Tech and web professionals gather to explore AI, innovation and collaboration

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — More than 200 technology and web professionals from across Penn State's campuses gathered at Penn State Lehigh Valley June 3-5 for the annual Tech Pros + Web Pros conference, a University-wide event focused on professional development, collaboration and emerging technology.

The conference brought together information technology specialists, web professionals, digital communicators and technology leaders from throughout the Commonwealth Campuses and University Park. With 60 speakers, 40 educational sessions and 30 sponsors, attendees explored topics ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to accessibility, leadership and digital innovation.

While many of the University's technology and web professionals work behind the scenes, their work plays a critical role in supporting Penn State's teaching, research and outreach missions.

"Technology and web professionals often work behind the scenes to keep our campuses connected, secure and running smoothly," said Jon Peters, IT strategic partner at Penn State Lehigh Valley and conference organizer. "Tech Pros + Web Pros provides an opportunity for these dedicated professionals to share ideas, learn from one another, and explore emerging technologies that help Penn State better serve our students, faculty, staff and communities."

Conference sessions highlighted Penn State's growing investment in artificial intelligence and explored practical applications of emerging technologies across higher education. Attendees also participated in sessions focused on cybersecurity, web accessibility, enterprise systems, leadership development and strategic communications.

Several presentations examined how AI tools are transforming the way universities support students, faculty and staff. Other sessions focused on strengthening collaboration across campuses and building professional networks among colleagues who often serve as the technology backbone of their respective locations.

The event also provided Penn State Lehigh Valley an opportunity to showcase the campus and the region's growing role in innovation, entrepreneurship and workforce development.

"We're excited to welcome colleagues from across Penn State to the Lehigh Valley for this year's Tech Pros + Web Pros conference," Peters said. "We look forward to showcasing our campus and engaging with peers from across the commonwealth."

During her opening remarks, Penn State Lehigh Valley Chancellor Tina Richardson welcomed attendees and recognized the essential role technology professionals play across the University.

"Technology professionals are often the people who make the impossible look routine," Richardson said. "Whether you are solving complex technical challenges, protecting our systems, supporting classrooms, maintaining websites, or helping us embrace new technologies your work makes a meaningful difference across the University every day.”

The conference included keynote presentations, breakout sessions, sponsor exhibits and networking events throughout the three-day program, including an evening reception at the Da Vinci Science Center in downtown Allentown.

Tech Pros + Web Pros rotates annually among Penn State campuses, giving attendees an opportunity to experience different communities across the University while fostering collaboration among professionals whose work supports Penn State's mission every day.

In addition to professional development opportunities, the conference offered attendees a chance to experience the Lehigh Valley region, one of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing economic centers and a hub for advanced manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and technology innovation. The event reflects Penn State's ongoing commitment to collaboration, knowledge sharing and continuous learning across its statewide network of campuses and units.