Veteran data architect brings decades of experience in enterprise platforms, analytics, and responsible AI to support SDI's expanding Data & AI practice

CHICAGO, Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SDI Presence, a leading IT consultancy and managed services provider, announces the appointment of Garrick Schermer as AI Data Strategy & Governance Lead. With more than 25 years of experience in enterprise data architecture, analytics platform development, and AI enablement, Schermer will spearhead the strategic growth of SDI's Data & AI practice, guiding clients through the complexities of data governance, cloud modernization, and artificial intelligence readiness.

In this role, Schermer will oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of complex Data & AI engagements. He will partner with organizations to align their data initiatives with organizational outcomes, foster AI maturity, and ensure scalable, secure, and responsible use of modern technologies. His work will span across industries including public safety, aviation and transportation, and utilities—driving business value through practical, innovative data strategies.

"Garrick's appointment strengthens our position as a trusted partner to organizations navigating the accelerating pace of AI and data transformation," said Rusty Putzler, SDI CTO and COO. "His depth of experience across data governance and advanced analytics will be instrumental as we help our clients future-proof their operations and extract real value from their data."

Schermer joins SDI with a distinguished background that includes leadership roles at RSM US, Virtuous Software, and American Express. He is certified in Snowflake (SnowPro Core) and has delivered enterprise data solutions using Microsoft Azure, Databricks, Power BI, and Python. He holds degrees from Northwestern University and The University of Chicago.

"Data is only powerful when it's governed responsibly and aligned with purpose," said Garrick Schermer, AI Data Strategy & Governance Lead at SDI. "I'm excited to join a mission-driven team like SDI that understands both the technical complexity and human impact. Together, we'll help clients reduce risk and build lasting value."

Inside SDI's Data & AI Practice: Practical Innovation, Delivered Responsibly

SDI Presence's Data & AI practice empowers clients to become data-driven enterprises—unlocking insights, increasing operational efficiency, and enabling scalable automation. Our capabilities span:

• AI Strategy & Enablement – Roadmapping AI use cases, delivering machine learning and generative AI solutions, and integrating AI into workflows with responsibility and governance in mind.
• Enterprise Data Strategy – Designing data platforms, aligning data architectures with business goals, and building secure, cloud-native data ecosystems.
• Data Governance & Compliance – Implementing frameworks that ensure data quality, accessibility, security, and compliance across regulatory environments.
• Analytics Modernization – Driving actionable insights through advanced business intelligence, real-time dashboards, and predictive analytics.
• Cloud Platform Expertise – Deep experience across Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Snowflake to help clients scale securely and efficiently.

SDI distinguishes itself by pairing deep technical expertise with industry context—delivering solutions that not only function effectively but are tailored to client needs. From enabling smarter policing through CJIS-compliant analytics to advancing clean energy with AI-based grid forecasting, SDI's team brings a presence that propels projects forward and positions clients for long-term success.

About SDI Presence

SDI Presence LLC is a leading IT services firm that leverages its strong team presence to advance clients toward a secure digital enterprise. With a 30-year corporate resume, SDI delivers multi and hybrid cloud infrastructure managed services, consulting and advisory solutions, work and asset management solutions, and application modernization and managed services. SDI serves major airports, utilities and other regulated industry firms, commercial real estate portfolios, and government agencies across the U.S. Connect with SDI on LinkedIn and X.

Media Contact:

Christina Belmont
Vice President of Marketing
SDI Presence LLC
cbelmont@sdipresence.com

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SOURCE SDI Presence LLC (SDI)