Tom Westfall

Building AI that empowers probation officers | CEO, Cognisen

Modesto, California, United States

About

With over 26 years in community supervision software, Tom has spent his career doing more than building products. He has been part of shaping how agencies think about and adopt technology, from the ground up. He has played a central role in designing and developing multiple solutions that became standards in the field, giving him a firsthand understanding of what works, what doesn't, and why. That experience informs how he approaches every problem and every conversation. Tom has a unique ability to see both the technical and human side of any challenge. He asks the questions that others miss, connects the dots between operational needs and long term strategy, and helps leadership teams think through decisions they didn't know they needed to make. That perspective is a big part of what makes Cognisen different. Rather than offering a generic AI solution, Cognisen was built by people who have lived this industry, and Tom's depth of experience is central to that foundation. The result is a platform that reflects how community supervision actually works, and what agencies actually need to move forward.

Experience

  • President & CEO at Cognisen Inc
    Jan 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

  • Tyler Technologies (5 yrs 5 mos)
    • Vice President of Software Engineering
      Jan 2022 - Jan 2024 · 2 yrs 1 mo

    • General Manager
      Sep 2018 - Dec 2022 · 4 yrs 4 mos

  • CEO at Synesis Inc
    2009 - Aug 2018 · 9 yrs 8 mos

  • President at CaseloadPRO
    2009 - Aug 2018 · 9 yrs 8 mos

  • Director of Special Projects at Agape Children's Ministry
    2006 - 2009 · 3 yrs