Blockonic 2025 | Hosted by H&R Block
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Blockonic 2025 | Hosted by H&R Block

By H&R Block Information Security

Blockonic is ready for what's next on the Block, and we're excited to continue building a more secure digital future, together!

Date and time

Location

H&R Block World Headquarters

1301 Main Street Kansas City, MO 64105

Agenda

Track 1
Track 2

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Check In & Breakfast

9:35 AM - 9:40 AM

Opening Remarks

Phillip Miller, H&R Block

9:45 AM - 10:30 AM

Advanced Strategies for Secure AI Integration in Data Governance and Cyber

Ken Kimbel, GuidePoint


In this session, Ken will discuss the essential components required to build a sustainable AI environment within an organization, identify the key decisions that need to be made to tailor AI solution...

10:35 AM - 11:15 AM

New to Industry Panel

Alyssa Richardson, H&R Block

Chloe Waller, H&R Block

Eric Chin, H&R Block

Rishi Bhojwani, H&R Block


Join the New to Industry series for fresh insights from early-in-career talent! Moderated by Chip Mezo, Manager Security at H&R Block, this panel promises authenticity, resiliency, and best practices...

11:20 AM - 11:55 AM

Judging the AI Future of SIEM

Jason Mical, Devo


While AI offers hope for managing growing log volumes and threat complexity, not all AI is created equal. Hidden and open core design choices affect the usability, control, and value of your AI tools...

12:00 PM - 12:50 PM

Lunch


Have a bite to eat, tour the expos, make new connections, and get your headshots taken!

12:55 PM - 1:40 PM

Afternoon Keynote: How Threat Actors & Defenders Use & Protect AI Applications

Joo Soo, Unit 42 by Palo Alto Networks

Evan Gordenker, Unit 42 by Palo Alto Networks

1:45 PM - 2:20 PM

Old Data Security Problems = New(ly understood) Risk from AI

Terry Cordes, GuidePoint


Details matter. Describing problems and risk requires using precise language and words to ensure effective action is taken to solve those problems or mitigate the described risk. Today, the risk as...

2:25 PM - 3:00 PM

Meet the Hackers

Evan Gordenker, Unit 42 by Palo Alto Networks

3:05 PM - 3:45 PM

Breaking Barriers Forum

Xing Xia, H&R Block

Valentyna Usyk, H&R Block

Shawnee Williams, H&R Block

Elaina Gurung, H&R Block


Join our final panel of the day - the Breaking Barriers Forum! Moderated by Kristy Maldonado, Sr Product Manager at H&R Block, this panel discusses resiliency in the technology landscape, growth mind...

3:50 PM - 3:55 PM

Closing Remarks

Ajay Pulikotil, H&R Block

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Raffle


To wrap up Blockonic 2025, we'll be giving away thousands in raffle prizes! Must be present to win!

Good to know

Highlights

  • 7 hours
  • In person
  • Free parking
  • Doors at 8:45 AM

Refund Policy

No refunds

About this event

Science & Tech • High Tech

Blockonic is Back on the Block for Cybersecurity Awareness Month!

Join us at the H&R Block World Headquarters for a day filled with engaging discussions, informative sessions, and networking opportunities. Whether you're a cybersecurity expert or just starting out in the field, this event is perfect for anyone interested in the latest trends and developments in technology.

At Blockonic, you'll have the chance to hear from industry leaders and connect with like-minded professionals. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge, grow your network, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.

Mark your calendar and get ready for an exciting day at Blockonic!


Empowering future women in STEMM

We're a proud partner of the H&R Block She Hacks Scholarship

  • Established by the H&R Block Women in Technology committee
  • Recognizes and rewards rising seniors committed to technical degrees
  • Aims to bridge the gender gap in technology
  • Empowers future female leaders in STEMM
  • Provides financial aid, professional and technical skills development, and mentorship


Last year, Blockonic generated a full $1,000 scholarship for She Hacks. Thank you so much for your continued support of rising seniors in STEMM!


Want to continue supporting rising STEMM talent? Make a donation at checkout!

Thank You to our 2025 Event Sponsors!

Frequently asked questions

Organized by

H&R Block Information Security

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Free
Oct 15 · 9:00 AM CDT