Tech Summit

Artificial intelligence is no longer just changing the tools we use, it’s transforming the way technology professionals work, collaborate, innovate, and lead. As AI becomes embedded in every aspect of business, IT leaders are facing new questions:

  • How are technical roles evolving?
  • What skills will matter most in an AI-enabled workplace?
  • How do organizations foster curiosity, creativity, and innovation while maintaining governance and security?
  • How do leaders prepare their teams for continuous change when there is no single playbook?

Join the NEW Digital Alliance for our 2026 Tech Summit as we explore how AI is reshaping the future of the IT workforce. Designed for CIOs, CTOs, IT managers, technology professionals, and business leaders, this year’s event moves beyond AI tools and trends to focus on the people, leadership, and organizational strategies needed to thrive in the next era of technology.

Through keynote presentations, real-world perspectives, and an interactive panel discussion, attendees will gain practical insights into how organizations across industries are adapting their workforce strategies, redefining technical roles, and building cultures that embrace innovation.

Whether you’re leading a technology team, developing talent, or navigating AI within your organization, you’ll leave with new ideas, practical takeaways, and a broader perspective on what it means to build and be part of the next IT workforce.

Wednesday, September 30 1 – 5 p.m. Best Western Premier Bridgewood Resort Hotel
Neenah, WI

Who Should Attend?

  • CIOs, CTOs, and IT executives
  • IT managers and technology leaders
  • Software developers and engineers
  • Infrastructure, cybersecurity, cloud, and data professionals
  • Digital transformation and innovation leaders
  • HR and talent leaders supporting technology teams
  • Business leaders interested in the future of work and AI

Join us as we explore how AI is reshaping technology careers, transforming teams, and redefining leadership for the next generation of the IT workforce.

SPEAKERS

Matt Kirchner | President of ATS/LAB Midwest/Mission Learning Systems; Host-The TechEd Podcast
Matt Kirchner is a nationally recognized speaker and technology workforce thought leader focused on the intersection of emerging technology, innovation, and the future of work. As host of The TechEd Podcast, Matt brings together industry leaders, educators, and innovators to explore how technologies like artificial intelligence and automation are transforming organizations. With decades of experience in business, manufacturing, and workforce development, Matt helps leaders understand how to prepare their teams, develop talent, and navigate the rapid pace of technological change.

Rusty Zaspel | Director, Business Transformation Office; Faith Technologies Incorporated
Rusty Zaspel is a Director, Business Transformation Office at Faith Technologies Incorporated (FTI), where he helps lead strategic transformation initiatives including Enterprise AI Adoption & Enablement. Prior to joining FTI, Rusty spent 19 years at Kimberly-Clark, building extensive experience in digital transformation, product management, consumer experience and product innovation. His background includes leading complex change initiatives and helping organizations adopt new technologies and ways of working, with additional training in artificial intelligence through the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School and certification as a Prosci Change Practitioner. Rusty is also active in the Northeast Wisconsin community, serving on the boards of Junior Achievement of Wisconsin and the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra.

John Kreul | Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer & Digital Officer; Jewelers Mutual
John Kreul is Senior Vice President, Chief Information & Digital Officer at Jewelers Mutual Group, where he leads the company’s technology strategy and digital innovation efforts. With more than 30 years of technology leadership experience, John has held senior roles at Amcor, Bemis Company and PepsiCo, bringing deep expertise in digital strategy, data and analytics, and technology-enabled customer experiences. His leadership has helped advance Jewelers Mutual’s technology ecosystem and culture of innovation, earning him recognition as a 2025 Wisconsin ORBIE Award winner. John holds an Executive MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse.

PANEL MODERATOR

John Muraski, DBA, PMP | Teaching Assistant Professor, Director of Center for Applied AI, Small Business AI Center Director, Center for Entrepreneurship & Economic Development Director
John Muraski is a Teaching Assistant Professor of Information Systems at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, where he serves as Director of the Center for Applied AI and the Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, as well as Academic Director for the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program. With 20 years of industry experience prior to entering academia, John brings a practitioner-focused approach to technology, artificial intelligence and innovation. His work focuses on helping students, businesses and organizations harness emerging technologies to solve real-world challenges, including leading experiential initiatives such as UW–Oshkosh’s Small Business AI Clinic and Innovation Foundry. John holds a Doctorate of Business Administration from UW–Whitewater, a master’s degree in Information Systems from UW–Oshkosh, an MBA from UW–Whitewater and a bachelor’s degree from UW–Green Bay.

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