Cathy Hackl, tech and gaming executive, futurist, and CEO of Future Dynamics, will explore the evolving dynamics of human relationships in an AI-driven world. Sharing her quirky – and totally real – experiment dating four AI bots, Cathy will reflect on what these unexpected interactions reveal about connection, trust, and intimacy in the age of intelligent machines. Expect insights, laughs, and a fresh perspective on how AI is shaping both our personal and professional lives.

Raising the Vibration of Every Room You Enter
Six ways to bring energy, curiosity, and confidence into this event, and beyond.

Ever met someone who lights up a room the moment they walk in, leaving you feeling more energized, seen, and inspired? That’s the power of raising the vibration.

In this year’s Mindful Moment, we’ll explore how you can intentionally show up in ways that elevate not only your own energy, but also the connection, opportunities, and collective spirit of this event, and beyond.

Trailblazing entrepreneurs and visionary investors share how they’ve transformed the startup landscape. From navigating early challenges to scaling big ideas, they’ll highlight pivotal moments, hard-won lessons, and bold moves that have defined their journeys. Discover how they’ve overcome obstacles, built impactful ventures, and forged new paths in investment and innovation- changing the future of entrepreneurship along the way.

Panelists: 

Moderator – Aikta Marcoulier, Chief Business Development Officer for the City & County of Denver, Economic Development & Opportunity Office

Makisha Boothe, Founder and Head Business Coach, Sistahbiz Global Network

Elyse Kent, Partner, Denver Ventures

Paige Goss, Founder & CEO, Point Solutions Group

Amy Parsons, President of Colorado State University, will explore what it means to invest in the future—through education, innovation, and the transformative power of technology. In conversation with Simone Ross, CEO of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Amy will discuss how CSU is preparing the next generation of leaders, fostering tech-driven solutions, and creating opportunities that shape Colorado’s workforce, economy, and community for years to come.

Over lunch you’ll enjoy a discussion led by the Luminary at your table, exploring the topics and themes introduced throughout the day. Luminaries are technology executives and community leaders who join the event to meet our attendees and share their stories through a guided small group discussion.

Rob Cohen, Chairman & CEO of IMA Financial Group and Controlling Owner/Governor of Denver’s NWSL franchise, will share the story of bringing professional women’s soccer to Denver. In conversation with Kyle Dyer, Executive Producer & Host of Colorado Inside Out, Rob will discuss the vision, challenges, and excitement of launching a new sports franchise, and what it means for the local community, fans, and the future of women’s sports in Colorado. He’ll also explore how technology is enhancing the stadium experience and why many tech companies are investing in and sponsoring women’s sports.

Raising the Vibration of Every Room You Enter
Six ways to bring energy, curiosity, and confidence into this event, and beyond.

Ever met someone who lights up a room the moment they walk in, leaving you feeling more energized, seen, and inspired? That’s the power of raising the vibration.

In this year’s Mindful Moment, we’ll explore how you can intentionally show up in ways that elevate not only your own energy, but also the connection, opportunities, and collective spirit of this event, and beyond.

Bijal Shah, CEO of Guild, will share her leadership journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way. In conversation with Suma Nallapati, CIO of the City & County of Denver, Bijal will discuss how Guild is contributing to Colorado’s growing tech ecosystem, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for the future. Through this conversation, we’ll explore how investing in people, technology, and community can drive growth, empower talent, and shape the next generation of leaders.

In her presentation, Melissa will talk through the history of disability and disfigurement and the power we have to change how the world sees human worth and beauty. She’ll explore how technology can open doors, create inclusion, and make a real difference. Attendees will leave inspired to use innovation not just to solve problems, but to uplift people and help change the world.

The 2025 WIT Conference will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

This year’s event will be hosted in a new location! Join us at the Stockyards Event Center at the National Western Center in Denver –
Stockyards Event Center | 5004 National Western Dr, Denver, CO 80216.

Tentative Schedule:8:00am – Registration / Breakfast & Networking
9:00am –  Program Start – Opening Keynote
9:55am – Mindful Moment
10:05am – Morning Panel Discussion
10:50am – Break
11:20am – Midday Keynote
11:45am – Workshop
12:15pm – Lunch + Luminary Discussions
1:20pm – Break
2:00pm – Mindful Moment
2:10pm – Afternoon Panel Discussion
2:45pm – Closing Keynote
3:15pm – Afternoon Reception
4:30pm – Event End

The WIT Conference is open to all CTA members! Anyone interested in innovative speakers, dynamic conversations, and networking with leaders from across Colorado tech should join us. This is a sell-out event so don’t wait to purchase your ticket or table! Not a member but would like more information on how to join? Please reach out to Karli Simon. 

No! This event is open to all members of CTA. Not a member but would like more information on how to join? Please reach out to Karli Simon.

Yes! Tables will be available for purchase beginning on July 15th. 

Registration will open on Monday, July 15th. 

Tickets go fast! Mark your calendars so you don’t miss out. Interested in purchasing more than one table to the event? Contact Peter Schwartz to learn more about sponsorship. 

Yes! As long as your organization is a CTA member you are eligible to purchase a ticket.

Each ticket to the WIT Conference provides access to world-renowned keynote speakers, cutting-edge technology-focused content, professional and personal development workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. At the event, you’ll be able to connect with other attendees, including our Speakers and Luminaries*. Each ticket also includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and a happy hour. 

*Luminaries are community leaders who join the event to meet our attendees and share their stories through a guided small group discussion.

When you become a WIT Conference sponsor, your organization unlocks the opportunity to elevate your brand in front of tech professionals from all across Colorado’s tech community. Each sponsorship also comes with conference tickets. Contact Peter Schwartz for additional information.

We could not put on these programs without our amazing volunteers! Please reach out to Jessica Harrison for more information on volunteering for this year’s event.

Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise and passion with us. This year’s event program planning is well underway, and speaking slots are limited. If you are interested in speaking at a future CTA event please send a short bio and summary of your speaking topic to Megan Sparks at megan_c@coloradotechnology.org. Note, due to the high volume of requests to speak, each individual email may not be responded to. Please be assured that we’ve received your information and will reach out to you if there is a great fit.

Luminaries are technology executives and community leaders who join the event to meet our attendees and share their stories through a guided small group discussion.

If you have further questions about the event or anything CTA-related, please reach out to eventsmgr@coloradotechnology.org.