The 2025 IEEE ICC continues to provide an extensive industrial program designed to provide opportunities for practicing industry professionals to both share and learn about the latest ideas, trends, and product innovations in the broader communications and networking industries while connecting with their peers and other prominent leaders in the industry. Below, please find a tentative schedule of events:
MONDAY 09 JUNE
TUESDAY, 10 JUNE
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Room # |
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
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511 A |
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511 B |
Extended Reality (XR) and Immersive Experiences as key drivers for next gen Communications |
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| 511 C |
WEDNESDAY, 11 JUNE
Sustainability of NextG Networks: Beyond Energy Efficiency
Monday, 09 June 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Location: 511 A, Level 5
Moderator:
Sonia Aïssa, Cyrille-Duquet Chair Professor, INRS (Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique), Montreal, Canada
Panelists:
Gerhard P. Fettweis, Endowed Professor for Mobile Communication Systems, Vodafone, TU Dresden, Germany,
Aliye Özge Kaya, Senior Research Scientist and Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, Nokia Bell Labs, USA
Ruiqi (Richie) Liu, Master Researcher, ZTE Corporation, China
Ted Rappaport, Endowed chair professor, NYU, USA
Peying Zhu, Senior Vice President of Wireless Research, Huawei, Canada
Abstract:
Over the years, sustainability of wireless networks has become quasi-synonymous with energy efficiency in our community. While energy efficiency remains critically important and must be continuously improved in future networks, it must not mask two other important sustainability aspects, namely, the use of scarce raw material and spectrum resources. In fact, the environmental impact due to energy usage of mobile terminals is second behind that related to the extraction and production of raw materials that go into their fabrication. As spectrum is a limited resource, its usage must also be subject to sustainability considerations, albeit from a different perspective compared to that of energy and materials since it is not linked in an apparent and direct way to environmental impacts.
In this context, as wireless technologies continue to proliferate in the era of AI and as their energy requirements and their generated e-waste continue to grow, and in light of the spectrum crunch we are facing, this panel will discuss how to expand our approach to network sustainability from being energy-centric to being more holistic, encompassing all three sustainability aspects with a clear goal of `doing more with less’.
Questions:
- What are the challenges and some of the solutions for achieving higher energy efficiency, more sustainable spectrum utilization, and reduced use of raw materials in future networks? What is your assessment of their relative importance going forward
- How will increased reliance on AI in wireless networks and their supporting infrastructures affect sustainability from energy, material and spectrum perspectives?
- How are we measuring the energy usage/energy efficiency in wireless systems and the energy efficiency of AI-embedded systems, inclusive of training? What capabilities are missing?
- How to establish unified sustainability metrics that account for all resource-types (energy, materials and spectrum) used in wireless networks? What role should collaboration with other communities play in this regard?
- How can we develop technologies that can alleviate the e-waste problem, and can we future-proof wireless systems and networks? What are the main technological challenges to this end?
- How to leverage lessons learned thus far to make NextG networks sustainable by design in the broad sense?
Biographies:
Sonia Aïssa
Cyrille-Duquet Chair Professor, INRS (Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique), Montreal, Canada
Sonia Aïssa (Fellow, IEEE) received her Ph.D. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from McGill University, Montreal, Canada, in 1998. Since then, she has been with the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Montreal, Canada, where she is Cyrille-Duquet Endowed Chair for sustainable wireless communications. During her career in telecommunications, she has held various research posts in Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Turkey, and the UK. Her research interests include the modeling, design, performance analysis and optimization of sustainable wireless systems and networks.
Prof. Aïssa is Fellow of the IEEE and Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering. Her awards include the NSERC University Faculty Award 1999; the Quebec Government FRQNT Strategic Faculty Fellowship 2001-2006; the INRS Performance Award multiple times, for outstanding achievements in research, teaching and outreach; the 2007 FRQNT-SYTACom Technical Community Service Award; the 2021 IEEE WICE Outstanding Achievement Award; and the 2022 IEEE VTS Women's Distinguished Career Award. She is recipient of multiple IEEE Best Paper Awards and of the 2012 IEICE Best Paper Award; and recipient of NSERC Discovery Accelerator Supplement Award. She was a Distinguished Lecturer of the IEEE Communications Society (ComSoc) 2013-2016. She has an outstanding record of service to the IEEE, and serves regularly on many of its committees. She was a Member-At-Large of ComSoc's Board of Governors 2014-2016. Her editorial activities include: Editor-At-Large, IEEE Transactions on Communications 2020-2023; Area Editor, IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications 2014-2019; Editor, IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications 2004-2012; Associate & Technical Editor, IEEE Communications Magazine 2004-2015; and Technical Editor, IEEE Wireless Communications Magazine 2006-2010. She currently serves as Editorial Board Member for IEEE Access. She has been involved in organizing many flagship conferences of the IEEE, including the 2021 IEEE International Conference on Communications for which she served as the TPC Chair. She is active in promoting women in engineering and is the Founder of the IEEE Women in Engineering Affinity Group in Montreal. She is a Member-at-Large of the ComSoc's Board of Governors 2023-2025.
Gerhard P. Fettweis
Endowed Professor for Mobile Communication Systems, Vodafone, TU Dresden, Germany
Gerhard P. Fettweis, F’09, earned a Ph.D. under H. Meyr at RWTH Aachen (Germany) in 1990. After a postdoc at IBM Research, San Jose, he joined TCSI Inc., Berkeley, USA. Since 1994 he is Vodafone Chair Professor at TU Dresden, Germany. Since 2018 he is also founding Scientific Director & CEO of the Barkhausen Institute. He researches wireless communications and chip design, coordinates 5G++Lab Germany and the German Cluster-for-Future SEMECO. His team spun-out 19 tech startups. He initiated 6 platform entities. Gerhard is member of the US National Academy of Engineering, the German Academy of Sciences (Leopoldina), the German Academy of Engineering (Acatech), and Fellow of IEEE, VDE/ITG, NAI, EURASIP, ITG, WWRF, and DATE. He is active in organizing IEEE conferences.
Aliye Özge Kaya
Senior Research Scientist and Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, Nokia Bell Labs, US
Aliye Özge Kaya is a Senior Research Scientist and Distinguished Member of Technical Staff at Nokia Bell Labs. Her current research focuses on two key areas: system-level aspects of 6G, with a particular emphasis on the physical layer, and the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to wireless communications systems. She earned her Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Wireless Information Networks Laboratory (WINLAB) at Rutgers University, New Jersey, in 2010. She received her BSc. and Dipl. Univ-Ing. degrees in Electrical and Information Technology Engineering from the Technical University of Munich, Germany. Dr. Kaya also holds an M.B.A. degree from Columbia Business School.
Ruiqi (Richie) Liu
Master Researcher, ZTE Corporation, China
Ruiqi (Richie) Liu (S'14-M'20-SM'24) is a master researcher in the wireless and computing research institute of ZTE Corporation, responsible for long-term research as well as standardization. His main research interests include reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, integrated sensing and communication and wireless positioning. He is the author or co-author of several books and book chapters. He has made significant contributions to standardization of 5G / 5G-advanced in 3GPP by authoring and submitting more than 500 technical documents with over 100 approved, and serving as a rapporteur. He served as the chair of multiple correspondence groups in ITU-R WP5D towards 6G. He currently serves as the Vice Chair of ISG RIS in the ETSI. He actively participates in organizing committees, tutorials, workshops, symposia and industry sessions in global conferences as the chair, organizer, moderator, panelist or invited speaker, and gave a keynote speech at Globecom 2024. He takes multiple leadership roles in the committees and boards in IEEE ComSoc and VTS, including the voting member of the ComSoc industry communities board.
Ted Rappaport
Endowed chair professor, NYU, USA
Theodore (Ted) S. Rappaport is the David Lee/Ernst Weber Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Tandon School of Engineering at New York University (NYU), and is a professor in the NYU Courant Computer Science Dept. and the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He founded the NYU WIRELESS research center in 2012 and the wireless research centers at the University of Texas Austin (WNCG) and Virginia Tech (MPRG) earlier in his career. He has authored or co-authored widely used textbooks on wireless communications, millimeter wave communications, smart antennas, and simulation. He has provided fundamental knowledge for wireless system design and radio propagation channels used to create the IEEE 802.11Wi-Fi standard, the first U.S. digital TDMA and CDMA standards, the first public Wi-Fi hotspots, and has led the world to adopt millimeter wave and sub-Terahertz frequencies for 5G, 6G, and beyond. His work influenced the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to open up the world’s first mobile telephone spectrum in the millimeter wave bands in 2014-2016 as part of the FCC Spectrum Frontiers ruling, and he again led the FCC to open up spectrum in the sub-Terahertz bands above 95 GHz with the FCC Spectrum Horizons ruling in 2018-2019. He founded two businesses that were sold to publicly traded companies — TSR Technologies, Inc. which pioneered software defined radios for cellphone/paging over-the-air intercept and the first Emergency-911 (E911) cellphone position location system, and Wireless Valley Communications, Inc., a leader in site-specific wireless deployment, and was an advisor to Straight Path Communications which sold 5G millimeter wave spectrum to Verizon. He is a licensed Professional Engineer and is in the Wireless Hall of Fame, a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, a Fellow of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors, recipient of IEEE’s Eric Sumner Award, and a life member of the American Radio Relay League. His ham radio call sign is N9NB.
Peying Zhu
Senior Vice President of Wireless Research, Huawei, Canada
Peiying Zhu, Senior Vice President of Wireless Research, is a Huawei Fellow, IEEE Fellow and Fellow of Canadian Academy of Engineering. She is currently leading 6G wireless research and standardization in Huawei. The focus of her research is advanced radio access technologies. She is actively involved in 3GPP and IEEE 802 standards development. She has been regularly giving talks and panel discussions on 5G/6G vision and enabling technologies. She led the team to contribute significantly to 5G technologies and standardization. Many technologies developed by the team have been adopted into 5G standards and implemented in 5G products. She served as the guest editor for IEEE Signal processing magazine special issue on the 5G revolution and IEEE JSAC on Deployment Issues and Performance Challenges for 5G.
Prior to joining Huawei in 2009, Peiying was a Nortel Fellow and Director of Advanced Wireless Access Technology in the Nortel Wireless Technology Lab. She led the team and pioneered research and prototyping on MIMO-OFDM and Multi-hop relay, which were adopted into LTE standards and 4G products. Dr. Zhu has more than 200 granted patents.
Racing to the Stratosphere: Opportunities, Challenges, Innovations, and Future Directions
Monday, 09 June 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Location: 511 B, Level 5
Moderator:
Mohamed-Slim Alouini, Al-Khwarizmi Distinguished Professor and UNESCO Chair, KAUST | Saudi Arabia
Halim Yanikomeroglu, Chancellor’s Professor and NTN Lab Director, Carleton University | Canada
Panelists:
Graeme Daly, Founder & CEO, Stratotegic | Canada
Frank Rayal, Founding Partner, Xona Partners | Canada
Hamed Khalkhali, President, Swift Engineering | USA
Alfredo Serrano, Director of EMEA, Sceye | USA
Abstract: High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) have emerged as pivotal players in the stratosphere, complementing satellites and low-altitude platforms within non-terrestrial networks (NTN). This panel, featuring concise presentations and dynamic discussion with leading industry experts, will delve into the unique advantages and applications of HAPS compared to other NTN platforms. More specifically, this panel will explore the current challenges HAPS face in achieving widespread global adoption, review cutting-edge advancements in the field, and highlight ongoing research. Participants will gain insights into how HAPS are shaping the future of NTN and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Questions:
• Explore the strategic role of HAPS in non-terrestrial networks (NTN).
• Highlight the unique advantages and diverse applications of HAPS.
• Analyze key challenges and barriers to HAPS adoption.
• Review the state-of-the-art technologies driving HAPS innovation.
• Assess future directions and opportunities for HAPS development.
Biographies:
Mohamed-Slim Alouini was born in Tunis, Tunisia. He received the Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in 1998. He served as a faculty member at the University of Minnesota then in the Texas A&M University at Qatar before joining in 2009 as a founding faculty the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and where he is now the Al-Khawarizmi Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Prof. Alouini is a Fellow of the IEEE and OPTICA. He currently holds the UNESCO Chair on Education to Connect the Unconnected and is particularly interested in addressing the technical challenges associated with the uneven distribution, access to, and use of information and communication technologies in rural, low-income, disaster, and/or hard-to-reach areas.
Halim Yanikomeroglu is a Chancellor’s Professor in the Department of Systems and Computer Engineering at Carleton University, Canada; he is also the Director of Carleton-NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) Lab. He is a Fellow of IEEE, Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC), Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE), and Asia-Pacific Artificial Intelligence Association (AAIA). Dr. Yanikomeroglu has coauthored a high number of papers in 33 different IEEE journals; he also has 41 granted patents. He has supervised or hosted at Carleton 170 postgraduate researchers; several of his former team members have become professors in Canada, US, UK, and around the world. He has given around 200 invited seminars, keynotes, panel talks, and tutorials in the last ten years. He has served as the Steering Committee Chair, General Chair, and Technical Program Chair of several major international IEEE conferences, as well as in the editorial boards of several IEEE periodicals. He also served as a Distinguished Speaker for IEEE ComSoc and IEEE VTS. Dr. Yanikomeroglu received many awards for his research, teaching, and service. He holds a PhD degree in electrical and computer engineering from University of Toronto.
Graeme Daly, Founder & CEO, Stratotegic | Canada
Graeme Daly is the Co-Founder and CEO at Stratotegic. With over five years of experience in designing and certifying aviation software at Pratt and Whitney Canada, Graeme has honed his expertise in the aerospace sector. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science from Queen’s University and a Master of Engineering from the University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies. Currently, Graeme is spearheading the development of an autonomous navigation solution for Lighter than Air High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS), which operates independently of ground stations. This innovation aims to make HAPS a more viable solution for connecting remote areas. Additionally, Graeme is overseeing the development of advanced wind prediction software that dynamically adjusts to changing wind environments, further enhancing the reliability and efficiency of HAPS.
Frank Rayal, Founding Partner, Xona Partners | Canada
Frank Rayal is founding partner at Xona Partners, a boutique advisory firm specializing in technology and management consulting. Xona Partners is dedicated to helping technology companies define and execute strategic initiatives that drive revenue growth, while also providing financial investors with pre-investment technical and commercial due diligence. Frank has been instrumental in helping mobile network operators in North and South America, as well as Europe, in building some of the earliest mobile networks. His extensive career includes senior product management roles at pioneering telecom vendors, culminating in the co-founding of a wireless infrastructure startup. Frank holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and applied physics from Case Western Reserve University, along with a Master of Applied Science (M.A.Sc.) and an MBA from the University of Toronto. He is recognized as a senior member of IEEE and is a member of Professional Engineers Ontario.
Hamed Khalkhali, President, Swift Engineering | USA
Hamed Khalkhali has over 30 years of experience in Aerospace/Defense and Automotive industry. Hamed is the President of Swift Engineering located in San Clemente, CA. Swift Engineering is a small company focused on UAV R&D and manufacturing of composite aerospace platforms. Hamed has worked in AeroVironment as the Global Vice President of Engineering and Program Management before joining Swift Engineering. Before that, he worked in Safran Electronics & Defense, Parker Aerospace Flight Control System, and General Motors. Hamed is an adjunct faculty in Mechanical Engineering Department in Cal Poly Pomona, CA since 2006. He has earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from SUT, a M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Wright State University, and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. In addition, he has obtained his MBA from Cal Lutheran University. He considered himself a system engineer with strong appetite toward system modeling and simulation.
Alfredo Serrano, Director of EMEA, Sceye | USA
Alfredo Serrano is a technology executive lfredo is a seasoned technology executive boasting over 30 years of expertise in the wireless communications, internet, and e-commerce industries. He has held numerous leadership positions in the telecommunications sector, with a particular focus on developing mobile networks throughout Europe and Latin America. Since 2019, Alfredo has been at the helm of Sceye's Sales and Business Development efforts across the EMEA region, where he is tasked with forging strategic partnerships with both public and private clients, as well as engaging with investors.
Future Telecommunication Infrastructure and Robotics for Safety-Critical Industries and Services: Industry Demands, Safety Requirements, Technical Challenges & Solution, and Economics
Monday, 09 June 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Location: 511 C, Level 5
Moderator:
Philip Zhao, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Computer Science, University of Manchester, UK
Panelists:
James Kell, Robotics Technical Director, Amentum Engineering Company, UK
Maycon Douglas da Silva Carvalho, Senior Solutions Architect, Nvidia, Germany
Aisha Syed, Augmented Dynamic Networks Researcher, Nokia Bell Labs, Ottawa, Canada
Daniele De Martini, Lecturer, University of Oxford, UK
Abstract:
This panel focuses on the intersection of telecommunications and robotics technologies in supporting safety-critical industries and essential services. We will bring together industry and academic experts to discuss the pressing industry demands, safety requirements, technical obstacles to deploying such systems, innovative solutions, and economic implications.
We aim to engage audiences from diverse communities, including industry, academia, regulators, end-users, etc., to foster collaboration and promote interdisciplinary research.
The rapid evolution of telecommunication infrastructure, such as 5G and emerging 6G technologies, has become pivotal for advancing robotics applications in safety-critical sectors. Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, energy, and transportation demand reliable, low-latency, and scalable connectivity to support automation, real-time monitoring, remote operations, etc. These systems are essential not only for enhancing efficiency but also for ensuring safety and resilience in emergencies and high-stakes environments. Consequently, it is both crucial and urgent to comprehensively understand the interdependency between safety and communication and exploit how to advance safety through communication technologies.
Questions:
- (Demands)What are the most pressing demands and use cases from the industry? Examples?
- (Challenges)What are the primary technical challenges in integrating next-generation telecommunications infrastructure with robotics, especially in terms of reliability, latency, and security? How can these challenges be mitigated?
- (Solutions) What breakthrough solutions do you anticipate in the next five years?
- (Economic Viability) How can industries balance the high costs of deploying advanced telecommunication infrastructure with the potential ROI from robotic automation? Are there specific models or partnerships that make these investments more accessible?
- What are the prominent fields that must be investigated by both academicians and industrial professionals in the near future?
Biographies:
Philip Zhao
Senior Lecturer at the Department of Computer Science, University of Manchester, UK
Dr Philip G Zhao is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Computer Science, University of Manchester (UoM), UK. Prior to joining UoM in 2024, he was a Lecturer/Senior Lecturer at the University of Glasgow, UK, from 2018 to 2023. Dr Zhao is recognized as a Senior Member of IEEE and is also a member of IET.
His areas of expertise lie in strategy and technology innovation. His research focuses on AI-driven cross-system design and optimization for various applications, including robotics, Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), Internet of Things (IoT), communication networks, and computer vision.
His project portfolio reflects a total funding of £3 million, with more than £800k secured as the Principal Investigator (PI). He has made significant contributions to academia with over 100 publications, including in prestigious journals such as JSAC, TCOM, TWC, JSTSP, and TSP, as well as top conferences like ICRA, IROS, INFOCOM, ICC, and Globecom. He won three best paper awards and received 2800+ citations in Google Scholar.
James Kell
Robotics Technical Director, Amentum Engineering Company, UK
James Kell is currently serving as the Robotics Technical Director at Amentum Engineering UK Ltd, leading the robotics and remote handling team responsible for developing and implementing systems to extend the lifespan of critical national infrastructure. James works with clients to capture project requirements, enabling the team to deliver innovative solutions that address client needs. He has significantly grown revenue and expanded the application of nuclear robotics technologies to sectors such as defence, drinking water and wastewater. Prior to this position, James was a In-Situ Technology Specialist at Rolls-Royce where he collaborated with the University of Nottingham on several award-winning engineering solutions, many of which were adopted by Rolls-Royce to ensure that their products remained in service and operating safely. James serves as an Advisory Board Member for the Robotics Growth Partnership sponsored by HM Government. With a strong academic background and a passion for inspiring the next generation of engineers, he also holds a Visiting Professor role at the University of Nottingham where he holds regular engine familiarisation seminars around an ex-service RR Trent 1000.
Maycon Douglas da Silva Carvalho
Senior Solutions Architect, Nvidia, Germany
Maycon Carvalho is Senior Solution Architect for Robotics, Embedded and IGX at NVIDIA, where his work comprises the enablement of customers with NIVIDA's simulation technology and creation of sim-ready 3D-assets, deployment of perception systems on embedded devices in a hardware-in-the-loop fashion through a sim2real bridge, training and optimization of DNNs for deployments at the edge, among others. He is also responsible for supporting customers who aim to deploy their analytics and perception systems on the industrial IGX platform and respective software stack.
Aisha Syed
Augmented Dynamic Networks Researcher, Nokia Bell Labs, Ottawa, Canada
Aisha Syed is a researcher in the Modelling and Optimization group at Nokia Bell Labs. Her current work includes building and maintaining image analytics and ML pipelines for the AIMS project which does drone based inventory monitoring for commercial warehouses. She also collaborates with academia for research on using reinforcement learning based solutions for dealing with resource allocation problems in edge cloud networks, as well as exploring semantic communication to help optimize traffic controllers in vehicular networks.
Daniele De Martini
Lecturer, University of Oxford, UK
Daniele is a Departmental Lecturer in Mobile Robotics and co-leads with Professor Paul Newman the Mobile Robotics Group. He is also a College Lecturer in Engineering Science at Pembroke College.
Daniele is interested in robust navigation and scene understanding -- from odometry and localisation to detection and segmentation -- enabling the deployment of robots in challenging weather and scenarios. He is exploring techniques to improve robustness either by utilising inherently more robust sensors, focusing on FMCW scanning radar technology, or enhancing the training of perception modules.
The Path to Zero Trust Architecture in Mobile Networks
Tuesday, 10 June 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 511 A, Level 5
Moderator:
Tania Leppert, Chief Technology Officer, Ericsson, Canada
Panelists:
Michael Loushine, Cybersecurity Lead, AT&T, USA
Wynn Fenwick, Senior Consultant, Telus, Canada
Simon Treliving, Cybersecurity Consultant, British Telecom, UK
Yusuf Patel, Sr. Director of Cyber Security Operations and Incident Response at Rogers Communications
Abstract:
Each generation of mobile technology has been more secure than its predecessor. This trend is expected to continue with 6G. While 6G will benefit from lessons learned in 5G and new security feature enhancements, there will be an evolving threat landscape and new security risks introduced due to new deployment models and use cases. This panel will examine from the mobile operator perspective the threats and potential attack vectors to consider, the role of Zero Trust Architecture to mitigate threats, security lessons learned from 5G, and possible areas for further innovations to secure mobile networks. The goal is to provide information, through panel discussion, that sparks advancements in 6G standardization, product innovations, and deployment planning.
Questions:
- What are the evolving threat/attack vectors to consider for mobile networks?
- What traditional threat/attack vectors will evolve with next generation mobile networks?
- What is the role of ZTA in securing mobile networks?
- What security lessons learned from Open RAN and Cloud deployments can be applied to next Gen mobile security?
- What are possible areas for security innovation?
Biographies:
Tania Leppert, Chief Technology Officer, Ericsson, Canada
Tania Leppert is the Chief Technology Officer of Ericsson Canada Inc., bringing over 20 years of global experience across North America, Asia, and Europe. She has held leadership roles in R&D, Sales, Strategy, and Product Management, demonstrating a strong blend of technical expertise and strategic vision.
Tania holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from McGill University and an MBA from the University of Maastricht. In her current role, she leads initiatives in Public Safety Broadband Networks (PSBN), Security, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and other key national programs, driving innovation and technological advancement in Canada.
Michael Loushine
Cybersecurity Lead, AT&T, USA
Mike Loushine is a Cybersecurity Lead in the AT&T Chief Security Office. Mike develops cybersecurity mechanisms and platforms for mobility and enterprise systems. Mike has over three decades of experience in the communications industry within various engineering and research capacities. Mike currently serves as an AT&T delegate to the O-RAN Alliance Security Working Group and the 3GPP SA3 Security Working Group. Within these and other standards development organizations Mike works with mobile network operators and vendors to drive security into mobility standards and to establish industry-wide best practices. Mike regularly contributes to industry alliances focused on emerging cybersecurity requirements and solutions for 5G, Next G, and 6G systems.
Mike joined AT&T in 2016 after 17 years in the roles of Director, Chief Scientist, and Senior Scientist at Telcordia Applied Research and (then renamed) Applied Communication Sciences. Mike performed research in wireless communications technology including Wi-Fi positioning, 4G mobile networks, and security. His technical and business contributions were recognized with three CEO Awards. Mike earned a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (Communications Theory) from The George Washington University.
Wynn Fenwick
Senior Consultant, Telus, Canada
Wynn Fenwick is 5G prime for TELUS. Operating out of its cybersecurity architecture practice, he is a 30 year veteran of the cyber security industry. Wynn has consulted on security for hosting, IT outsourcing and cloud solutions since 2000. Whether it is embedding security in public safety network applications, or guiding assurance programs for managed service providers, he helps organization use continuous improvement techniques to align to ever-changing threat models and requirements. Prior to joining TELUS, Wynn was a chief technology architect within a multinational Managed Security Services provider. Wynn holds multiple Global Information Assurance security certifications and is a contributor to IEEE, GSMA and 3GPP.
Simon Treliving
Cybersecurity Consultant, British Telecom, UK
Simon Treliving is a Security Consultant at British Telecom (BT) leading security assurance of all projects involving BT systems and assets. His expertise includes secure-by-design, threat modelling, risk assessment, security controls, data privacy, zero-trust, and policy compliance. With an extensive background in mobile technology, Simon collaborates closely with BT’s partners to secure and evolve its mobile network infrastructure.
Yusuf Patel, Sr. Director of Cyber Security Operations and Incident Response at Rogers Communications
Yusuf Patel, the Sr. Director of Cyber Security Operations and Incident Response at Rogers Communications, spearheads strategic initiatives to help safeguard the digital safety and security of Canadians. With over 26 years of leadership experience, Yusuf has built high-performing teams, instituted robust cyber resilience programs, and transformed operations at scale. His areas of expertise include compliance, security controls, threat hunting, and incident response.
Extended Reality (XR) and Immersive Experiences as key drivers for next gen Communications
Tuesday, 10 June 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 511 B, Level 5
Moderator:
Florian Saugue, Project Director, Numana
Panelists:
Tiago H. Falk, Professor and Director, MuSEA Lab; co-Director of the INRS-UQO UMR on Cybersecurity and Digital Trust, Canada
George Efthimiopoulos, Director, Innovation & Research Programs, Ciena, Canada
Abstract: Extended Reality (XR) and Immersive Experiences (IE) are transforming our societies and unlocking new opportunities with Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and the metaverse. New ways of consuming media and communicating are changing the paradigm of social interaction and we need to ask the question: “What will our world look like in this future?”
XR and IE use cases will have significant impact in the ecosystem across various domains, including industry, health, education, entertainment and government. This Industrial Panel aims to discuss the evolution of future ready network platforms (including 5G and 6G) and the key technology enablers in what will be a fully disaggregated, cloud-native and distributed AI-native architectural environment. In conjunction with new devices and wearables, 5G advanced and 6G will greatly enhance many XR and IE use cases enabled by an accurate, high spatial resolution and real-time digital representation of the physical world, coupled with sophisticated information processing and immersive interaction capabilities.
How can our current communication systems be enhanced to take hundreds of thousands of people streaming immersive 3D environment at the same time and eventually provide a multisensory holographic experience? How does the communication industry support this change? And how can all these technologies benefit our societies?
Join us for a panel as we explore the various aspects of these questions and talk about the innovative technology concepts and solutions.
Questions:
Specify 5 questions to be discussed/answered in the panel
1. What will our world look like in a future where XR is ingrained throughout society?
2. How long do we have to prepare for this?
3. Is XR limited to audio and video experiences?
4. Can our current communication systems take hundreds of thousands of people streaming (multisensory) immersive 3D environment at the same time?
5. How does the communication industry support this change?
Biographies:
Florian Saugues is, first and foremost, fond of technological innovations and the new ways they allow human beings to connect to each other. This is why he worked for more than 10 years between the video game and culture industry, often regarding web communication and social media both in France and in Quebec.
He is now project director for Numana where he combines his knowledge in communication with this passion that pushes him to wonder about the impacts of emerging tech, especially regarding talent growth.
He still keeps in touch with the entertainment industry as he teaches the History of video games and 3D animation at Rubika Montreal.
Tiago H. Falk is a Full Professor at INRS-EMT, University of Quebec, where he directs the Multisensory Signal Analysis and Enhancement Lab. He is also co-Director of the INRS-UQO Research Centre on Cybersecurity and Digital Trust and co-Chair of the IEEE Telepresence Initiative aimed at building an interdisciplinary community addressing all aspects related to telepresence, including xR and multisensory immersive environments. He is a member-at-large of the IEEE SMC Society Board-of-Governors and a Fellow of the IEEE.
George Efthimiopoulos is leading innovation, strategic partnerships & technology ecosystem development in Canada for Ciena. George has 20 years of experience in the telecommunications sector, which includes directing advanced research and network transformation programs in North America. He serves on several committees and councils, including the ENCQOR 5G Board of Directors and is dedicated to accelerating innovation through public-private partnerships focused on next generation connectivity. His responsibilities include driving collaborative research engagements with government agencies, external research organizations, industry partners, start-ups, academic institutions, and other essential innovation ecosystem contributors.
Smart Connectivity for Healthy and Sustainable Cities: Harnessing Communication Technologies for Urban Well-being
Tuesday, 10 June 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 511 C, Level 5
Moderator:
Ilaria Bortone, EU Program Manager, MEDITECH 4.0 Competence Center
Panelists:
Rodolfo Sardone, Scientific Coordinator of CALLIOPE Project, Head of Urban Health Center, Local Healthcare Authority of Taranto, Italy
Cinzia Campanella, Head of Innovation & Vertical Solutions, Vodafone Business, Italy
Marco Valentini, Group Public Affairs Director, Engineering SpA
Valeria Pagliaro, General Manager LAND Canada, LAND Srl
Abstract: The rapid urbanization of our world presents significant challenges in ensuring that cities remain both livable and sustainable. Communication technologies play a fundamental role in shaping smart, healthy, and sustainable urban environments, from enabling efficient public services to fostering climate resilience and improving public health outcomes. From real-time environmental monitoring to next-generation connectivity in underserved areas, digital innovations are reshaping how cities function, making them more resilient, inclusive, and health-conscious. This panel will explore cutting-edge use cases that exemplify how communication technologies are shaping the future of urban environments. Projects such as CALLIOPE (MIMIT-CTE) demonstrate the power of real-time monitoring for data-driven urban decision-making, while the 5GINED Project (CEF2027) showcases how next-generation network solutions can bridge the digital divide and promote social inclusion in marginalized areas. Additionally, initiatives like MUNICIPIA (ENG) focus on intelligent urban services to optimize mobility, waste management, and citizen engagement, and LAND explores innovative urban planning strategies that integrate digital infrastructure for sustainable growth.
Panelists will delve into the practical applications of these initiatives, discussing how telecom innovation, 5G, AI-driven analytics, and IoT technologies contribute to improved public services, environmental protection, and equitable urban development. The session will also address key challenges, including regulatory frameworks, financial models, and cross-sector collaborations necessary to scale these solutions.
By highlighting these real-world examples, the panel aims to provide actionable insights on how industries, governments, and technology providers can work together to ensure that cities of the future leverage digital connectivity to enhance the quality of life for all citizens. The panel will also address the regulatory, financial, and ethical considerations in deploying these technologies, emphasizing collaborative strategies between industry stakeholders, governments, and local communities.
Questions:
1. How can 5G and AI-driven networks enhance public health monitoring, emergency response, and urban safety in smart cities?
2. What role does digital infrastructure play in reducing urban health disparities, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities?
3. How can communication technologies help cities achieve sustainability goals, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and climate resilience?
4. What are the biggest regulatory and financial challenges in deploying next-generation communication networks for urban development?
5. How can industry leaders, governments, and civic organizations collaborate to ensure equitable and responsible technological advancements in smart cities?
Biographies:
Ilaria Bortone, EU Program Manager, MEDITECH 4.0 Competence Center
Biomedical engineer with strong expertise overseeing and managing national and international funded research projects. She was the Principal Investigator of two nationally funded research projects (KISS-HEALTH, 2012-15, PON04a3_00097; TELOS, 2020-24, CUP J53D23005710006). Now, she is the Technical Coordinator of MISTRAL Project (HORIZON, Grant agreement ID: 101095119), and she manages for MEDITECH 4.0 other three European initiatives (CoGNETs (HORIZON) - Grant Agreement ID: 101135930; BeOpen (DIGITAL) - Grant Agreement ID: 101100807; 5GINED (CEF2027) – Grant Agreement ID: 101181311).
Rodolfo Sardone, Scientific Coordinator of CALLIOPE Project, Head of Urban Health Center, Local Healthcare Authority of Taranto, Italy
R.S. is a researcher and public health practitioner. He leads the Urban Health Center and serves as the scientific director of the CALLIOPE Project at the Local Health Authority of Taranto.
Additionally, he is an adjunct professor of Translational Research and Health Technologies at the University of Bari, as well as an Honorary Associate in AI in Healthcare at the University of Liverpool. He is the scientific coordinator of MISTRAL Project (HORIZON, Grant agreement ID: 101095119, https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101095119).
Cinzia Campanella, Head of Innovation & Vertical Solutions, Vodafone Business, Italy
She led the 5G trial in Milan for the Education & Entertainment sector and contributed to innovative products such as GameNow, the first 5G cloud gaming service launched in Italy. Before taking on this role in October 2020, she held positions of increasing responsibility in marketing and sales in the Consumer and Business Departments of Vodafone Italia. She graduated in Electronic Engineering with a focus on Telecommunications at the University of Naples Federico II.
Marco Valentini, Group Public Affairs Director, Engineering SpA
M. V. combines broad public affairs and legal knowledge with deep business experience to advance the interests of a leading digital transformation company in Italy. With over 12 years of experience in the public affairs sector, his competencies include business impact assessment of legislation at national and local levels, legislative analysis at European level, and stakeholder relationships with Government, regulatory, and legislative bodies. Strong background in international law and legal studies, thanks to my bachelor's degree in law from LUISS Guido Carli University and my previous experiences abroad.
Valeria Pagliaro, General Manager LAND Canada, LAND Srl
V.P., educated in architecture and public space in Italy and the Netherlands, she has been working at LAND since 2006 and became a partner in 2016. She played a key role in Milan’s transformation into a vibrant European city, leading several major urban regeneration schemes and delivering projects of excellence to communities in Rome, Naples, Catania, Moscow, and the Corridor de Biodiversité de Saint-Laurent in Montreal, Canada, which has received two top national distinctions.
Who are your humans? : An anthropological view of telco
Tuesday, 10 June 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 511 A, Level 5
Moderator:
Anaïs Détolle, Ph.D., Anthropologist, Project and Impact Director, Numana
Bhushan Joshi, Head of Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility, Ericsson North America Plano Texas USA Chair ATIS Next G Alliance Green G Working Group
Panelists:
Larry S. McGrath, Senior Researcher, Amazon Prime Video
Tamara Moellenberg, Senior Manager, ReD Associates
Maria Cury, Partner, ReD Associates, USA
Ujjwal Gupta, Strategy Advisor, ReD Associates, USA
Marysol Hinojosa, Consumer Research and Voice of Customer, Cable and Wireless Communications-Liberty Latin America
Abstract:
How well do you know your end users? What connects them to your offerings and brand? How do your customers connect with and want to connect with each other? Brand differentiation and customer loyalty are paramount in today’s competitive telecommunications landscape. Our panel showcases the unique value of ethnography – the embedded observation of people in their everyday contexts – when it comes to maintaining a competitive edge in the face of business uncertainties.
We present four case studies of ethnographies in the telco industry that deepened companies’ connections with customers. In the domains of connectivity, streaming, and sports entertainment, we show how the drivers of engagement take root in customers’ sense of belonging with each other.
● Cable and Wireless Communications discusses how a deeper understanding of shared customer challenges and aspirations in Caribbean markets helped redefine the company mission, with concrete implications for marketing, CSR, and product.
● Amazon Prime Video presents fieldwork with streaming customers in their homes; the results helped the company connect entertainment experiences across televisions, mobile devices, and Alexa voice assistants.
● ReD Associates discuss how ethnographic research into how sports fans build belonging helped drive innovation at a major US broadcasting company.
● Altice reflects on how ethnographic approaches are needed to gain clarity on complex, changing consumer attitudes about the impact of connectivity (e.g. 5G networks) on collective social problems like population health and the environment.
Together, the studies demonstrate the value of spending time with groups of people in their day-to-day lives. Whereas companies often focus narrowly on individual customer touchpoints, we show how the future of *Communications Technologies 4Good* is more expansive: it lies in cultivating connections among customers.
Questions:
1. How does ethnography add value across the communications industry outside the case studies on the panel?
2. How do thick data support decision making even though they are not statistically significant?
3. What practical considerations should a research team keep in mind when planning ethnographic field work?
4. Which kinds of data should communications firms’ Research and Development divisions collect?
5. How does a research team find the right participants?
Biographies:
Anaïs Détolle, Ph.D., Anthropologist, Project and Impact Director, Numana
Dr. Anaïs Détolle brings interdisciplinary expertise exploring during the last 7 years, the intersection of anthropology and telecommunications. With a Ph.D. in Social and Cultural Analysis and extensive professional experience bridging academic research and industry applications, she offers a unique perspective on how human behavior and technological systems interact.
As Director of Projects and Impact at Numana, Dr. Détolle has led initiatives on "empathic neighborhoods" and presided over industrial panels for the IEEE ICC 2025 international conference. Her capacity to facilitate meaningful dialogue between diverse stakeholders in the technology sector and her leadership in developing Tech for Good initiatives with international partners, further exemplifies her commitment to responsible innovation.
Dr. Détolle excels at creating bridges between technological innovation and social impact. Her background in anthropology and cultural research, combined with extensive experience in business development and partnership building, enables her to guide conversations that explore both the technical evolution of telecommunications and its profound effects on human communities and behaviors across cultural contexts.
Bhushan Joshi, Head of Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility, Ericsson North America Plano Texas USA Chair ATIS Next G Alliance Green G Working Group
Bhushan Joshi is a senior sustainability executive with over 20 years of experience shaping transformative strategies across the retail, energy, industrial, and telecommunications sectors. As Head of Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility for Ericsson in Market Area North America, Bhushan spearheads initiatives in corporate responsibility, climate action, and digital inclusion. His work aligns with Ericsson's vision of leveraging limitless connectivity to improve lives, redefine businesses, and drive a sustainable future.
In addition to his role at Ericsson, Bhushan serves as Chair of the Next G Alliance Green G Working Group, leading efforts to position North America at the forefront of environmental sustainability in wireless technologies, including the advancement of 6G. Under his leadership, the group has released impactful publications addressing the intersection of sustainability and next-generation network innovation.
A sought-after public speaker, Bhushan has delivered insights on embedding sustainability into technology and business innovation at premier forums such as Mobile World Congress Americas, Techonomy, Network X, GreenBiz, and IEEE conferences. He is known for bridging technical expertise with a strategic focus on environmental stewardship.
Bhushan holds an MBA in Sustainable Business Practices from Duquesne University and engineering degrees from Ferris State University and Bharati Vidyapeeth University. Based in Frisco, Texas, he is deeply committed to fostering cross-industry collaboration to build a sustainable future.
Larry S. McGrath, Senior Researcher, Amazon Prime Video
Larry S. McGrath leads the User Experience Research team at Amazon Prime Video, which designs the streaming app’s architecture in 134 audio and 81 subtitle languages in 247 countries. He earned his PhD in the History & Anthropology of Science from Johns Hopkins University and continues to advocate for the migration of the Human Sciences out of academia and into the communications industry.
Tamara Moellenberg, Senior Manager, ReD Associates
Tamara Moellenberg has worked extensively across ReD’s telecommunications and technology practices, driving large strategy and innovation projects in global regions. She holds a DPhil (Phd) in African Literature in English from the University of Oxford.
Maria Cury, Partner, ReD Associates, USA
Maria Cury is a lead on ReD’s technology practice, studying the role of new technology in daily life to advise on product development, visioning, and strategy. She has a background in anthropology and in the arts and cultural institutions, having received an MSc in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology from Oxford, and a BA in Anthropology with Visual Arts certificate from Princeton.
Ujjwal Gupta, Strategy Advisor, ReD Associates, USA
Ujjwal Gupta leads international studies for telco firms that draw on his background the human sciences. He holds an MBA from Columbia University
Marysol Hinojosa, Consumer Research and Voice of Customer, Cable and Wireless Communications-Liberty Latin America
Marysol Hinojosa has spent over a decade doing deep customer research inside large telecommunications companies. She holds multiple masters degrees, including in Customer Experience.
Communications for the Arctic
TUESDAY, 10 JUNE 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 511 B, Level 5
Moderator:
Cyril Iskander, Head of Product Management, Ultra Intelligence & Communications
Panelists:
Steve Gizinski, Chief Technology Officer for Viasat Government
Sunil Chavda, Director, New Satellite Systems Development, Telesat
Pierre-Yves Fouillen, Business Developer – North America, Flying Whales
Denis Couillard, Director of Solutions Development, Ultra Intelligence & Communications
Abstract:
With rapid climate change and evolving geopolitics, there is renewed interest in Arctic communications – priority applications include military, energy, fishing, navy and coast guard deployments, cruise ships, environment and remote communities’ protection.
Challenges are numerous and include: the immense size of the region and sparseness of its population, lack of transportation infrastructures, terrain, atmospheric conditions that interfere with comms (e.g. ionospheric effects on HF propagation), the need to operate in extreme environmental conditions (cold and permafrost) far from centres of expertise and support, very limited satellite coverage above 75degrees, the need for more reliable and accessible communications, limited access to power sources, fast discharging of batteries.
Following its new “Our North, Strong and Free” defence policy, the need to modernize NORAD and ensure Canada’s sovereignty, the Department of National Defence is looking for more resilient, more agile and more easily deployable communication solutions.
Communication solutions include: satellite, HF, line of sight radios (ground, aerial and maritime) and troposcatter communications
Questions:
- Physical challenges of communicating in the Arctic: key barriers
- Multiple bearers used and proposed: advantages of each
- Cooperation and partnerships in establishing communications: inter-country, intra-country, government, commercial
- Economics of Arctic communications
- Arctic comms in 2030
Biographies:
Cyril Iskander
Head of Product Management, Ultra Intelligence & Communications
Cyril Iskander, Ph.D. has over 25 years’ industrial experience in the development, architecture and product management of communication solutions, with close ties to the academic world. He leads all Ultra Intelligence & Communications Product Management activities in the LOS radio, troposcatter and Satellite communication fields.
Steve Gizinski, Chief Technology Officer for Viasat Government
Steve Gizinski is the Chief Technology Officer for Viasat Government, where he plans, coordinates, and manages the overall technology direction for Viasat’s Government Segment. Mr. Gizinski has over 30 years of leadership and in-depth experience designing, implementing, and operating mission-critical technology efforts for commercial, Intelligence and U.S. Department of Defense clients. He has previously served as Managing Director of Viasat Government Services, President of Inmarsat Government Inc; President and CEO of CVG, Inc.; and has held various management positions at Northrop Grumman, Hughes Space and Communications, Boeing, Lockheed Martin; and as a fellow in the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) technology fellowship program. Mr. Gizinski holds a Master of Science in Systems Management from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Central Florida.
Director, New Satellite Systems Development, Telesat
Sunil Chavda is the Director, New Satellite Systems Development. Sunil joined Telesat in 2016, before joining Telesat he was with COMDEV (Now Honeywell) as Managing Director of COMDEV Europe and COMDEV XIAN and before that, he worked for Airbus as program manager and lead the Advanced Systems team.
Sunil graduated from UCL London UK, and entered the Space industry straight out of University as an engineer working for Marconi Space Systems on a National military communications satellite system. He has worked in Space Industry for over 30 years in Europe, Far East and North America, specializing in military tactical communications systems and Low Earth Orbit Space based Radar Systems and Sensors. Sunil received special recognition for his pioneering contribution to the development of Space based SAR missions and the Rosetta mission to comet 67P.
Pierre-Yves Fouillen, Business Developer – North America, Flying Whales
As a Business Developer for North America, Pierre-Yves is in charge of sales and marketing activities for FLYING WHALES QUÉBEC in North America, with a focus on Canada, to deploy FLYING WHALES’s cargo airship solution, the LCA60T (Large Capacity Airship 60 Tons).
Pierre-Yves is particularly developing multiples activities to serve Northern Canada whether it is to serve remote communities, particularly for housing needs, to help developing the critical minerals sector by delivering heavy equipment to the most isolated mines, or to help mines and communities transitioning to renewables energies by enabling the delivery of large wind turbines components.
Prior to this role, Pierre-Yves was a market manager for FLYING WHALES, based in their headquarter in France. This position enabled him to study the potential of the LCA60T solution for multiple sectors and in different regions and initiate commercial developments on those markets while gaining extensive knowledge on various industries.
As a graduate in both fluid mechanics (from ENSEEIHT, Toulouse, France) and in innovation management (from Toulouse Business School), Pierre-Yves is proud to use his technical background to better understand FLYING WHALES’s clients needs in diverse sectors.
Denis Couillard, Director of Solutions Development, Ultra Intelligence & Communications
Denis Couillard received a B. Eng. in Electrical Engineering and a Master’s in technology management from École Polytechnique de Montréal. He has more than 35 years’ experience in systems engineering and in developing and launching new radio communication products. Denis has published on radio transmissions and strategic technology management subjects and has authored 2 U.S. patents on ECCM. He is currently Director of Solutions Development at Ultra Intelligence & Communications in Montreal, a company formerly known as the Canadian Marconi Company.
Future Networks for High-performance Digital Economies, Security, Hyperconnectivity, AI, and Resiliency (SHAIR)
Tuesday, 10 June 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 511 C, Level 5
Moderator:
Robert Crawhall Ph.D, P.Eng, FCAE, PMP, ICD.D, CEO, Canadian Academy of Engineering
Panelists:
Paul Baptista, B.Eng., Ericsson, Ericsson
Halim Yanikomeroglu, Chancellor’s Professor, Carleton University
Alberto Leon-Garcia, Professor Electrical Engineering, U of Toronto, Canada
Rodney G. Wilson (Rod), Chief Technologist & Senior Director, External Research
Abstract:
The Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE) has been developing a program on Sustainable, Resilient Next Generation Networks (SINGS) since 2022. This framework is intended to provide vision and focus for Canadian researchers in industry, academia and government science. It is built on four pillars:
• Trustworthiness
• Sustainability
• Accessibility, and
• Intelligence
The SINGS Future Networks Vision incororates sixth generation wireless communication (6G), non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and quantum networks which are set to redefine global connectivity, enabling ultra-reliable, low-latency networks, pervasive AI-driven systems, and advancements in digital inclusion. As nations prepare for this transformative era, a collaborative approach involving government leaders, industry experts, researchers, policymakers and academies of engineering is critical to:
• Align on a Future Networks roadmap including 6G technological advancements and standardization strategies.
• Align non-terrestrial network innovation with progress in terrestrial networks for ease of integration and interoperability
• Address global challenges such as security, sustainability, and equitable access.
• Foster public-private partnerships for research and innovation.
• Shape policies that ensure interoperability, economic growth, and national security.
In addition to a history of global leadership in telecommunications technologies and standards, Canada has a number of unique challenges related to population distributions, geopolitical and economic imperatives of northern development and the need to maintain AI leadership.
The focus of this panel discussion will be on the practical aspects of implementation and adoption of new communications technologies in a multi-stakeholder environment.
Questions:
- Technological Road mapping: How to Identify key research areas, technical challenges, and development milestones.
- How to address global challenges such as security, sustainability, and equitable access.
- How to foster public-private partnerships for research and innovation.
- Which policies are being discussed to ensure interoperability, economic growth, and national security.
Biographies:
Robert Crawhall Ph.D, P.Eng, FCAE, PMP, ICD.D, CEO, Canadian Academy of Engineering
Robert has over 30 years’ experience in technology innovation. He serves on several Board of Directors including private and not-for-profit organizations and is active in standards development. Prior positions included CEO of the National Capital Institute of Telecommunications, Executive Director of the Ontario Research Network in Electronic Commerce, CEO of NanoQuébec and VP Operations of Precarn Incorporated. Robert received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in Business from McGill University, his Master's degree in Electrical Engineering also from McGill and his Doctorate in electromagnetic compatibility from the University of Ottawa. He is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering, a Senior Member of the IEEE, Member of the Canadian Society of Senior Engineers (CSSE), a registered Engineer in the Province of Ontario a certified project management professional (PMP) and a certified Director (ICD.D).
Paul Baptista, B.Eng., Ericsson, Ericsson
Paul Baptista brings over 25 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, with expertise spanning R&D, sales, and professional services spanning 2G to 5G. Throughout his career, he has led teams that deployed several of Canada’s major commercial networks, significantly influencing Canada’s connectivity landscape. He has also spearheaded the deployment and adoption of numerous innovation test beds and pre-commercial networks, driving ecosystems to explore novel use cases using advanced connectivity solutions. Paul has a particular focus on leveraging connectivity to help digitize industries and accelerate their transformation. Currently, Paul manages Academic and Ecosystem partnership agreements for Ericsson in North America, where he fosters collaboration and innovation to push the boundaries of technology. Paul holds a degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in communications from Concordia University’s Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science. A licensed engineer with the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ), he also serves on the Gina Cody School Industry Advisory Board, where he plays an active role in shaping the future of engineering education.
Halim Yanikomeroglu, Chancellor’s Professor, Carleton University
Halim Yanikomeroglu is a Chancellor’s Professor in the Department of Systems and Computer Engineering at Carleton University, Canada; he is also the Director of Carleton-NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) Lab. He is a Fellow of IEEE, Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC), Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE), and Asia-Pacific Artificial Intelligence Association (AAIA). Dr. Yanikomeroglu has coauthored a high number of papers in 33 different IEEE journals; he also has 41 granted patents. He has supervised or hosted at Carleton 170 postgraduate researchers; several of his former team members have become professors in Canada, US, UK, and around the world. He has given around 200 invited seminars, keynotes, panel talks, and tutorials in the last ten years. He has served as the Steering Committee Chair, General Chair, and Technical Program Chair of several major international IEEE conferences, as well as in the editorial boards of several IEEE periodicals. He also served as a Distinguished Speaker for IEEE ComSoc and IEEE VTS. Dr. Yanikomeroglu received many awards for his research, teaching, and service. He holds a PhD degree in electrical and computer engineering from University of Toronto.
Alberto Leon-Garcia, Professor Electrical Engineering, U of Toronto, Canada
Professor Alberto Leon-Garcia is Distinguished Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Toronto. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Electronics an Electrical Engineering “For contributions to multiplexing and switching of integrated services traffic”. He is also a Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He has received the 2006 Thomas Eadie Medal from the Royal Society of Canada and the 2010 IEEE Canada A. G. L. McNaughton Gold Medal for his contributions to the area of communications. Professor Leon-Garcia is author of the leading textbooks: Probability and Random Processes for Electrical Engineering, and Communication Networks: Fundamental Concepts and Key Architecture. He was Scientific Director of the NSERC Strategic Network for Smart Applications on Virtual Infrastructures.
Rodney G. Wilson (Rod), Chief Technologist & Senior Director, External Research
Mr. Wilson is responsible for Ciena's interactions with Universities and the research community, including National Research Networks. From his base in Ottawa Canada, he leads an international research engineering team responsible for exploring diverse computer communications activities, including Ciena experiments in software for network control, provisioning and monitoring, system architectures for massive data-flows, and research for Quantum Secure networks.
He reports to Ciena's Senior VP for Global Research & Development. He is a frequent contributor to research projects, demonstrations and discussions about advanced optical telecommunications systems. Prior to his current role, Mr. Wilson was a senior advisor for the CTO at Nortel, and held other advanced technology roles during 13 years with the company, including director of Broadband Switching, and optical Ethernet R&D.
Originally trained in Electrical Engineering at Ryerson University in Toronto Ontario, 1976 and University of Toronto 1985, and is a graduate of the Executive Management school at Stanford University in Palo Alto California (2000). He received a School of Advanced Technology degree from Algonquin College, Ottawa Canada.(2020) He is a recipient of the, Silver Acorn Medal, honour for distinguished service to Scouts Canada, and the Queen Elizabeth, Diamond Jubilee Medal for his Service to Canada.
(How) Can Responsible AI & Open Architectures Drive Innovations for Societal and Economic Welfare?
Wednesday, 11 June 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 511 A, Level 5
Moderators:
Israat Haque, Associate Professor Dalhousie University
Hatem Abou-Zeid, Dalhousie University and University of Calgary
Panelists:
Sean Kennedy , VP Bell Labs, AI Research Lab, Nokia Bell Labs, Canada
Dr. Akram Bin Sediq Principal AI/ML Developer, Ericsson, Canada
Neel Pandeya, Principal Wireless Solutions Architect, National Instruments, USA
Ashkan Beigi, Founder and CEO Qoherent Inc
Abstract:
Artificial Intelligence (AI), sensing, and open architectures are envisioned to be key enablers to improve societal and economic conditions of remote communities. This includes new niche use-cases of AI-powered sensing and disruptive low-cost connectivity solutions for remote areas and emergency services. The role of Responsible AI will also be discussed. This panel will bring together experts from the ecosystem to discuss this vision including traditional players like Ericsson and service providers, along with key new players like Qoherent, Ukama, and National Instruments/Emersion, who are expected to play a disruptive role by providing standard compliant programmable SDRs and software solutions for new 5G services.
Questions:
- What are some of the most promising AI use-cases for 6G across the network stack? (panellists have different expertise in the stack so the objective is to hear broad & comprehensive perspectives
- What new verticals and sensing services will benefit most from AI and open architectures in 6G? What impact can AI have on ISAC?
- What role will foundational models play in AI for 6G? And how can researchers and industry build toward achieving what LLMs have made possible in the language and vision domains?
- How can open architectures enable AI adoption across the network stack 6G?
- Can SMEs and traditional vendors & operators collaborate versus competing toward AI applications for specialized services in 6G?
Israat Haque
Associate Professor Dalhousie University
Dr. Israat Haque is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Computer Science at Dalhousie University, where she leads the Programmable and Intelligent Networking (PINet) Lab. Her expertise is in systems and security. Specifically, she leverages network programmability to develop cutting-edge, high-performance, secure, and sustainable systems for AI/ML, Big Data, cloud, telecommunication, and IoT systems. She is also interested in applying data-driven approaches to solve practical and relevant problems. Dr. Haque received her Ph.D. from the Department of Computing Science at the University of Alberta. Subsequently, she held an NSERC post-doctoral position at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of California, Riverside, before joining Dalhousie University.
She served as an area editor of the IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology and Internet of Things Series of the IEEE Communications Magazine. Dr. Haque also actively participates in organizing and technical program committees of conferences like ACM SIGCOMM, ACM IMC, IFIP Networking, IEEE ICNP, IEEE CloudNet, IEEE NetSoft, IEEE CNSM, IEEE ICC, and IEEE Globecom. Dr. Haque won Intel's research competition in 2022. She was recognized as an ACM/IEEE N2Women Rising Star in 2021 for her research and leadership contributions. Subsequently, she received Digital Nova Scotia's Thinking Forward Award 2022 for mentoring and training the next generation of tech talents. In 2024, she received the Alumni Honour Award from her Alma Mater, the University of Alberta, for research and mentoring contributions.
Hatem Abou-Zeid
Dalhousie University and University of Calgary
Dr. Hatem Abou-Zeid received the Ph.D. degree from Queen’s University in 2014. He is currently an Assistant Professor with the University of Calgary and the director of the WAVES research group. Prior to that, he was at Ericsson leading 5G research for intelligent radio access networks and low latency communications. Several wireless access and traffic engineering techniques that he co-invented and co- developed are deployed in 5G mobile networks worldwide. His research expertise is in trustworthy and accelerated AI for wireless networks, extended reality networking, and resource management. His work resulted in 20 patent filings and over 75 journals and conference publications in several IEEE flagship venues on these topics. He is an avid supporter of industry-university partnerships, and he served on the Ericsson Government Industry Relations and Talent Development Committees, where he directed numerous academic research partnerships valued at over $3.5 Million. He served as the Co-Chair for the IEEE ICC Workshop on Wireless Network Innovations for Mobile Edge Learning and the Corporate Co-Chair for the IEEE LCN Conference 2022. He has delivered numerous invited talks on trustworthy and generalizable AI for future communication networks and received several accolades for his academic contributions, including a Best Paper Award at IEEE ICC 2022, the Research Excellence Awards at the University of Calgary (2023, 2024), AI/ML ASTech Award Finalist, Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and the Software Engineering Professor of the Year Award at the University of Calgary (2023).
Sean Kennedy
VP Bell Labs, AI Research Lab, Nokia Bell Labs, Canada
Sean Kennedy, Vice President of Nokia Bell Labs, spearheads the Artificial Intelligence Research Lab. He is at the cutting edge of developing next-generation solutions in algorithmic and machine learning, as well as exploring emerging technologies in human sensing devices and the exciting field of quantum computing. Sean's multinational team is dedicated to tackling industry-critical challenges, creating value for customers, and making a significant business impact.
With a personal passion for mathematics and computing technologies, Sean is keen on applying his expertise to predict and explain the future implications of artificial intelligence. His current research is focused on advancing machine learning systems to mimic human analytical thinking capabilities.
Sean is also at the helm of Nokia's initiatives around responsible AI and its AI Centre of Excellence. He holds a joint PhD in Mathematics and Computer Science from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. Outside of his professional life, Sean enjoys skiing, cycling, and running. He is widely recognized for his ability to communicate the complexities of emerging technologies in a clear and accessible way.
Dr. Akram Bin Sediq
Principal AI/ML Developer, Ericsson, Canada
Akram Bin Sediq is a Principal AI/ML Developer at Ericsson Canada, where he leads the AI/ML technical development in physical-layer and radio-resource-management domains, drives early-phase system designs of 5G and beyond 5G wireless systems, generates patents, and manages collaborations with seven Canadian universities. His work has resulted in 40+ granted and filed patents, as well as 50+ peer-reviewed publications in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML), beam management, dual connectivity, link adaptation, scheduling, reference signals and control channel design, energy-saving, and interference coordination, among others. Dr. Bin Sediq is a recipient of the President's Cup for graduating with the highest GPA at the Bachelor’s level at AUS in 2006, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship for international students for three years in a row during 2007–2010, two Senate Medals for outstanding academic achievement from Carleton University at the Master's and Ph.D. levels in 2008 and 2013, respectively, the EDC Teaching Assistant Outstanding Award at Carleton University in 2013, NSERC Industrial R&D Fellowship (IRDF) from 2013 to 2015, Ericsson's Key Contributor Award for three years in a row (2015-2017), AUS Alumni Wall of Fame recognition in 2015, and a Best Paper Award at IEEE ICC 2022.
Neel Pandeya
Principal Wireless Solutions Architect, National Instruments, USA
Neel Pandeya is a Principal Wireless Solutions Architect at National Instruments in Austin, Texas, USA. His background and interests are in open-source software development, kernel and embedded software development, wireless communications, 4G/LTE and 5G/NR cellular networks, DSP and signal processing, FPGA programming, and software-defined radio (SDR) using USRP devices. He has previous technical management experience and university teaching experience, and formerly held a TS/SCI government security clearance. He is a co-founder and co-organizer of the New England Workshop for SDR (NEWSDR) as well as the 5G Workshop at IEEE MILCOM, and is also a co-organizer of the GNU Radio Conference (GRCon). He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), and a Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) from Northeastern University (NEU), and is a member of IEEE and Eta Kappa Nu (HKN). He has an Amateur Radio License, and is working to obtain a private pilot license.
Ashkan Beigi
Founder and CEO Qoherent Inc
Ashkan Beigi is the founder and CEO of Qoherent and works with scientists and engineers to build the next generation of wireless technologies with machine learning. Qoherent leads multiple projects in this area in collaboration with the Canadian Space Agency, the European Space Agency, and the Department of Defense – in partnership with National Instrument/Ettus, Xanadu, SRS, Signalcraft, and academic institutions. Ashkan has delivered multiple talks and demos on AI for O-RAN and 5G in multiple venues including IEEE MILCOM and the srsRAN Workshop. Ashkan's career focus has been in the business development of test and measurement solutions, including RF instrumentation and software-defined radios and spanned several industries, energy, mining, and consumer electronics. Ashkan received a B.Sc. Degree in Engineering Physics & Management from McMaster University and a Master of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business at York University, Canada. He is the Winner of Schulich Startup Night, York University, and the Startupfest 2020 "Best of the Fest" Winner 2020.
Advancing Communications for a More Inclusive and Connected Future
Wednesday, 11 June 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 511 B, Level 5
Moderator:
Carolyn Kahn, Distinguished Chief Spectrum Economist, The MITRE Corporation
Panelists:
Jennifer Warren, Vice President, Global Regulatory Affairs & Public Policy, Lockheed Martin, U.S.
Pekka Rantala, Head of 6G Bridge Program, Finland
Dr. Sheryl Genco, Vice President, Ericsson, U.S.
Dr. Randall Barry, Chair and John A. Dever Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Northwestern University
Abstract:
This panel will bring together experts in the fields of communications engineering, electromagnetic spectrum, and wireless communications, including engineering, technology, economics, and policy, to discuss Advancing Communications for a More Inclusive and Connected Future.
The panel will discuss communications developments expected within a 2-5-year horizon that could address pressing societal challenges/needs and contribute to creating a more inclusive and connected future. By focusing on real-world applications and collaborative efforts, this panel aims to inspire actionable strategies, including research, technology investment, and market opportunities for transitioning communications technologies for the good – i.e., uses that better society and create a more inclusive and connected future.
Key topics to be addressed include the influence of 5G/6G and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, open and virtual networks, and quantum computing; security and privacy issues; and economic, market, and societal concerns and solutions.
Overall, the panel aims to generate discussion around key challenges and opportunities for Advancing Communications for a More Inclusive and Connected Future. What are important lessons learned? What worked well, what research is needed, and how best to leverage the opportunities to create positive change?
The motivation for organizing this panel stems from the rapid evolution and increasing complexity of the communications landscape, which is pivotal to the functioning of modern society. As we stand on the brink of a new era defined by technological advancements, it is crucial to bring together experts from diverse fields to discuss and shape the future of communications for the good. This panel is a worthy topic because of its importance, challenges, and global relevance. Altogether, this panel aims to generate meaningful dialogue and collaboration among experts, developing actionable strategies toward Advancing Communications for a More Inclusive and Connected Future.
Questions:
- What is your vision for a more connected and inclusive future? (introductory reflection question)
- What are the most promising communication technology developments expected in the next 2–5 years, and how could they address pressing societal challenges/needs and contribute to creating a more inclusive and connected future?
- How are emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML, open and virtual networks, and quantum computing) currently transforming the field of communications, and what future advancements in these areas are needed?
- What international considerations are important? What role do global standards play in impacting societal inclusivity and connectivity? What are key challenges and opportunities on a global scale?
- What actionable strategies are needed for shaping communications technologies for the good – i.e., uses that better society and create a more inclusive and connected future. How can collaboration across government, industry, and non-profit organizations help?
- What longer-term advancements (i.e., 10-year outlook) and key areas of research are needed to fill gaps and drive future advancements in communications technology for a better future?
Biographies:
Carolyn Kahn
Distinguished Chief Spectrum Economist, The MITRE Corporation
Carolyn Kahn serves as Distinguished Chief Spectrum Economist at The MITRE Corporation, an independent technology and research and development (R&D) company solving problems for a safer world. Ms. Kahn develops visionary ideas, builds multidisciplinary teams, and leads with a strategic mindset to help solve the most difficult spectrum problems. She has made groundbreaking technical contributions by applying economic principles to electromagnetic spectrum challenges to help optimize use of this critical national resource. Ms. Kahn’s expertise includes electromagnetic spectrum, wireless communications, 5G/6G, dynamic spectrum sharing, technology innovation (e.g., artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud, and cyber), future workforce, and whole-of-nation solutions.
Ms. Kahn served as a member of the U.S. Department of Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) since 2016, recently co-chairing its 6G Subcommittee and previously co-chairing its Unmanned Aircraft Spectrum Subcommittee. She has been a member of the ATIS Next G Alliance Societal and Economic Needs Working Group and was a facilitator for the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) Wireless Spectrum Research and Development (WSRD) Workshop on Federal-Commercial Spectrum Sharing. She led a seminal economic study on aeronautical mobile telemetry in support of the United Nations World Radio Conference in 2007.
Ms. Kahn received the 2019 national Women of Color (WOC) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) award for Outstanding Technical Contribution in Industry. She earned an MBA in Finance and Marketing from McGill University, a BA with high honors in Economics and International Studies from Brandeis University, and the 2023 Distinguished Alumnus award from Shawnee High School.
Jennifer Warren, Vice President, Global Regulatory Affairs & Public Policy, Lockheed Martin, U.S.
Jennifer A. Warren is Vice President, Global Regulatory Affairs & Public Policy for Lockheed Martin Corporation. In this capacity, she is responsible for leading corporate team’s engagement across the Executive Branch, Independent Agencies and Intergovernmental Bodies on Lockheed Martin’s regulatory and public policy portfolio, including emerging technologies, spectrum, artificial intelligence, commercial space, wireless, aviation, and autonomy.
Ms. Warren serves as an appointed member of the Department of Commerce’s Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC). Ms. Warren also manages the Corporation’s trade association relationships, and serves on the Boards of the Satellite Industry Association, Professional Services Corporation, and the U.S. ITU Association, and as the co-chair of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Telecommunications and E-Commerce Committee.
In 1996, Ms. Warren joined Lockheed Martin from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission, where she served in several senior roles in the Wireless Telecommunications and International Bureaus. Before joining the U.S. Government, Ms. Warren worked for the Commission of the European Union – both in Brussels and in Washington, DC - with a focus on EU-U.S. trade.
She is a graduate of Georgetown University (B.S. in Languages) and Georgetown University Law Center (J.D.), and a member of the Illinois State and D.C. Bars, the Federal Communications Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. Her civic activities include the George Washington Legacy Foundation Board, Gadsby Tavern Museum Society in Old Town Alexandria, and the Foundation of the National Archives & Records Administration.
Ms. Warren lives in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, with her husband Ed, and their puppy - Madison.
Pekka Rantala, Head of 6G Bridge Program, Finland
Mr. Pekka Rantala is the Head of Business Finland's 6G Bridge Program. This four-year national program commenced in January 2023 with a funding budget exceeding 130 million euros. The public launch event in February 2023 was honored by the presence of Mr. Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for Internal Market, and Mr. Pekka Lundmark, CEO of Nokia.
Mr. Rantala has contributed to numerous national and international advisory groups, workshops, and review panels focused on 5G Advanced, 6G, and the startup ventures of the European Space Agency's Business Incubation Centre. He has been interviewed by major media outlets such as the BBC.
Mr. Rantala maintains close ties with the European Commission, including its acting European Commissioner for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, Ms. Henna Virkkunen. He also serves as Finland’s official delegate to the European Commission’s Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU), a Public-Private Partnership aimed at fostering industrial leadership in Europe's 5G and 6G networks and services, supported by a 900-million-euro funding budget.
Previously, Mr. Rantala served as the National Contact Point for Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe, the EU's premier funding programs for research and innovation, with budgets of €80 billion and €95.5 billion respectively, in digital themes and industry clusters.
Mr. Rantala has an extensive background in team, project, and product management across various industries, as well as in entrepreneurship and innovative ICT-focused born global ventures. He is passionate about technology and its potential to contribute to business, society and resilience.
Dr. Sheryl Genco, Vice President, Ericsson, U.S.
Dr. Sheryl M. Genco is Vice President of Advanced Technology Group within Ericsson’s CTO’s office, is a senior advisor to the Defense Innovation Board, serves as a senior consultant to DARPA Commercialization Strategy, has been an Executive Committee member for NSC for three years, and serves on the Executive Board of CO-Labs. Dr. Genco was a member of the Senior Executive Service for the Department of Commerce where she was laboratory director for NTIA’s Institute for Telecommunication Sciences.
Her contributions have been at the forefront of critical technology areas impacting federal and commercial programs including spectrum efficiency and sharing, Future G and broadband, satellite communications, quantum systems, unmanned aviation systems, and radio sciences. Dr. Genco directed Quantum Engineering at Honeywell and received the Department of Commerce Gold Medal.
Dr. Sheryl M. Genco has over 30 years of experience in engineering and management at a wide range of organizations spanning large industrial, entrepreneurial ventures and the Government sector. As Vice President for Ericsson, she spearheads activities with industry and the U.S. government, innovating and collaborating, to exploit 5G and ultimately 6G for increased security and economic benefits. Her career has focused on the development of new technologies with emphasis on transforming state-of-the-possible ideas into commercial reality. Prior to joining NTIA, Dr. Genco was the engineering director at Honeywell Quantum Solutions, where she led an organization developing trapped ion quantum computers. At NIST, she led the National Advanced Spectrum and Communications Test Network, managing programs in the areas of wireless communications (LTE), 3.5GHz, GPS, and AWS-3.
Dr. Genco is an IEEE Senior Member, IEEE MILCOM VIP Chair and Steering Committee Member and received Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. degrees in electrical engineering.
In addition to technology advocacy and collaborative program development, Dr. Genco’s passion is enabling socio-economic prosperity through science and math education. Dr. Genco founded a STEM-focused K-8 public school that has won multiple awards. The school has educated more than 20,000 students in over two decades of continuous operation. Dr. Genco was one of the founders for NSC’s scholarship in electrical engineering; namely, Women in Spectrum Scholarship.
Dr. Randall Barry, Chair and John A. Dever Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Northwestern University
Randall Berry received his PhD degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2000. He subsequently joined Northwestern University, where he is currently the Chair and John A. Dever Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Dr. Berry’s research interests include wireless communications, spectrum policy, network economics, and information theory. He is currently a member of SpectrumX, a NSF funded spectrum Innovation Center. Along with his co-authors he has won several best paper awards, including the best paper for the policy track at the 2024 IEEE DySPAN conference. He received an NSF CAREER award in 2003 and was elevated to IEEE Fellow in 2014.
Dr. Berry has served as an Editor for the IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications and the IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, and an Area Editor for the IEEE Open Journal of the Communication Society. He has also served on the organizing committees of numerous conferences including serving as a technical chair of 2010 IEEE ICC Wireless Networking Symposium, a co-chair of the 2012 IEEE Communication Theory Workshop, a technical program committee chair for the 2018 ACM MobiHoc conference, and since 2020, the steering committee chair for the IEEE DySPAN conference.
Responsibly Deploying AI/HPC from Cloud to Edge
Wednesday, 11 June 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 511 C, Level 5
Moderator:
Cliff Grossner, Chief Innovation Officer, Open Compute Project
Panelists:
Pierre Samson, EVP, Sales and General Manager, Qscale
Daniel Bernier, Technical Director in the Enterprise Architecture group, Bell Canada
Questions:
What are the largest technology changes deploying AI Clusters for Training and AI Inference at the edge?
What can be done to make technology portable from Large AI capable data centers to the edge?
Where will the power come from to meet the new AI driven demands?
What can be done to keep impact on the environment to a minimum?
How do collaborative organizations like OCP factor into this AI journey?
Abstract: The increasing complexity and demand of high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) applications, has created a critical need for transformative innovations within data centers for training and out to the edge for inference.Important technology advancements in the data center delivering large scale AI clusters for training include: (1) chiplet technology and associated advanced packaging, (2) subsystems such as cooling, power distribution, networking, storage, and server architectures, and (3) systems management.
Placing AI inference at the edge will require smaller scale but still high-performant computational equipment and high-speed low latency optical communication networks to tie everything together. A key challenge for organizations is determining where to deploy AI workloads—leveraging the scalability of the cloud or harnessing the responsiveness of the edge. This decision depends on factors such as latency, computational intensity, data gravity, cost efficiency, security, and sustainability.
Additionally, as the industry pushes for more energy-efficient solutions, AI infrastructure must evolve to minimize environmental impact. This panel session will discuss the latest open innovations needed to deliver the next generation sustainable computational environment from cloud to the edge. Experts will also discuss key considerations for optimizing workload placement, ensuring AI models are deployed where they deliver the best performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Biographies:
Cliff Grossner, Chief Innovation Officer, Open Compute Project
Cliff has more than 25 years of telecommunications industry experience encompassing scientific research, market analysis, corporate and product strategy, product management and marketing. At the OCP, Dr. Grossner leads its market intelligence function and is responsible for driving new innovation programs including guiding inventors developing their early-stage company ideas, setting strategic direction and building awareness of OCP, establishing new alliances, and launching new activities in OCP’s Future Technologies Initiative.
Previously, Dr. Grossner was head of the Cloud and Data Center Research Practice at Omdia, responsible for research quality across the practice and his research was focused on cloud services, data center compute and networking, and data center infrastructure. Prior to Omdia, he held senior positions in the information and communications technology industries, including heading strategic marketing for Alcatel-Lucent's enterprise network business, tenures at Bell Labs, Nortel and several early-stage companies.
He earned his Doctor of Philosophy at McGill University, and his Master of Science in Computer Science at Concordia University, both in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, having been awarded national scholarships to support his graduate work. He holds more than 10 patents in computer networking, networking embedded security and telecommunications applications.
Pierre Samson, EVP, Sales and General Manager, Qscale
Pierre is a seasoned tech executive with over two decades of experience in data center and IT sales. He co-founded 4Degrees Data Centers in 2012, where he built the sales organization, assembled multidisciplinary teams, and secured deals with leading hyperscalers and cloud providers. Previously, Pierre managed sales departments and channels at Oracle, Cisco, and NetApp, working with clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to government entities.
Daniel Bernier, Technical Director in the Enterprise Architecture group, Bell Canada
Daniel is a Technology Director in the CTIO architecture group at Bell Canada involved in research and development of disruptive technologies transforming the Telco space for Bell's network and services. He is currently working on central office evolution, edge cloud strategy and cloud-native transformation leveraging optimized CP/UP separation and advances in network and hardware programming. He is involved in various open source community projects such as SONiC, eBPF, P4 and a TSC member of Nephio. He is also a participating member at the IETF and CNCF, co-authoring and collaborating on various working groups such as SPRING, TEAS, v6OPS and COINRG as well as work related to service-programming and SFC.
Redefining Data Handling in Future Networks: Innovative Approaches for Consumer Empowerment and Societal Inclusion
Wednesday, 11 June 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 511 A, Level 5
Moderator:
Irem Bor-Yaliniz, Senior Research Eng, Huawei Canada Research Centre
Panelists:
Irem Bor-Yaliniz, Senior Research Eng, Huawei Canada Research Centre
Arashmid Akhavain, Huawei CARI, Ottawa
Emrecan Demirors, Bionet Sonar
Abstract:
At the brink of the 6G era, the focus has primarily been on enhancing the Radio Access Network (RAN) with advancements such as massive-MIMO, mmWave, RIS, and other technologies. However, neither a "killer app" has emerged that specifically hinges on RAN capabilities, nor the benefits of these developments are clear for the society. Conversely, AI, particularly Large Language Models (LLM) and distributed learning, have started to make a substantial impact across various fields. However, wireless networks have not yet reaped significant benefits from AI. This panel aims to ignite a discussion on treating data as the new "killer app" to obtain a mutual benefit for both the consumers and the network providers. In adopting this somewhat controversial perspective, networks could play crucial roles in data security, privacy, storage, and processing, while bridging the digital divide, meeting sustainability goals, and ensuring inclusivity.
Our experts from both industry and academia will have an insightful discussion on data-related topics in future networks. Dr. Bor-Yaliniz will provide insights on the adverse effects of bias in AI-based applications, how it can cause inclusivity issues, and whether Digital Twins empowered by next generation networks can provide equal representation while remaining sustainable. Dr. Akhavain will present the latest IETF discussions and the state-of-the-art solutions proposed to transform networks with data-related capabilities in the near future. Dr. Demirors will delve into IoT and ISAC, showcasing practical applications for public safety, and keeping oceans healthy with underwater networks. This panel aims to foster meaningful discussions by focusing on data's impact on networks and society, beyond merely on network performance.
Questions:
- What should be the extent of data awareness for networks? How far should we go from the “dumb pipe”?
- What can be a motivation to improve data-related capabilities for operators and vendors? Where is the biggest added value for consumers, providers, and the society at large?
- What can be a hidden challenge to transform networks by improving data-related capabilities?
- What are the low-hanging fruits for improving data handling capabilities networks? Where to start, e.g., pre-processing, routing, protocols, security?
- What are the prominent fields that must be investigated by both academicians and industrial professionals in the near future?
Biographies:
Irem Bor-Yaliniz
Senior Research Eng, Huawei Canada Research Centre
Irem Bor-Yaliniz received B.Sc. and M.Sc. from Bilkent University, Turkiye in 2009 and 2012, respectively, and her Ph.D. degree in electrical and computer engineering from Carleton University, Canada in 2020. She has been with Huawei Ottawa Research Development Centre, since 2017. She is the co-inventor of more than 50 patent applications (pending or granted) worldwide, and received scholarships through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Queen Elizabeth II Scholarship in Science and Technology. She is a Senior Member of IEEE and became the first Canadian to be chosen as a Rising Star in Computer Networking and Communications by N2Women, in 2019.
Arashmid Akhavain
Huawei CARI, Ottawa
Arashmid Akhavain is a network and system architect, a research engineer, and the leader of the Advanced Networking Research team under the Wireless Systems Division at Huawei Technologies Canada. He received his degree in Computer Engineering from Concordia University, Montreal. He has over 30 years of extensive design experience in a diverse set of technologies ranging from Telephony, Ethernet, and IP/MPLS/Segment-Routing, to VPN and Traffic Engineering, to SDN, NFV, and Mobile Networks. He worked for multiple major companies including Bell Northern Research, Nortel, and Ciena, where he held multiple leading roles in numerous projects. He has contributed to several standards submissions. He is a prolific patent contributor and is currently focusing his efforts on advanced networking and AI/ML research and their inclusion and impact on 6G networks at Huawei.
Emrecan Demirors
Bionet Sonar
Dr. Emrecan Demirors is the Co-Founder and Director of R&D at Bionet Sonar, where he works on developing technologies in AI-powered sensing and communication systems. At Bionet Sonar, he focuses on practical solutions for healthcare and underwater systems, combining artificial intelligence with modern sensing and communication tools. Dr. Demirors is also a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Northeastern University. He is a member of the Institute for the Wireless Internet of Things, where he conducts research in areas such as the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G networks, underwater communication, Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), and networking for unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Northeastern University in 2017. Before that, he completed his M.S. in Electrical Engineering at the University at Buffalo in 2014 and his B.S. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Bilkent University, Turkey, in 2009. Dr. Demirors has been involved in many research and development projects funded by organizations like DARPA, NSF, NAVAIR, and NIH, as well as private companies. His work has been recognized with several Best Paper Awards, including those from ACM WUWNet, IEEE WoWMoM, and ACM WiNTECH. In addition to his research, he serves as an Associate Editor for IEEE Access, contributing to advancements in engineering and technology. Dr. Demirors has authored over 75 publications and continues to focus on projects that make an impact in wireless systems, IoT, and sensing technologies.
Enabling the RAN for Good – Prototyping AI Technology for a Better World
Wednesday, 11 June 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 511 B, Level 5
Moderator:
Ben Coffin, Chief Global Business Manager, Academic
Panelists:
Prof. Kaushik Chowdhury, Chandra Family Endowed Distinguished Professors in Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, US
Dr. Tim O'Shea, CTO, DeepSig, US
Dr. Florian Kaltenberger, Associate Professor in the Communication Systems department, Eurecom / Open Air Interface, France
Questions:
1. What are most promising application areas of AI/ML in wireless communications?
2. What type of data sets and training strategies are needed for creating robust and reliable AI/ML models?
3. How to deploy AI/ML models on a real-time platform and what are the challenges?
4. How to benchmark embedded AI/ML against existing non-AI/ML approaches and what are important validation cases?
5. Where are we with respect of using AI/ML in real network deployments as well as with bringing AI/ML into the standards?
Abstract: Embedding AI in RF/wireless is a promising technology option to improve the efficiency of mobile networks for power, spectrum, and performance. Furthermore, it serves as a tool to enhance the RAN to reduce its energy consumption, enable vertical technologies in sustainable smart agriculture or provide ubiquitous connectivity to provide service to rural communities. One of the biggest challenges for using AI technology in wireless communications is to ensure reliable and robust operation under practical deployment conditions. This becomes particularly challenging for real-time operations at the lower communications layers such as MAC and PHY because of the AI/ML model sizes and corresponding compute requirements. This panel brings together internationally recognized leaders in industry and academic research. The goal of this panel is to discuss about challenges and requirements for real-time AI/ML prototyping as well as available platforms that are scalable for testbed deployments and enable performance benchmarking. The panel will discuss how these AI technologies enable applications on these testbed platforms for improving the environmental and societal impact of wireless technologies. Finally, we want to explore what is needed to validate and iteratively improve embedded AI/ML to ensure trustworthy operation in real network scenarios.
Biographies:
Ben Coffin is the Chief Global Business Manager for Academia at NI, with over a decade of experience advancing wireless communications. He has driven the strategy and development of prototyping tools used in research testbeds for Massive MIMO, mmWave, and O-RAN technologies. These tools include software-defined radio (SDR), communications reference designs, and heterogeneous compute systems, enabling researchers to push the boundaries of next-generation wireless systems. His work supports foundational research that drives innovation across industry, academia, and government.
Ben collaborates with researchers on the design of testbeds, enhances research infrastructure tools, and works to secure funding for the development of critical research facilities. By fostering partnerships and aligning technology vision with the needs of the research community, he equips academic, government, and industry stakeholders with the tools required to pioneer next-generation wireless innovation. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Wireless Engineering from Auburn University.
Dr. Kaushik Chowdhury holds the Chandra Family Endowed Distinguished Professorship in Electrical and Computer Engineering #2 at The University of Texas at Austin, USA. He was a finalist for the 2023 US Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists. He was also the winner of the U.S. Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) in 2017, the DARPA Young Faculty Award in 2017, the ONR Director of Research Early Career Award in 2016, and the NSF CAREER award in 2015. He is the recipient of best paper awards at multiple IEEE and ACM conferences. He currently co-directs the operations of Colosseum RF/network emulator, as well as the Platforms for Advanced Wireless Research project office, a partnership between the NSF and wireless industry consortium to create city-scale testing platforms. He is a member of the NSF AI Institute for Future Edge Networks and Distributed Intelligence and is lead PI for the NSF RFDataFactory community infrastructure project that aims to release datasets and software APIs for RF data collection for the community. He has served as Technical Program Chair for top conferences, including IEEE INFOCOM and ACM MobiHoc. He is a Fellow of the IEEE.
Dr. Tim O’Shea is CTO at DeepSig Inc., where he applies AI and machine learning to enhance wireless performance at the physical layer, including the first live-network 5G neural receiver deployment, prototype AI-native 6G waveforms, and AI-driven spectrum awareness. He serves on the FCC TAC, the AI-RAN Alliance, at Virginia Tech, and is an IEEE Fellow and co-chair of the machine learning for communications ETI. Tim is the inventor on more than 100 patents and technical papers and has previously worked with Hawkeye 360, Federated Wireless, GNU Radio, Cisco Systems, and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Florian Kaltenberger is an Associate Professor in the Communication Systems department at EURECOM (Biot, France), a visiting professor at Northeastern University (Boston, MA, USA). He is also a special advisor to the board of the OpenAirInterface Software Alliance. Mr. Kaltenberger received his Diploma degree (Dipl.-Ing.) and his PhD both in Technical Mathematics from the Vienna University of Technology 2002 and 2007 respectively. He joined EURECOM in 2007 and has been working on the open-source project OpenAirInterface ever since then. Today he is coordinating the developments of the OAI radio access network project group, which delivered support for 5G non-standalone access in 2020 and for 5G standalone access in 2021. He also manages several research projects (industrial and academic) around the platform with special focus on massive and distributed multi-antenna systems, positioning and localization as well as non-terrestrial networks.
Data Platforms for Advanced AI-native Networks: Fostering International Collaboration
Wednesday, 11 June 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 511 C, Level 5
Moderator:
Christos Verikoukis, Professor, ISI/ATHENA, University of Patras, Greece
Panelists:
Giacomo Bernini, R&D Operations Leader, Nextworks, Italy
Chris Murphy, Regional CTO of EMEA at VIAVI Solutions
Adlen Ksentini, Professor, Eurecom, France
Rahul Kumar, Global Industry Leader, Telco & Media Industry, IBM Consulting
Abstract: Recognizing the crucial role of international collaboration and leveraging the support of EU initiatives such as the SNS programme and Horizon funding, this panel will explore the critical role of data platforms in shaping the future of advanced communication networks.
This panel will also explore opportunities for strengthening transatlantic partnerships with North America to accelerate innovation and address global challenges.
This panel directly aligns with the core themes of the IEEE ICC 2025 conference, focusing on the importance of collaboration and the intersection between AI and advanced communication networks. By addressing the critical challenges and opportunities in AI-native and data-driven network architectures, this panel will contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the future of wireless communications. It will provide a platform for experts to share insights, discuss best practices, and foster international collaboration.
The panel will feature distinguished experts from leading organizations with highly relevant expertise and a diversity of backgrounds. These panelists bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in AI, telecommunications, research, and data science. Their insights will provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in building and deploying AI and data platforms for advanced communication networks.
Questions:
1. Given the increasing reliance on AI and machine learning in 6G networks, how can we ensure the resiliency of these systems against potential failures, attacks, or unexpected changes in data distributions? What specific strategies, techniques, and tools can be employed to build fault-tolerant and self-healing AI-driven 6G networks?
2. How can we establish rigorous testing and validation methodologies to assess the performance, reliability, and security of AI-powered 6G systems? What are the key challenges in developing comprehensive testing capabilities and simulation environments that can accurately address real-world conditions?
3. There has already been significant investment in testbeds aimed at 6G research, each with unique characteristics and strengths. Harnessing the combined potential of these together could create a potent research enabler in a way that we have seen in other disciplines with the emergence of Data Spaces. What barriers to achieving the data platform vision for 6G can we foresee and in what ways might they be addressed?
4. Such testbeds and the platforms that facilitate their utility can have applications beyond core 6G research. What other use cases for data platforms does the panel envisage, for MNOs and industry verticals for example?
5. Do the panel foresee any need for standardization or other industry collaborative efforts to fully realise the value of data platforms?
Biographies:
Christos Verikoukis received my Bachelor and Master´s degree from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 1994 and 1997 respectively, and my PhD in the area of Broadband Indoor Wireless Communications from the Signal Theory and Communications Department of the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), Barcelona in 2000. Since 2020, he is an Associate Professor with the University of Patras (Department of Computer Engineering & Informatics) and a Collaborating Faculty member with the Industrial Systems Institute (ISI) in Patras since 2022. His research is focused in AI-aided 5G/6G networks, Network slicing, Resource Management, Network Virtualization, Zero-Touch networks and Micro-Grids design. His reseach has been supported by several European and national, Spanish and Greek, grants. He is curretnly the Project coordinator of 6 big industrial projects, including two flagships, under the SNS-JU program.
Mr. Giacomo Bernini received the Master Degree in Telecommunication Engineering at the University of Pisa, Italy, in 2006. He is R&D Operations Leader in Nextworks, with 15+ years of experience in managing EU research and industrial projects, as well as consultancies and third-party software developments. He is now focusing on research and innovation actions in the area of 5G and 6G network architectures, AIOps/MLOps, zero-touch AI-driven network and service automation, and SDN/NFV/MEC architectures. Giacomo actively contributed to several FP6, FP7 and H2020 EU-funded research initiatives in the past, and is currently involved in Horizon Europe, SNS JU and ESA projects. He is also active in ETSI NFV and MEC standardization since 2017, with multiple roles of specialist task force leader in the area of Open API specifications and Testing Frameworks.
Chris Murphy, Regional CTO of EMEA at VIAVI Solutions
Chris has 25 years of commercial experience in telecommunications covering network performance measurement, optimization, automation, autonomy, geolocation and SON, particularly in cellular RAN. His focus has been on the modelling, simulation and optimization of next generation technologies to build a revenue stream early in the life cycle of each new generation of telecommunication systems. Through his career he has played a role in shaping telecommunications standards and practices, contributed to various industry and standardisation bodies including 3GPP, O-RAN, IEEE, TIP, ATIS and NGMN.
Chris joined VIAVI through their acquisition of Arieso. Prior to that he worked for Motorola and Nokia developing new capabilities for their services portfolios.
Chris holds a BSc in Mathematics and Computing and a Ph.D. in the calibration of oceanic remote sensing satellites for improved models of climate change. He has authored various journal articles, conference papers and book chapters. Chris has filed over 20 patent applications.
Prof. Adlen Ksentini is a professor in the Communication Systems Department of EURECOM. He is leading the Network softwarization group activities related to Network softwarization, 5G/6G, and Edge Computing. Adlen Ksentini's research interests are Network Sofwerization and Network Cloudification, focusing on topics related to network virtualization, Software Defined Networking (SDN), and Edge Computing for 5G and 6G networks. He has been participating to several H2020 and Horizon Europe projects on 5G and beyond, such as 5G!Pagoda, 5GTransformer, 5G!Drones, MonB5G, ImagineB5G, 6GBricks, 6G-Intense, Sunrise-6G and AC3. He is the technical manager of 6G-Intense and AC3, on zero-touch management of 6G resources and applications, and Cloud Edge Continuum, respectively.
He is interested in the system and architectural issues but also in algorithm problems related to those topics, using Markov Chains, Optimization algorithms, and Machine Learning (ML).
Rahul Kumar is a Senior Partner and Vice-President within IBM Consulting and is the Global Leader for Telco & Media Industry. Rahul drives IBM Consulting’s Industries mission of advancing the Business Transformation agendas, opportunities, solutions and delivery for our Communications Service Provider (CSP) clients across the globe, driving business value and outcomes. Rahul works with CSP clients, globally, bringing deep industry experience and expertise, together with the power of IBM’s Telco & Media Industry and Center of Excellence consulting teams and our ecosystem partners to advise on, design and deliver large scale digital transformation endeavors in the domains of BSS & Care and Network & OSS. He is also driving the Generative AI agenda for the industry in his current role.
With over 24 years of consulting experience in the Telecommunications industry, Rahul has worked with leading CSPs, globally, on their Digital Transformation, Lead-to-Cash, Omni-Channel and BSS transformation engagements, delivering significant business value, together with a consistent and seamless experience for their customers and users. Rahul holds the Industry Diamond Badge at IBM and is a regular contributor to IBM’s Institute for Business Value thought leadership for the Telecommunications industry.
