Retail technology is changing quickly, and success in the channel increasingly depends on staying informed, adaptable, and future-focused. The RSPA asked select members of the RSPA NextGen 50 Under 40 Rising Stars to share their insights on the resources they rely on, the emerging technologies shaping our industry, and advice for new professionals entering the retail IT channel today. Sharing their perspectives are:
- Sami Alakkam, NewBold Technologies
- Dylan Yankovich, Vigilix
- Victoria Caiado, Automatic Equipment Service
- Jon Etxerberri, Edge Merchant Processing
- Sarah Schlueter, BlueStar
Which industry resources — newsletters, podcasts, influencers, or forums — do you rely on to stay updated on retail tech trends?
Caiado: To stay up to date, I use RSPA articles, the Digital Transactions newsletter, manufacturer newsletters and dealer meetings, the Future Hospitality Podcast, The Bar Business Podcast, and the Hospitality Leadership Podcast.
Yankovich: I try to keep a balanced mix of resources so I’m not just seeing one side of the industry. Retail Dive, Payments Dive, and Forrester help me understand what’s happening operationally, technologically, and strategically. I also rely on NRF’s Retail Gets Real podcast and real-world conversations within the RSPA community.
Etxeberri: I rely on a mix of trusted industry resources that consistently provide timely insights, real-world perspective, and actionable updates, including GoRSPA.org, Digital Transactions News, XaaS Journal, TSG Payments, and Reforming Retail, among others.
Alakkam: I traditionally have used newsletters, but I have found that recently podcasts are a new medium that I have really enjoyed.
Schlueter: I rely on a mix of resources. I consume content from organizations like CRN, BlueStar Nation, and RSPA that help connect technology trends directly to partner and reseller realities.
Which emerging technologies do you believe will most impact the future of retail IT roles?
Alakkam: I believe that automation has been making the most impact.
Caiado: AI is one I believe will most impact the future of retail IT roles. AI can directly impact automation and many other avenues in retail IT.
Yankovich: AI is already reshaping the retail IT landscape, moving teams from reactive problem-solving to more proactive, strategic roles. Automation and evolving payment technologies are streamlining workflows and impacting everything from fraud prevention to system integration. At the same time, unified commerce is raising expectations for connected, seamless systems across all channels.
Schlueter: I believe automation will continue to be the most impactful to the future of retail IT roles; reducing manual tasks around device management and workflows, while increasing expectations for uptime and performance. At the same time, as retailers deploy more connected devices and cloud-based platforms, cybersecurity becomes a core IT responsibility, not an afterthought.
What advice would you give new professionals entering retail IT today about continuous learning and career growth?
Etxeberri: Work smart and hard!
Schlueter: My biggest pieces of advice is to learn the business of retail, not just the technology, stay curious about tech and trends, and never stop building relationships throughout the channel. The most successful retail IT professionals understand how store operations, customer experience, and professional networking intersect with retail IT decisions.
Caiado: Absorb everything! Take it all in. Podcasts will be your best friend, even if it means getting through an episode in 20 mins increments because that is how long your commute is. Use all the time you can manage to learn and research.
Alakkam: I would tell them to be patient. There is so much to this industry that you truly never stop learning and that can be frustrating for some. Sometimes instead of wanting to get to the finish line right away, you need to enjoy the ride.
Yankovich: Stay curious and be willing to explore new tools before you’re required to, because being proactive sets you apart in a fast-moving industry. Strong communication skills are just as important as technical ability. And don’t underestimate the value of community and mentorship in accelerating your growth.
RSPA and its members continue to collaborate and find ways to recruit and build the next generation of leaders. A prime example is best practice sharing that takes place in the RSPA Community meetings. The RSPA NextGen Leadership Community meets several times each year to provide a support network and resources for future generations and their companies to advance in the retail technology industry. If you would like to get involved in the NextGen Leadership Community, please email RSPA VP of Education Kathy Meader at KMeader@GoRSPA.org.
About RSPA NextGen Rising Stars
RSPA NextGen Rising Stars acknowledges the contributions of young professionals who exemplify the industry’s next generation of channel leaders. Each Rising Star possesses expertise, innovation, and leadership skills that has propelled them to the forefront of the industry, inspiring their peers and colleagues. The RSPA is proud to recognize and showcase these Rising Stars online year-round and in person at our RetailNOW trade show and conference. Meet the 2025-26 RSPA NextGen 50 Under 40 Rising Stars on this webpage.
About RSPA NextGen Leadership Community
The RSPA NextGen Leadership Community works to identify and develop opportunities for future leaders and the rapidly changing technology landscape. Joining this community allows you to meet others who share passion for retail technology and provides a forum to share ideas on how the industry, and the RSPA, should move into the future. The NextGen Leadership Community hosts virtual discussions throughout the year and meets in person at RSPA’s signature conference RetailNOW. Learn more about the RSPA NextGen Leadership Community on this webpage.
