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Upcoming events

    • 01/09/2025
    • 8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Business Solutions Center 1435 Cincinnati St #300, Dayton, OH 45417
    Register


    Tips for Using Microsoft 365 for Your Small Business

    Led by: Small Mid Size Business Committee

    The SMB peer group will take attendees through Microsoft licensing, Security and How to Leverage Microsoft 365 products.

    Agenda:

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

    8:30 - 10:00am meeting


    Sponsored by:




    Sponsorship opportunities are available, please contact sponsorships@technologyfirst.org for more information



    • 01/15/2025
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Sinclair Conference Center
    • 102
    Register

    Join hundreds of visionary leaders and professionals
    who know AI is the future!

    2025 Dayton AI Day

    Registration Opens Oct. 15!

    AI is rapidly transforming industries, driving innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage. However, with rapid change comes the need for upskilling, considering ethical guidelines, and navigating regulatory landscapes.

    Dayton AI Day is not just another conference - it's a hands-on exploration of how to implement AI effectively. It's a place where theory meets practice, where leaders from diverse sectors can learn actionable strategies to incorporate AI into their operations.

    Why Attend Dayton AI Day?

    Dayton AI Day provides a platform to bridge the gap between curiosity and capability, offering:

    • Expert Insights: Hear from AI leaders who are setting the pace in technology and innovation.
    • Practical Takeaways: Participate in sessions focused on implementing and governing AI in your organization.
    • Networking: Connect with industry peers, potential clients, and collaborators.

    Who Should Attend?

    From the C-Suite to the frontline in industries from healthcare and finance to human resources and law to information technology and academia, if you want to remain at the forefront of your industry, you won’t want to miss Dayton AI Day!


    SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
    As AI continues to redefine the business landscape, your involvement signals that your company is not just following trends but leading them.

    • 01/21/2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register



    Join the Data Analytics Peer Group roundtable discussion on:

    AI Analytics Methodologies

    Alan Swan, Providence Data Solutions (PDS) CEO, will provide guidance on how to establish relevant context for developing analytics and AI Models. Additionally, Alan will speak to the importance of data in the development process.

    Finally, he will explain how to drive analytics through metrics that have meaning and alignment with multiple constructs.

    Facilitated by:

    Alan Swan, CEO/Providence Data Solutions


    • 01/22/2025
    • 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Virtual
    Register



    Supply Chain Risk Management

    Supply Chain Risk Management is a crucial aspect of maintaining the security and integrity of an organization’s operations. This talk will focus on utilizing your organizational chart to identify critical applications and mitigate associated risks.

    Participants will learn to map out their organizational structure to pinpoint key applications and systems that are vital to their operations. By understanding the interdependencies within the supply chain, they can identify potential vulnerabilities and areas of risk, and prioritize mitigation efforts.

    Facilitated by:

    James Fisher
    Secure Cyber Defense

    Powered by: 



    • 01/28/2025
    • 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Employment Opportunity Center, 4303 W Third St, Dayton, 45417
    Register

    Roundtable discussion:

    2025 Strategic Goals and Priorities

    Facilitated by: 

    Nick Enger and Parag Pujari


    Powered by: 


    Agenda:

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

    11:30 - 1:00pm meeting






    • 02/11/2025
    • 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Life Connection, 2800 Donation Circle, Kettering
    Register


    Tech Forum: CIO Council OPEN to ALL

    Annual CIO Forecast Panel

    Featuring:

    Moderator: Treg Gilstorf, Smart Data

    Panelists: 

    Gurvinder Rehki, University Dayton

    Jamie Pierce, Mike’s Car Wash

    Chris Schrameck, WinSupply

    Vijaya Gambheera, Nuvei


    Sponsored By:


    Interested in sponsoring? Contact marketing@technologyfirst.org for more information.







    • 02/13/2025
    • 8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Montgomery Co Business Solutions, 1435 Cincinnati St, Suite 300, Dayton 45417
    Register


    Harnessing Practical AI: Workforce Readiness and Organizational Success

    Explore the transformative impact of practical AI on the workforce and how organizations can effectively prepare for this shift. Learn about Ohio TechCred, strategies for upskilling employees, and how to secure the right credentials while staying within budget. Discuss automation risks, staying relevant in an AI-driven world, and earning endorsements to solidify your position in the evolving market.

    Panel:

    Nancy Percy, Sinclair College

    Nathan Floom, Sinclair College

    Matthew Worthen, NextStep Networking

    Powered by: 

    Agenda:

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

    8:30-10:00 am - meeting


    • 02/18/2025
    • 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Business Solutions Center 1435 Cincinnati St #300, Dayton, OH 45417
    Register



    Roundtable: Disaster Recovery and High Availability

    This roundtable discussion will dive deep into how do backups play with your technology availability plan.

    Powered by: 

    Agenda:

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

    11:30 - 1:00pm meeting



    • 02/26/2025
    • 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Business Solutions Center, 1435 Cincinnati St, Ste 300, Dayton, 45417
    Register



    Empowering Women in IT: Navigating Change, Building Skills, and Defining Success

    Are you a woman navigating a career in IT? Join us for "Empowering Women in IT: Navigating Change, Building Skills, and Defining Success," an inspiring and informative meeting designed to help you take control of your professional journey.

    This event will focus on topics like succeeding in IT, measuring success on your terms, and reinventing yourself for new opportunities. Learn how to leverage your transferable skills, adapt to industry changes, and embrace non-traditional IT roles. We’ll also discuss strategies for overcoming feelings of being unqualified, staying current with technology, addressing skill gaps, and exploring training opportunities.

    Whether you’re transitioning to a role you’re passionate about, seeking growth in a changing industry, or just looking for guidance, this meeting is your opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. Don’t miss this chance to empower yourself and shape your future in IT!

    Moderator: Melissa Cutcher, Technology First

    Panelists: Beth Search, Kettering Health

    Lisa Shivers, Kettering Health

    Jill Campbell, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center

    Yolanda Clemons, Savvy Purple Squirrel IT Consulting

    This meeting is sponsored by:






    Interested in sponsoring? Contact mcutcher@technologyfirst.org for more information.

    • 03/05/2025
    • 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Sinclair Conference Center
    • 431
    Register


    Join hundreds of IT Professionals at the 22nd annual

    Ohio Information Security Conference

    March 5, 2025

    We bring Cybersecurity experts from all over the country together under one roof to share knowledge, stay ahead of threat actors, and answer your questions about protecting your most valuable asset: your data.

    Sponsorship Opportunities Available






    • 04/03/2025
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Engineer's Club
    Register


    Join us to celebrate the contributions of information technology teams, professionals and students at the 2024 Leadership Awards

    The 11th annual Technology First Leadership Awards recognize individuals and teams exemplifying Technology First Values: Creating a community to share knowledge, grow business, and build for the future. The Technology First Leadership Awards work to ensure a vibrant technology community in our region.

    Wednesday, April 3, 4:00-6:00 P.M.
    Dayton Engineer's Club

    4 p.m. - Registration, Networking, Drinks & Hors d'oeuvres

    4:30 p.m. - Award presentation followed by photos and celebrations!

    Award of Excellence - High School

    Award of Excellence - Student Project

    Best IT Services Company

    Career Champion Award

    Emerging Technology Leader

    IT Executive or the Year

    IT Project of the Year

    Outstanding Technology Team

    Most Promising Startup

    Volunteer of the Year

    Legacy of Leadership

    Join us for a cocktail reception to celebrate the best of the best in several categories including Emerging Technology Leader, IT Executive of the Year, Best IT Service Company, & more!


    The annual event is sponsored by many local organizations. Category sponsors are available.  Contact marketing@technologyfirst.org

    Thank you Sponsors!


     



    • 05/08/2025
    • 8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Montgomery Co Business Solutions, 1435 Cincinnati St, Suite 300, Dayton 45417
    Register


    From Remote to Reconnected: A Guide to Local Networking in a Hybrid World

    Discover the art of rebuilding connections in a hybrid and remote work era. This session will provide practical strategies for local networking, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities in your professional community. Learn how to navigate the shift from remote isolation to in-person collaboration, and unlock the potential of networking in a post-pandemic workplace. Perfect for professionals looking to reestablish a strong local presence and build a thriving support network.

    Presenter: 

    Matthew Worthen, NextStep Networking

    Powered by: 

    Agenda:

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

    8:30-10:00 am - meeting


    • 06/25/2025
    • 8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
    • In-person (Location TBD) & Virtual Option
    Register



    Back Doors and Breaches Game

    Backdoors & Breaches is an incident response card game developed by Black Hills Information Security. Players use these cards to simulate real-world scenarios, such as initial compromises, pivot and escalate tactics, and persistence mechanisms. The goal is to enhance the players’ ability to identify, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats effectively.

    During the game, participants learn to recognize various types of cyber attacks and understand the sequence of events that typically occur during a breach. They practice decision-making under pressure, improving their ability to prioritize actions and allocate resources efficiently. The game also helps players familiarize themselves with different tools and techniques used in incident response, such as network monitoring, threat hunting, and forensic analysis. By working through these scenarios, players develop a deeper understanding of the importance of communication and collaboration in managing cybersecurity incidents.

    Facilitated by:

    Joe Tinney
    Secure Cyber Defense

    Powered by: 

    Agenda:

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

    8:30 - 10:00am meeting



    • 07/08/2025
    • 09/16/2025
    • 6 sessions
    • TBD
    • 17
    Register




    Building our future leaders

    The Emerging Tech Leaders program will give new and prospective IT leaders an opportunity to explore and learn about the many facets of what they will experience in their new and exciting role. Participants will be led through a journey of discovering who they are as a leader, where they excel and where they have opportunities to grow by working through scenario-based exercises as well as participating in group coaching and discussions. Participants will also grow their skills by working in peer groups to solve and analyze complex organizational and business problems involving company politics, measuring change, coaching team members, and more.

    Program Details 
    The six-session program will run 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., every other Tuesday over the course of twelve weeks. In addition, your registration includes (2) 30-minute personal coaching sessions with Coach Mike. Learn more.

    • July 8: Discovering Leadership Essence
    • July 22: Mastering Performance Management
    • August 5: Strategic Hiring for Success
    • August 19: Mastering the Business of IT
    • September 2: Navigating Relationships & Organizational Politics 
    • September 16: Group Coaching and Action Planning

    About Coach Mike
     

    Mike Czarnecki is the Owner of IT Coach Mike, LLC, which provides IT professionals with individual and group coaching for leadership and career development. Mike has been in IT for nearly 30 years as both a technologist and a leader at multiple levels. Mike is a strong proponent of servant leadership and driving autonomy in his teams to promote growth and accountability which results in strong leaders and high performance. Mike holds a Bachelor of Science, Business Management degree from Western Governors University and in 2018 earned his coaching certification through the International Coach Federation. He enjoys spending time with his family and loved ones, playing video games, collecting and modding classic gaming consoles, building PCs, and performing and teaching improv comedy.

    Sponsor Opportunities Available
    Please contact sponsorships@technologyfirst.org if you would like to build stronger relationships with our Emerging Tech Leaders over a 3-month period.

    • 07/10/2025
    • 8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
    • Life Connections, 2800 Donation Circle, Kettering
    Register


    Navigating the Employee Journey: Onboarding, Retention, and Exit Strategies

    Discover how to design a seamless and effective employee journey, from onboarding to retention and even the exit process. Explore strategies to create a welcoming and supportive onboarding experience, retain top talent in a competitive market, and handle employee exits with professionalism. Address the rising trend of new hires evaluating fit within the first two weeks and learn how to make a lasting positive impression while aligning expectations. Gain actionable insights to enhance your organization's workforce strategy at every stage of the employee lifecycle.

    Presenter: 

    Nancy Percy, Sinclair College

    Powered by: 


    Agenda:

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

    8:30-10:00 am - meeting


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

    Presenter: 

    Nancy Percy, Sinclair College

    Powered by: 


    Agenda:

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

    8:30-10:00 am - meeting


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


    Holiday Mixer

    2025 Successes and 2026 Plans

    Join in on roundtable discussions to share your success from 2025 and your plans for 2025.

    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



Meet Our Partners

Our Cornerstone Partners share a common goal: to connect, strengthen, and champion the technology community in our region. A Technology First Partner is an elite member leading the support, development, and expansion of Technology First services. In return, Partners improve community visibility and increase their revenue. Make a difference in our region and your business. 

Become A Partner

Cornerstone Partners



1435 Cincinnati St, Ste 300, Dayton Ohio 45417

Info@TechnologyFirst.org
937-229-0054

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