Over 100 people attended the third annual TECHLeadership Conference, featuring technology and leadership experts from across the country. Centered on the theme Enable, Engage, and Empower, speakers emphasized innovation, cybersecurity, and communication skills at the Box Elder Events Center on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
“The TECHLeadership Conference is the only of its kind on this side of the state,” said Golden West Technology Advisory Services Manager Eric Eisenbraun. “The event was a great success, and we received overwhelmingly positive feedback. We look forward to continuing to grow a community of business professionals looking to use technology to advance their business or organization.”
This event was made possible in part by Golden West, SDN Communications, Omnitech Inc., Secure Enterprise Asset Management (SEAM), Kaseya, and Mitel.
Speaking on conversation and transformation
Highmark’s Chief Information Officer Tony Pannone helped attendees learn how to have difficult conversations in the workplace, following the Crucial Conversations framework. His keynote speech was titled “Preparing Yourself to Hold the Hard Conversations That Are Keeping You Stuck.”
After lunch, leading Microsoft AI and Data Specialist Valerie Bergman explained the impact of generative AI. In her presentation, “Generative AI: Transforming business without breaking the bank or blowing up the world,” she offered advice for improving efficiency by integrating technology into workflows.
Breakouts, panels, and prizes
Throughout the day, attendees joined various breakout sessions led by industry experts. After each keynote speech, attendees chose topics ranging from cybersecurity threat mitigation, communication skills, work efficiency, and more.
Between the morning and afternoon sessions, special activities and discussion panels were held. Participants answered trivia about technology and cybersecurity. Before the conference concluded, over $1,000 in prizes were given out.
Highly-rated experience
Following the conference, participants rated their experience. Through anonymous surveys, they expressed incredibly high satisfaction for the day.
Clint Parsons, an attendee and presenter from SEAM, said attending the TECHLeadership Conference gave him a better perspective of others in his field.
“I loved the variety at the TECHLeadership Conference,” Clint said. “There was a lot of time not just for learning but also for connecting with others, which is extremely important in our industry. Having the day focused on many different aspects instead of just AI was a breath of fresh air.”
For further information about the TECHLeadership Conference, visit gwtis.com/events. The annual TECHLeadership Conference provides an opportunity for business and technology leaders to gain insights, stay informed on the latest trends, and foster innovation within their organizations.

