AFCEAN of the Month, September 2023
Since joining the AFCEA Bethesda Board of Directors in 2021, Mark Tanner has emerged as a quintessential leader of an organization dedicated to building community among government agencies and information technology (IT) companies. Tanner leverages his considerable experience in federal government and the private sector to lead initiatives critical to AFCEA Bethesda’s public-private mission. In short, Tanner is an indispensable member of the chapter board.
In consecutive years (2022 and 2023), Tanner guided the effort to plan and successfully execute the Law Enforcement and Public Safety (LEAPS) Technology Forum, a signature annual event of AFCEA Bethesda. According to the chapter’s event team, both events were “extremely successful” as measured by attendance, quality of speakers, event programs and sponsorships. Revenue generated by LEAPS supports activities that advance AFCEA Bethesda’s mission of encouraging dialogue and partnership between the federal government and industry to solve today’s most critical IT challenges.
This year’s LEAPS Technology Forum, Surviving, Thriving, and Managing Risks in a Digital World, registered 239 participants and recruited 33 speakers. Members of the planning team describe Tanner’s leadership style as “well-organized” and “seamless.”
The quality of speakers and attendance at LEAPS during Tanner’s time as chairman of the planning committee reflect his background and qualifications for the chapter board. The organization’s support of law enforcement, including events geared toward Department of Homeland Security agencies, benefits from Tanner’s career as a special agent of the FBI. (This year’s LEAPS forum featured several senior FBI speakers).
Since retiring from the FBI, Tanner has used his public sector IT leader position to continue supporting law enforcement and defense communities. In an era of heightened cybersecurity concern, Tanner is a dynamic, hands-on IT and security leader adept at working with government agencies and private companies to support critical missions and citizen services.
Tanner’s colleagues have remarked on “his unique combination of leadership, operational expertise and passion for helping others to protect our nation … strong business skills and excellent work ethic … communicating technology advantages to operators … strong attention to detail and understanding of nuances … being the guy who ‘got it done’ and could always be relied upon … and a man of his word.”
In recognition of his dedication to the chapter, association, and community, AFCEA proudly names Mark Tanner AFCEAN of the Month.
