Chairman
Veteran, Navy
Earnest Foster Jr. is a distinguished retired Navy Chief Petty Officer with an extensive 31-year tenure in service to our country. Following his illustrious military career, he continued his commitment to community and safety as a Police Officer in St. Petersburg. Earnest is not only a dedicated servant leader but also a successful entrepreneur, founding Earnest Healthy Vending, a company that reflects his passion for health and wellness.
A staunch advocate for veterans, Earnest volunteers with Operation Veteran Connect and supports Feeding Tampa Bay, contributing to the well-being of both veterans and his community. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies from Grantham University and a degree in Organizational Management from Ashford University.
As the Chairman of the Board at AI Ready Veteran, Earnest Foster Jr. applies his leadership, dedication, and vast experience to empower veterans and their families with the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive in a technologically advancing world.
Vice Chairman
Veteran Spouse, USAF
Kayla Tonnessen formerly served as Chief of Staff of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy during the Trump Administration. Ms. Tonnessen previously served as the office’s Assistant Director of External and Legislative Affairs where she was responsible for media relations, public appearances, intergovernmental affairs, stakeholder engagement, and coordination with the Congress.
Prior to joining the Trump Administration in November 2017, Kayla was the Senior Director of Government Affairs at The Ohio State University where she was responsible for engaging the university’s alumni to effectively advocate with elected officials and community leaders on legislative initiatives. Previously, Kayla served in the Government Relations team in Columbus, OH for Nationwide insurance, a Fortune 100 company, where she was the company’s chief political fundraiser and managed Nationwide’s extensive political programs.
During her time on Capitol Hill, she served as a Professional Staff Member in the U.S. House of Representatives for the Committee on the Judiciary where she directed coalitions and managed committee operations. Kayla began her career as a civilian Public Affairs Officer for the U.S Army in the Office of the Chief of Public Affairs at the Pentagon where she coordinated media relations, command information programs, and community outreach activities for senior military officers.
Kayla holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from the University of South Florida and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College.
Treasurer
Veteran, Navy
Ira J. White is a committed public servant with a rich and diverse background in both military and civilian roles. Beginning with five years of active duty in the Navy, Ira continues his service as a member of the Air National Guard, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the nation. He received his BS in Nursing from the University of North Florida and initially applied his skills in healthcare by working as a nurse for five years.
Transitioning to law enforcement, Ira has been a dedicated member of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for the past 15 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant. His dual experience in healthcare and law enforcement equips him with unique insights into both the immediate and long-term needs of veterans and their families.
As the Treasurer of AI Ready Veteran, Ira leverages his expertise to ensure financial accountability and integrity, supporting the organization’s mission to empower veterans through education and technology.
Secretary
Veteran, Navy
Sean Rotolo has proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 18 years and counting. He has a background in logistics, a deployment to Afghanistan, and 8 years in recruiting allowing him to grow his skills as Director of Production and Program Manager. No matter what his position was, he always lead his sailors to achieve their best and to grow within their careers while putting family first.
Mr. Rotolo is currently the President and CEO of Rotolo Corp. with under it he owns and runs Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning of Northeast Florida. Though the hurdles and challenges he has faced and overcome while starting his business during COVID, he quickly realized the value of having a strong diverse network of experience, knowledge, and resources.
Sean is proud husband and father of two children. He strives to pave the way for his family by keeping his practices of Family First, Last , and Always. Leading by example and showing his children that nothing in life is free but if you work hard, stay focused, and good mentors you can achieve your dreams.
Director
Veteran, Army
Col Kevin B. Creech, USA (Ret) brings over three decades of distinguished military service and extensive leadership experience to AI Ready Veteran.
Kevin Creech served with the Florida Army National Guard, as the Deputy Chief of Information Services rising to the rank of Colonel. Here, he managed critical network infrastructure vital to the Florida National Guard’s operations. His dedication and capability were further showcased during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served as Executive Officer for the 927th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion demonstrating exceptional leadership and earning a Bronze Star.
Kevin’s extensive military education and qualifications are a testament to his versatility and expertise, having earned branch qualifications as an Engineer Officer (12A), Signal Officer (25A), Logistics Officer (90A), and Information Systems Management Officer (53A). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Valdosta State University and maintains civilian certifications as a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Novell Certified Engineer (CNE), and Certified Information Security Systems Professional (CISSP). Kevin Creech’s blend of operational expertise, strategic vision, and dedication to veterans’ causes makes him exceptionally qualified to contribute to the mission of AI Ready Veterans as a member of its Board of Directors.
Governent Affairs
Veteran, Marine Corps
LtGen Glavy, USMC (Ret) brings over 39 years of experience across some of the most challenging domains in national defense. For him, “Nothing’s finer than flying the most lethal weapon in our nation’s arsenal, a Marine Lance Corporal, from U.S. Navy Amphibious War Ships to defend freedom all over the world.” Commanding HMX-1, where he flew the President of the United States to remarkable destinations, ranks a close second among his career highlights.
His time with U.S. Cyber Command marked a transformative chapter. As he describes it, “Becoming a member of U.S. Cyber Command changed my life and gave me skills and experience that I will cherish. The Marines fighting in cyberspace are some of the best in the world.” To those questioning why Marines operate in cyber, he responds, “Because they are freaking awesome at it.”
Founding and leading U.S. Marine Corps Forces Space Command was one of his most rewarding and impactful roles, where he brought together years of expertise to make a lasting impact. His career culminated as Deputy Commandant for Information, a position that unified his 38+ years of service. As he puts it, “It made the honor of being a Marine complete.”
Military Advisor
Veteran, Navy
Capt Bob Buehn, USN (Ret) recently retired as Director of the University of North Florida’s Military and Veterans Resource Center. He is also an adjunct professor for the US Naval War College and teaches a graduate seminar in National Security Affairs in Jacksonville.
He retired from a 30-year career in the US Navy in 2008. His career included command of VS-32 at NAS Cecil Field, and command of US Naval Base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Capt Buehn also served as Chief of Staff for the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) Strike Group during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He had previously served as AirPac LSO, and deployed aboard USS Forrestal (CV-59) in support of Desert Storm. He served as Executive Officer of USS Constellation (CV-64).
As a Naval Aviator he flew more than 5,000 hours in Navy aircraft, primarily the S-3 Viking, and logged nearly 900 carrier landings. He was formerly Chief of Military Affairs for the City of Jacksonville in the administration of Mayor John Peyton. He was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott as Florida Commissioner to the Interstate Compact regarding educational opportunity for military children, and recently stepped down from that post after 12 years.
Capt. Buehn is Commander of the Florida First Coast Commandery of the Naval Order of the US. He is vice-chair of the Cecil Field POWMIA Memorial, vice-chair of the Operation New Uniform board, past president and member of the Navy League Jacksonville Council Board and past chair of the Greater Jacksonville Area USO, and Chairman Emeritus of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum board. He also is a partner in Veterans United Craft Brewery in Jacksonville. Capt. Buehn is a graduate of the University of Florida and the US Naval War Collage. In November 2024 he was recognized by the Jacksonville, FL Chamber of Commerce as the 2024 recipient of the RDML Kevin Delaney Military Hall of Fame Award. The award recognizes veterans who exemplify leadership, service, and dedication both during and after their military careers.
Technology Advisor
Dr. Dingari is a seasoned leader in data science and AI/ML strategy with over 15 years of experience. His expertise in transforming data into strategic assets has driven growth and innovation in various sectors. A Ph.D. holder in Computational Physics, Dr. Dingari is deeply skilled in AI and machine learning, essential for developing advanced data solutions.
He contributes to the academic field as an Adjunct Professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, specializing in Data Science and FinTech. His academic achievements include multiple co-
authored publications and patents, particularly in bio-analytics and Raman spectroscopy. Additionally, he offers strategic guidance as an Advisory Board Member at DataCamp, ensuring alignment with the latest technological trends and market demands.
Dr. Dingari’s career includes significant roles at prestigious institutions and major corporations, such as Harvard, MIT, EMC, Prudential, Dun & Bradstreet, and Deutsche Bank. He focuses on
leveraging data to develop and execute strategies that boost revenue and enhance operational efficiency.
Recognized for his ability to simplify complex technical ideas and lead effective high-performing teams, Dr. Dingari has contributed to over 30 publications and holds five patents. His extensive expertise and strategic insights are invaluable in supporting AI Ready Veteran’s mission.
Veteran affairs advisor
Veteran, Army
Sargent First Class, U.S. Army, Retired, Richard Carey served in the U.S. Army for 24 years, enlisting in 1982 as a Lance Missile Crewmember. Carey’s various positions includes Recruiter, Station Commander; Multiple Rocket Launch System, Chief and Sr. Career Counselor. He served in the Persian Gulf War participating in three campaigns. Carey was stationed in multiple assignments around the world, while his final assignment was in South Korea operating throughout theater of South Korea. Rich retired from the military in 2006.
Since leaving the military Rich has been helping veterans through positions with the Veterans Benefits Administration, Columbia, SC Regional office, Florida State College at Jacksonville, Veteran’s Center for Career Re-Entry and University of North Florida as the Military & Veterans Resource Center Transition Coach. He then transitioned to Florida Department of Veterans Affair as a Veterans Claim Examiner (VCE). In 2021-22, Rich assisted more than 1,300 veterans. Because of his dedication to helping others, Rich was named Veterans’ Claim Examiner of the Year for the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA), a state agency representing Florida’s 1.5 million veterans. Rich is an active member of the Jacksonville Military Veteran Coalition, a private-public partnership with the City of Jacksonville, which creates jobs for veterans through collaboration with more than 400 companies.
Currently he is the Veteran Service Officer and Manager for Clay County, FL serving more than 28,000 Veterans in the County. As an entrepreneur, Rich has owned businesses such as MR Magic Fun Stuff, a magic retail venture, and Helping Veterans Succeed, a consulting firm focused on veteran advocacy. In this capacity, he worked with universities such as Syracuse University, Cornell University, and UConn, providing veterans with one-on-one support to overcome barriers to re-entry into the work force and entrepreneurship. Richard’s lifelong commitment to service and his dedication to improving the lives of veterans make him a valuable addition to the AI Ready Veteran Board of Advisors.
Family Support Advisor
Veteran, USN
Kathryn Peel is a dedicated former service member with a strong commitment to supporting veterans and their families. From 2014 to 2018, Kat served as an enlisted weapons maintenance technician in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Montana. Her military service honed her skills in precision, discipline, and teamwork, which she continues to apply in her current endeavors.
Born and raised in St. Augustine, Florida, Kat holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business. Her academic background, combined with her military experience, provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by veteran families.
Currently, Kat is devoted to raising her two young children at home. Her firsthand experience as both a veteran and a mother gives her valuable insights into the needs of military families transitioning to civilian life. As a board member of AI Ready Veteran, Kat leverages her background in business and her dedication to service to support the organization’s mission of empowering veterans through education and technology.
Technology Advisor
Veteran, Navy
Capt Bob Whitkop, USN (Ret) with 27 years of distinguished service, having served as both a Surface Warfare Officer and Information Professional. A proud graduate of Jacksonville University with an advanced degree in Systems Management from USC, Bob has transitioned seamlessly into various leadership roles post-military. He has served as a senior manager on several corporate staffs, held the position of SES-HQE, which stands for Senior Executive Service – Highly Qualified Expert, and successfully ventured into small business ownership and entrepreneurship. The SES-HQE designation is used in the U.S. federal government for senior-level positions that require exceptional expertise and experience in specific fields. Individuals appointed to these positions bring unique skills and knowledge critical for specialized duties within government agencies.
Bob’s dedication to the military community is unwavering. He currently serves as the President of the Mayport Navy League, a senior board member in the Naval Order of the United States, President of the Jacksonville Chapter of AFCEA, a board member and STEM coordinator for the Jacksonville Museum Ship USS Orleck, and a board member for the Beaches Veterans’ Memorial Park.
A communications expert specializing in spectrum, networks, and creative processes for cutting-edge technologies, Bob brings a wealth of developmental experience to AI Ready Veteran. His commitment and expertise are invaluable assets to our mission of empowering veterans and their families with essential AI skills for success in every aspect of civilian life.
Organizational Development
and Human Resources Advisor
As a member of the Board of Advisors for AI Ready Veteran, Kevin brings with him over 20 years of extensive experience in Human Resources, Communications, and Employer Branding and Marketing across multiple industries. As the Chief Human Resources Officer of Q2 Solutions, Kevin is responsible for aligning the company’s people strategy with its values and business objectives, ensuring the organization attracts, retains, and develops top talent.
Prior to his role at Q2 Solutions, Kevin held a variety of leadership positions at Deutsche Bank, where he most recently led the Human Resources function for 3,000 employees. His career also includes significant experience in the consumer products and manufacturing sectors, having worked with Colgate Palmolive and PepsiCo.
Kevin’s global experience is a key asset to AI Ready Veteran. Having lived and worked in London, Hong Kong, Singapore, and various cities across the US, he brings a strong international perspective to the board. His insights into managing and leading diverse teams will be invaluable in advising AI Ready Veteran on best practices for organizational development, strategic HR initiatives, and effective employer branding to attract veterans into AI careers.
Kevin earned a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences from the New York Institute of Technology and a Master of Arts in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Hofstra University. His educational background, combined with his professional experience, equips him with the knowledge and skills to provide strategic advice and guidance to AI Ready Veteran, helping to ensure the organization fulfills its mission to empower veterans and their families through comprehensive AI training and resources.
FInancial Advisor
Coming from a military family, Michael is a strong supporter of our veterans and their families and views his partnership with AI Ready Veterans as his way of giving back to those who have given so much for our freedoms. Michael volunteers his extensive knowledge and expertise as the Chief Financial Officer and Advisor of AI Ready Veteran. Ensuring we operate with the highest integrity and accountability concerning the financial management of the organization.
Michael specializes in corporate and individual income tax services. Michael helps businesses and individuals to navigate the world of taxation and also provides outsourced tax and business solutions. Michael’s areas of expertise include corporate tax planning and compliance, partnership tax planning, federal tax research, QuickBooks training and accounting system implementation.
As the former state tax director for the publically-traded company Insituform Technologies, Michael gained extensive training and expertise with multi-state tax planning and compliance. Michael has expanded his knowledge by instructing continuing education classes to other CPA’s in the areas of federal tax research and QuickBooks. For more than 16 years, Michael has vast experience in the tax and finance field as a CPA and tax professional.
Michael holds a Masters of Science in Taxation (MST) from Fontbonne University in Saint Louis, Missouri. He holds B.S. degrees in Accounting from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. He is certified as a CPA from the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA). Michael also B.A. in Religion and Philosophy from Flagler College (which has helped as much as his accounting degree).
Michael has volunteered his professional services for more than ten years to the Chamber having served as Chairman of the Board and Chairman for the Chamber’s Public Policy Committee. Michael was also a committee member of the Northeast Florida Bridge Loan Program SBDC Florida. Michael is a 2014-2015 Leadership St. Johns Graduate. He also serves as a board member with Environmental Compliance Technologies, Inc. and is a previous board member of St. Augustine Young Life and board member, finance chairman of Betty Griffin House. He previously served as an adjunct professor in Accounting at Flagler College.
Founder and CEO
Veteran, Navy
As the CEO of AI Ready Veteran, Stephen brings a passion for leveraging technology to improve lives and a wealth of experience in artificial intelligence, business consultancy, and marketing.
Stephen’s career spans over four decades in technology, beginning with 20 years of service in the U.S. Navy, where he served as Data Analyst. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing significant maintenance service contracts and conducting comprehensive manpower studies on aircraft repairs and inspections. After his military service, Stephen transitioned to the private sector, where he has held various leadership roles in different industries.
Stephen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing from Full Sail University, both earned with honors. His certifications include DAWIA Level II in Manufacturing, Production, and Quality Assurance, FAA Part 107 – Pilot, FAA Part 63 – Advanced Ground Instructor, and Professional Educator Certification. Stephen is also an adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he teaches Principles of Aeronautical Science and Unmanned Aircraft Systems and prepares students for FAA certifications in unmanned aircraft systems.
Throughout his career, Stephen has been recognized for his contributions and leadership. He was named the 2020 Small Business Leader of the Year by the Mandarin Council for the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and received the 2023 President’s Award from the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce and 2019 Leadership St Johns Graduate. Stephen is committed to empowering veterans through AI Ready Veteran as he continues to leverage his extensive knowledge and skills to support veterans and their families through their transition to civilian life, fostering successful career opportunities and personal growth through AI training.
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