Over the last 3 weeks I had the privilege of attending two distinct but equally impactful events: the Gartner Symposium/XPO, TechCrunch Disrupt, and joining the Evanta Chicago community.
At the Gartner Symposium/XPO, the emphasis was on strategic, high-level discussions surrounding digital transformation, AI’s expanding role, and how enterprises can accelerate innovation. One of the most striking insights was the emerging consensus on AI not just as a tool but as a core component of business strategy. Sessions on predictive analytics and ethical AI underscored the importance of guiding AI responsibly to harness its full potential. The symposium offered actionable frameworks for digital acceleration that I’m excited to adapt for our work at the Center of Innovation, especially as we further integrate AI-driven analytics and cloud solutions into our initiatives.
TechCrunch Disrupt brought a refreshingly raw, disruptive energy to the tech conversation. The event showcased startups breaking new ground across sectors—from sustainable tech to, well, obviously, AI and digital twin technology. It was inspiring to witness the boldness with which these startups are challenging norms, and I came away with new ideas to spark further innovation in how I continue to develop strategies around emerging technologies. The enthusiasm and forward-thinking spirit of TechCrunch served as a reminder of the power of agility and creativity in driving change and helped me build a better pitch mentality and tone for the projects I am working on.
Finally, joining Evanta Chicago was an invaluable experience that marked a new level of peer engagement and collaboration. Connecting with fellow executives will reinforce the importance of shared learning in tackling complex technological challenges. Evanta’s focus on building a robust network of leaders is vital in today’s fast-paced tech landscape, and I’m eager to explore data-driven decision-making and digital transformation strategies with the group.
These events have expanded my perspective from disruptive startup energy to strategic enterprise focus. As I bring these learnings back to my role, I’m looking forward to exploring new ways to foster innovation, drive transformation, and lead with a vision that aligns both emerging technologies and executive collaboration. This journey through diverse perspectives reaffirms the incredible potential of technology to shape our future.