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• Women 4 Technology & Women in AI: Rise without Burnout

  • When
    08/26/2025
  •  
    11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    DTC-1520 S. Main St, Suite 214 Dayton, OH 45409
  • Spaces left
    8
  • Registered
    31 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Rise without Burnout: Using AI to Achieve Work/Life Balance

  Facilitated by: Ashima Sharma, Founding Partner, Ayuka Consulting

  Co-hosted by: Digital Transformation Center and Ayuka Consulting

   

  In collaboration with:

  

  
  

  Discover how artificial intelligence can be a powerful ally in achieving sustainable productivity and well-being. In this engaging session, Ashima Sharma, founder and CEO of Ayuka Consulting, will share insights on how to integrate AI tools and strategies into your daily routine to reduce stress, enhance focus, and maintain a healthy work/life balance.

  Whether you're a busy professional, team leader, or tech enthusiast, this event will offer actionable takeaways on leveraging technology mindfully to prevent burnout while still reaching your goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices at the intersection of innovation and personal well-being.

  Key Takeaways:

  • Use AI to streamline daily tasks
  • Spot and reduce burnout early
  • Set healthy tech boundaries
  • Discover wellness-focused AI tools
  • Balance work and life with smart tech habits

  About the Speaker:

  Ashima Sharma – AI & Change Management Leader | Keynote Speaker | IT Strategy Consultant Ashima Sharma is a charismatic speaker, an effective workshop and training facilitator, and a seasoned leader with a proven track record in driving technology adoption, digital transformation, and organizational change. She excels at leading complex technical initiatives, developing high-performing teams, and fostering a culture of innovation and strategic execution. With over 20 years of experience in IT leadership, including Senior Director and VP-level roles at Fortune 500 organizations, Ashima has developed expertise in Program Leadership, Project Management, AI Strategy, Application Development, Digital Transformation, Agile Development, Organizational Change Management (OCM), and Business Analysis. After two decades in the corporate IT world, Ashima founded Ayuka Consulting LLC (ayukaconsulting.com), where she helps organizations navigate technical transformations with a human centered approach. Her focus is on ensuring long-term sustainability and adoption of AI, automation, data modernization, cloud migrations, ERP implementations, and product/application development. Ashima is passionate about helping individuals and organizations embrace change to foster a cultural shift that drives success. 
  

  
  

  Agenda:

  11:30 - 12:00pm check-in, lunch & networking

  12:00 - 1:00pm meeting

  
  

  Sponsorships available!

  
  

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• Cybersecurity: Social Engineering Workshop

  • When
    08/27/2025
  •  
    8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Business Solutions Center, 1435 Cincinnati St, Ste 300, Dayton 45417
  • Registered
    39 registrants

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Social Engineering Workshop

  This interactive presentation dives into the world of social engineering, where hackers focus on the most vulnerable aspect of cybersecurity—people. We’ll look at how attackers gather information from everyday sources like job postings, Google Maps, and social media, and how they use that data to launch targeted attacks. Real-world examples will show how these customized payloads are created for maximum impact. The session will also cover practical ways to recognize and defend against these manipulative tactics.

  Facilitated by:
  

  Josh Boxer
  Afidence

  Powered by: 

  
  

  Agenda:

  8:15 - 8:30am check-in, breakfast & networking

  8:30 - 10:00am meeting

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• IT Leaders: Strategic Collaboration: How Leadership Works Together Towards a Successful Technology Department

  • When
    09/09/2025
  •  
    11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Life Connection, 2800 Donation Circle, Kettering
  • Registered
    30 registrants

  Register

  

  Closed Session for Director level to C Suite

  Strategic Collaboration: How Leadership Works Together Towards a Successful Technology Department

  Moderated by:

  Treg Gilstorf and Parag Pujari

  
  

  Panelists:

  Marcus Thompson, CEO, Expedient Technology Solutions

  Blake Michaels, CFO, Jurgenson Companies

  Shawn Prince, CIO, RTA

  
  

  The IT Leaders Peer Group has brought together senior technology professionals and executive leadership for a powerful panel discussion on the dynamics of cross-functional collaboration at the highest levels of the organization. Featuring C-suite panelists from across industries, the conversation is centered on how executive alignment and strategic partnerships contribute to the success of modern technology departments.

  
  

  BRING YOUR LEADERSHIP TEAM!!

  
  

  Powered by Title Sponsor: 

  

  
  

  Supporting Sponsor: 

  
  

  Agenda:

  11:15 - 11:30am check-in, lunch & networking

  11:30 - 1:00pm meeting

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Workforce Development: Best Practices and Lessons Learned from Business, Interns and Apprentices

  • When
    09/11/2025
  •  
    8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Montgomery Co Business Solutions, 1435 Cincinnati St, Suite 300, Dayton 45417
  • Registered
    18 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Best Practices and Lessons Learned from Business, Interns and Apprentices

  Gain valuable insights from companies and students about the successes and challenges of apprenticeship and internship programs. This session will explore best practices for structuring programs, fostering meaningful learning experiences, and ensuring mutual value for both organizations and participants. Learn how companies can build pipelines of future talent while students gain real-world skills and professional connections. Discover strategies to overcome common pitfalls and maximize the impact of these programs on workforce development.

  Moderator: 

  Nancy Percy, Sinclair College

  Panelists: 

  Linda White, Montgomery County Business Solutions

  Cassie Barlow, SOCHE
  

  Powered by: 

  
  

  
  

  Agenda:

  8:15-8:30 am - registration, network, coffee/snacks

  8:30-10:00 am - meeting

  

  
  

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• Technology First Digital Mixer

  • When
    09/16/2025
  •  
    4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Dayton, 45324 Apollo Room, Student Union
  • Registered
    41 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Employers & Students! Join us where over 200+ students, faculty, and IT professionals network

  and connect.  
  

  The Digital Mixer is an annual event that brings together hundreds of students and IT professionals to network and connect with regional employers. Join us for casual yet meaningful conversations that could land you the job or the talent you’ve been looking for!
  

  Students - Bring your resumes and learn more about the internships and career possibilities in the region.

  Employers - Bring your company information to share internship, part-time, and full-time opportunities they have available. 

  Dress Code: Business Casual

  NOTE: This event is exclusively open to students, faculty, and hiring employers only. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in ensuring that this opportunity remains focused on the intended audience.

    
  

  Please contact info@technologyfirst.org with any questions!

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• Workshop: Smarter Service: How AI Is Shaping the Future of Customer Experience

  • When
    09/23/2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Employment Opportunity Center- 4303 W Third St, Dayton, OH
  • Registered
    1 registrant

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Smarter Service: How AI Is Shaping the Future of Customer Experience

  Facilitated by: 

  Bill Magnuson, Founder/CEO, NexusBlue

  In 2025, artificial intelligence is no longer hype—it’s the engine powering the next evolution of customer experience (CX). From conversational ordering and robotic fulfillment to predictive service flows and AI-curated loyalty ecosystems, AI is creating immersive, intelligent CX environments that scale personalization and operational efficiency.

  This session offers a forward-looking guide for business leaders, operators, and innovators navigating the shift to AI-driven experiences. While rooted in real-world success stories from brands like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and Burger King, the insights apply across fast food, retail, hospitality, and other service-driven industries. Whether you're optimizing in-store service, virtual ordering, or digital touchpoints, this session will help you see where AI is going—and how to get there first.

  Key Takeaways

  • Understand how AI is reshaping the customer journey across digital and physical channels
  • Learn real-world applications of AI in service operations and customer engagement
  • See how leading brands are using AI to cut costs and boost customer loyalty
  • Explore strategies for integrating AI into your CX roadmap
  • Identify key trends shaping the future of AI-powered customer experiences

                                            

  Bill Magnuson is the CEO and Co-Founder of Braze, a leading customer engagement  platform that powers real-time, personalized experiences across digital channels. Since co-founding the company in 2011, Bill has played a central role in its growth from startup to global enterprise, previously serving as CTO. An MIT-trained engineer, he brings a deep background in computer science, data systems, and user-centric product design. Before Braze, he held roles at Google and Bridgewater Associates. Bill is a recognized thought leader on the intersection of AI, marketing, and customer experience.

  
  

  Agenda:

  8:15 - 8:30am check-in, lunch & networking

  8:30 - 10:00am workshop

  
  

  Sponsorships available!

  
  

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• Unleash Your Inner Magic: A Workshop on Mindfulness, Meditation, and Manifestation Techniques

  • When
    09/23/2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 1:15 PM
  • Location
    LexisNexis Dayton Campus, Auditoriums

  Register

  

  Unleash Your Inner Magic: A Workshop on Mindfulness, Meditation, and Manifestation Techniques

  Ready to reconnect with your inner power? Join us for a hands-on workshop led by Alicia Donovan Brainerd and Katrina Kittle.

  Through intention setting, visioning, and the combination of both put to action, you’ll gain tools to overcome obstacles and unlock your potential.

  Tuesday, September 23^rd

  9:00 AM – 1:15 PM

  LexisNexis Dayton Campus, Auditoriums

  Light refreshments and snacks provided – notify us of any dietary restrictions

  This “Unleash Your Inner Magic” workshop experience blends mindfulness, meditation, and manifestation techniques to empower participants to deepen self-connection, clarify goals, overcome obstacles, and cultivate positivity. This workshop is not just about theory; it's about experiential learning. Through interactive exercises, guided visualizations, and group sharing, participants will embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.  

  Workshop Schedule:

  9:00 – 10:30 AM | Session 1

  10:30 – 10:45 AM | Break

  10:45 – 11:45 AM | Session 2

  11:45 – 12:15 PM | Break (refreshments/snacks)

  12:15 – 1:15 PM | Session 3

  

  A RELX Women Connected sponsored Event

  

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• Women 4 Tech: Meaningful Mentoring- Mentor for a Moment

  • When
    09/24/2025
  •  
    8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Business Solutions Center, 1435 Cincinnati St, Ste 300, Dayton, 45417
  • Registered
    15 registrants

  Register

  
  

  

  Meaningful Mentoring- Mentor for a Moment

  Connect in a casual, peer-led setting where mentors lead table discussions on career growth, leadership, and navigating the tech industry. Rotate between topics, ask questions, and walk away with fresh insights and more confidence.

  Moderated by: Melissa Cutcher, Technology First

  
  

  
  

  Title Sponsor:
  

  Contributing Sponsor:

  

  

  
  

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• IT Leaders: Plan Smart, Budget Better, and Lead the Way into 2026

  • When
    10/14/2025
  •  
    11:15 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    ATC- 7570 Bales Street, Liberty Township, OH 45069
  • Registered
    1 registrant

  Register

  

  Plan Smart. Budget Better. Lead the Way into 2026.

  Facilitated by:

  
  

  Nick Enger, ATC

  Jon Rike, City of Dayton

  Scott McCollum, Sinclair College

  
  

  As the 2026 budget cycle begins, join peers in a collaborative morning session focused on sharing strategies, goals, and real-world planning techniques. We’ll dive into what’s working—and what’s not—when it comes to building budgets, aligning priorities, and executing effectively across teams.

  Inspired by Scott McCollum’s recent post on IT Master Planning, we’ll also explore how to structure planning documents that drive clarity and buy-in.

  Bring your ideas, examples, and questions.

  
  

  Powered by Title Sponsor: 

  

  
  

  Supporting Sponsor: 

  
  

  Agenda:

  11:15 - 11:30am check-in, lunch & networking

  11:30 - 1:00pm meeting

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Workshop: Demystifying CMMC: From Readiness to Real-World Implementation

  • When
    10/15/2025
  •  
    8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Life Connection: 2800 Donation Circle, Kettering, OH 45420
  • Registered
    Be the first

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Demystifying CMMC: From Readiness to Real-World Implementation

  Facilitated by: 

  Eric Parsley

  Compliance Assessment Consultant,

  C3 Integrated Solutions

  
  

  This workshop is designed for technology professionals and business leaders navigating the path to CMMC 2.0 compliance. We’ll break down the essential elements of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, including scoping, technical deployment strategies, and how to build a sustainable compliance program. Participants will explore real-world implementation models, understand the role of Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs), and learn how to prepare for a successful assessment. Whether you're just starting or refining your compliance journey, this session will equip you with actionable insights and tools to move forward with confidence.

     

  Eric is a Ph.D. candidate in Computer Science & Engineering at Wright State University and serves as a vCISO at C3 Integrated Solutions. With a strong foundation in cybersecurity, AI, and enterprise-scale systems, Eric combines rigorous academic insight with hands-on experience in protecting organizational digital ecosystems. 

  Agenda:

  8:15 - 8:45am check-in, light breakfast & networking

  8:45 - 10:00am workshop

  
  

  Sponsorships available!

  
  

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• Cybersecurity & Infrastructure/Cloud Joint Event: Cyber Defense Matrix

  • When
    10/22/2025
  •  
    8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Business Solutions Center, 1435 Cincinnati St, Ste 300, Dayton 45402
  • Registered
    13 registrants

  Register

  

  Join us for this special meeting combining the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure/Cloud Peer Groups

  Cyber Defense Matrix

  In today's cybersecurity landscape, organizations face unprecedented challenges in protecting their assets. The Cyber Defense Matrix, developed by Sounil Yu, provides a structured framework to prioritize security efforts. This presentation will explore its origin, structure, and ability to map security measures while identifying gaps. Through real-world examples, discover how companies use the matrix to enhance security, align initiatives with business goals, and streamline processes. Learn how this framework can transform your cybersecurity strategy and help you stay ahead of evolving threats across people, data, applications, devices, and networks.

  Facilitated by:
  

  Doug Davidson, GBQ

  

  Doug joined GBQ in 2016, bringing 30 years of experience working with technology and technology leadership in companies ranging in size from innovative, emerging businesses to Fortune 500s.

  Doug’s passion is for the business side of the information risk management, security and compliance equation. He works with business leaders and executives to assess and improve the operationalization of information risk and information security programs. Doug advises information security and compliance leadership in larger enterprises focusing on control assessment and improvement in areas such as security leadership, policy and procedure, security awareness, third-party risk management and compliance with HIPAA, PCI and ISO 27001.

  Powered by: 

  

  Contributing Sponsor:

  
  

  Agenda:

  8:15 - 8:30am check-in, breakfast & networking

  8:30 - 10:00am meeting

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• 2025 Taste of IT Conference

  • When
    11/12/2025
  •  
    8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Location
    Sinclair Conference Center
  • Spaces left
    452
  • Registered
    98 registrants

  Register

  

  STEP BOLDLY INTO WHAT’S NEXT.

  The 19th annual Taste of IT Conference is your launchpad for innovation, connection, and action. 

  As the pace of change accelerates, we’re bringing together technologists, business leaders, and change-makers under this year’s theme — Future Forward —to explore the breakthroughs redefining cybersecurity, cloud, data, infrastructure, and leadership. 

  This event offers a powerful platform to explore what’s next. From technical deep dives to big-picture strategies, attendees will gain insight into the trends, tools, and ideas shaping the next generation of technology.

  
  

  Date: November 12, 2025

  Location: Sinclair Conference Center

  
  

  Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Remembered.

  Join Our Sponsor Lineup!

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Workforce Development: Holiday Mixer & 2025 Success and 2026 Plans

  • When
    12/11/2025
  •  
    8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Location
    Montgomery Co Business Solutions, 1435 Cincinnati St, Suite 300, Dayton 45417
  • Registered
    3 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Holiday Mixer

  2025 Successes and 2026 Plans

  Join in on roundtable discussions to share your

  success from 2025 and your plans for 2026.

  Presenter: 

  Nancy Percy, Sinclair College

  Matthew Worthen, NextStep Networking

  Powered by: 

  
  

  
  

  Agenda:

  8:15-8:30 am - registration, network, coffee/snacks

  8:30-10:00 am - meeting

  

  
  

  
  

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• Workshop: AI Literacy for Project Stakeholders: Enhancing Acumen

  • When
    01/27/2026
  •  
    8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Life Connections- 2800 Donor Circle, Kettering
  • Spaces left
    50
  • Registered
    Be the first

  Register

  
  

  
  

  AI Literacy for Project Stakeholders: Enhancing Acumen

  Facilitated by: 

  Dave Davis, Dayton PMI 

  As artificial intelligence fundamentally transforms how projects are executed, all stakeholders must develop the ability to understand, evaluate, and leverage AI tools—not just managers. In this compelling workshop, Dave Davis underscores the importance of AI literacy as a foundational competence for modern project teams.

  Through engaging real-world stories and practical examples, Dave illustrates how project managers can act as catalysts for continuous AI learning—guiding teams to better collaboration, clearer communication, and smarter adoption of AI. Participants will walk away with actionable strategies to:

  • Cultivate a culture of curiosity and AI learning across projects

  • Translate complex AI concepts for diverse audiences

  • Align emerging AI technologies with project goals and outcomes

  Whether you're at the helm of AI-driven initiatives or supporting projects with an AI component, this session will equip you with the confidence and insight to foster stronger decision-making and deliver impactful results.

  Dave Davis, PMP, PgMP, PMI-PBA, PMI-ACP, DASSM, CSM, AHPP, ATP is a practitioner of and a recognized professional in project and program management, leadership, change management, and business acumen. As a “Trail Blazer” and “Thought Leader” at PMI, Dave was the co-chair of developing the PMI Business Analyst Practice Guide, an advisor to the creation of PMI Communities of Practice, and a value coach for promoting Skills and Competencies for the modern project professional.

  
  

  Agenda:

  8:30 - 9:00am check-in & light breakfast

  9:00 - 12:00pm workshop

  
  

  Sponsorships available!

  
  

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