By Leslie Rylke

On Friday, November 11, the Innovative Technology Action Group (ITAG) and Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n), both initiatives of the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC), held their annual Tech360 event. This full-day event focused on tech education, leadership development, innovation, and networking was held at Penn State Great Valley.

Technology leaders from the area’s top companies gathered to discuss how to best leverage the latest technology in today’s business climate specifically big data, cyber security, innovation, robotics, Agile development, mobility and hiring technical talent. CTOs, IT managers and architects, project leaders and anyone who works with technology gained valuable knowledge that is immediately applicable.

One panel discussion featured six women in technology from Citadel Bank, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the Vanguard Group, Unisys, and LoanLogics. The women shared their career choices, as well as thoughts and ways to attract, mentor and retain women in the IT field.

The Tech360 keynote was a Real Tech Talk panel discussion forcing on business, leadership and people. A panel of CIOs and CTOs from LoanLogics, Pegasus Technologies, and Unisys tackled the latest trends and observations in data security, hiring talent, change and innovation, leading technical people and the biggest challenges and opportunities.

Returning this year was the Innovation Showcase, highlighting several regional innovative companies who each gave a brief description of their products and/or services.  The Innovation Showcase wrapped up with a networking lunch where the presenting companies had exhibit tables.

Tech360 is at the very core of the VISTA2025 goal for Chester County to establish an innovation culture that supports entrepreneurship and business growth. “The focus of the day is to bring spirited like minds together to learn, share and cultivate new ideas to form new commerce opportunities that will continue the economic health of Chester County,” said Gary Smith, president and chief executive officer, Chester County Economic Development Council.ITAG is funded in part by the private sector and the Chester County Workforce Development Board. i2n is funded in part by private sector support and educational partners.

Tech360 was sponsored by New Horizons Computer Learning Centers and VISTA.Today.