Microsoft TechSpark Fellow Summit | El Paso, TX Microsoft recently hosted the TechSpark Summit in El Paso, Texas, bringing together educators, workforce leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners from across the country to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of education and workforce development. Lindsey Huber represented Northern State University as a panelist during the “AI Skilling | Adult and Postsecondary Workforce Upskilling” session, where leaders from multiple states shared strategies for preparing learners with practical AI and technology skills. The panel focused on how colleges, workforce organizations, and community partners are integrating AI into programs that align with employer needs and support long-term career readiness. Technology and AI were the subjects of three different professional presentation and growth opportunities in which Lindsey Huber, instructor of Information Systems, recently participated. SD CEO Women’s Business Conference | Aberdeen, SD Professor Huber was part of a panel discussion, “Digital Edge: Smarter Work, Stronger Business,” focused on how technology is helping businesses work more efficiently, connect with customers, and adapt in a changing world. Panelists from a variety of industries shared practical examples of tools and strategies that have Huber Part of Three Recent Conferences Huber 8 Discussion centered on the importance of continuous learning, staying adaptable, and finding simple digital habits or tools that save time and improve productivity. Overall, the panel highlighted how technology can support stronger businesses, better customer experiences, and more confident, connected professionals. The SD CEO Women's Business Conference, hosted by the SD CEO West Women's Business Center, is an annual event designed to empower, educate, and inspire female entrepreneurs and professionals. It features keynote speakers, panels, and networking sessions focused on business growth, leadership, and work-life balance. improved communication, streamlined operations, supported growth, and simplified everyday tasks. The conversation emphasized that technology does not have to be overwhelming or overly complex to make a meaningful impact. Huber highlighted efforts at Northern State University to advance AI adoption in higher education by helping students develop practical AI skills while aligning learning opportunities with workforce and campus goals. Beyond the sessions themselves, the summit provided a valuable opportunity for networking and collaboration among Microsoft TechSpark Fellows from across the nation. One of the most impactful aspects of the experience was building relationships with fellow educators, innovators, and community leaders who are working to expand access to technology, AI education, and workforce opportunities within their own regions. HUBER - continued on p. 9 NSU was represented at the Women's Business Conference by (back, L to R) Professor Candi Olson, Kaitlyn Fleegel, Jaycee Baruth, Professor Lindsey Huber, Dr. Amanda Garrison, Paige Maher, and (front) Lexi Cutler, Elana Bishop & Abiah George.
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