Team

John Galanteis president of AE Ventures. Prior to founding AE Ventures in July 2008, Galante headed EH Publishing’s events division and contributed to the development of its publications, online media and new business ventures. At the conclusion of his tenure there, EH annually produced seven trade events, several awards programs and other special seminars, among them, the Electronic House Expos and the Worship Facilities Conference & Expo, both named to Trade Show Week‘s prestigious Fastest 50 Growing Shows list. Galante started his career at EH Publishing as editor-in-chief of its Custom Electronics Professional (CE Pro) magazine and in 2001 led the launch of TecHome Builder magazine as publisher/editor.

Before joining EH, Galante was with the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), where he handled membership and program development for the Integrated Home Systems, Video and Accessories Divisions of the association. Galante has also served the Security Industry Association as executive director; Reed Exhibition Companies in variety of event management, marketing and business development positions; and Spiegel, Inc. as a creative services staff member and manager.

Galante spearheaded the founding of the Home Lighting Control Alliance, the Distributed Audio Alliance and the Consortium for Electronic Systems Technician Training. He is a past director of the International Association for Exhibitions and Events’ (IAEE) and past chair of its strategic development task force. In addition he has served as member of Convention Data Services’ Client Advisory Board and the Orange County Convention Center’s Client Advisory Board and as a director of the CEA’s TechHome Division. In 2001, the Home Automation & Networking Association (now CEA TechHome) named Galante its industry leader of the year.

He has presented at a number of prestigious industry conferences including IAEE’s Expo!Expo!, TS2, the International Builders’ Show, the Electronic House Expo, the Electronic Security Expo, the ESA Leadership Summit and the California Alarm Association’s Winter Convention. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Rhetoric and Speech Communications from the University of Illinois-Urbana.

AE Ventures’ Vice President of Operations is Nancy Franco. Before joining AE Ventures, Nancy was with EH from 2001-2008, rising from coordinator to conference and special events manager and finally show director for both the award-winning Electronic House Expo and Electronic Security Expo. Before EH, Franco worked as exhibit manager for high tech Massachusetts-based firm and in exhibit services for large independent organizer, IDG. In 2009, she earned the designation of Certified Exhibition Manager from the International Association for Exhibitions and Events.

Jason Unger is Director of Digital & Editorial Services for AE Ventures, focusing on development of online media and editorial properties. His responsibilities include maintaining and growing e-media properties and managing communications, editorial programs and technology solutions. Jason, who graduated cum laude from Boston University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, was previously the Website Publisher, CE Brands for EH Publishing, where he managed cepro.com and electronichouse.com.


Jillian Bateman is Marketing Manager for AE Ventures. Jillian is a graduate of both Carnegie Mellon University and Ithaca College. She holds a master’s degree in professional writing with a concentration in public relations, advertising and design. Prior to joining the AE Team Jillian coordinated accounts for KrÖme Communications, one of Pittsburgh’s top 10 billing agencies. At KrÖme, Jillian worked with global and local clients, planning and executing strategic messaging for varying industries.


Jessica DaCosta is Account Executive, Security for AE Ventures, focusing on sales for the Electronic Security Expo (ESX) and the ESI Forum events. Jessica started her career at AE Ventures as an Operations Coordinator in 2008 focusing on event operations as well as exhibitor and attendee relations. She is a 2008 graduate of Bentley University, and holds her A.S. Degree in Business Administration and B.S. Degree in Marketing. Prior to joining AE Ventures, Jessica worked as an intern in the Marketing & Communications department at a leading financial and advisory firm, TowerGroup.

Hayley Zimmer is Account Executive at AE Ventures. Hayley Zimmer is Account Executive at AE Ventures. Her career started at AE Ventures in 2010, filling operational roles as Audience and Program Development Coordinator and Guest Recruitment Specialist. In her current capacity she is focusing on sales for the Electronic Security Expo (ESX). Hayley attended Champlain College in Burlington, VT and also the University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth where she earned her BS Degree in Marketing. Before joining AE Ventures, Hayley has served in sales and marketing roles for Procter & Gamble and TEAM Enterprise.

Amelia Walsh Kern is Operational Event Coordinator at AE Ventures. Amelia started her career with AE Ventures in 2012, focusing on overall event development and production in regards to operations, registration, and exhibitor services. Amelia is a 2011 graduate of Bridgewater State University, and holds her B.S. Degree in Corporate Communications with a concentration in public relations and marketing. Prior to joining AE Ventures, Amelia worked in operational and marketing roles for Patriot Place and Victoria’s Secret.


Katie Westerduin is Guest Recruitment and Marketing Specialist for AE Ventures. Katie joined the AE Ventures team in 2012 after graduating from Stonehill College in Easton, MA, where she earned her B.S. degree in Mediated Communication with a minor in Psychology. Prior to joining AE Ventures, Katie worked in public relations and marketing roles at Ame & Lulu Accessories, RF|Binder Partners, and Dorel Juvenile Group.


Allison Avril is Account Executive for AE Ventures. Allison is a 2011 graduate of Bridgewater State University where she graduated with a B.S. Degree in Business Management and a concentration in Marketing. Allison worked for Bank of America as a Sales Rep. for three years and prior to joining AE Ventures worked for Robert Half International doing recruiting and sales.