Laura Merling with more than two decades of experience across aerospace (United Technologies Aerospace, now Raytheon), automotive (Ford), telecommunications (AT&T) and the software industry, leading teams to drive transformation and innovation, has always been passionate about making an impact. Most recently, Merling joined Arvest Bank to lead a multi-year transformation strategy, which includes adopting a next generation banking platform, enhancing digital payments and leveraging artificial intelligence to transform bank operations. Merling studied business administration at Oakland University and graduated from the Advanced Management Program at INSEAD in Fontainebleau, France. She serves as a board member and risk and audit committee member of B2B travel platform CarTrawler, an advisor to digital manufacturing platform Authentise and a mentor for women seeking leadership opportunities through Athena Alliance.