West Michigan TechnologyNEXT Event

Innovation Frontiers: What's Ahead in Tech

Join us for an evening of forward-thinking insights at our March in-person event, hosted at the Amway Headquarters in Ada. As the digital landscape shifts, staying ahead of the curve is no longer optional. It’s essential. Our expert panel, featuring Shannon Zonca (MillerKnoll) and Ryan Talbot (Amway) will dive into the "Innovation Frontiers" shaping our industries. From the evolution of B2B ecommerce to next-level shopper experiences and the emerging trends set to redefine industries, our experts will share insights you can act on today. Whether you’re an engineer, product strategist, or C-suite executive, you’ll gain a front-row view of the innovations transforming how we connect, create, and compete. Join us to stay ahead of the curve, spark new ideas, and network with peers who are driving the future of tech.

Panel

Katie Barton is a dynamic and results-driven technology executive with a proven track record of aligning IT strategy with business goals to drive innovation, transformation, and operational excellence. With extensive experience as a Chief Information Officer and now serving as an Enterprise Strategist, Katie brings a unique blend of strategic vision, technical expertise, and leadership acumen to every engagement. During her tenure as CIO at Gallup, Katie led global technology initiatives across software development, network operations, and cybersecurity. She directed enterprise software systems, e-commerce platforms, and large-scale deployments, consistently delivering measurable business outcomes. Katie is known for building high-performing teams and fostering cultures of innovation and engagement. A passionate advocate for community and industry advancement, Katie serves on the executive board of the Nebraska Tech Collaborative and is actively involved with Girls, Inc. and the University of Nebraska Omaha’s College of IS&T. She is a frequent speaker on topics including digital transformation, AI strategy, and leadership in technology. Outside of work, Katie enjoys mentoring future leaders, supporting local nonprofits, and spending time with her family.

Ryan Talbott is Chief Technology Officer (CTO) who leads global teams in creating intuitive technology and digital solutions that shape Amway’s social commerce strategy and enterprise platform innovation.

Talbott harnesses best-in-class data and analytics to provide actionable business insights to Amway Business Owners (ABOs) and to create optimal shopping experiences for their customers. He oversees strategic partnerships with leading digital and social technology platforms globally, while ensuring all collaborations adhere to enterprise information security standards and practices.

Talbott reports to CEO Michael Nelson and serves on Amway’s Global Leadership Team, the company’s key decision-making body focused on shaping global strategy, strengthening company culture, and enhancing ABO and customer experiences.

Talbott joined Amway in 2025 and brings more than 25 years of experience, most recently serving as Vice President & Global Chief Information Officer for BorgWarner Inc., where he led high-performing technology teams to grow, improve, and sustain global business operations. Prior to that, he held executive roles at Altimetrik, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now Stellantis), and Accenture. Whether serving as an industry executive or consultant, he is a people-focused leader whose passion and proven expertise have transformed organizations with meaningful, measurable success.

Shannon Zonca is Vice President of B2B E-Commerce and Digital Solutions at MillerKnoll, leading the growth and transformation of global digital channels, B2B e-commerce platforms, and partner focused tools. Since joining Herman Miller in 2011, she has held leadership roles across retail, contract, and product management, bringing deep expertise in digital strategy, customer experience, and scalable platform innovation.

Before joining Herman Miller, Shannon worked in Chicago’s online media industry, specializing in media buying and account management. She holds degrees from Michigan State University and Western Michigan University and serves on Inforum’s TechnologyNEXT Steering Committee, advancing women in technology.

Moderator

Rachel Kooiker is a versatile technology leader and program strategist with a career that spans the full spectrum of innovation, from pioneering educational technology to driving large-scale corporate digital transformations. Currently serving as a Senior IT portfolio leader within the insurance industry, Rachel specializes in maturing governance structures and scaling high-performing teams to navigate complex, multi-vertical business environments.

Date: Wednesday, March 4th

Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Location: Amway, Ada

Refreshments provided by Amway