AI is a hot topic. These days it seems you can’t open your computer without encountering an opinion. From your cousin on social media to experts in Silicon Valley, everyone’s talking about artificial intelligence. And this year, one local tech powerhouse is amplifying the conversation with a groundbreaking national technology conference hosted right in our region.
In November, the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council will launch Disrupt UP Conference. The two-day event (Nov. 14-15) will bring brightest minds in tech together to explore the biggest ideas in innovation. The start of the conference is big and bold with all things AI. The reason? RBTC sees limitless potential of AI across industries and is ready to position the region at the forefront of innovation and application in the tech and life science sectors.
“The conference is a continuation of our mission to promote the growth of the Roanoke-Blacksburg technology community. Our innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent assets are world-class and Disrupt Up will provide another meaningful opportunity to lead the national and even global innovation conversation,” said RBTC Executive Director, Erin Burcham.
RBTC is a driving force behind innovation in technology and life science and their new conference reflects that commitment. The two-day national conference will present the most innovative thinkers in AI and offer an intensive dive into the latest advancements, trends, and applications shaping the future of AI across industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from visionary speakers, participate in thought-provoking panels and connect with fellow innovators leveraging AI in their industries.
“AI has profound potential to accelerate progress,” said RBTC Director Taylor Spellman. “We’ve considered a wide-range of topics while designing this conference from cutting-edge AI technologies to ethical considerations and real-world applications. It truly has something for everyone from the AI novice to the expert.”
Hundreds of interested innovators and entrepreneurs are expected to attend to gain insights ranging from generative AI, precision medicine, startup innovation and more. Participants will be able to connect with like-minded professionals, explore new partnership and collaboration possibilities, and gain valuable expertise that could shape the future of their careers.
The conference is the latest in the growth trend putting Roanoke and Blacksburg on the US innovation map. The region is home to over 4,000 tech workers; academic universities; and a thriving research, healthcare, and technology culture. In the past 5 years, 3.5 times more technology patents have come from the area over the national average. The conference, paired with RBTC’s robust talent development program, positions Roanoke-Blacksburg as a top place to develop talent and lead innovation on a national scale.
Disrupt Up happens November 14-15 and registration is open. Early-bird pricing is available through July 31, so don’t wait. Visit RBTC to register and join the conversation.
