On December 9, 2025, the Central Campus Classroom Building (CCCB) buzzed with energy, collaboration, and innovative spirit as 321 technology professionals representing Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint, and Michigan Medicine converged for the 12th annual gathering.
MTech Connect 2025, sponsored by the Michigan Technology Community and Vice President for IT & CIO, presented a full-day professional development symposium reimagined to focus on skill-building, campus collaboration, and career advancement. Whether attendees joined in person or virtually via Zoom, this hybrid event delivered a rich tapestry of interactive sessions, insightful presentations, hands-on workshops, and lively networking—truly exemplifying U-M’s commitment to accessible and lifelong learning. It was the first in-person event which also offered full-day live streaming as well as recordings of all the sessions using CAEN’s lecture capture technology already present in the CCCB.
Aubrey Morse, MTech Steering Committee Chair, speaks at the MTech Connect 2025 Symposium.
A Day Built for Growth and Connection
The day commenced with a networking breakfast, setting the tone for meaningful dialogue and new connections. After opening remarks, attendees enjoyed a keynote from Dr. Charles Severance (a.k.a. “Dr. Chuck”), whose talk explored digital innovation, his role in its evolution, and the vital role of technology in shaping the future of higher education.
Breakout sessions, running throughout the morning and afternoon, tackled topics from emotional intelligence to API workflows and agile development, with presenters sharing practical tips and strategies for success. Poster sessions showcased a variety of campus-driven projects: solutions for staff empowerment (AlmasupportGPT), accessibility initiatives, AI-powered support chatbots, the journey from chaos to compliance in file retention, a Fireside Chat with Mindy Warden, John Herlocher, Heather Brooks, Sheetal Sonar, moderated by Dan Burgess. Topics also included examining the leadership strengths of introverts and neurodivergent thinkers. Presenters fostered vibrant discussion around each topic, encouraging an exchange of ideas and collaborative problem-solving.
The luncheon and social lounge provided a well-deserved break and another opportunity to build connections, followed by more breakout discussions — ranging from student mentorship and digital signage innovation to leveraging LinkedIn Learning and empowering employee success through onboarding tools.
A highlight of the afternoon was the Leadership Panel, where Scott Arnst (UM-Flint CIO), Ted Hanss (LSA CIO), Dan Maletta (College of Engineering CIO), Kerry Flynn (Ross CIO), and Kenny Moore (moderator), shared stories, career advice, and candid perspectives on the evolving IT landscape.
From left to right: Kenny Moore (speaking), Ted Hanss, LSA CIO, Dan Maletta, CoE CIO, Scott Arnst, UM-Flint CIO, and Kerry Flynn, Ross CIO, at the MTech Connect Leadership Panel.
Championing Professional Resources and Inclusive Growth
Throughout the event, participants explored U-M’s robust toolkit for career and professional development: LinkedIn Learning, tuition benefits, mentorship programs, and on-demand learning platforms. Organizers emphasized fostering dialogue around career growth, championing inclusivity, and supporting continuous staff development.
The event’s central themes resonated in every session and poster: promoting collaboration across campuses, advancing equitable participation, and identifying both the challenges and opportunities facing IT professionals in higher education.
Smooth Logistics, Practical Perks, and a Welcoming Community
With a well-oiled registration process, clear guidance from dedicated event coordinators, and tech support on hand for every session, MTech Connect 2025 ran smoothly from start to finish. Attendees appreciated amenities like the networking lounge, lactation and personal item rooms, and — crucially — breakfast and lunch for all who registered on time. Logistical innovations, like the new virtual parking permit system, meant driving and parking were almost as seamless as joining via Zoom.
Attendees having fun at the MTech Connect Symposium.
Looking Forward: Lifting Each Other Higher
As closing remarks wrapped up the day, it was clear: MTech Connect 2025 delivered on its promise to be a vibrant space for innovation and growth. The event cultivated new relationships, inspired bold professional journeys, and showcased the impact of technology in supporting the U-M mission.
Thank you to Event Chairs Dan Burgess and Ben Andries, the coordinators, presenters, and every attendee for making this gathering more than a conference — it was a celebration of community and possibility.
Did you miss a session or want to revisit the keynote? Recordings of all sessions are available on our website. You can also view highlights of the event in Dropbox.
What did you think of MTech Connect 2025?
Please take a short survey on the event! Your comments and feedback are important as we aim to improve future event planning. The survey will close on Wednesday, December 17.
Thank you for participating in this year’s event. We hope you enjoyed it.
Go Blue!
Stay tuned for more professional development opportunities from the Michigan Technology Community — see you at MTech Connect 2026!
