Our Extraordinary Lineup of Speakers
Experts Sharing Real-World Strategies
Scroll to see each WINGS 2026 speaker profile.
Tommaso (Tom) Rivellini
NASA Engineer. Mars Landing Pioneer. Innovator Behind the Impossible.
Making the Impossible Possible:
How We Landed on Mars
Tuesday, September 15th, 2006 | 8:10 AM - 9:00 AM
Tom Rivellini is an award-winning aerospace engineer, inventor, and technology leader best known for helping solve one of humanity’s greatest engineering challenges: landing spacecraft safely on Mars.
With decades of experience at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Tom became one of the pioneering minds behind the advanced entry, descent, and landing systems that transformed planetary exploration. His work helped shape several of NASA’s most historic Mars missions, including the revolutionary airbag landing system used for Mars Pathfinder and the groundbreaking Sky Crane technology that safely delivered the Curiosity rover to the Martian surface — an achievement widely regarded as one of the most complex robotic landing operations ever attempted.Throughout his career, Tom has led the development of engineering systems designed to survive extreme environments millions of miles from Earth. His expertise spans spacecraft configuration, supersonic decelerator systems, landing dynamics, mechanical systems engineering, and next-generation planetary landing technologies. His contributions have played a critical role in advancing the future of Mars exploration and redefining what is possible in aerospace innovation.
Tom also served as Engineering Director for iPod and iPhone Product Design at Apple, where he brought his experience in innovation, systems engineering, and product development into the consumer technology world. His rare ability to bridge high-risk aerospace engineering with practical product execution has made him a respected leader across multiple industries.
Recognized for combining visionary thinking with disciplined execution, Tom is known for turning impossible ideas into real-world success stories. His work has earned industry recognition, including honors from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and he continues to inspire audiences through his insights on leadership, resilience, teamwork, innovation, and breakthrough problem-solving.
At WINGS Summit 2026, Tom will deliver the Opening Keynote, “Making the Impossible Possible — How We Landed on Mars,” where he will take attendees behind the scenes of the innovation, collaboration, and determination required to accomplish one of the greatest technological achievements of our time. Through powerful storytelling and firsthand experience, Tom shares lessons that extend far beyond space exploration — offering audiences practical inspiration for overcoming obstacles, leading through uncertainty, and achieving what others believe cannot be done.
Elliot Regenstein
Education Policy Expert• Early Learning Systems Strategies
Mission Control Briefing:
Defining the Obstacles - The Gravity We Must Escape
Tuesday, September 15th, 2006 | 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Elliot Regenstein is a nationally recognized education strategist, policy leader, author, and advocate focused on transforming early childhood systems to better serve children, families, and communities. Based in Chicago, Elliot is a partner at Foresight Law + Policy, where he advises states, organizations, and policymakers on education reform, governance, accountability, funding systems, and early learning policy innovation.
With decades of experience in state-level policy and advocacy, Elliot has consulted with more than two dozen states on a wide range of education policy issues, with a particular focus on early childhood education, governance structures, accountability systems, and the connection between early learning and K-12 success. His work centers on helping leaders build more effective, data-informed systems that create stronger long-term outcomes for children and families.Elliot was one of the chief architects of Illinois’ groundbreaking 2006 Preschool for All program and previously co-chaired the Illinois Early Learning Council. He has also served in numerous leadership roles focused on statewide education data systems, accountability planning, and early childhood funding reform, including appointments under Governor J.B. Pritzker.
An accomplished author and thought leader, Elliot wrote Education Restated: Getting Policy Right on Accountability, Teacher Pay, and School Choice and Readiness: Preparing State Early Childhood Systems for a Brighter Future. His work continues to shape national conversations around education policy, governance, and systems change.
At WINGS Summit 2026, Elliot will present a powerful session exploring the realities shaping today’s child care and early learning landscape. Through a systems-level perspective, he will examine the challenges, gaps, and opportunities influencing the future of early childhood education — helping attendees better understand the “gravity” holding systems back and what it will take to rise above it.
Known for his thoughtful leadership and forward-thinking approach, Elliot is widely respected for helping organizations and policymakers move beyond short-term fixes to build sustainable, long-term solutions for the future of education and early learning.
Jen Bradwell
Documentary Filmmaker • Award-Winning PBS Film
Stories That Launch Change:
Using Visionary Narratives to Shape Culture and PolicyTuesday, September 15th, 2026 | 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Jen Bradwell is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, editor, and story consultant whose work has helped shape some of the most impactful and emotionally resonant documentaries of the past two decades. Through authentic, human-centered storytelling, Jen has built a reputation for creating narratives that inspire action, shift public perception, and spark meaningful cultural and policy conversations.
Jen is the co-director of the award-winning PBS documentary MAKE A CIRCLE — a powerful love letter to early childhood educators and a rallying cry for a child care system in crisis. She is also co-directing the upcoming spinoff series RAISE and a new documentary focused on New Mexico’s historic universal child care initiative, NORTH STAR RISING. Her work frequently explores the intersection of education, social systems, equity, and human resilience, using storytelling as a catalyst for awareness and change.
Prior to directing her own projects, Jen edited more than 15 feature documentaries for acclaimed filmmakers and organizations, including Jennifer Siebel Newsom, James Redford, and Jesse Moss. Her editing credits include Motherland, MINE: Taken by Katrina, Something Ventured, The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia, Toxic Hot Seat, Bleeding Audio, Time for Ilhan, For the Love of Rutland, FAIR PLAY, and many more projects featured at SXSW, Tribeca, Slamdance, HBO, Hulu, PBS, and The New York Times.
Two of her most influential projects, RESILIENCE and PAPER TIGERS, became landmark documentaries exploring the long-term effects of childhood trauma and toxic stress. Together, the films have generated more than 60,000 community screenings nationwide, helping ignite a national conversation around childhood adversity, mental health, education, and trauma-informed care.
Known for transforming hundreds of hours of footage into emotionally compelling and socially impactful narratives, Jen brings a unique perspective on how stories shape culture — and ultimately influence policy, leadership, and public understanding.
In addition to her filmmaking work, Jen has taught documentary editing and filmmaking master classes at UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism and UC Santa Cruz’s Social Documentation program, where she shares her expertise in narrative structure, impact storytelling, and the neuroscience behind emotionally resonant media.
At WINGS Summit 2026, Jen will present “Stories That Launch Change: Using Visionary Narratives to Shape Culture and Policy,” where she will explore how authentic storytelling can elevate missions, influence decision-makers, and inspire meaningful action. Through real-world examples and insights from her filmmaking career, Jen will show attendees how powerful narratives can become one of the most effective tools for driving lasting change.
Mario Cardona
National Policy Leader • Senior Education Advisor for Two U.S. Presidents
Mission Control:
How Government Policy Can Propel Your Program Forward
Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 | 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM
Mario is an accomplished executive leader with nearly 20 years of high-level experience in law and policy. He has been a political appointee to two Presidents, a scholar at one of the largest research universities in the country, a senior staff member in the United States Senate, a litigator at a national law firm, and the chief policy officer for one of the country’s largest non-profits focused on early care and education.
Most recently, Mario served as the Senior Advisor for Early Childhood Development & Education for the White House Domestic Policy Council, where he played a pivotal role in shaping and executing President Biden’s early childhood agenda. He led the implementation of the President’s Executive Order to Increase Access to High-Quality Care, which included more than fifty executive actions designed to lower costs for families and improve job quality for care workers. These actions resulted in, among other things, regulations that reduced child care costs for over 100,000 low-income working families and increased Head Start teacher wages by an average of $10,000. Mario also spearheaded the development of the Biden Administration’s budget recommendations, including a proposal later adopted by the Harris-Walz campaign to guarantee families access to high-quality child care at an average cost of no more than $10 per day. He was also the founding director of policy for the Children’s Equity Project at Arizona State University, where he continues to hold an affiliation as a Professor of Practice.During the Obama Administration, Mario served as a senior advisor to the Domestic Policy Council focused on elementary and secondary education. He was instrumental in brokering the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act, which replaced No Child Left Behind, and led the White House process to develop and promulgate the Act's implementing regulations. Mario is one of only a few individuals to have led education initiatives for the White House Domestic Policy Council under two presidents in its thirty-year history.
In the U.S. Senate, Mario was a senior aide to the Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee. In this role, he was the principal author of the Child Care Development Block Grant Act of 2014, which comprehensively updated quality and safety standards in federally subsidized child care for the first time in nearly two decades. He also contributed to the passage of key legislation, including the Bipartisan Student Loan Certainty Act, the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act.
Previously, Mario served as Chief of Policy, Practice, and Research for Child Care Aware of America, the nation’s leading voice for child care. Mario began his legal career at a national law firm, where he focused on complex commercial litigation and maintained a robust pro bono practice dedicated to advancing civil rights.
Marica Cox Mitchell
Vice President of Early Childhood • Early Childhood Systems Leader
The Future You Are Building:
Redefining What is Possible
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
Marica Cox Mitchell is a nationally recognized leader, strategist, and advocate dedicated to advancing equity and opportunity for children, families, and communities through transformative early childhood systems change. As Vice President of Early Childhood at the Bainum Family Foundation, Marica leads initiatives focused on expanding access to high-quality early learning, strengthening community partnerships, and driving sustainable solutions that support children, educators, and working families.
With decades of experience spanning philanthropy, public policy, advocacy, and systems leadership, Marica has become a respected voice in the national conversation around child care, early learning, and family economic mobility. Her work centers on building collaborative, community-driven strategies that address systemic barriers while creating stronger outcomes for children and communities nationwide.
Prior to joining the Bainum Family Foundation, Marica held leadership roles at both the national and state levels, including serving as Deputy Executive Director at the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), where she led policy and advocacy efforts focused on child care, family support systems, and economic equity. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside policymakers, nonprofit leaders, educators, and advocates to help shape policies and initiatives that create more inclusive and equitable early childhood systems.
Known for her thoughtful leadership and deep commitment to community impact, Marica brings a unique perspective that bridges policy, philanthropy, and practical implementation. Her work consistently emphasizes the importance of investing in families, supporting educators, and building systems designed to create long-term generational change.
At WINGS Summit 2026, Marica will deliver the keynote session, “The Future You Are Building — Redefining What is Possible,” where she will challenge attendees to step back and see the bigger picture of child care’s role in shaping our economy, workforce, and society. Through her inspiring perspective on leadership and systems transformation, Marica will help attendees reimagine what is possible — and recognize the profound impact they have in building the future for children, families, and communities.
With decades of experience spanning philanthropy, public policy, advocacy, and systems leadership, Marica has become a respected voice in the national conversation around child care, early learning, and family economic mobility. Her work centers on building collaborative, community-driven strategies that address systemic barriers while creating stronger outcomes for children and communities nationwide.
Prior to joining the Bainum Family Foundation, Marica held leadership roles at both the national and state levels, including serving as Deputy Executive Director at the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), where she led policy and advocacy efforts focused on child care, family support systems, and economic equity. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside policymakers, nonprofit leaders, educators, and advocates to help shape policies and initiatives that create more inclusive and equitable early childhood systems.
Known for her thoughtful leadership and deep commitment to community impact, Marica brings a unique perspective that bridges policy, philanthropy, and practical implementation. Her work consistently emphasizes the importance of investing in families, supporting educators, and building systems designed to create long-term generational change.
At WINGS Summit 2026, Marica will deliver the keynote session, “The Future You Are Building — Redefining What is Possible,” where she will challenge attendees to step back and see the bigger picture of child care’s role in shaping our economy, workforce, and society. Through her inspiring perspective on leadership and systems transformation, Marica will help attendees reimagine what is possible — and recognize the profound impact they have in building the future for children, families, and communities.
Jim "Guido" DiMatteo
Former U.S. Navy Fighter Pilot • TOPGUN Adversary Instructor • Combat Veteran • Leadership Under Pressure Expert
Soaring Forward:
Leading with Courage Over Uncertainty
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026 | 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Jim “Guido” DiMatteo is a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot, combat veteran, and the most experienced TOPGUN Adversary pilot in the history of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Known as “The Real Maverick,” Jim built an elite career operating in some of the highest-pressure environments imaginable — where every decision carried real consequences, and leadership could mean the difference between success and failure.
After flying combat missions during Operation Desert Storm, Jim was selected to join the prestigious TOPGUN program, where he trained some of the military’s best fighter pilots to navigate high-risk scenarios, think strategically under pressure, and make critical decisions in rapidly changing situations. Throughout his career, he became recognized not only for his flying expertise but for his ability to lead with confidence, adaptability, and composure when uncertainty was at its highest.Drawing from years of experience in combat aviation and advanced tactical training, Jim now shares powerful leadership lessons centered around courage, resilience, decision-making, and performance under pressure. His presentations combine real-world stories, high-stakes experiences, and practical leadership insights that resonate with organizations and leaders facing constant change and uncertainty.
At WINGS Summit 2026, Jim will present “Soaring Forward: Leading with Courage Over Uncertainty,” where he will explore what it truly means to lead when the path forward is unclear. Through lessons learned from TOPGUN and combat operations, Jim will challenge attendees to stay focused, act decisively, and lead with confidence — especially when the stakes are high and the answers aren’t obvious.
For leaders navigating complex environments, evolving challenges, and moments of uncertainty, Jim’s message is clear: leadership doesn’t require certainty — it requires courage.
Barbara Tedrow
CEO • Early Childhood Business Leader • NM PreK Pioneer
Mission Control:
How Government Policy Can Propel Your Program Forward
Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 | 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM
Barbara Tedrow is a passionate Child Care advocate, entrepreneur, and national thought leader dedicated to building a stronger future for early childhood education. With more than 25 years of experience in the field, Barbara has led successful Child Care programs, supported early childhood professionals, and championed policies that recognize Child Care as essential infrastructure for children, families, and the economy.
As founder of A Gold Star Academy & Child Development Center in New Mexico, Barbara understands the realities facing Child Care providers - from workforce challenges and financial sustainability to maintaining quality while expanding access. She has worked closely with policymakers and early childhood leaders to elevate provider perspectives and advocate for solutions that strengthen the entire ecosystem.
Barbara also co-founded SweetT Public Relations & Consulting, where she helps Child Care owners and leaders strengthen their programs, build sustainable businesses, and amplify their impact. Her unique perspective as both a provider and systems advocate makes her a powerful voice for innovation and transformation in Child Care.
As founder of A Gold Star Academy & Child Development Center in New Mexico, Barbara understands the realities facing Child Care providers - from workforce challenges and financial sustainability to maintaining quality while expanding access. She has worked closely with policymakers and early childhood leaders to elevate provider perspectives and advocate for solutions that strengthen the entire ecosystem.
Barbara also co-founded SweetT Public Relations & Consulting, where she helps Child Care owners and leaders strengthen their programs, build sustainable businesses, and amplify their impact. Her unique perspective as both a provider and systems advocate makes her a powerful voice for innovation and transformation in Child Care.
Robin Phillips
CCR&R Executive Director • Child Care Systems Leader • Workforce & Policy Innovation Advocate
Launch Sequence:
Activating Cost-Share Models That Actually Work - Activation Lab
Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 | 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Robin Phillips is a Child Care systems leader and CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri, where she has spent nearly two decades advancing innovative strategies to strengthen early childhood systems across the state. She leads one of the nation’s most comprehensive Child Care Resource and Referral organizations, serving families, providers, employers, and community stakeholders through a statewide network focused on access, quality, and affordability.
Under Robin’s leadership, Child Care Aware of Missouri has expanded beyond traditional referral services to become a driver of statewide Child Care transformation - helping families navigate care options through concierge services, supporting providers with business and workforce development tools, and partnering with employers to integrate Child Care into workforce strategy.
Robin has been a key architect in advancing Missouri’s Child Care Works initiative, a pioneering public-private partnership model that leverages employer contributions and federal policy tools such as the 45F tax credit to reduce Child Care costs and strengthen workforce participation. Her work bridges policy, business, and community systems, positioning Child Care as essential infrastructure for economic growth.
A recognized state and national voice in early childhood systems innovation, Robin brings deep expertise in coalition building, systems design, and scalable solutions that connect Child Care to broader workforce and economic development goals.
Under Robin’s leadership, Child Care Aware of Missouri has expanded beyond traditional referral services to become a driver of statewide Child Care transformation - helping families navigate care options through concierge services, supporting providers with business and workforce development tools, and partnering with employers to integrate Child Care into workforce strategy.
Robin has been a key architect in advancing Missouri’s Child Care Works initiative, a pioneering public-private partnership model that leverages employer contributions and federal policy tools such as the 45F tax credit to reduce Child Care costs and strengthen workforce participation. Her work bridges policy, business, and community systems, positioning Child Care as essential infrastructure for economic growth.
A recognized state and national voice in early childhood systems innovation, Robin brings deep expertise in coalition building, systems design, and scalable solutions that connect Child Care to broader workforce and economic development goals.
Brian Schmidt
Child Care Policy Leader • Workforce Innovation Strategist • Public-Private Partnership Architect
Launch Sequence:
Activating Cost-Share Models That Actually Work - Activation Lab
Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 | 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Brian Schmidt is a Child Care policy leader and workforce innovation strategist serving as Executive Director of Kids Win Missouri, where he focuses on building scalable, cross-sector solutions to Missouri’s Child Care challenges. He has played a central role in developing and advancing Missouri Child Care Works, a first-of-its-kind public-private cost-sharing initiative that brings together employers, employees, and the state to reduce Child Care costs and improve access for working families.
Through collaboration with business leaders, policymakers, and Child Care advocates, Brian has helped position Child Care as a core component of workforce development and economic competitiveness. Missouri Child Care Works is designed to leverage employer participation alongside state investment and federal policy tools such as the expanded 45F tax credit, enabling companies to support their employees while strengthening retention and productivity.
Brian’s work reflects a broader systems-change approach that connects Child Care access to labor force participation, economic mobility, and community stability. He is a frequent collaborator with statewide partners, including Child Care Aware of Missouri, in advancing innovative Child Care infrastructure and employer engagement strategies that can be replicated nationally.
He brings a practical, business-informed perspective to Child Care reform, demonstrating how strategic investment in Child Care strengthens both families and the economy.
Through collaboration with business leaders, policymakers, and Child Care advocates, Brian has helped position Child Care as a core component of workforce development and economic competitiveness. Missouri Child Care Works is designed to leverage employer participation alongside state investment and federal policy tools such as the expanded 45F tax credit, enabling companies to support their employees while strengthening retention and productivity.
Brian’s work reflects a broader systems-change approach that connects Child Care access to labor force participation, economic mobility, and community stability. He is a frequent collaborator with statewide partners, including Child Care Aware of Missouri, in advancing innovative Child Care infrastructure and employer engagement strategies that can be replicated nationally.
He brings a practical, business-informed perspective to Child Care reform, demonstrating how strategic investment in Child Care strengthens both families and the economy.
Katelyn Mayer
Child Care Systems Leader • CCR&R Executive • Tri-Share Implementation Specialist
Launch Sequence:
Activating Cost-Share Models That Actually Work - Activation Lab
Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 | 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Katelyn Mayer is a Child Care systems leader and CCR&R executive focused on expanding access to affordable, high-quality Child Care through innovative, data-driven, and community-centered solutions. She currently serves as Assistant Director of Child Care Keeps Missouri Working at Child Care Aware of Missouri, where she plays a key leadership role in the implementation of statewide initiatives designed to strengthen Missouri’s Child Care infrastructure.
In this capacity, Katelyn helps oversee the rollout of Child Care Works, Missouri’s first statewide Tri-Share Child Care funding model, developed in partnership with employers, families, and the state to reduce cost barriers and increase access to care. She manages program operations, statewide data systems, and implementation supports that ensure these initiatives translate into real impact for families and providers across Missouri.
Previously, Katelyn served in multiple roles at Child Care Aware of Missouri, including Community Impact Coordinator, where she supported families in navigating Child Care options and helped develop the organization’s concierge referral system. Her work reflects deep expertise in Child Care resource and referral systems, workforce supports, and cross-sector collaboration.
Katelyn brings a practical, implementation-focused perspective to Child Care transformation—bridging policy innovation with the real-world systems needed to make Child Care work for families, providers, and communities.
In this capacity, Katelyn helps oversee the rollout of Child Care Works, Missouri’s first statewide Tri-Share Child Care funding model, developed in partnership with employers, families, and the state to reduce cost barriers and increase access to care. She manages program operations, statewide data systems, and implementation supports that ensure these initiatives translate into real impact for families and providers across Missouri.
Previously, Katelyn served in multiple roles at Child Care Aware of Missouri, including Community Impact Coordinator, where she supported families in navigating Child Care options and helped develop the organization’s concierge referral system. Her work reflects deep expertise in Child Care resource and referral systems, workforce supports, and cross-sector collaboration.
Katelyn brings a practical, implementation-focused perspective to Child Care transformation—bridging policy innovation with the real-world systems needed to make Child Care work for families, providers, and communities.
Erin Roche
Vermont Director of First Children’s Finance • Early Childhood Systems Expert
Mission Possible:
How Vermont Launched a New Era of Child Care
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Erin Roche is a Child Care systems leader, early childhood business strategist, and advocate dedicated to building stronger, more sustainable Child Care systems. As Vermont Director of First Children’s Finance, Erin launched the organization’s Vermont office in 2023 and has led efforts to strengthen Child Care businesses through consulting, training, data-informed strategies, and access to resources. She guided the team through the implementation of Vermont’s landmark Act 76, helping translate historic state investments into meaningful support for Child Care providers and communities.
Prior to joining First Children’s Finance, Erin served as Director of Operations and Evaluation at Let’s Grow Kids, where she oversaw organizational operations, data systems, and program impact during Vermont’s decade-long movement to transform Child Care access and affordability.
With expertise spanning operations, evaluation, community development, and systems change, Erin brings a unique ability to connect policy vision with real-world implementation. She holds an M.S. in Community Development and Applied Economics from the University of Vermont and a B.A. in Behavioral Science from the University of Chicago. Erin is also the creator of the podcast Carpools, Commutes and Child Care, exploring the critical role Child Care plays in families, communities, and the workforce.
Prior to joining First Children’s Finance, Erin served as Director of Operations and Evaluation at Let’s Grow Kids, where she oversaw organizational operations, data systems, and program impact during Vermont’s decade-long movement to transform Child Care access and affordability.
With expertise spanning operations, evaluation, community development, and systems change, Erin brings a unique ability to connect policy vision with real-world implementation. She holds an M.S. in Community Development and Applied Economics from the University of Vermont and a B.A. in Behavioral Science from the University of Chicago. Erin is also the creator of the podcast Carpools, Commutes and Child Care, exploring the critical role Child Care plays in families, communities, and the workforce.
Sarah Kenney
Senior Advisor for Vermont’s Let’s Grow Kids Action Fund • Policy Architect • Early Childhood Systems Leader
Mission Possible:
How Vermont Launched a New Era of Child Care
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Sarah Kenney is a nationally recognized Child Care policy expert and movement builder dedicated to creating stronger systems that support children, families, and early childhood educators. For a decade, Sarah served as Chief Policy Officer at Let’s Grow Kids (LGK), leading policy strategy for a statewide campaign focused on achieving quality, affordable Child Care for every Vermont family who needs it.
Through collaboration with early childhood educators, advocates, community partners, and more than 40,000 Vermonters who joined the movement, Sarah helped build the foundation for historic Child Care legislation that positioned Vermont as a national leader in early childhood policy.
Today, Sarah serves as Senior Advisor for the Let’s Grow Kids Action Fund, where she continues to protect and advance Vermont’s Child Care investments while supporting the next phase of the state’s movement. She also partners with the Bainum Family Foundation to help advocates and policymakers in other states develop strategies for achieving transformative Child Care policy change. Sarah brings a powerful perspective on how communities can come together to create lasting Child Care solutions.
Prior to her time at LGK, Sarah worked for many years on public policy supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence. She grew up in a log home in the woods of Vermont, received a B.A. from St. Michael's College and an M.A. from the University of Hawai'i, and now lives in Burlington with her partner and their 17-year-old son.
Through collaboration with early childhood educators, advocates, community partners, and more than 40,000 Vermonters who joined the movement, Sarah helped build the foundation for historic Child Care legislation that positioned Vermont as a national leader in early childhood policy.
Today, Sarah serves as Senior Advisor for the Let’s Grow Kids Action Fund, where she continues to protect and advance Vermont’s Child Care investments while supporting the next phase of the state’s movement. She also partners with the Bainum Family Foundation to help advocates and policymakers in other states develop strategies for achieving transformative Child Care policy change. Sarah brings a powerful perspective on how communities can come together to create lasting Child Care solutions.
Prior to her time at LGK, Sarah worked for many years on public policy supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence. She grew up in a log home in the woods of Vermont, received a B.A. from St. Michael's College and an M.A. from the University of Hawai'i, and now lives in Burlington with her partner and their 17-year-old son.
Dimitri Garder
Global-Z International Founder & CEO • Data Management Expert • Entrepreneur
Mission Possible:
How Vermont Launched a New Era of Child Care
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Dimitri Garder is the co-founder and former CEO of Global-Z International, a data analytics company that has served global brands for more than 35 years. Throughout his career, he has developed and implemented complex global data quality assessment and improvement solutions for clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies. His decades of experience with complex global data have made him one of the leading experts in customer data management. His approach to data quality is pragmatic, statistically focused, and metrics-driven. He believes the best way to solve complex problems is through simple, clear, analytical thinking.
Dimitri is deeply involved in community development in Southwestern Vermont. In addition to his entrepreneurial accomplishments, he co-founded and led The Lightning Jar, a business startup incubator, and founded The Bennington Idea Fund, a micro-grant program dedicated to economic advancement and poverty alleviation throughout the region. He serves on the boards of the Vermont Community Foundation, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, and the Vermont Business Roundtable. He is also an investor in the Bennington Redevelopment Group, a coalition of local investors working to revitalize downtown Bennington and strengthen the local economy.
In 2023, Dimitri led the merger of his company with a California-based technology company and now works as an entrepreneurial coach and business consultant. Outside of work, he enjoys running, golf, sailing, and snowboarding, and is the proud father of four young kids. Dimitri holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Theory from the University of Vermont and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Dimitri is deeply involved in community development in Southwestern Vermont. In addition to his entrepreneurial accomplishments, he co-founded and led The Lightning Jar, a business startup incubator, and founded The Bennington Idea Fund, a micro-grant program dedicated to economic advancement and poverty alleviation throughout the region. He serves on the boards of the Vermont Community Foundation, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, and the Vermont Business Roundtable. He is also an investor in the Bennington Redevelopment Group, a coalition of local investors working to revitalize downtown Bennington and strengthen the local economy.
In 2023, Dimitri led the merger of his company with a California-based technology company and now works as an entrepreneurial coach and business consultant. Outside of work, he enjoys running, golf, sailing, and snowboarding, and is the proud father of four young kids. Dimitri holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Theory from the University of Vermont and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Special "Galactic Beach Bash" Entertainment Guest
Christian Love
Singer/Songwriter • Longtime Member of The Beach Boys
Bringing the California Sound of the Beach Boys & More to WINGS
Christian Love is a singer, songwriter, and performer carrying forward one of music’s most iconic legacies while creating a sound entirely his own. As the son of Beach Boys co-founder and lead singer Mike Love, Christian grew up surrounded by legendary music, eventually becoming a longtime member of the internationally touring Beach Boys band.
While continuing to perform alongside one of the most influential bands in music history, Christian has also established himself as a successful solo artist with a style that blends timeless California-inspired energy, modern songwriting, and feel-good melodies that connect with audiences across generations.
From his debut solo album Only Alibis to fan-favorite songs like “Sum Sum Summer,” “That Sound,” and “Even When Your Friends Are All Around,” Christian’s music reflects an uplifting, authentic sound rooted in positivity, connection, and storytelling. His songwriting career expanded even further in 2020 when he co-wrote “Here We Go Again” with Bruce Johnston and other acclaimed songwriters — a standout track featured on The Weeknd’s hit album Dawn FM.
Known for his energetic stage presence and unmistakable musical roots, Christian continues to build a growing reputation as a dynamic performer and songwriter whose work bridges classic influence with a fresh modern voice.
As the featured headline entertainment at WINGS Summit 2026, Christian brings an unforgettable live experience that celebrates music, energy, and connection — creating the perfect soundtrack for an event built around inspiration, momentum, and possibility.
While continuing to perform alongside one of the most influential bands in music history, Christian has also established himself as a successful solo artist with a style that blends timeless California-inspired energy, modern songwriting, and feel-good melodies that connect with audiences across generations.
From his debut solo album Only Alibis to fan-favorite songs like “Sum Sum Summer,” “That Sound,” and “Even When Your Friends Are All Around,” Christian’s music reflects an uplifting, authentic sound rooted in positivity, connection, and storytelling. His songwriting career expanded even further in 2020 when he co-wrote “Here We Go Again” with Bruce Johnston and other acclaimed songwriters — a standout track featured on The Weeknd’s hit album Dawn FM.
Known for his energetic stage presence and unmistakable musical roots, Christian continues to build a growing reputation as a dynamic performer and songwriter whose work bridges classic influence with a fresh modern voice.
As the featured headline entertainment at WINGS Summit 2026, Christian brings an unforgettable live experience that celebrates music, energy, and connection — creating the perfect soundtrack for an event built around inspiration, momentum, and possibility.
Every speaker brings a unique perspective, bold ideas, and real-world strategies to help propel your mission and break through the gravitational issues that holding you back.
