About GBEF
Formed in 2005, the GBEF is a prestigious network of experienced, senior professionals who specialize in innovative technology applications to vital government missions.
For almost two decades, the Government Business Executive Forum (GBEF) remains an exclusive, powerful executive membership organization focused on developing substantive, lasting business relationships between government and industry leaders. Led by an experienced management team with notable accomplishments across public and private sectors, the prestigious GBEF program is unmatched in its ability to build important communication channels between those who make a difference in technology as applied to vital government missions.
Our Mission
The GBEF agenda is unique to the sector. It kicks off the year with the government technology sector’s premier annual summit: EDGE in Las Vegas. It integrates quarterly meetings and informal activities throughout the year.
Decision Science
GBEF members receive substantive analyses developed exclusively for the GBEF by the leading research platform in the government sector, Govini. These analyses identify emerging trends in technology, competitive market data, and funding forecasts.
What We Offer
GBEF membership is offered at two levels: Executive Committee and Associate. Executive Committee membership is limited and sells out each year.
Who Are Our Members
Membership is concentrated in the US National Capital Region, but the organization’s reach is global and deliberately includes leaders from US state and local jurisdictions and select NATO nations.
- Corporate Executives
- Government Executives
- Industry Leaders
Meet Leadership Members
More than 30 years of senior executive experience including first Secretary of Technology (Virginia); Staff Director, House Oversight Committee; Chief Operating Officer, major global technology corporation.
BioDonald W. Upson
Chairman and Founder, GBEF
U.S. Air Force veteran, one of America’s most accomplished Chief Technology Officers with experience to include government agencies, Cabinet Departments, financial organizations, and senior executive corporate experience.
BioDr. Barry C. West
Program Chair, GBEF EDGE
Successful serial entrepreneur, nationally recognized women in technology professional, CEO of a major government technology company: Key Logic.
BioJeannette Lee
Co-Chair, EDGE23
Senior Vice President to one of the premier tech giants (SAIC), Sanjay is one of the most recognized names in government technology today. Former CIO to FERC, he has held several senior executive positions in both government and business.
BioSanjay Sardar
Co-Chair, EDGE 23
Former Advisor to the Secretary of Transportation, Laura Hudson also brings to her position 18 years of diverse experience at the Consumer Technology Association, producers of CES.
BioLaura Hudson
Vice President, GBEF
Three decades of experience of successful management, meeting and event planning for major government and business programs including the White House, National Conventions, major movie premiers, and Chief Staff to the first lady of Virginia.
BioMary Shea Sutherland
Director, Events, GBEF
Michael Dent is the Chief Information Security Officer for Fairfax County, Virginia. A veteran public servant, Michael joined the county in 2002 after managing the security program for information technology at the Virginia Department of Corrections.
BioMichael T. Dent
State and Local Chair, GBEF
Quick Contact
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