Linking the Industrial Heartland to the Irregular Front
Attendees across academia, industry, startups, critical infrastructure, military, intelligence, and government will Forge connections, build skills, and partner for collective defense.
Welcome to the 2026 Forge Summit!
Main Event: October 13-14, 2026
Classified Day: October 15, 2026 (tentative)
Location: Downtown North Little Rock, Arkansas - Exact Location will be shared via email to approved registrants.
Join us for a day filled with cybersecurity, emerging technology and national security insights, innovative technologies, and networking opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the field, this summit is the place to be. Learn from industry experts, engage in interactive sessions, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of cyber & emerging technology. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details!
Sponsorship Opportunities: Entities wishing to become a sponsor of this year’s event should email summit@forge.institute for more information.
Security: Attendees must be U.S. Citizens. The event is "off the record" and closed to the press/media. Chatham House Rules Apply. We reserve the right to deny admittance to anyone for any reason. Attendees agree to follow all posted and verbal security instructions.
Clearances: Those who register for the limited Classified day must have a final granted TS//SI/TK clearance. Do not register if you don't. Additional information will be sent via email.
2025 Sponsors
Linking the Industrial Heartland to the Irregular Front
Forge connections, build skills, and partner for collective defense.
2025 Summit Speaker Lineup (More to Come)
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Jim Richberg
Head of Cyber Policy and Global Field CISO
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H. Beth Anne Bygum
CISO
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Cherilyn Pascoe
-
Zak Morris
Founder
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Gregory Crabb
Founder / Principal Cybersecurity Consultant
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Kiran Chinnagangannagari
CTO
Securin -
Eric Wall
-
Bill Carter
Public Sector Cybersecurity Strategist
-
Tom Flak
Director, Cyber Operations
-
Ramzi Harb
Senior Solutions Architect
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Andy Jones
Director, Solutions Engineering
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Tim Springston
Product Manager, ADFR & DRET
-
Shane Jennings
Regional Director
-
Jonathan Askins
fmr CIO
State of Arkansas
-
Christian Young
AI Security Engineer
2026 Summit Speaker Lineup
-
Jim Richberg
Head of Cyber Policy and Global Field CISO
-
H. Beth Anne Bygum
CISO
-
Cherilyn Pascoe
-
Zak Morris
Founder
-
Gregory Crabb
Founder / Principal Cybersecurity Consultant
-
Kiran Chinnagangannagari
CTO
Securin -
Eric Wall
-
Bill Carter
Public Sector Cybersecurity Strategist
-
Tom Flak
Director, Cyber Operations
-
Ramzi Harb
Senior Solutions Architect
-
Andy Jones
Director, Solutions Engineering
-
Tim Springston
Product Manager, ADFR & DRET
-
Shane Jennings
Regional Director
-
Jonathan Askins
fmr CIO
State of Arkansas
-
Christian Young
AI Security Engineer
Who’s It For:
Academia • Industry • Critical Infrastructure • State & Local Government • Military • Intelligence Community • Startups • Private Capital • Policy Makers • Non Profits • Federal Labs • Warfighters
PREVIOUS PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS
Key Topics:
Artificial Intelligence • Cybersecurity • Quantum • Supply Chain Risk Management • UAS/C-UAS • Critical Minerals • Advanced Manufacturing • & more!
Previous Speakers
BECOME A SPONSOR
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Summit Logistics
The Venue
The summit will be held in Central Arkansas. Details provided upon registration.
Who may attend?
Attendees must be a US Citizen. Forge & our partners reserve the right to deny entry to any person or any reason. If we do, we will issue a full refund for the price paid for registration.
Lodging
Convenient lodging options are available at hotels in downtown Little Rock, ensuring a comfortable stay during the summit.
Getting Around
We recommend using UBER or YELLOW CAB to get around the city. Rental cars are available at the airport. Your hotel may offer shuttle services as well.
Flights
Clinton National Airport (LIT) offers great regional access.
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