This talk explores how modern organizations move beyond data management toward building decision-centric products, and why this shift is becoming a defining trait of digital performance.

Using contrasting case studies, Sam Jenkins examines how the same data principles apply across very different contexts. Across all examples, the session highlights traits shared by high-performing digital organizations. This session challenges data leaders to rethink their role — not as stewards of information, but as builders of the systems that turn data into action.

Bio:

Sam Jenkins is a serial entrepreneur with a strong focus on building community through cultural, economic development, and community services organizations.

In 2016, Sam co-founded Punchcard Systems with the vision of transforming how people work using technology. As Managing Partner, Sam helps guide a growing team across Canada—focused on the core purpose of creating positive, transformative impact—with the ultimate goal of building and supporting 100 technology ventures. Sam also serves as CEO of one of those ventures, Standard Field Systems, which helps law enforcement agencies utilize technology to streamline roadside sobriety testing and ensure accurate digital data collection while conducting field sobriety tests to detect impaired drivers.

Prior to launching Punchcard and Standard Field Systems, Sam co-founded Wellnext—an analytics platform for workplace health, wellness, and insurance data—and Startup Edmonton—a social enterprise created to stimulate entrepreneurship in the City of Edmonton.

In the community, Sam provides his expertise in leadership, governance, and advisory to several passionate causes and organizations in Edmonton including as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Winspear Centre for Music and as the Past Chair of the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival.

Sam is a graduate of the University of Alberta School of Business, and holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

Do join us in person for beverages, finger food and great conversations around AI, Data Governance and Data Management. Meet prospective employers, create new business and tech contacts and help us build the ecosystem for business success in Alberta.