Research Triangle Park, N.C. June 11, 2026 - Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions is proud to announce that two of its leaders, Al Bennah, Executive Director of Services Innovation and Amy Gray, PR Program Manager, have been named winners of the 2026 NC TECH NEXT TECH Awards, a statewide program created by NC TECH and Business North Carolina to recognize North Carolina’s rising technology stars.
Bennah was recognized for his transformative leadership in modernizing Toshiba’s service delivery through an AI-powered strategy. Over the past two years, he built an integrated ecosystem of Agentic AI platforms that increase uptime, accelerate operational efficiency, and equip field technicians and support teams to consistently exceed customer expectations. He led every phase of the effort, ranging from technology research, business case development, cross-functional alignment, product delivery, and long-term adoption governance to ensure the work delivered measurable, sustained impact.
“True innovation only matters when it delivers real outcomes like greater uptime, operational efficiency, and better experiences for retailers and the customers they serve. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that the innovation behind it was created here in North Carolina and is now delivering impact worldwide, proving that regional innovation can help power retail at global scale,” said Bennah.
Bennah also drives meaningful community impact. He and his wife, Victoria Bennah, established the Albert and Victoria Bennah Scholarship Fund, which awards an annual scholarship to support students of Liberian descent as they transition into higher education. Bennah and his family also volunteer regularly with the Durham Rescue Mission, serving meals and supporting donation operations at the Women and Children’s facility.
Gray earned recognition for her influential leadership in shaping Toshiba’s global communications, public relations, and industry presence, elevating the company’s position as a premier leader in retail technology. She drives integrated media relations, thought leadership, and social strategy that strengthen Toshiba’s credibility, deepen engagement with retailers and analysts, and translate complex technology concepts into clear, compelling narratives that support business growth.
“As a communications professional, I’ve had the opportunity to help shape how innovation comes to life, while also stepping into areas far beyond marcomms to support broader technology and business impact. One of the things I value most about working in tech and at Toshiba is being empowered to try new things, think beyond traditional boundaries, and contribute in ways I never expected,” said Gray.
Beyond her corporate role, Gray co-founded Toshiba’s AccessAbility Network (AAN) employee resource group to advance inclusive design and accessible technology while building partnerships with local organizations and providing support and resources to employees. She encourages AAN members to participate in Toshiba’s Annual Invention Challenge, inspiring employees to contribute ideas for new accessible retail technology solutions. She earned a patent in 2025 and has another in development for 2026.
The NEXT TECH Awards celebrate 30 individuals who go the extra mile by building products, growing revenue, supporting operations, and managing projects that propel businesses forward. The honorees are selected for their exceptional business impact, positive attitude, and commitment to community engagement across North Carolina’s technology ecosystem.
About Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions:
Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions empowers retail to thrive and prosper through a dynamic ecosystem of smarter, more agile solutions and services that enable retailers to resiliently evolve with generations of consumers and adapt to market conditions. Supported by a global organization of devoted employees and partners, retailers gain more visibility and control over operations while enjoying the flexibility to build, scale, and transform retail experiences that anticipate and fulfill consumers’ ever-changing needs.
Visit commerce.toshiba.com and engage with us on:
LinkedIn - YouTube - Facebook - Instagram: @toshibacommerce
X/Twitter: @ToshibaCommerce
Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Toshiba Tec Corporation, which is traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions
Elizabeth Romero / Amy Gray
[email protected]
[email protected]
