DETROIT Fifth Annual State of the Net outlook conference, rescheduled from earlier this year, has named the forums speakers who will explore the future direction of the Internet.

The industry panel includes for the June 15 event includes: Robert Cohn, partner, Sequoia Capital; Robert Filka, chief operating officer, Michigan Broadband Authority; John Frigo, director, Nielsen NetRatings; and, Jim George, vice president, Executone BroadBand.

At the event, which is themed “Technology in Transition: Gaining a Strategic Advantage,” Cohn will serve as keynote speaker, discussing current trends and future opportunities driving change and creating opportunity in the business environment. Filka, Frigo and George will participate in a panel discussion.

Filka, appointed by Governor John Engler to the Michigan Broadband Authority in 2002, will speak on the direction of high-speed communications and the leadership position Michigan has taken on the national stage. Prior to the Michigan Broadband Authority, Filka was a member of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s executive leadership team, where he served as vice president of strategic initiatives.

Frigo will discuss the current state of affairs, new trends driving success and report on the latest data and statistics of the Internet. Nielsen NetRatings provides Internet and digital media measurement and analysis, offering technology-driven Internet solutions for media, advertising, e-commerce and financial companies.

George will speak on the growth potential and business opportunity for Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which utilizes the Internet versus the telephone to provide voice service. In September 2001, George marketed and provisioned the first VoIP installation for the development of Ford Field.

The cost to attend is $25 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets will also be available at the door.

To register online, click on glimaSoutheast.org