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Join us for this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we reminisce about TechWeek Grand Rapids with Andria Romkema, Senior Vice President of Business Development at The Right Place, and Erin Stewart from Symplicity Communications.
Discover the incredible growth and community-driven energy behind this tech event and how it's shaping the future of innovation in West Michigan.
From standout moments like Steve Wozniak’s keynote to the integration of AI and data analytics, we explore what makes TechWeek a unique platform for connection and inspiration. We also discuss the impact of technology on various industries, the importance of networking, and how Grand Rapids continues to balance growth with community values.
Don't miss out on insights and future plans that highlight the city’s growing tech scene. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for more inspiring conversations!
Chapters
(00:26) Welcome, Guests, and “When Women Support Each Other”
(01:30) How Tech Week Grand Rapids Started and Exploded in Four Years
(05:30) Simplicity’s Data & Analytics Event and Community Energy
(06:30) Steve Wozniak Keynote and the Human Side of Innovation
(13:25) Top Themes: AI, Cybersecurity, Health, and Tech in Manufacturing
(18:20) Every Company Is a Tech Company: Boards, Strategy, and Revenue
(21:15) Students, Networking, and Showing Up to Build Your Career
(26:10) Big Projects Reshaping Grand Rapids: Amphitheater, Stadium, Microsoft, Manufacturing
(35:56) Lessons From Rapid Growth, Peer Learning, and the Future of Tech Week
Discover the incredible growth and community-driven energy behind this tech event and how it's shaping the future of innovation in West Michigan.
From standout moments like Steve Wozniak’s keynote to the integration of AI and data analytics, we explore what makes TechWeek a unique platform for connection and inspiration. We also discuss the impact of technology on various industries, the importance of networking, and how Grand Rapids continues to balance growth with community values.
Don't miss out on insights and future plans that highlight the city’s growing tech scene. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for more inspiring conversations!
Chapters
(00:26) Welcome, Guests, and “When Women Support Each Other”
(01:30) How Tech Week Grand Rapids Started and Exploded in Four Years
(05:30) Simplicity’s Data & Analytics Event and Community Energy
(06:30) Steve Wozniak Keynote and the Human Side of Innovation
(13:25) Top Themes: AI, Cybersecurity, Health, and Tech in Manufacturing
(18:20) Every Company Is a Tech Company: Boards, Strategy, and Revenue
(21:15) Students, Networking, and Showing Up to Build Your Career
(26:10) Big Projects Reshaping Grand Rapids: Amphitheater, Stadium, Microsoft, Manufacturing
(35:56) Lessons From Rapid Growth, Peer Learning, and the Future of Tech Week
Creators and Guests
Host
Catherine Ripley
Catherine Ripley founded Symplicity Communications in 2007 to help people avoid misleading sales practices during telecom purchases. By bringing respect, clarity and flexibility to the process, Symplicity Communications helps clients find peace of mind in a complex market. Her Midwestern values drive how she does business and selects the team that makes Symplicity special. Catherine possesses a great love for this industry and serves as a board member for Inforum Michigan’s TechnologyNEXT program for women in technology.
What is Symplicity Conversations?
Welcome to Symplicity Conversations, the podcast where we explore the intersection of business, culture, community, and technology to empower you with the insights you need to thrive.