This year's honorees were nominated by their peers for their exceptional contributions across four key areas: thought leadership, industry impact, knowledge sharing, professional achievements, and leadership impact. These trailblazers drive meaningful change, share valuable insights, and set new standards for service excellence.
If you haven't already, now's the perfect opportunity to connect with these remarkable thought leaders and explore their work. Join us in recognizing their achievements and congratulating them on this well-earned honor!
Alan Nance
"Alan has almost single-handedly led the charge toward XLAs in the USA. His long history with ITIL/ITSM and now XLA/ITXM is awe-inspiring and has helped shape our industry for literally decades. He is more than willing to share his extensive knowledge with others and is now the Global Experience Leader for the XLA Institute. In this capacity, he has been directly involved in the launch of the Institute in Amsterdam, London, Brazil, and now the USA."
Follow Alan on LinkedIn | Visit Alan's Website | Read Alan's Newsletter
Angee Phong
"A consistent voice in the industry, Angee is actively involved on LinkedIn and in HDI community efforts, including Service Management World, where she brought her expertise to a very engaging panel session on common industry myths. She's doing the work daily and giving back by sharing what she's learned! She's prioritized team education and is a shining example of a
growth mindset."
Follow Angee on LinkedIn | Attend Angee's SupportWorld Live Session
Anthony Orr
"Anthony is a recognized thought leader and transformational executive with a proven track record of bridging technology and business to deliver impactful IT strategies and drive digital transformation across global industries. Known for his commitment to knowledge sharing and mentorship, Anthony is dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth, empowering teams to adopt best practices and achieve excellence. His influence extends beyond individual organizations through keynote speeches, thought-provoking publications, and advisory roles, shaping industry standards and the future of technology leadership."
Follow Anthony on LinkedIn | Read This Article by Anthony
David Barrow
"David Barrow is a respected leader in the IT service management community, recognized for his unwavering dedication and tireless contributions to the field. His passion for advancing ITSM is evident in the countless hours he devotes to speaking engagements, mentoring programs, and volunteer initiatives. David's ability to inspire and educate others has made him a trusted voice and mentor for professionals across the industry."
Follow David on LinkedIn | Read David's Book
Doug Rabold
"Doug consistently shares his wisdom and knowledge with the larger IT support community. From daily LinkedIn posts (no fluff from Doug, all wisdom) to regular event speaking gigs and training, he lives and breathes thought leadership."
Follow Doug on LinkedIn | Attend Doug's Sessions at SupportWorld Live
Doug Tedder
"Doug has been a thought leader in this space for over 20 years. As an HDI associate, he frequently leads engaging training sessions. Beyond that, he regularly blogs, speaks on webinars and moderates panels at HDI events. His energy, wit, and wisdom are a gift to our community!"
Follow Doug on LinkedIn | Visit Doug's Website
Jeff Rumburg
"Jeff is a cornerstone of the IT support community, renowned for his outstanding research and data-driven analysis of key metrics that shape the industry. His unwavering dedication to continuous improvement ensures that as the support landscape evolves, so does our understanding of what success looks like. Through his work, Jeff empowers organizations to thrive by providing actionable insights that drive excellence and innovation."
Follow Jeff on LinkedIn | Visit Jeff's Website
Jo Peterson
"Jo Peterson is a trailblazer in the IT and cloud space, recognized for her thought leadership and deep expertise in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. As a tireless advocate for innovation, Jo actively shares her knowledge through webinars, podcasts, and articles, inspiring IT leaders to rethink strategies and embrace the future of technology. Her passion for mentorship and fostering professional growth is evident in her active involvement across industry communities, making her a trusted voice and an invaluable resource."
Follow Jo on LinkedIn | Check Out Jo's Podcast
Katrina Macdermid
"Katrina is a force in this industry, and she's making a real difference! What has she not done?! From writing a book to posting regularly on LinkedIn and leading live and virtual trainings, she's a thought leader daily. Grateful for her message, energy, and wisdom."
Follow Katrina on LinkedIn | Visit Katrina's Website
Liz Bunger
"Liz has been an unwavering advocate for the HDI community, dedicating countless hours to lifting up and empowering others. As President of HDI's Local Chapters and now stepping into her role as chair on the board of directors, Liz exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader. She goes above and beyond to share her knowledge with peers through webinars, one-on-one calls, and any opportunity to help others succeed. Liz's passion and commitment to fostering community and professional growth have impacted everyone she works with."
Follow Liz on LinkedIn | See What's New with HDI Local Chapters
Matt Beran
"The epitome of a thought leader, this list would mean nothing without Matt at the top! It would be easier to list the things he hasn't done for the industry! From blogging to podcasting and posting videos that either make you laugh, think, or both, he really does it all! Did I mention he speaks at events, too? And he makes it all look easy. He's moving the industry forward every day."
Follow Matt on LinkedIn | Listen to Matt's Podcast
Mark Boyer
"Mark Boyer is a distinguished IT leader with over 15 years of experience driving digital transformation and operational excellence across global organizations. Renowned for his innovative approach, Mark has pioneered the application of the Flow Model to ITSM, enabling teams to optimize processes, reduce bottlenecks, and deliver seamless service experiences. A sought-after speaker, he has shared insights on building world-class MSPs and leveraging Design Thinking to transform service delivery. Mark also publishes thought-provoking pieces on LinkedIn, challenging industry norms and inspiring IT leaders to rethink strategies."
Follow Mark on LinkedIn | Read this Article by Mark
Michael Hanson
"Mike has been a forward-thinking practitioner for as long as I've known him! He always impresses people as he willingly shares his brilliance such as process mapping, road mapping, ITSM process improvement, leadership tips, and so much more. He is very active with the local chapter in FLA and has always been a huge advocate and customer of HDI. He introduces teams and people to HDI through training and awards. Mike impacts the industry through his leadership, focus on growing and recognizing people through training and awards, writing, and speaking. He also hosts panels and includes people he has noticed making things happen in the industry."
Follow Michael on LinkedIn | Read Michael's Articles
Michelle Major-Goldsmith
"Michelle Major-Goldsmith exemplifies thought leadership through her pivotal roles as Chief Architect for the SIAM Bodies of Knowledge Refresh 2025 and Project Manager for ISO/IEC 20000 Part 14, shaping global SIAM standards. Michelle is a prolific knowledge sharer, contributing white papers and publications and delivering sought-after presentations. As a leader, she has mentored teams, driven innovative service integration strategies, and advanced professional excellence, making her a true leader in IT service management."
Follow Michelle | Get to Know Michelle
N.J. Robinson
"N.J. has consistently provided keen and actionable insights in the areas of Leadership and Employee Engagement to the HDI community for a number of years through his pre-conference workshops, break-out sessions, and keynote addresses."
Follow N.J. on LinkedIn | Schedule a Chat with N.J.
Nancy Louisnord
"Nancy's work in ITSM feels genuine and relatable because she's always focused on helping people. Her articles and talks aren't just ideas but practical, down-to-earth advice. She's known for her mentoring and community involvement, especially with women in tech, and she brings that same supportive energy to her role as a speaker and writer. Nancy's work truly makes ITSM a little more approachable for everyone."
Follow Nancy on LinkedIn | Read Nancy's Articles
Patrycja Sobera
"Patrycja Sobera's influence runs deep in the industry. While her signature leadership style drives service excellence for clients, it also focuses deeply on advocating for women and inspiring positive change. Patrycja has an unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and serves as the lead for the company's EMEA Women+ Associate Impact Group (AIG), partners with industry leaders on DEI initiatives, serves as a Lean In Ambassador, and frequently mentors women both inside and outside of the company."
Follow Patrycja on LinkedIn | Read Patrycja's Articles
Rae Ann Bruno
"There is only one word to describe Rae Ann: incredible. Her energy is boundless, and she's one of the smartest people you'll meet. Her work ethic is impressive, too, as her dance card is always full of training, speaking engagements, and more. If you need help, Rae Ann is the first to raise her hand. She's also the HDI Lifetime Achievement Award winner, so she's pretty much set the standard for thought leadership in this industry."
Follow Rae Ann on LinkedIn | Attend Rae Ann's SupportWorld Live Sessions
Rocky McGuire
"Rocky consistently shares insight on leadership in the support industry, advocating for outcome focus driven by servant leadership with hyper attention on customer and employee experience that will impact business outcomes. Rocky brought the idea to expand the stories HDI tells in 2024- hosting the Bytes & Banter podcast, fostering knowledge sharing on tech, trends & career growth, and inspiration to the industry."
Follow Rocky on LinkedIn | Check Out the Bytes & Banter Podcast
Roy Atkinson
"Roy is a friend, mentor, and guide to so many of us in this industry. Whether he's speaking at an event or releasing his new tip-of-the-week video, everything he does exudes passion, care, and consistency. You can count on Roy to help with just about anything. He's willing to give of his time and regularly shares advice with industry newcomers while organizing meetups with industry vets. He's a thought leader indeed."
Follow Roy on LinkedIn | Read This Article by Roy
Sarah Nicastro
"Through her insightful articles, engaging webinars, or impactful speaking engagements, Sarah is a constant source of inspiration for service and support pros. If you're not already following Sarah's work, you absolutely should be. She's carved out a niche in field service, but her unique perspective and valuable insights make her an indispensable voice for service management pros, too."
Follow Sarah on LinkedIn | Visit Sarah's Website
Simone Jo Moore
"Simone-Jo Moore is a true thought leader in the IT service management community, known for her incredible kindness and dedication to helping others. Her ability to lead with both heart and expertise has earned her deep respect among peers. Her dynamic presentations, passion for continuous improvement, and commitment to fostering an inclusive, compassionate community make her a transformative force in ITSM."
Follow Simone on LinkedIn | Visit Simone's Website
Terri Oropeza
"Terri has been an instrumental part of the HDI community for many years. As the longtime chair of communications for HDI local chapters, her impact and contributions have been immeasurable. She's done a TON of behind-the-scenes work to educate and inspire IT professionals through that role. She continues to mentor and teach new professionals in this industry. When I think of a thought leader, she's the first person who comes to mind. She helped launch the Bytes & Banter podcast, too."
Follow Terri on LinkedIn | Join Terri at an HDI San Francisco Bay Event
Tony North
"Tony North has really stepped up in 2024! He served as MC for the HDI Local Chapter Officers summit and also moderated a keynote panel at HDI's Service Management World. He's well respected for his contributions to the industry and stands out for his kindness and energy, too. He's making a big impact on this industry, regularly leading the way with new content and giving his time and energy by sharing knowledge. He ticks all the boxes for sure."
Follow Tony on LinkedIn | Check Out Tony's Podcast
Vicki Rogers
"Vicki Rogers embodies thought leadership within the IT service and support community by championing knowledge sharing as a catalyst for professional growth and organizational success. Her commitment to fostering open dialogue and collaboration empowers individuals to exchange best practices, innovative strategies, and actionable insights. Vicki creates learning opportunities through her active contributions as a local chapter officer and repeated presenter at HDI events and conferences. She inspires a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that the collective expertise of the HDI network drives the evolution of service management and technical support."
Follow Vicki on LinkedIn | Attend Vicki's SupportWorld Live Session