On Thursday morning, the St. Louis technology community gathered at The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza to celebrate leaders who are making a real difference in their organizations and in our region. The 2025 St. Louis ORBIE Awards highlighted the people who guide teams, steady cultures, and move innovation forward with clarity and purpose.
As a corporate underwriter, Technology Partners was proud to support this year’s ceremony. Events like this are proof that the St. Louis technology community continues to grow stronger year after year. It is filled with talented, generous leaders who want to build something meaningful together.
Thursday’s finalists represented a wide range of organizations, yet they shared a common thread. They are committed to building teams that thrive, not only through technology, but through clear vision and steady leadership. We are grateful for their example and the impact they make every day.
Congratulations to the 2025 St. Louis ORBIE Award winners:
Global: Ed McLaughlin, Mastercard
Large Enterprise: Rob Childs, Ameren
Enterprise: Michelle Kaufman, Distribution Management, Inc.
Large Corporate: Kiran Achen, Delta Dental of Missouri
Corporate: Pallavi Chandak, Axia Women’s Health
Nonprofit & Public Sector: Jennifer Walton, Saint Louis Zoo
Each honoree brought their own story, leadership style, and strengths to the stage. It was inspiring to hear how they navigate change, develop their teams, and create environments where people can grow.
We also want to celebrate the 2025 ORBIE Leadership Award Recipient, Christy Barker, VP and CIO at Olin. Christy’s keynote conversation with Jim Cavellier, EVP and CIO at Cass Information Systems, was a highlight of the morning. Her reflections on leadership, resilience, and staying true to your values resonated with everyone in the room.
A special thank you to St. Louis Business Journal, the official media partner of this year’s event. Their continued support helps elevate the work happening across our technology community and shines a light on the leaders who are moving St. Louis forward.
At Technology Partners, we believe strong leadership is the foundation of strong organizations. The ORBIE Awards gave us another opportunity to celebrate the individuals who embody that truth every day. We are proud to be part of this community and grateful for the relationships that continue to shape the future of our region.
Congratulations again to all finalists, winners, and to everyone who contributes to the vibrant St. Louis technology landscape. We look forward to the year ahead and to supporting leaders who bring both excellence and heart to their work.