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SAS honored by US Department of Defense for company’s support of National Guard and Reserve employees

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SAS is one of 15 companies, out of over 1750 nominations, to receive the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award

CARY, N.C., Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — At an event today at the Pentagon, data and AI leader SAS was honored with the prestigious 2024 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award –the highest US government honor given to employers by the Department of Defense for their support of National Guard and Army Reserve employees. The company offers many military support programs to assist guard members, reservists and their families, as well as programs to help active-duty service members transition to civilian employment. 

“It is a privilege to work alongside these brave employees…” — SAS CEO Jim Goodnight

The Freedom Award recognizes employers for going beyond workplace requirements to encourage a culture of support through many kinds of policies and programs, support networks, family outreach, and other investments in the well-being of their guard and reserve members and their families. SAS was nominated by Sean Mobley, US Army Reserve Captain and Product Security Architect at SAS. 

“SAS is honored to receive the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award and to be nominated by CPT Sean Mobley,” said SAS CEO Jim Goodnight. “CPT Mobley and others who serve in the Guard or Reserves bring to SAS extraordinary levels of teamwork, creative problem-solving, strategic thinking and hard work. It is a privilege to work alongside these brave employees, and they have our unwavering support for their service and sacrifice.” 

CPT Mobley’s was one of 1,758 nominations for employers throughout the 50 states and US territories. A national review of senior DOD officials and business leaders selected the award finalists and recipients. 

“On behalf of the Department of Defense, congratulations to the 2024 Employer Support Freedom Award recipients as we mark the 29th year of this highly coveted recognition,” said Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III. “We appreciate everything they do for our National Guardsmen, our Reservists, and their families. Employer support is just as important today as it was over 50 years ago when our nation transitioned to an All-Volunteer force. Without the unfaltering support of employers like this year’s recipients, the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve would not be able to fulfill their vital mission in support of our nation’s defense and security. It is a great honor for me to recognize these employers.”

In his nomination, CPT Mobley highlighted company programs and the SAS culture of support for guard members and reservists, including: 

Top-up pay, which is the continuation of salary equal to the difference, if any, between military wages and SAS salary.Generous benefits for military employees and their families while on military leave, including health care and disability coverage that goes beyond what is required by law. Continued enrollment in the SAS Child Care Center for children of military employees for the duration of a deployment or leave. This provides stability for the children and peace of mind for the parents.A generous sick time policy, that includes mental health, if an employee needs additional time off beyond the military leave, prior to transitioning back to work. Year-round recognition of those who served and still serve, including special events tied to occasions like Memorial Day, Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Veterans Day and PTSD Awareness Day. The SAS Military Network, a community of guard or reservists, veterans, military spouses, dependents, parents and proud supporters that focuses on employee engagement, professional development and community outreach. Care packages from their teams at SAS and support for deployed employees’ families. 

“I’ve dedicated a significant portion of my professional life to working in two esteemed organizations – the US Army and SAS – and this commitment hasn’t been coincidental,” said Mobley. “What sets SAS apart for me is not just its inclusive culture and supportive colleagues, but also its commitment to fostering personal and professional development. In this journey, I’ve come to appreciate the synergy between my military service and my role as part of a Research and Development team, where these values are not just ideals but lived experiences. Each step forward brings me closer to realizing my potential in service to my country and community.”  

Learn more about CPT Mobley’s journey from the military to SAS, where he serves as a product security architect and as a DJ for SAS events. 

Creating career opportunities for guard members, reservists and transitioning veterans 

SAS actively engages, recruits and hires guard members and reservists. Company recruiters regularly attend professional development events and career fairs at military bases and conduct outreach to university student veterans’ organizations to recruit and hire military-affiliated students. In addition, SAS hires guard members and reservists pursuing a STEM degree to participate in a paid technical summer internship program called United in STEM. 

Veterans transitioning back to civilian life face a number of challenges, many of which involve working in a non-military environment. SAS is committed to helping veterans, service members and military spouses successfully transition into new careers by partnering with Hiring Our Heroes, a US Chamber of Commerce initiative, to offer transitioning service members a 12-week fellowship at SAS during the last 180 days of active duty to bridge the gap between the military and civilian culture and workplaces. 

In addition, SAS participates in ongoing workshops to help job seekers improve their LinkedIn profiles, resumes and interview skills. SAS also offers free and discounted data science and analytics training and certifications to service members, veterans and military spouses. 

SAS has also received Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) employer awards – including the Pro Patria Award twice – for its inclusive policies and benefits strongly supporting Guard and Reserve families, far exceeding what the law requires. In addition, many leaders within SAS have been recognized with the ESGR Patriot Award, an award given to a supervisor by an employee service member employee or military spouse for their support.  

About SAS

SAS is a global leader in data and AI. With SAS software and industry-specific solutions, organizations transform data into trusted decisions. SAS gives you THE POWER TO KNOW®.

SAS and all other SAS Institute Inc. product or service names are registered trademarks or trademarks of SAS Institute Inc. in the USA and other countries. ® indicates USA registration. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright © 2024 SAS Institute Inc. All rights reserved. 

Editorial Contact:
Trent Smith
trent.smith@sas.com
919-531-4726
sas.com/news

 

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CES 2025: The Global Stage for Innovation, Connecting the World, Creating the Future

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Where Technology Meets Humanity to Create Extraordinary Possibilities

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CES® 2025, the most powerful tech event in the world, welcomed over 141,000 attendees from around the globe. With more than 4500 exhibitors, including 1400 startups, and more than 6000 media attendees, CES highlights the innovation and technology trends addressing global challenges and shaping the future.

“CES is where innovation comes to life,” said Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, owner and producer of CES. “From the largest companies to trailblazing startups, the entire tech ecosystem is at the show. CES is the stage for groundbreaking product launches, transformative partnerships, and serendipitous business moments that define the future of technology.”

CES 2025 by the Numbers*

4500+ exhibitors, including 1400 startups141,000+ attendees, of which 40% were international from over 150 countries, regions, and territories6000+ global media, content creators, and industry analystsOver 60% of Fortune 500 companies300+ conference sessions with 1200+ speakers27,000+ news stories and content

*pre-audit figures

“From groundbreaking innovations that improve lives to transformative ideas that redefine industries, CES is a celebration of the art of the possible, showcasing how technology enriches our world and inspires a brighter future for all,” said Kinsey Fabrizio, President, CTA. “The evolution of CES has surged at this year’s show, where creativity, connectivity, and innovation inspire with visionary keynotes, thought-provoking conference sessions, and mind-blowing exhibits.”

As one of the most transparent trade shows, CES adheres to rigorous auditing standards established by UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. To maintain the integrity of its reports, CES engages independent auditors, fostering trust among stakeholders.

“CES reaffirms its status as the largest audited annual business event,” said Fabrizio. “We look forward to releasing third-party confirmation in the spring, because at CTA we believe auditing is not just a nice-to-have, but the gold standard for global business events.” 

Catch all the highlights and announcements from CES 2025 – including all conference programming—via CES YouTube and the CES Tech Talk Podcast. Watch the CES 2025 State of the Industry Address here.

CES 2025 Highlights 

Artificial Intelligence – CES 2025 connected the dots between humanity and AI through powerful exhibits and programming. From AI-driven productivity tools to breakthroughs in medical advancements, products and services on the show floor demonstrated that artificial intelligence is not just a technology trend but a transformative force improving lives worldwide.
Exhibitors included: AMD, Hisense, LG, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Samsung, Siemens, TCL

Digital Health – This year, CES 2025 saw tremendous energy at the Venetian where attendees witnessed the category’s seamless alignment with the smart living experience. CES has cemented itself as a premier convenor for the healthcare industry, bringing together trailblazers to explore biotechnology, telehealth, and wellness advancements that enhance patient care and longevity. Attendees celebrated the vibrant and dynamic environment that underscored how technology is transforming everyday life, particularly in health and wellness.
Exhibitors & Sponsors included: AARP, Abbott, Eyebot, FlowBeams, Lumia Health, OnMed, Panasonic, ResMed, Withings

Energy Transition – With the growth of high-power demand technologies like AI, cloud, and other data center innovations, the energy transition to zero carbon sources was a significant focus at CES 2025. Experimental energy solutions including battery and energy storage technologies, emerging energy sources like green hydrogen, and small modular nuclear reactors were highlights on the show floor.
Exhibitors included: Eaton, Jackery, Otrera, SK, Sony Honda Mobility

Mobility – Mobility innovation spanned construction, agriculture, marine tech, and advanced air travel. At CES 2025, self-driving and electric technologies enhanced planes and boats, and EV market growth brought new models from global OEMs to the show. Automation in construction and industry enhanced safety and addressed workforce gaps in labor-intensive roles.
Exhibitors included: Aptera Motors, BMW, Bosch, Brunswick, Caterpillar, Daedong, Garmin, Honda, Invo Station, John Deere, Kubota, Mobileye, Oshkosh, Scout Motors, Sumitomo Rubber, Scout Motors, Suzuki, Waymo, Xpeng AeroHT, Zeekr

Quantum – CES 2025 featured the latest innovations in quantum technologies, offering a glimpse into the future. Quantum technology uses properties of quantum mechanics to enable three distinct disciplines: improved networking, computing, and sensing. Innovations at the show demonstrated how quantum computing, working alongside AI, will allow for breakthroughs in research and computing for finance, chemistry, materials, logistics, and more.
Exhibitors included: Integrated Quantum Photonic, IonQ, QSIMPLUS, Quandela, SK

Sustainability – Sustainability is a crucial trend shaping technology innovation, especially in the context of energy transition. CES featured key advancements including new battery technologies, alternative material development like graphene, and off-grid renewable energy solutions. The show also put a spotlight on innovations such as synthetic microbes, bioplastics, and self-healing concrete that will contribute to sustainable construction.
Exhibitors included: Hydrific, Lyten, Melliens, Panasonic

Startups – Eureka Park was completely full, with 1400 startups from 39 countries including country pavilions representing Africa, European Union (EU), France, Italy, Israel, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Eureka Park is where innovators, investors, and the media meet to highlight and get hands-on with the technologies that will shape our collective future in core areas including accessibility, AI, digital health, and sustainability.

Keynotes 

NVIDIA
NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang on Monday drew 6300 attendees to unveil the GeForce RTX 50, surpassing the RTX 4090 in performance, and introduced Agentic AI, a real-time assistant to streamline consumer workflows. Huang also showcased the Cosmos World Foundation Model and generative AI tools to advance robotics navigation. Highlighting AI-driven innovation, Huang announced a partnership with Toyota to develop next-gen autonomous vehicles using the safety-certified NVIDIA DriveOS. 

Panasonic Holdings Corporation
Panasonic Holdings Group CEO Yuki Kusumi shared Panasonic Group’s vision for sustainability, artificial intelligence, and the health of future generations. DJ and record producer Steve Aoki jump-started the keynote with a performance before Mr. Kusumi, joined on stage by Marvel actor Anthony Mackie and other Panasonic Group leaders, delivered Panasonic’s “Well Into the Future” message. As an extension of the current Panasonic Well portfolio, Panasonic announced Umi, a holistic digital family wellness platform and coach. 

SiriusXM
Jennifer Witz, CEO, SiriusXM, joined Ashley Flowers, #1 female podcaster in the U.S. and host of the hit podcast Crime Junkie, on the C Space stage to deliver a keynote on the intersection of technology, creativity, and storytelling in audio. The conversation covered the importance of authenticity, how AI is changing the creative landscape, and adapting consumer interests.

X Corp.
Linda Yaccarino, CEO, X Corp., spoke with award-winning journalist Catherine Herridge about how the company is defining the future of digital communication. The conversation focused on X’s transformational work to create a “global newsroom in your pocket.” Yaccarino highlighted the significance of Meta’s announcement that the company will follow X’s lead in adopting a community notes approach to content moderation.

Delta Air Lines at Sphere
The first keynote at Sphere in CES history wowed over 8000 attendees! The immersive experience spotlighted Delta Air Lines’ innovations in seamless travel, onboard experiences, and the future of flight. Ed Bastian, CEO, Delta Air Lines, announced Delta Concierge and partnerships with Airbus, DraftKings, Joby, Uber, and YouTube. Special guests included actress Viola Davis, football legend Tom Brady, and GRAMMY-winning icon Lenny Kravitz.

Volvo Group
Martin Lundstedt, President and CEO, Volvo Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to building a safer, more sustainable, and more productive future. He called on policymakers and industry leaders to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and discussed the company’s partnership with Aurora, aimed at advancing the development of safer, self-driving vehicles.

Accenture
Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO, Accenture, discussed how data, AI, and new ways of working are transforming industries and addressing global challenges with Julia Boorstin, CNBC senior media & tech correspondent. Sweet emphasized the need for businesses to build trust in AI technologies, especially as AI becomes increasingly autonomous in a society where trust is scarce. She also highlighted Accenture’s 25th annual Tech Vision, which explores the paths leaders can take when AI is ubiquitous.

Waymo
Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO, Waymo, spoke with Bloomberg Technology’s Ed Ludlow on the company’s progress in developing its self-driving technology, Waymo Driver. Mawakana emphasized safety and expanding its autonomous ride-hailing service to new cities while showcasing advancements in technology and outlining a vision for a safer and more accessible future.

Conference Programming
CES 2025 offered more than 300 conference sessions, exploring how tech solves some of the world’s greatest challenges.

C Space – C Space at ARIA brought together thousands of senior-level marketing professionals to explore the intersection of technology, media, and branding. Attendees heard from leading industry innovators from brands like Reddit, NBCUniversal, and Microsoft Advertising about how technology is shaping the future of storytelling, consumer engagement, and brand strategy. C Space sessions emphasized the importance of creativity and authenticity in navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape.CES Creator Space – The first-ever CES Creator Space, presented by Sony, gathered storytellers to network, create content, and relax in between visiting exhibitors. Sessions led by industry experts helped creators elevate their craft, featuring discussions on storytelling, content monetization, brand partnerships, rights and ownership, and more.Digital Health Summit brought together the entire health ecosystem to learn, network, and explore the role technology plays in advancing and reforming medicine, healthcare, and consumer wellness.Great Minds series explored the intersection of technology and humanity. Speakers included C-Suite executives, philanthropists, influencers, government leaders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and more.Innovation for All Track included dedicated programming focused on ensuring all voices are represented in technology and innovation, bringing together thought leaders for a series of engagement opportunities, dynamic session content, and networking events.Innovation Policy Summit advanced CTA’s Innovation Agenda. CES brought together policymakers and government guests from around the world to discuss domestic and global tech policy issues including AI, privacy, trade, competition, and more. Conference sessions featured high-level government speakers from the White House, Department of Commerce, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation, Federal Communications Commission, Federal Maritime Commission, Federal Trade Commission, and more.Mobility Stage made its debut in West Hall, exploring the future of mobility tech on the CES show floor. Topics included AI, connected vehicles, software, supply chain, and more.Quantum Means Business, a multi-session conference track developed with Quantum World Congress, gathered some of the brightest quantum minds, showcasing breakthroughs that were once confined to science fiction. Industry leaders from IBM, Microsoft, and beyond shared insights into how quantum, paired with advancements in AI and machine learning, creates unparalleled opportunities across industries.Startup Stage in Eureka Park brought together visionaries to discuss AI, health, startup funding, and more.

Celebrities at CES
Celebrity brand ambassadors like Alexis Ohanian, Denim Richards, Karlie Kloss, Maria Shriver, Mark Cuban, Martha Stewart, Meghan Trainor, Sophia Bush, Stevie Wonder, Terry Crews, Tim Meadows, Tunde Oyeneyin, and will.i.am attended the show. Read more about CES 2025 celebrity guest participation here.

Visit CES or the CES App, sponsored by Panasonic, for keynotes, sessions, and product announcements. View the high-res image gallery and download B-roll. Check out news from this week with CTA press releases including CTA’s U.S. Consumer Technology One-Year Industry Forecast, CES 2025 Green Grants, CTA 2025 Global Innovation Scorecard, CES 2025 Open, and a new investment in Quantum Word Congress.

We’ll DIVE IN again as CES returns to Las Vegas January 6-9, 2026.

About CES®:
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world’s biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) ®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2025 takes place Jan. 7-10, 2025, in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:
As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech

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SOURCE Consumer Technology Association

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KNEX Technology CTO Gustavo Gonzalez Elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG

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Gustavo Gonzalez, KNEX Technology’s CTO, has been elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG, emphasizing his dedication to Oracle innovation, collaboration, and leadership, including Ascend 2025’s strategic initiatives.

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — KNEX Technology, a leading Oracle Cloud solutions provider, is proud to announce that its Chief Technology Officer, Gustavo Gonzalez, has been elected as the 2025 President-Elect of the Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG). This esteemed appointment highlights Gonzalez’s longstanding commitment to advancing innovation and collaboration within the Oracle community.

OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career. As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.

In his new role, Gonzalez will work closely with the OATUG leadership team throughout 2025, preparing to serve as OATUG President in 2026. He will focus on empowering Oracle professionals worldwide by fostering knowledge-sharing, community engagement, and professional development. OATUG, a globally recognized organization, supports its members in overcoming challenges, enhancing the value of Oracle solutions, and driving organizational success.

“OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career,” said Gustavo Gonzalez. “As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.”

Gonzalez’s election underscores his dedication to giving back to the Oracle ecosystem. A key focus of his role will include shaping OATUG’s strategic initiatives, such as the annual Ascend Conference, which unites Oracle users, thought leaders, and technology innovators for unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.

The upcoming Ascend 2025 Conference, scheduled for June 8–11 in Orlando, Florida, promises to build on the success of the 2024 event, which attracted more than 1,800 attendees. With early bird registration now open, Gonzalez aims to ensure the conference continues to deliver transformative insights and experiences for the Oracle community.

About OATUG

The Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG) is the premier global organization for Oracle users, providing year-round education, networking, and advocacy. OATUG empowers its members to unlock the full potential of Oracle solutions, fostering innovation and collaboration across industries.

About KNEX Technology

KNEX Technology is a trusted leader in Oracle Cloud solutions, delivering cutting-edge products and services to help businesses achieve their objectives. Through its innovative approach and customer-focused strategies, KNEX enables organizations to navigate the complexities of today’s technology landscape. For more information, visit www.knextech.com.

Media Contact

Husna Gyasi, KNEX Technology, 1 (949) 232-0786, husna.ghayaisi@knextech.com, https://knextech.com/

Twitter, LinkedIn

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Dr. Gerard van Belle Appointed Director of Science at Lowell Observatory, Charting a Bold Future for Research

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Dr. van Belle to guide scientific exploration and foster innovation in the next era of astronomical research

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lowell Observatory is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gerard van Belle as the new Director of Science. Van Belle, who has been an astronomer at the observatory since 2011, has been serving as the interim Director of Science.

In his new role, van Belle will lead a diverse team of astronomers and planetary scientists. He will spearhead the observatory’s new Science Vision, which focuses on advancing research capabilities and implementing cutting-edge technological improvements supporting Lowell’s leadership in astronomical research.

Under his leadership, the science department will continue to advance Lowell Observatory’s mission to pursue the study of astronomy, including the study of our solar system and its evolution, and to conduct pure research in astrophysical phenomena.

Van Belle’s own research focuses on fundamental stellar parameters, including the sizes, shapes, masses, distances, and temperatures of various types of stars. He is also renowned for his expertise in optical and near-infrared astronomical interferometry.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in physics from Whitman College in 1990, followed by a master’s degree from The Johns Hopkins University in 1993, and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Wyoming in 1996.

Throughout his career, van Belle has been instrumental in the development and commissioning of major optical interferometers worldwide, including the Palomar Testbed Interferometer, the Keck Interferometer, and the Very Large Telescope Interferometer. His pioneering work in stellar surface imaging earned him the inaugural Edward Stone Award for Outstanding Research Publication at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 2002.

In 2011, van Belle joined Lowell Observatory’s science staff, where he applied high-resolution astronomical techniques to detect nearby exoplanets and map stellar surfaces. He served as the Director of the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) in Flagstaff, Arizona, from 2017 to 2018, and subsequently as its Chief Scientist until 2022.

Notably, van Belle was among the astronomers who voted against the definition of ‘planet’ advanced during the 2006 International Astronomical Union (IAU) conference in Prague, which relegated Pluto to being a ‘dwarf planet’ (which according to the IAU resolution is not a planet).

His extensive experience and dedication to advancing astronomical research make him a valuable leader for Lowell Observatory’s scientific endeavors.

“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for Lowell Observatory,” said van Belle. “Our Science Vision will guide us in exploring new frontiers in astronomy while strengthening our commitment to public engagement and education.”

Executive Director Dr. Amanda Bosh expressed her confidence in van Belle’s leadership: “Gerard’s extensive experience and dedication to our mission make him the ideal person to lead our scientific endeavors. I look forward to working closely with him as we embark on this exciting new chapter for Lowell Observatory.”

For more information about Lowell Observatory’s research and public programs, visit lowell.edu.

About Lowell Observatory
Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a renowned nonprofit research institution. It is the site of historic and groundbreaking discoveries, including the first evidence of the expanding universe and the discovery of Pluto. Today, Lowell’s astronomers utilize global ground-based and space telescopes, along with NASA spacecraft, for diverse astronomical and planetary science research. The observatory hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually for educational tours, presentations, and telescope viewing through a suite of world-class public telescopes.

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