2025 Columbus Smart 50: Celebrating leadership and impact in Central Ohio

 

Leading and growing a successful organization is no small feat. That’s why it’s an honor to recognize the exceptional business leaders who have achieved this with vision, resilience and purpose. On behalf of Hylant, I extend heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s Smart 50 honorees. Thank you to Smart Business for the opportunity to support and celebrate these outstanding individuals.

This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to lead with integrity and passion. Their dedication to making a meaningful difference in their industries, organizations and communities is truly inspiring. Despite challenges, their commitment to giving back and driving positive change across Columbus and Central Ohio stands out.

What inspires me most about the Smart 50 is getting to know these leaders not just as professionals, but as people who deeply care about the communities they serve. Each honoree brings a unique perspective, yet all share a common drive to make a lasting impact.

Since our founding in 1935 by Edward Hylant, we’ve upheld his promise to treat every client and team member like family, with honesty, respect and trust. Over the decades, that legacy has guided us to become one of the nation’s largest privately held, full-service insurance brokerage firms. As a 16-year recipient of the Best Places to Work in Insurance award, we remain dedicated to protecting what matters most through our comprehensive business insurance, personal insurance, and employee benefits solutions.

To all the honorees, thank you for your leadership, service and example. You are shaping the future of our region, and we are proud to celebrate your success. ●

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Smart 50 honorees

(Honorees listed in alphabetical order by last name)

 

 

Sam Agresti, a shareholder and member of Brady Ware’s Board of Directors, has been with the firm since 2006 and has steadily become one of the firm’s integral leaders. Over the past few years, Brady Ware’s leadership has been implementing a succession plan. With the retirement of its CEO in 2023, the firm needed to focus on updating numerous processes and procedures to handle the leadership transition and go-to-market strategies. Agresti has worked on reshaping Brady Ware’s forward-thinking focus, prioritizing key vendor and consultant relationships.

Because of Agresti’s ability to think strategically and his desire to see Brady Ware become a more modern CPA and advisory firm, he has helped lead the firm through several pivotal initiatives during this time of transition.

 

 

Troy Allen is the founder and CEO of Rise Brands, the company behind 16-Bit Bar + Arcade, No Soliciting and Pins Mechanical Co. The three hospitality concepts have redefined how people spend a night out in cities across the Midwest, South and Southwest. It started in 2013 when Allen opened the first 16-Bit in downtown Columbus. At the time, a bar-arcade rooted in ‘80s and ‘90s nostalgia was bold and ahead of its time.

That success paved the way for Pins Mechanical Co., launched in 2016 inside a converted mechanic shop. The space became an adult playground featuring duckpin bowling, pinball and the laid-back, nostalgic vibe that made 16-Bit a hit. Fast forward to 2025, and decade-themed experiences are everywhere, but Allen saw the potential early on.

 

 

Skelo Wear’s commitment is rooted in three core principles: leveraging advanced materials science and artificial intelligence, fostering a collaborative and agile culture and maintaining a relentless focus on measurable impact. Founder and CEO Kenny Anunike has instilled a data-driven mindset across every department. By integrating biometric sensors and predictive AI models into its protective wearables, Skelo Wear not only innovates in real-time injury prevention but also collects actionable insights that continuously refine its product roadmap.

Skelo Wear proudly holds two fully issued utility patents, with several products coming down the pipeline. The company excels at continuously generating cutting-edge exoskeletal solutions for high-risk environments. Its patented approach begins with collaboration between materials scientists, engineers and biomechanics experts to identify unmet needs in athlete protection, military operations and industrial safety.

 

Joe Apgar is the CEO of Pelotonia, established in 2008 to fund lifesaving cancer research. Today, Pelotonia is one of the largest grassroots fundraising organizations in the nation focused on cancer research. Apgar exemplifies smart leadership through his personal connection to Pelotonia’s mission, strategic vision and operational excellence.

As a cancer survivor, Apgar brings authentic passion and purpose to his role, inspiring his staff, partners and the broader community. Since becoming CEO in January 2024, he has focused on expanding Pelotonia’s impact, guiding the organization past the significant milestone of $300 million in all-time funds raised for cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. In 2024, the Pelotonia community raised $26.2 million, the third-highest annual total since the organization’s inception.

 

Bhakti Bania’s father owned an electrical contracting business in their home in Mumbai. On the weekends, Bania occasionally tagged along for site visits. She relished experiencing the various spaces and began to understand how the design of a space impacts the way it makes people feel.

Bania’s reason for pursuing a career in architecture was simple — she wanted to create spaces that have a positive impact on the people who inhabit them. Today, she is the CEO of BBCO, the largest woman-owned architecture firm in Central Ohio and a place where talented, ambitious architects can thrive.

Governor Mike DeWine recently appointed Bania to serve on the Ohio Architects Board, making her the first woman of color and only the second woman in the board’s history.

 

Since assuming the role of managing director in early 2024, Steve Barsotti has led Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter with a future-focused vision rooted in sustainable growth, innovation and community. His leadership has not only expanded the firm’s capabilities but also deepened its cultural foundation, ensuring that growth is strategic and enduring.

Under Barsotti’s guidance, Kegler Brown has grown by approximately 10 percent, including the addition of seven attorneys in key practice areas such as real estate, government and public law, and global business. Barsotti has been intentional in adding professionals who not only bring top-tier legal expertise but also embody the values and collaborative spirit that define the firm’s culture. This careful curation ensures that the firm grows with integrity, purpose and a shared commitment to excellence.

 

 

Since its founding in 1988, Columbus Brewing Company (CBC) has been a trailblazer in Ohio’s craft beer scene, consistently pushing the boundaries of brewing through innovation in flavor, technology and community engagement. As one of the oldest craft breweries in the state, CBC’s commitment to quality and creativity has solidified its reputation as an industry leader. The brewery’s CFO, Pat Bebee, is a strategic financial executive with a proven track record for delivering results.

CBC’s innovative spirit is evident in its diverse beer portfolio, ranging from IPAs to German-style lagers. In 2016, the brewery transitioned to a state-of-the-art facility equipped with a Braukon Brewhouse, high-speed packaging lines, a quality lab and a yeast propagation system. This move has increased production capacity and enhanced the consistency and quality of their beers.

 

 

Initially launched to empower gamers and esports communities, eFuse Inc. has recently made a bold pivot into ad-tech, creating marketing opportunities for brands seeking authentic engagement with digital-native audiences. Focusing on platforms like Twitch, eFuse CEO and Founder Matthew Benson is building an infrastructure to help advertisers reach the highly engaged gaming demographic in a brand-safe, scalable way — bridging a critical gap in the evolving media landscape.

This strategic evolution is a direct result of Benson’s visionary leadership. His ability to anticipate industry trends has guided eFuse from a content-first model to an ad-tech innovator, highlighting his market insight and executional excellence. While traditional advertising channels are losing relevance with younger audiences, eFuse is redefining how brands connect with consumers and helping position Columbus as a rising hub for media and tech innovation.

 

Frederic Bertley has transformed COSI since becoming its president and CEO in 2017. Under his leadership, COSI has been named the best science museum by USA Today’s 10Best.com five times.

COSI has thrived, pushing beyond the traditional museum model. Bertley has encouraged innovation, transforming COSI into a dynamic cultural institution at the nexus of science and industry. The museum has adopted innovative approaches to remain relevant and impactful in an evolving cultural landscape.

Bertley has also fostered a culture of creativity, enabling COSI to offer groundbreaking experiences that engage audiences of all ages. By integrating science, technology and industry learning, the museum has become a vital community resource, providing accessible educational programs that inspire curiosity and ignite passion for science and innovation.

 

Ability Matters was launched in 2014 in response to a heartfelt request from parents of students with autism and other neurological disabilities for an agency that could provide specialized care and services to help kids thrive. CEO Kristyn Butler leveraged her experience as Director of Pupil Services at Dublin City Schools and Superintendent at a community school to foster an organization dedicated to delivering tailored, high-quality services that emphasize inclusion, dignity and empowerment.

Butler and her team lead their industry and set themselves apart through their commitment to their consumers and their vocal advocacy that is breaking down barriers to inclusion. Ability Matters’ initiatives include increasing the Ohio Autism Scholarship and expanding waiver funding, which enables consumers to access ride-share services and inclusive community services.

 

 

Sheri Chaney Jones’ approach is helping mission-driven organizations use data to create measurable, sustainable impact on their communities. As the founder and CEO of Measurement Resources Company (MRC), Chaney Jones leads a team that empowers nonprofits and government agencies to become more data-driven, ensuring they demonstrate their value to funders and stakeholders.

What sets Chaney Jones apart is her ability to blend performance measurements with organizational change strategies. MRC operates with clarity, efficiency, and purpose. She has nurtured a culture of innovation and accountability, empowered team members to lead projects, challenge assumptions and co-create solutions with clients. Rather than applying off-the-shelf frameworks, Chaney Jones and her team employ a highly iterative, evidence-based process that blends traditional evaluation methods with creative facilitation and stakeholder engagement.

 

The Whitestone Group CEO, John Clark, exemplifies leadership through his innovative and client-centric approach to security services. The Whitestone Group is a protective service provider with industry expertise to deliver customized security solutions, vulnerability assessments and training.

Under Clark’s guidance, The Whitestone Group has expanded from its humble beginnings in 2000 to a robust organization with over 700 employees, continuously evolving to meet project demands. Clark’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence have positioned the company as a leader in the security industry.

The Whitestone Group consists of business and marketing professionals, along with former law enforcement and military personnel, bringing unparalleled expertise in security management, training and anti-terrorism measures. This ensures the highest level of protection for government facilities and critical infrastructure.

 

Headquartered in Westerville, Precision Electric and Construction has emerged as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the Central Ohio region. Under the dynamic leadership of Dylan Cornwell, COO, the company has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence.

At the heart of Precision Electric and Construction’s success lies a culture of innovation. The company has embraced cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to deliver top-tier electrical and construction services. By integrating advanced solutions such as solar energy systems and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, they not only meet the evolving needs of their clients but also set new industry standards. This forward-thinking approach has opened new markets and opportunities, fueling the company’s growth and solidifying its position as a leader in the field.

 

 

Hidden Creek Landscaping is an award-winning landscape design firm serving Central Ohio’s suburbs. Led by CEO Jason Cromley, the Hidden Creek team is passionate about creating outdoor living spaces that elevate clients’ lifestyles and enable them to focus on what matters most — spending time with family and friends.

The company operates using the LeanScaper methodology, which focuses on continuous improvement and has helped eliminate waste and automate through technology. The purpose of the LeanScaper community is to connect, thrive and transform the landscape industry through collaboration. Hidden Creek solicits ideas from its employees through surveys and regular Town Hall meetings.

In addition to constructing a new building and expanding the main office, Hidden Creek is on track to hit its revenue goal, which would be a notable increase from the previous year.

 

CEO and President Toni Cunningham is transforming the Godman Guild Association into a mission-aligned leader in holistic workforce readiness. Under her direction, the Guild has shed the “generalist” nonprofit model in favor of skills-first strategies that meet job seekers and employers where they are. Cunningham’s leadership has sharpened the organization’s focus, streamlined its programming and elevated its role within Central Ohio’s workforce ecosystem.

At the core of Cunningham’s strategy is the belief that workforce development must be holistic. Through initiatives like the Career Bridges program under the Work Readiness Academy™, she has built a talent pipeline that doesn’t just prepare individuals for jobs but for long-term economic mobility. The Guild acts as a first-mile provider for participants who often lack access to traditional career pathways, equipping them with essential “success skills.”

 

 

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Led by co-owner and Chief Client Officer Monica Dominic, PSI delivers innovative IT solutions that solve its clients’ most tenacious business challenges, providing carefully calculated strategies that drive ROI and increase overall profitability.

Over the past year, Dominic has continued to lead PSI with a focus on innovation, growth and community impact. The firm has successfully expanded into new markets by acquiring clients from a different industry sector, creating a new income stream that is experiencing rapid growth. This diversification has opened the door to a new area of IT consulting, allowing PSI to tap into opportunities with major firms like Amazon, Google and other large players establishing a presence in the region. This strategic expansion not only enhances revenue but also broadens PSI’s reach and influence within the industry.

 

 

Sandy Doyle-Ahern helms EMH&T, Ohio’s largest professional services firm in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. After serving as Executive Vice President and leading multiple divisions, Doyle-Ahern was appointed President in 2012. She has exemplified a dynamic, selfless leadership style, emphasizing professional excellence and community impact. Under her guidance, EMH&T has grown by an impressive 114 percent, a testament to her strategic vision and the trust she inspires across the organization.

Doyle-Ahern is committed to smart, sustainable infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth. She brings exceptional insight to projects that support regional development, creating sensible infrastructure solutions that generate workforce opportunities, alleviate housing shortages and improve long-term economic vitality. Today, EMH&T offers expertise across 13 disciplines, serving as a one-stop partner for land use development and public infrastructure needs.

 

Since becoming CEO of Core Molding Technologies, David Duvall has led a strategic transformation, restoring financial health, strengthening operations and positioning the business for scalable, sustainable growth. Duvall has also driven a disciplined approach to capital strategy. Under his leadership, Core has prioritized capital investment with a sharpened focus on strategic capex to fuel growth and innovation.

Duvall brings clarity and vision to his leadership. He embedded a safety-first mindset and drove measurable improvements in scrap reduction, inventory control and product quality. He has also made talent a priority, introducing formal succession planning and career path planning. His focus on internal mobility and professional growth has resulted in more than forty percent of open roles being filled from within — a powerful indicator of organizational strength and stability.

 

 

CEO and founder John Fahlgren is the visionary behind the health-inspired lifestyle brand SŌW Plated, a first-of-its-kind culinary concept rooted in brain health science. Influenced by the power of nutrition to enhance cognitive brain function, mood and well-being, SŌW’s whole foods organic menu has been thoughtfully curated around 12 essential nutrients proven to support optimal brain performance.

A seasoned marketing executive, Fahlgren is a master brand builder who has provided stewardship for many of the world’s most iconic brands. His passion for preventive health has manifested itself in building an exciting modern-day company that celebrates holistic living.

The Wall of Hope Foundation’s mission is to educate the community about the evidence-based relationship between nutrition and brain function and to provide nutrient-dense meals to families facing an immediate mental health emergency.

 

Gerber LLC is a private community for entrepreneurs. Founder and Advisor Randall (Randy) Gerber has developed a valuable business model tailored to the unique needs of founders and entrepreneurs, who often face complex challenges in navigating the unfamiliar terrain of building, managing and scaling companies without the benefit of prior entrepreneurial legacy or mentorship. Gerber’s approach addresses these gaps by offering strategic guidance, personal and professional development, and a holistic support system.

Gerber goes beyond traditional business consulting. The organization is built on the recognition that a founder’s personal life and professional journey are deeply interconnected. Gerber’s emphasis on aligning founders’ vision with their values helps create sustainable business models and reduce burnout — an all-too-common pitfall for first-time founders.

 

Phil Greenberg is the chief of staff at JobsOhio, the private economic development corporation designed to drive job creation and capital investment in the state. He plays a central role in managing key functions across the organization, engaging in and building relationships with elected officials at the local, state and federal levels and overseeing initiatives that benefit communities throughout Ohio.

Greenberg joined JobsOhio’s government affairs team in April 2019 and was promoted to chief of staff just four months later. Thanks to him and his team, JobsOhio has been able to build relationships that have strengthened the organization’s ability to attract, retain and grow businesses across the state. In the process, Greenberg has developed a reputation as a quiet power broker who navigates behind the scenes to move the needle.

 

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (FPC) is Central Ohio’s premier botanical garden. President and CEO Bruce Harkey joined the organization in 2007 after an 18-year career at Honda. His move to Central Ohio and passion for leadership and horticulture inspired him to take on this role.

Spanning 13 acres, the FPC visitor experience features the Conservatory building, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden and the Grand Mallway. Guests can explore diverse botanical biomes, lush gardens, seasonal offerings, horticultural and art exhibitions, and a permanent collection of glass artwork by Dale Chihuly. The adjacent four-acre public garden, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus, includes an apiary, rose pavilion, berry house and 40 community garden plots.

 

 

 

Chip Hilleary serves as Chief Marketing Officer for West Camp Press Inc., a single-source print provider in Columbus specializing in solutions for print, brand management, packaging and promotions. The forward-thinking company has carved out a competitive advantage in an evolving industry. By mastering two key competencies, talent retention and technology integration, West Camp Press is meeting the demands of a rapidly digitizing marketplace, anticipating client needs and leading with innovation.

In an industry where turnover can be high and skilled labor is at a premium, West Camp Press has distinguished itself by fostering a work environment that encourages longevity, loyalty and professional development. The company’s retention strategy rests on three pillars: a supportive culture, investment in continuous learning and alignment of employee roles with meaningful purpose.

 

 

EasyIT’s mission is to make IT easy for clients, delivering top-notch customer support, technology expertise and best-in-class management and monitoring systems.

CEO Kurt Hoeft demonstrates exemplary leadership qualities, fostering a culture of philanthropy and personal growth within the organization. Under his stewardship, EasyIT assumed the role of Tournament Presenting Sponsor for the Tee Off for Brain Tumors golf outing, contributing over $120,000 to The James for brain tumor and cancer research. The firm supplemented this financial support with valuable marketing resources, playing a critical role in driving attendance and sponsorships.

In addition to caring for the community, Hoeft demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the professional growth of his employees, empowering them to reach their full potential and cultivating a workforce that remains adaptable and resilient in an ever-evolving business landscape.

 

Fueled by grit and intuition, Joe Huber built a real estate engine from a Vespa and a cold-call list. Huber’s entrepreneurial journey began at a Columbus garage sale, where he negotiated his first property deal, turning a $150,000 investment into a $200,000 profit within days.

That early success lit a fire. Without funding or formal training, Huber hit the streets on a battered scooter, knocking on doors, flipping homes and managing rentals. By age 30, he had flipped more than 50 properties, bootstrapped with capital from friends and family. Today, as Founder and CEO of Huber Equity Group (HEG) and Founder of Verti Commercial Real Estate (Verti CRE), he operates with a belief that smart business is simple: build systems that scale, teams that grow and value that lasts.

 

 

 

As General Counsel for The New Albany Company LLC (NACO), Molly Iams oversees legal matters, including developing and negotiating real estate agreements for land sales and acquisitions. She leads NACO’s in-house legal team and manages the efforts of multiple outside partners.

Before joining the firm as General Counsel, Iams provided legal counsel to the company for three years via an outside firm. She has been a driving force behind some of Central Ohio’s largest economic development opportunities, including Amgen’s New Albany campus and Intel’s Ohio One investment.

Iams brings over 15 years of experience in real estate transactions. She has been at the center of negotiating complex legal agreements with multinational clients, townships, cities, counties and school districts. She generates creative and innovative solutions that result in win-win negotiations.

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As Vice President, Client Portfolio Leader, Industrial/Commercial/Utility, at T&M Associates, an engineering and technical services firm, Jacobsen has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s success through the precise execution of a strategic business plan and a steadfast commitment to the mission of enhancing local communities through acts of kindness, charitable outreach and educational initiatives. She mentors the next generation of engineers and environmental leaders through programs designed to advance young professionals and expand their networks.

Jacobsen is a steadfast advocate for water accessibility and environmental stewardship. Her extensive experience as a Public Involvement Specialist has positioned her as a key figure in high-profile water distribution, wastewater collection and remediation projects across the Midwest.

 

 

 

President Sumithra Jagannath leads ZED Digital with visionary clarity and technological foresight. Her relentless commitment to harnessing AI is transforming crowd management in public places.

Large venues face ongoing challenges in managing crowd flow, reducing ticket fraud, streamlining parking and gate access and ensuring public safety. Under her leadership, ZED launched the ZIG Superwallet, an award-winning AI-based ticketing and payment platform that eliminates friction in public transit, tolling and large-scale venue entry. This is the first platform of its kind to provide sensor-based ticketing solutions with AI. ZIG is revolutionizing entry management at stadiums, arenas, festivals and large-scale exhibitions. With hands-free validation, attendees can walk in with their phone or smart card in their pocket, dramatically improving throughput and safety.

 

Amelia Jeffers Cultivate Collectors Services is not driven by numbers but by heart, soul and a genuine devotion to “stuff” and the people who love it. Owner Amelia Jeffers is an auctioneer, an appraiser, a Realtor and Editor-in-Chief of Sophisticated Living magazine.

With career sales of over $100 million in art, antiques and bespoke collectibles and $50 million in real estate, Jeffers is passionate about old, unusual and beautiful things. Growing the company in a tumultuous market developed her competitive spirit and a knack for breaking through the noise of a crowded marketplace to garner attention for the people and things she represents.

Cultivate Collectors is a passion project of Jeffers, designed to leverage 25 years of experience to help her clients cultivate the knowledge, passion, trust and relationships necessary to build and eventually divest of their collections.

 

One of the region’s most robust sustainable farms, Jorgensen Farms is also one of Central Ohio’s most desirable wedding and event locales, caterers and floral designers. A certified organic farm, Jorgensen is passionate about nurturing the land and providing visitors with an understanding of its purpose.

With two distinct event venues, 100 acres of regenerative farmland, a leading culinary program and a plethora of floral and herb varieties, Jorgensen Farms is a place where life and love grow gracefully together.

Shepherded by David Karikomi, president, Jorgensen’s hundred acres of pastoral farmland is located in a peaceful suburb of Columbus. The land has been cultivated for over 100 years, fostering a lasting impact on the community. Significant renovations have added a new ceremony building, bridal suites and a restored historic barn.

 

Boss Gal Beauty Bar is a sleek and contemporary take on the traditional medi-clinical environment. The company’s mission is to provide results-driven treatments that help people look their best and feel strong, beautiful and confident — bringing out their inner Boss Gal.

With four greater Columbus locations, Boss Gal Beauty Bar sees thousands of clients each month. COO & Co-Owner Lance Keeney offers a comprehensive menu of med spa services, including hydrafacials, microblading, Botox® and advanced laser treatments. The Skin Shop connects clients to high-end brands that deliver results. Boutique offerings include Bridal Spa Packages and the Beauty Bank membership program. A registered nurse, Kathy Keeney, Lances wife, has leveraged her extensive medical knowledge and passion for the beauty industry to place herself as one of the most sought-after injectors in Columbus.

 

Chris Kessler is a strategic growth and product leader with a proven track record in building customer-centric products and delivering effective go-to-market strategies. As the chief product and platform officer at the leading insurtech, Bold Penguin, he has found success in scaling solutions that address pervasive industry pain points and fortifying mutually beneficial client relationships.

Kessler possesses an exceptional ability to analyze market trends and implement solutions. He is not just a proven subject matter expert but also a proven leader. Due to his unique industry perspective and experience, he views the demands of today’s insurance technology industry through the lens of carriers, agents, third-party services and the insured. As a result, Bold Penguin is transforming the commercial insurance industry to operate with greater efficiency and profitability.

 

 

Rachel Lustig has served as the president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services (LSS) for two years, bringing two decades of anti-poverty experience to her current role and applying her understanding of systemic challenges to uplift the most vulnerable populations. With a particular focus on sustainable solutions, she has championed ongoing efforts to create funding strategies that ensure long-term support for the Franklin County Shelter Providers Network, which includes LSS’ homeless and domestic violence shelters.

Lustig’s unwavering commitment to social justice, paired with her ability to develop sustainable, high-impact funding models, has redefined how nonprofits can address issues of homelessness and domestic violence. Whether leading regional advocacy efforts, spearheading national research collaborations or mentoring the next generation of nonprofit leaders, she inspires collective action with clarity and compassion.

 

Innovative beauty brand Goddess Maintenance Co. (GMCo) is emerging as a major player in the biotech-

driven beauty revolution. The company reunites four accomplished founders with proven track records. Entrepreneurs and sisters Manda Mason and Lauren Hunter transformed nail care with The W Nail Bar alongside haircare innovators Edward Connaghan and Denise Russell, formerly the brand architects behind Olaplex and K18 Hair.

Together, they are disrupting the beauty industry once again. GMCo is launching its hero product, the BioTechBlowout™ Leave-In Restorative Mask, as the company’s first introduction to BioProtection™, ushering in a new category of haircare. Post-launch, the brand plans to release skincare and body care products, offering biotech beauty solutions from head to toe.

 

Kimball Midwest is a national distributor of over 55,000 products for Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO). Family-owned-and-operated since 1923, the company is a major force in the industrial maintenance marketplace.

Kimball Midwest provides value-added products to customers in virtually every field of commerce and industry through its strategically located distribution centers across the U.S. Sales growth has been dynamic.

Dave McCurdy joined Kimball Midwest in 1988 as purchasing manager and currently serves as the company’s Chief Operating Officer. McCurdy takes tremendous pride in his involvement and support of numerous charitable organizations, including Upper Arlington Rotary, where he served as president in 2010, Lifecare Alliance Meals on Wheels and Catholic Social Services.

 

As president, chief operating officer and operating partner of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR), David Miller oversees all aspects of day-to-day business and guides restaurant concept development and design. He also oversees all 11 executive team members and the CMR business as it relates to various facets and departments.

Miller joined the CMR team in 1995 and has been instrumental in facilitating the growth of the brand, expanding from three restaurants to more than 100 dining establishments across the country, including the launch of a national concept, Ocean Prime, in some of the country’s largest metropolitan areas. He also was an integral part of developing Cameron Mitchell Premier Events, a full-service event design and catering company, and Buckeye Hospitality Construction, CMR’s own construction company.

 

 

 

Hinda Mitchell, founder and president of Inspire PR Group, is widely known in the public relations industry as a trusted communications consultant. Her experience includes nearly 11 years as the founder and president of Inspire, four years as vice president at a national communications firm and 16 years in a communications agency serving corporate, trade association, education, legal and political clients.

Mitchell founded Inspire PR Group in Westerville in 2014. Inspire has experienced rapid growth, becoming a highly respected and exceptional team of communications and marketing professionals serving clients in the region, the U.S. and internationally. The firm has grown from four associates in 2014 to 20 associates in 2025. The firm’s roster has increased from a handful of clients to more than 60 clients today.

 

 

Naible CEO John Petty is not the type to dazzle with empty spectacle. While others chase viral demos, he has chosen to build a full-stack, design-led platform that quietly rewires how humans and intelligent systems work together — one meaningful task at a time.

Naible fosters a culture of innovation driven by a relentless focus on solving complex problems with the power of cognitive AI. At the heart of Naible’s mission is Nexus, the firm’s flagship assistant. Nexus is no ordinary chatbot; it studies writing styles, tracks daily goals, curates knowledge, and then steps in to tackle the swarm of microtasks that steal clients’ focus. Petty calls this “solving the $1,000-a-month problem” because that’s roughly what lost time and energy are worth—and he’s determined to win them back.

 

 

 

Kristen Rinehart, an engineer with nearly three decades of experience in plastics manufacturing, joined Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS) in 2022. One of the largest companies in Ohio, ADS is a leading provider of innovative water management solutions in the stormwater and onsite septic wastewater industries.

In her role as vice president/general manager recycling, Rinehart leads one of the most integral parts of the company’s business. ADS Recycling is a key contributor to the supply of plastic resin used in the manufacturing of its stormwater products, including plastic pipes. The division is also critical to the company’s sustainability initiatives. Thanks to ADS Recycling, the company processes about 550 million pounds of recycled plastic annually, making it one of the largest recycling companies in North America.

 

 

 

Ruscilli Construction is a multi-generational, family-owned business rooted in Columbus. The company is a total building resource offering unparalleled service and value to its clients. Ruscilli’s services include pre-construction, program management, construction management, design, general contracting, trades contracting and construction consultation.

Building on the legacy of innovation and environmental stewardship, Managing Partner Tony Ruscilli continues to drive progress in construction in Ohio and beyond. Recently, the company completed its transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), reinforcing its commitment to long-term sustainability, not only in the structures it builds but also in the way it invests in its people and the future of the community. This forward-thinking move ensures continuity, fosters ownership culture and further solidifies Ruscilli’s role as a responsible, resilient force in the construction environment.

 

Daniel Sa leads with the belief that success is not measured solely by numbers but by lives impacted. As Division President, Sa has helped build one of Central Ohio’s leading mortgage operations. His approach centers on growing with integrity and fostering operational excellence while remaining rooted in community. For him, growth is only meaningful when it lifts others. That belief is reflected in everything within the firm, from team culture to community engagement.

Sa has consistently championed forward-thinking strategies that redefine mortgage lending in today’s fast-paced, tech-enabled world. A leading example of this is his work advancing AI across the NFM Lending enterprise. Under Sa’s influence, AI has been integrated into key areas, including marketing automation, lead scoring, pipeline tracking and client communication.

 

 

In 2016, Tim Sargent and his brother, Ken, took the bold step of founding their business with a clear vision centered around exceptional service, available 24/7/365. As CEO, Sargent’s journey is one of humble beginnings. He grew up surrounded by the mechanical industry and dove into it at a young age as a helper and gopher. From those early days, he absorbed knowledge like a sponge, progressing from minor tasks to mastering the intricacies of blueprints and equipment installation.

What truly sets Sargent apart is his drive for improvement. Never settling for the status quo, he and his brother actively seek ways to enhance services. Today, the company has 40 team members and is poised for even greater achievements, including the recent opening of a new office in Cleveland.

 

 

As CEO of InnerActiv, Ray Shealy leads one of the most forward-thinking cybersecurity companies in the country, redefining how organizations combat insider threats and data loss. Under Shealy’s leadership, InnerActiv has pioneered a novel combination of endpoint-based data loss prevention (eDLP), behavioral analytics and computer vision. This proprietary, AI-driven approach uniquely protects sensitive data in real-time, on computers, across print devices and in other frequently overlooked exfiltration points.

Shealy’s focus on working with the InnerActiv team to blend lightweight technology with deep analytics has enabled InnerActiv’s solutions to be powerful yet frictionless, something rarely achieved in enterprise cybersecurity. In 2025, Shealy successfully closed a financing round. His vision, discipline and innovation epitomize what it means to run a truly “smart” organization.

 

Keith Stevens is a serial entrepreneur who launched his first business in 1992 to help people who were considered “hard-core unemployable.” With his most recent venture, UpRys, his three decades of work have come full circle.

Stevens founded his first business, Proteam Solutions Inc., with his brother, Doug, providing light industrial and clerical staffing services to create job opportunities for those in need. Proteam Solutions grew into one of Central Ohio’s largest IT consulting firms before its sale to company executives in 2022.

UpRys is a strategic consulting and advisory firm dedicated to elevating nonprofits, small businesses and for-profit organizations through its expertise in people, processes and technology. The firm delivers “employer-of-record” services to organizations in 15 states, helping clients manage nontraditional workforces, including contract workers, freelancers and others.

 

President Sean Suttle leads Hanlin Rainaldi Construction with a focus on curiosity, continuous learning and relationship-driven growth. He joined Hanlin Rainaldi in 2005 as an assistant estimator and later purchased the company in 2014. Since then, he has built a smart and agile organization by empowering his team through leadership development, continuing education and lean technology adoption.

Founded in 1992 by Grant Douglass, Ed Rainaldi and Mike Hanlin, Hanlin Rainaldi has experienced sustained and strategic growth under Suttle’s leadership. The company carries forward the values established early on by encouraging employees to regularly participate in leadership training and through organizations like The Builders Exchange of Central Ohio and SMPS Columbus to sharpen their skills and deliver on their promises to clients.

 

 

Lake Shore Cryotronics Inc. is a leader in cryogenic and magnetic solutions committed to advancing its customers’ science and technology to benefit humanity. Scientists worldwide trust Lake Shore’s products to provide accurate measurements of cryogenic temperatures and magnetic fields, as well as noteworthy characterization of materials.

President and CEO Michael Swartz worked as an engineer at Mound Labs in Miamisburg, Ohio. Joining Lake Shore in 1986, he held management positions in manufacturing, product development, sales and marketing before assuming the presidency in 2003.

In 2011, Swartz was appointed by then Commerce Secretary Gary Locke to serve on the President’s Export Council Subcommittee on Export Administration (PECSEA). From 2011 until 2014, he and 23 executives from a range of industries advised the U.S. government on matters concerning the effects of export regulations.

 

Andrea Tipping, co-founder and CEO of TipCo Automated Systems, exemplifies smart leadership through the strategic use of AI to address complex public sector challenges. By developing EVA, an AI-powered assistant that automates eligibility processes for SNAP, Medicaid and TANF, she has transformed how agencies deliver critical services, reducing processing time, alleviating caseworker burden and improving access for vulnerable populations.

Tipping aligns technology with the urgent need to address staffing shortages in health and human services agencies. This approach produces measurable public impact while ensuring scalability, operational efficiency and regulatory compliance across multiple state systems. She excels in innovation, operational execution and market expansion, having led TipCo’s growth to become a trusted GovTech partner nationwide.

 

 

Andrew Vennemeyer is the owner of Dwell Construction in Westerville. He is an exemplary leader, making innovative contributions to the construction industry and demonstrating unwavering commitment to community engagement.

Vennemeyer’s journey in the construction industry is marked by a blend of architectural insight and executive acumen. After earning his degree from The Ohio State University, he dedicated over a decade to a local architecture firm. During that time, he achieved his Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accreditation.

In 2023, Vennemeyer realized his long-held aspiration by co-founding Dwell Construction alongside his brother, Adam. Dwell specializes in commercial and residential projects, emphasizing quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction. In less than two years, the company has significantly grown its annual revenue.

 

Robert J. “Skip” Weiler, Jr. is the third-generation president of The Robert Weiler Company (RWC). He was also the first third-generation president of Columbus REALTORS®.

The family business was started by Weiler’s grandfather in 1938. Weiler joined the team in 1985, specializing in the brokerage and development of residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and mixed-use properties.

Weiler splits his time between brokerage and development, overseeing the commercial brokerage division, managing commercial and residential property, and cultivating partnerships throughout Central Ohio. A core value of his is to create steadfast professional relationships, which have led to the transformation of RWC and the city of Columbus. He has represented thousands of buyers and sellers, with over $1 billion in commercial real estate sales and millions of dollars in properties under management.

 

Will Zell is the Managing Partner of Vessel Investment Group. Zell is demonstrating the potential for Central Ohio and beyond to start and scale a category-defining company.

Vessel is a Columbus-based venture investment firm that builds and advises companies to grow the future of their industries. Vessel operates the Ohio Angel Collective, which has invested in a number of high-potential startups over recent months.

The company’s flagship strategy includes funds focused on pre-seed and seed investing in high potential companies, and investing in companies created through its Shipyard studio, which is its internal venture studio where they build high potential companies from scratch. They also have a lending program that provides non-dilutive capital to companies early in their growth journey, structured deal by deal. ●