Launceston Chamber and TasICT present NBN Connects with Microsoft

Anatoli Kovalev

presenting the Microsoft Copilot workshop

Anatoli is an innovative leader with over 15 years’ experience in the education and technology sectors, which he brings to his role as VP of the Akkodis Academy and the Global Head of Data and AI Learning.

With an extensive track record in managing educational programs in collaboration with major industry partners, Anatoli is known for successfully conceptualising and delivering world-class and award-winning educational initiatives (AFR, 2018) that achieve strategic organisational aims.

His current priority is bringing the Tech Academy’s global lifelong learning ecosystem to ANZ and ASEAN, which brings together current and aspiring tech talent from a wide range of leading organisations and educational institutions locally, all united by the common aim of continuous upskilling and growth.

Prior to assuming this role, Anatoli was instrumental in several significant educational initiatives including scaling the Cyber Security Engineering Capability Institute and supporting the UNSW Students as Partners program. Anatoli envisioned and organised Australia’s first Cybersecurity Education Summit that invited leading cybersecurity educators and practitioners from across Australia to discuss the issue of cyber skills shortages globally.

Anatoli is a PhD candidate researching the role of Artificial Intelligence in skills identification and team formation at University of Technology Sydney, and a lecturer in business transformation and innovation at the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology.

Tim Allen - National AI Skills Director for Microsoft Australia and New Zealand

Tim Allen is the National AI Skills Director for Microsoft Australia and New Zealand. In this role, Tim leads initiatives to advance AI education and workforce development across the region. With a deep passion for technology, innovation, and social impact, he has been instrumental in shaping AI strategies that empower businesses and individuals to thrive in the digital age.

Tim's work focuses on ensuring that economic growth and opportunities reach every person, organization, and community. He collaborates with government, educational institutions, the private sector, and civil society to develop and execute strategic partnerships that drive AI adoption and skill development. His efforts are part of Microsoft's broader mission to equip people with the skills and capabilities needed to succeed in an AI-enabled economy.

Marc Snape

Marc Snape is National Stakeholder Engagement Manager at nbn, collaborating with stakeholders in industry and city-shaping organisations on how digital infrastructure support Australia’s future cities and businesses. Marc has over 15 years of expertise across government and private sectors, working in corporate affairs, stakeholder relations, advocacy, and strategy consulting.