About this Event
Session #1: Technology in Business Today and Tomorrow
9:40 am – 10:35 am
Explore how technology is reshaping the way businesses operate, compete, and connect with customers. This session will examine today’s key technology trends and what business owners should consider now to prepare for what’s next.
Presenter: John Wechsler, Founder of Launch Fishers and Fishers IoT Lab, and Founder, President & CEO of Spokenote, Fishers, IN. John is a leading voice in the use of technology in Indiana.
Session #2: Technology Tools – The Role of AI
10:45 am – 11:40 am
Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a practical business tool, not just a technology trend. Learn how businesses can use AI to save time, boost productivity, enhance customer experiences, support decision-making, and create new growth opportunities.
Presenters: David Colgan, Founder of Colgan Technology Services. David is an independent AI & Technology Specialist serving a broad range of industries. Ryan Hunter, Technology & Education Director of the Innovation Connector and an area leader in the practical application of all things technology and STEM.
Session #3: IT & Business Systems Security and Protection
11:50 am – 12:30 pm
Your technology is only as valuable as your ability to protect it. This session will explore practical steps businesses can take to safeguard their data, systems, customers, and operations against cybersecurity threats, technology failures, and other risks.
Presenter: Sara Turner, Chief Technology Officer, First Merchants Bank. Sara is an experienced leader in security and fraud protection.
Session #4: Peer Perspective Panel Discussion
1:00 pm – 1:55 pm
Hear directly from fellow business owners and leaders about the technologies they use, the lessons they have learned, and the challenges they have faced along the way. This candid conversation will offer practical insights into what has worked, what hasn’t, and what they wish they had known before making technology investments.
Peer Panelists:
- Dr. Huseyin Ergin, Computer Science Professor, Ball State University
- Remal Salim - Independent AI Specialist
- Brian Bunner, Retired Indiana State Police, Forensics Investigation Division
Session #5: Building Your Business Technology Stack: What Should I Buy & What Should I Skip?
2:00 pm – 2:55 pm
With thousands of technology products competing for your attention and budget, how do you determine what your business truly needs? This session will help you think strategically about building a technology stack that fits your business, integrates well, supports growth, and avoids unnecessary costs and complexity.
Presenter: John McDonald, President & CEO, Northeast Indiana Innovation Community, Fort Wayne, IN. John is another leading voice in Indiana’s technology ecosystem.
For further questions, email Natalie Smith at [email protected].
Event venue & nearby stays
Innovation Connector, 1208 West White River Boulevard, Muncie, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.