Over 400 CIOs gathered for a day of networking, knowledge sharing, and conversation at the 19th annual State of the CIO (SCIO’25) event, hosted by the CIO Council of South Florida. Held at the Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines, the event was a reaffirmation of the CIO Council’s commitment to advancing technology, fostering collaboration, and investing in the next generation of tech talent.
OZ Digital Consulting: Proud Platinum Sponsor
As a Platinum sponsor of SCIO’25, OZ Digital Consulting played a key role in supporting this premier gathering of technology executives. In his opening address, OZ CEO Amjad Shamim reiterated his company’s dedication to fostering innovation and growing talent, stating:
“We’re thrilled to be a Platinum sponsor and pave the way for the next generation of tech talent. At OZ, we’re invested in creating and fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. Events like these help today’s leaders connect with tomorrow’s future talent, and we’re excited to be a part of it.”
CIO Council Breakfast
SCIO’25 kicked off with an exclusive, invitation-only CIO Breakfast setting the stage for insightful conversations on how technology can be a powerful lever for driving impact and influence. It was time well spent building community, meeting with tech leaders, and speaking about the issues that matter the most.
A Steller Speaker Lineup
Throughout the day, an impressive roster of speakers from NFL, FEAM Aero, Hard Rock International, TIME, and H.I.G. Capital, took the stage offering invaluable insights into the role of emerging technologies in business today. Keynote speaker, Gary Brantley of the National Football League (NFL), reflected on his career journey shining a light on the many ways technology is rapidly transforming sports. His keynote was followed by a signing of his book, “The Art of Organizational Transformation,” where attendees had the opportunity to speak with him directly.
OZ Digital Consulting CEO Amjad Shamim joined the discussion, highlighting how South Florida’s tech community is at the forefront, turning emerging technologies into measurable business value.
Key Takeaways
The CIO’s Expanding Role in Business Strategy
An emerging theme in all the presentations and panels was how CIO’s are stepping further into strategic leadership—framing business strategy, driving business transformation, and leveraging AI to drive growth. Organizations are moving beyond experimentation to scaling AI initiatives and leveraging data as the foundation for real impact.
Investing in the Future: CIO Council Scholarship Awards
The CIO Council isn’t only driving innovation and advancing technology across the community but is invested in nurturing and growing South Florida’s future talent. Staying true to its mission of supporting the next generation of tech leaders, the CIO Council awarded $12,000 in scholarships to deserving students in Miami-Dade County pursuing STEM careers.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the insights shared and the relationships built, one thing is clear: the role of the CIO continues to evolve, shaping the future of business, technology, and innovation. While the event is over, the conversations around future technology and talent doesn’t end.
If you’d love to explore how we leverage both to help businesses scale, save, and succeed contact us.
We look forward to seeing what’s next for South Florida’s tech community and the 20th annual SCIO event in 2026.
