Melissa Cutcher, Executive Director, Technology First

Dear Friends,

2020 has been the year of “you’re on mute”, “I forgot my mask” and wine with DeWine. I am grateful to close chapter 2020 and welcome 2021 with a great big socially distanced hug! 2020 wasn’t all bad. It’s been an outstanding learning experience for me both personally and professionally. I had the opportunity to meet Steve Hangen, Ann Gallaher, and many other great IT thought leaders in our region. Each one has demonstrated great leadership and grace during a year of stress, confusion, and uncertainty.

As an organization, Technology First faced our own unique challenges. Pivoting from all in-person events, like SIG’s, Board and CIO meetings, to all virtual by April was no small task. In November, we produced our first virtual conference, Taste of IT. We hosted speakers and attendees from all around the United States! We will continue hosting events virtually until the Governor says we can go back to in-person. Until then, I look forward to “seeing” you at the next Technology First event.

We have great plans for 2021! Look for:

• §  Two new special interest groups: developers and cybersecurity
• §  The Technology First web site will have a new look and updated features for our members
• §  Expansion of our workforce development efforts
• §  Continuation of building partnerships with other associations such as, The Circuit, Ohio-X, Ohio IT Association, SOCHE, DDC, JobsOhio and Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce

The vision of Technology First is to develop our region’s future by engaging, expanding, and connecting the IT community. We plan to accomplish this vision by being the conduit for IT advancement in the region.

Yes, 2020 was a challenge. But as a community, we are stronger, because we are together! We have virtually, gone into each other’s homes, connected on a deeper, more personal level seeing each other’s workspaces, meeting family members, both two and four legs.

If you haven’t already, get involved in Technology First. Join us on social media, sign up for the newsletter and event email lists, make a donation before the year ends, volunteer at an event, and respond to our latest workforce survey.

2021 – here we come!