Women in Information Technology (IT) Conference 2025

Hannah Gray (Revology), “Delivering Consistency in a World That is Always Evolving” 

Room 114/115 

Keeping up with the rapid changes in technology can feel like an uphill battle—especially in cybersecurity and compliance. From shifting threats to evolving regulations, navigating this landscape requires adaptability and strong leadership. In this session, Hannah Gray shares her experience working in high-risk industries and offers actionable strategies for aligning cross-functional teams, managing risk, and maintaining security standards amid constant change. Designed for women technologists, this session provides insights into how leaders tackle disruption while fostering resilience in their organizations. 

Hannah Gray is the Director of Security and Compliance at Revology, a revenue cycle management firm in Iowa City. An Army veteran with over 15 years in tech, she has worked in medical technology and cybersecurity. Gray specializes in security strategy, audits, policies, and risk management for organizations of all sizes. 

Taylor Herr (ProCircular, Inc.), “Legal Careers in the (Male-Dominated) Tech World” 

Room 116/117 

The intersection of law and technology presents unique career paths—but also distinct challenges, especially for women in a male-dominated industry. This session explores the diverse legal careers available in the tech sector and provides an inside look at navigating the field as a woman. From imposter syndrome to negotiating with confidence, the discussion will highlight key strategies for overcoming barriers and thriving in this space. Attendees will gain insights into the skills needed for legal roles in cybersecurity, data privacy, compliance, and more. 

Taylor Herr earned a criminology/psychology degree from UNI and a law degree from the University of Iowa in 2020. Licensed in Iowa, she has worked in civil rights, immigration, mass tort, and business law.  

Anita Wood and Karen O’Loughlin (Des Moines Area Community College), “Innovation in the Workplace” 

Room 114/115 

Innovation is essential for the success of any organization, and businesses increasingly seek employees with an innovative mindset. But what exactly does that mean? In this interactive session, we will explore the key components of an innovative mindset and why teamwork plays a crucial role in fostering innovation. Participants will engage in a hands-on activity designed to help their teams approach problem-solving with creativity and collaboration. Walk away with practical strategies to inspire innovation in your workplace! 

Anita Wood joined DMACC in 2022 after 19 years of teaching at Pennsylvania College of Technology. She now teaches dual enrollment computer programming courses at DMACC. Her past teaching experience includes programming, databases, cybersecurity, and video game programming. Wood holds a PhD (ABD) in Information Systems with a focus on computer security, a master’s in Instructional Technology, and a bachelor’s in Computer Science. Before teaching, she spent over 20 years working in the tech industry. Wood’s mission is to inspire others by creating educational resources that help people reach their full potential. 

Karen O’Loughlin became a full-time DMACC instructor in 2023 after more than 30 years teaching computer science and math at Ankeny Community Schools. During that time, she also taught dual enrollment computer science courses for DMACC and AP Computer Science A (in Java). O’Loughlin has experience with multiple coding languages and has served as a reader for the AP CSA exam. She holds a Master of School Mathematics degree and has continued her learning through various computer science classes and workshops. O’Loughlin is passionate about teaching STEM in ways that empower all students to succeed. 

Dylan Shroll (Revology), “Lies, Lures, and LLMs” 

Room 116/117 

Large Language Models (LLMs) are transforming cyber deception, enabling defenders to create realistic digital personas that engage adversaries, gather intelligence, and disrupt attacks. But what makes a persona convincing? In this session, we’ll explore how aligning attributes like occupation, personality, and communication style enhances believability. Learn how fine-tuned LLMs can autonomously interact with threats, flag suspicious activity, and scale deception strategies. Through real-world case studies, discover how organizations use AI-driven personas to shift the power dynamic in cybersecurity. Walk away with insights into the future of AI-powered defense and practical ways to leverage these tools! 

Dylan Shroll is a Security Engineer at Revology with seven years of experience in information and technical security. Known for her expertise in cyber-deception and adversary engagement, Shroll develops innovative strategies to help organizations anticipate, detect, and mitigate advanced threats. A firm believer in the importance of collaboration and education, Shroll takes a people-first approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing solutions that are both technically robust and accessible to diverse audiences. 

Becky Deitenbeck and Dr. Michelle Ruse (Des Moines Area Community College), “AI Productivity: Transforming Education, Industry, and Research” 

Room 114/115 

Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries, revolutionizing education, and redefining how we work. In this engaging session, we’ll explore AI’s role in boosting productivity—whether through optimizing workflows, streamlining research, or enabling innovative learning methods. Presenters will share real-world applications, emerging trends, and hands-on demonstrations of AI tools. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or industry professional, this session will provide practical insights into harnessing AI for efficiency and innovation. Bring your laptop and be ready to experiment with AI-powered tools! 

Becky Deitenbeck teaches Computer Science at DMACC, focusing on AI, programming, and analytics. After six years in tech, she led The Nebraska Medical Center’s business intelligence platform before shifting to teaching. A PMP-certified professional, Deitenbeck moved to Iowa nine years ago to pursue her passion for education. 

Dr. Michelle E. Ruse has a PhD in Computer Science from Iowa State, a master’s in Applied Math from Washington State, and a bachelor’s in Math and French from University of Northern Iowa. She taught English in France, worked at Boeing and Xerox, and later returned to Iowa to teach and complete her PhD. After programming at Workiva, she joined DMACC in 2016 and became IT Pathway Chair in 2024. She enjoys cycling, trivia, and yoga. 

Tabbi Pape (GIAC), “Navigating Bias and Imposter Syndrome in Technology Careers” 

Room 116/117 

Women in tech often face implicit bias, self-doubt, and the challenge of proving their expertise in male-dominated environments. This session is designed to equip women with the tools to recognize and overcome bias and imposter syndrome in their careers. Through real-world insights and actionable strategies, attendees will learn how to build confidence, advocate for themselves, and foster an inclusive, empowering work environment. 

Tabbi Pape has over 17 years of experience in information security, specializing in cybersecurity exam development. In addition to her technical expertise, she is committed to empowering women in tech, mentoring future leaders, and creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. 

Christine Hartman (Banshee Cybersecurity LLC), “Leadership in Action: A Hands-On Incident Response Experience” 

Community Room 

When a cybersecurity incident strikes, strong leadership is essential. This interactive tabletop exercise challenges participants to take on leadership roles in a simulated cyber crisis, making real-time decisions in response to threats such as phishing attacks and data breaches. Attendees will develop key skills in communication, risk management, and crisis response, gaining the confidence to lead their organizations through cyber challenges. Walk away with practical strategies to strengthen your incident response plan and foster a resilient security culture. 

Christina Hartman is the founder and driving force behind Banshee Cybersecurity. With over 15 years of experience in information technology and auditing, she is dedicated to helping businesses—especially small enterprises—adopt cybersecurity solutions without fear or confusion. Hartman is passionate about empowering underrepresented voices in tech, promoting diversity, and championing women in cybersecurity. Her expertise spans security assessments, artificial intelligence, risk management, and project leadership. Through her work, Hartman inspires organizations to take a proactive, people-first approach to digital security, creating safer and more inclusive online environments.