Two GDS Leaders Named to CRN's 2025 Next-Gen Solution Provider List
Lafayette, LA – October 27, 2025 - We’re proud to share that Joshua Harry and Evan Thibodeaux of Global Data Systems (GDS) have been named to the prestigious 2025 CRN Next-Gen Solution Provider Leaders list, which recognizes rising stars in the IT industry who are already making a major impact.
The annual list, published by CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, celebrates executives, managers, and directors under the age of 40 who are shaping the future of the channel through innovation, leadership, and results.
Recognizing Young Leaders Making a Big Impact

Joshua and Evan have both played pivotal roles in helping GDS deliver forward-thinking IT and cybersecurity solutions to clients across Louisiana and the Gulf South. Whether it's developing secure cloud infrastructure, leading managed services strategies, or designing custom network architectures, their work continues to drive measurable outcomes for businesses in healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and more.
“We’re incredibly proud to see Joshua and Evan recognized on the 2025 CRN Next-Gen Leaders list,” said Doug Pickle, President of Global Data Systems. “They represent the future of our industry. They are thoughtful, driven, and fully committed to helping our clients succeed. Their leadership has already left its mark at GDS, and we can’t wait to see what they do next.”
What Makes the CRN Next-Gen List So Meaningful?
Now in its sixth year, the CRN Next-Gen Solution Provider Leaders list is one of the IT channel’s most exciting recognitions. These professionals aren’t just performing well in their roles. They are setting new standards for how MSPs operate in today’s fast-changing environment.
According to CRN’s editorial team, honorees are selected based on their contributions to business growth, innovation in service delivery, and leadership potential in the channel. That’s why this year’s recognition for Joshua and Evan is more than a win for them. It is a win for our entire GDS team and the clients we serve.
Driving IT Innovation in the Gulf South
At GDS, we have always believed in growing leadership from within. Recognition like this confirms that when you invest in great people, great things follow.
We are proud to have leaders like Joshua and Evan guiding the next chapter of our mission. Our goal is to make IT simple, secure, and strategically aligned to help our clients grow. Their recognition is a reflection of the values we live by every day: integrity, innovation, and putting the client first.
Learn More
The full list of honorees is now live on CRN.com/nextgen.
Want to learn how the GDS team can support your business with managed services, cybersecurity, or cloud solutions?
Call us at 337.291.6663 or visit getgds.com
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About Global Data Systems
Global Data Systems, Inc. (GDS) is a leading full-service Managed Security and Service Provider delivering Managed Security Services, Connectivity, Managed IT, Voice & Collaboration, and Cloud solutions. With over 35 years of experience, GDS helps clients reduce complexity and risk through strategic, secure, and scalable IT services. Headquartered in Lafayette, LA, with additional offices in Baton Rouge and Lake Charles, GDS is committed to making IT simple and secure so clients can focus on their business.
Follow us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/getgds