Meet Our Team
Meghan O'Keefe, Executive Director
Meghan brings a business development and marketing background to Tampa Bay Tech with having worked in a variety of industries from non-profit to manufacturing and everything in between. Meghan has been living in Tampa Bay for over eleven years and has been passionate about being a community connector and bridging the region together.
Prior to joining Tampa Bay Tech, Meghan was with the St. Petersburg Economic Development Corporation leading the charge in bringing businesses and companies to the city of St. Pete to help advance the local economy and community. She received her Bachelors of Arts degree in Communications from John Carroll University where she also played soccer all four years.
When she isn’t working or playing pickleball, Meghan enjoys spending time with organizations like Where Love Grows, Truth North Society and Masterminds Tampa Bay, helping to make a difference and creating a better community for everyone.
Joe Plant, Director of Memberships
Joe brings a dynamic mix of sports medicine expertise and tech industry experience to Tampa Bay Tech. A proud Tampa native, Joe’s career began in the world of sports, working with professional athletes in post-rehabilitation and helping college football players prepare for the NFL draft.
Over the past five years, Joe transitioned into the tech sector, most recently leading a cybersecurity and compliance team, where he drove innovation and safeguarded businesses in an ever-changing digital landscape. His diverse background fuels a passion for bridging technology and community impact.
When he’s not advocating for the local tech community, you’ll find Joe at one of Tampa’s sports games or exploring the city’s thriving food scene. Whether enjoying a great meal or supporting from the stands, Joe is committed to uplifting the community and celebrating everything Tampa has to offer.
Jamie Hess, Communications & Operations Manager
Jamie is a dedicated professional with a diverse range of experiences and a passion for communication, event, and organizational management. Before joining Tampa Bay Tech, Jamie spent six years working in higher education, specifically at the University of South Florida, as an HR Coordinator for their Information Technology department.
Jamie holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy from the University of South Florida, earned in 2015. In 2020, driven by her love for learning, Jamie pursued further education and completed coursework towards a degree in Interior Design.
Outside of work, Jamie finds joy in singing and performing, as well as caring for her two cats, Peter and Pan. She also actively practices yoga, finding solace and balance through this ancient practice.