At the heart of NECEO is a group of dynamic, forward-thinking leaders who bring diverse experiences, industries, and insights to the table. Each member plays a critical role in shaping a trusted community built on shared challenges, honest dialogue, and strategic collaboration. Together, they embody the spirit of peer accountability, leadership growth, and continuous learning that defines NECEO. These are the individuals that make this group special and successful:
Shari Agatstein
CEO, President, and Co-Founder – Skelmir
Shari co-founded Skelmir, a software development company that delivers JVM solutions to embedded systems worldwide. With a passion for innovation and team building, she brings strategic foresight and collaborative spirit to NECEO discussions.
Gary Broberg
CEO & Principal Engineer – Practical Applications
Gary leads Practical Applications, specializing in custom software and hardware solutions for industrial and manufacturing environments. A thoughtful engineer and business leader, Gary values NECEO for its trusted space to exchange big ideas and troubleshoot in real time.
Ed Crisci
CEO – DDN Consulting Services, LLC
Ed brings a wealth of experience from finance and technology sectors to his role at DDN Consulting. He is passionate about helping businesses grow through data-driven decision-making and scalable solutions. Within NECEO, Ed is known for his strategic mind and candid insights.
Costa Sideridis
CEO – Ferro-Ceramic Grinding, Inc.
Costa runs Ferro-Ceramic Grinding, a company that produces precision ceramic components for high-tech industries. A second-generation leader with a forward-thinking mindset, Costa thrives on innovation, process improvement, and leadership development.
Mary Beth Claus Tobin
Founder – The Tobin Family of Schools
Mary Beth founded The Tobin Family of Schools, a group of early childhood education centers that emphasize creativity, community, and lifelong learning. A visionary educator and entrepreneur, she brings warmth and depth to the NECEO community.
Eric Turner
President – Lasell University
Eric leads Lasell University with a mission-driven approach centered on student success and institutional growth. With experience in higher education and business strategy, he brings a unique lens to NECEO conversations.
Richard Walton
CEO – Micrex Corporation
Richard heads Micrex, a company specializing in microcreping technology to add flexibility and absorbency to nonwoven materials. A quiet innovator with a deep understanding of niche manufacturing, Richard values NECEO as a place to exchange ideas with fellow leaders.
STEPHEN FRENKEL
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Stephen Frenkel is the Founder & Lead Consultant at Voyager Executive Consulting, LLC and serves as the Facilitator of NECEO. With extensive experience in executive coaching, leadership development, strategic planning, and meeting facilitation, Stephen plays a vital role in guiding discussions, fostering collaboration, and ensuring NECEO members gain actionable insights. His expertise helps leaders navigate challenges, refine their leadership approach, maintain accountability, and drive long-term business success.