CompTIA Introduces Thibodeaux At Breakaway

(Orlando, FL) — The CompTIA 2008 Breakaway was more than just an industry event this year. CompTIA took this opportunity to introduce its new president and CEO Todd Thibodeaux. He replaces John Venator, who has moved on to head CompTIA's Education Foundation. Thibodeaux brings a wealth of association-related experience to CompTIA. Before joining CompTIA, he was with the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) since 1990. During that span, CEA grew from having just a small handful of member companies to become a widely-respected trade group with more than 2,200 members and 150 employees. CEA is perhaps best known for producing the technology trade event, the International CES. As senior VP, Thibodeaux was closely involved in the daily operations and growth of the organization. He played key leaderships roles in short- and long-term strategic planning, partnership and investment opportunity development, standards and technology innovation, market analysis, member relations, and was a prominent spokesperson for the industry in many different capacities.

Prior to joining the Consumer Electronics Association, Thibodeaux was with the Office of Regulatory Analysis, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, in Washington, D.C. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (Bachelor of Science, economics, 1988) and George Mason University (Master's degree in economics, 1997).

I had a chance to speak with Thibodeaux in between CompTIA sessions. I was impressed with his strategic plans to move CompTIA forward. A big part of those plans involves growing VAR involvement in the organization. Although there were many VAR-focused sessions at the event, Thibodeaux made it clear that VAR programs will increase. For instance, CompTIA plans to put programs in place to help VARs transition from just providing 'break/fix' services to managed services. By the end of this calendar year, he plans to implement what he calls 'smart briefs' — a tool to keep members informed of the latest happenings in technology. Thibodeaux also hinted that CompTIA is planning to launch a new online portal with community functionality for members. By increasing VAR-centric programs and communication opportunities, CompTIA expects to increase VAR membership significantly. In fact, Thibodeaux would like to double the number of VAR members this coming year.

Even though this Breakaway gave us a look into Thibodeaux's vision, make no mistake — Breakaway is still all about networking and education. The 2008 event offered valuable keynotes, sessions, exhibits, and networking opportunities with a strong, solutions-based agenda. Don't miss next year's Breakaway at the Mirage in Las Vegas from August 4 to August 6, 2009.