technologies like AI. Harry and Ann discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-evolving tech landscape. Burnout and Stress in the Tech Industry Ann shares insights from a session on burnout in tech, highlighting the stress of dealing with client needs and security incidents. Ann compares the stress levels of tech professionals to those in high-stress military roles, such as working in a SOC (Security Operations Center). Harry and Ann discuss the importance of self-care and finding ways to manage stress in the tech industry. Ann emphasizes the need for resilience and support within the tech community to help each other through challenging times. Upcoming Industry Events Harry compliments Ann on her active presence on social media and asks about her upcoming industry events. Ann mentions her upcoming trip to Chicago for the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA), highlighting its importance as a community arm of CompTIA. Ann discusses her involvement in the cybersecurity advisory group and the recent award of the GTIA cybersecurity trust mark. Harry and Ann discuss the benefits of attending events like ChannelCon, which offers a traditional format with vendor booths and sessions. Final Thoughts and Farewell Harry and Ann discuss the location of upcoming events, with ChannelCon being held in San Diego. Harry expresses his appreciation for Ann's time and looks forward to seeing her at future events. Ann shares her excitement about attending ChannelCon and enjoying the location. The conversation concludes with mutual well-wishes and plans to meet again at future industry events.