ITC TechWire Blog

HP Boise’s incredible impact: How HP helped start the technology industry here in Idaho

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:48:16 GMT

HP Boise’s incredible impact: How HP helped start the technology industry here in Idaho

Boise, Idaho : While the company’s departure marks the end of an incredible era, the real credit and gratitude for HP’s success and lasting impact goes to its employees, writes - Rich Raimondi. Idaho Technology Council Founding Board Chair, 2024 ITC Hall of Fame Inductee

Upon hearing of HP’s impending departure from Boise after 53 years, I, along with thousands of other former HP employees, were very saddened. We feel for the 1,100 current employees, their families and our community at large. We wish them all the best in determining what is next in their lives now that HP is closing down the site in 2027.

But rather than dwell on feeling sad or angry, I would like to speak to and celebrate the incredible impact HP has had on Boise, the Treasure Valley and the state of Idaho over the past 53 years. In so many ways, we have been incredibly fortunate and blessed that HP chose to come to Boise in 1973.

In reflecting on this and talking with former HP colleagues, I would cite five areas of impact HP had in its five decade history here in Boise.

First, HP started the technology industry in Boise and Idaho. Without HP and Micron, which was founded four years later, there might not be a tech sector in Idaho.

In addition to HP’s contributions, there is an Idaho tech ecosystem graphic that shows numerous companies that were founded by former HP employees, many of which grew to employ hundreds and helped shape entire industries. Companies like Extended Systems, Cradlepoint, ProClarity, White Cloud Analytics, Alturas and many others.

Also, partly because of HP Boise’s success and the talent in the Boise area, other tech companies from throughout the west chose to move to Idaho. Finally, the impact over those five decades on the state GDP, employment and revenue base has been very significant.

The second impact was the fact that HP brought thousands of talented people to Boise from across the country and the world. World-class business leaders, engineers, scientists and professionals in manufacturing, supply chain, marketing, finance and HR came to work for HP Boise. In particular, executives like Ray Smelek, Dick Hackborn, Don Curtis, Doug Carnahan, Rick Belluzzo, George Mulhern, Nor Rae Spohn, Cathy Lyons, Neil Martini, Carolyn Ticknor and Von Hansen all moved here to work for HP and made a significant impact by growing HP businesses and technologies — and employment — in Boise.

They and hundreds of employees also made a difference in their communities by getting involved in nonprofits, universities and other businesses. They served on boards, on governmental task forces, as adjunct professors, as volunteers, and gave generously of their time, talent and treasure to numerous nonprofits.

And, after they retired or left the company, most HP employees chose to remain living in Boise because they loved this community and the state of Idaho. My wife, Georgiann, and I were one of those who came in 1979 thinking we would be here for two to three years and then move back to Northern California where we were raised, our families lived and HP had large operations.

But 47 years later, 30 of those with HP, we are still here. We, like so many others, found fulfilling careers, a wonderful community and chose to raise our family here.

The third impact HP had was to provide thousands of jobs for Idahoans. People found fulfilling lifelong careers in a company that valued them and their contributions. Plus, Idaho university grads could stay at home and find challenging jobs and careers at a world-class company like HP. At its peak during the 1980s and 1990s, HP employed over 7,000 people at the Boise site.

The fourth impact HP had was its special, unique and successful culture — “The HP Way.” The company was featured in books like “Good to Great,” largely because of the success of its culture which was embraced and lived by employees at all levels.

The key elements of “The HP Way” were: 1) we have trust and respect for individuals; 2) we focus on a high level of achievement and contribution; 3) we conduct our business with uncompromising integrity; 4) we achieve our common objectives through teamwork; 5) we encourage flexibility and innovation. Also, HP practices like management by objectives, open door policies, management by walking around and profit-sharing were uncommon before HP.

These values and practices impacted many other businesses and organizations in Idaho who developed similar cultures and practices. HP also provided leadership in areas that aligned with its core values, such as human rights. In the 1990s, HP established the Idaho Human Rights Award, in partnership with the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights, recognizing leaders in Idaho’s Treasure Valley who actively promoted respect, dignity, and human rights.

Finally, the HP Boise team “saved HP” during a very turbulent time in the company’s history with the introduction of the first LaserJet printer in 1984. The LaserJet is often cited as the most successful product in HP’s long history and continues to be a cornerstone of HP’s business today.

During LaserJet division reviews, HP Boise and the LaserJet product were called by various HP Board members and leaders “the lifeboat of HP” during the 1990s when all other parts of the company were struggling. It generated some 70% of the company’s profits and almost all of its growth for several years during that period.

In summary, Boise, the state of Idaho and HP were blessed beyond all expectations by Ray Smelek’s recommendation in 1973 to HP’s founders, Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard, to establish an operation in Boise. While the company’s departure marks the end of an incredible era, the real credit and gratitude for HP’s success and lasting impact here in Boise goes to the tens of thousands of former and current HP employees who made such meaningful contributions to HP, HP Boise and the Boise community over the past 53 years.

About Rich Raimondi

Richard Raimondi spent 30 years at HP, 16 as a VP/SVP in several businesses inside HP. After retiring in 2008, he served as president of Bishop Kelly for 12 years. He currently serves on the boards of St. Luke’s Health System, LED, the Idaho Film Society, the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights and the College of Idaho Advisory Council. He was the founding chair of the Idaho Technology Council from 2010-2015. Rich was born and raised in Sacramento, California. He graduated from Stanford University in 1974 with a BA in history and has an MBA from the University of Oregon.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub forinnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Meet Kevin Phithak

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:01:08 GMT

Introducing: Kevin Phithak, Staff Program Manager/Workforce Strategies, Micron Technology

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Micron Technology is a world leader in innovating memory and storage solutions that accelerate the transformation of information into intelligence, inspiring the world to learn, communicate and advance faster than ever.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

Growing up, my dad worked at Micron, and some of my favorite memories were attending the company picnics. Those events offered a chance to connect with the community, enjoy great food and activities, and even tour the fab in a cleanroom suit. Experiencing that environment at a young age sparked my interest in technology and inspired me to pursue a career in a high?tech company. Today, both of my brothers and I are proud to be second?generation Micron team members. I truly value the diverse and meaningful challenges I get to work on here—especially the opportunity to inspire students to explore careers in our industry. It’s rewarding to contribute to work that has impact and helps shape the future talent pipeline.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

The semiconductor industry is a fast?paced, continuously evolving field that presents both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. It offers the chance to work with some of the most advanced and innovative technologies—capabilities you simply won’t encounter anywhere else.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

One of my biggest early challenges was developing a deep understanding of the CTE and community college programs that prepared students for technician roles. I needed to identify which schools offered relevant curricula, determine how their programs aligned with our team’s requirements, and figure out the best way to connect and build relationships with the right stakeholders. Much of this work involved navigating each institution’s structure to determine the appropriate point of contact—whether a department chair, dean, or career counselor. Through consistent outreach and experimentation with different engagement approaches, I ultimately created a reliable system for establishing those connections. After two years of focused effort, we have built a strong network of partner schools that now serve as a pipeline for technician talent. This foundation has significantly strengthened our ability to identify, engage, and recruit students into opportunities at Micron.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Maintain a growth mindset and remain open to continuous learning. Remember that a “no” is not the end of your path—it often simply redirects you toward new opportunities.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Micron Technology HERE

Idaho Advances AI in Education with Landmark Legislation, Strengthening Future Workforce Pipeline

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:07:32 GMT

Idaho Advances AI in Education with Landmark Legislation, Strengthening Future Workforce Pipeline

ITC Brings Eastern Idaho together in 2nd Annual iTECH Summit, Tech Powered. Community Led.

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:57:49 GMT

ITC hosts iTECH Summit in Idaho Falls in partnership with area leaders.

March 18, 2026 - Idaho Falls, Idaho

The Mountain America Center in Idaho Falls has hosted plenty of events, but on March 17-18, 2026, something different happened. Something that felt less like a conference and more like a movement taking shape.

iTECH Summit 2026, Idaho Falls, a sold-out event.

"We honestly could not believe the overwhelming response to iTECH Summit 2026, in Idaho Falls," reflects Diane Temple , President and CEO of the Idaho Technology Council. "Not only did we sell out both the VIP Fireside Chat and the full-day summit, but we had a waitlist of people eager to attend. Thank you, Eastern Idaho, for showing up in such a powerful way."

The numbers tell part of the story: 200+ attendees, six featured speakers, four panel discussions, 17 entrepreneurs pitching innovations. But numbers don't capture the energy in the room, the quality of conversations in the hallways, or the sense that something is genuinely building in Eastern Idaho's technology ecosystem.

THE FOUNDATION: INFRASTRUCTURE CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER

On Tuesday evening, while most conferences would have kicked off with inspirational platitudes, iTECH Summit began with a harder conversation: infrastructure. Not the attractive stuff. The essential stuff. Power systems. Broadband. Data centers. The unsexy backbone that determines whether AI remains hype or becomes economic transformation.

Logan Browning from Idaho National Laboratory set the tone in his keynote, cutting straight to what matters: "We need energy, not for future demands but for today's demands. That has to come from Nuclear and with the AI capabilities at our hands, we can make that impact now!"

The VIP Fireside Chat that followed brought together leaders who are literally building that foundation: David Hutchison of Excipio moderating a conversation with Brock Walters from Silver Star Communications, James Buie from ValorC3 Data Centers, and Hope Morrow from Idaho National Laboratory.

These aren't theorists. These are practitioners. People who understand that Eastern Idaho's advantages—reliable power, proximity to a premier national lab, lower operating costs than major metros—only matter if we address the gaps. Broadband in rural areas. Public-private coordination. Workforce pipelines for infrastructure careers.

"iTECH and ITC are bringing the right players together," notes Jim Buie , CEO of ValorC3, "and now Eastern Idaho has the opportunity to turn that momentum into the infrastructure that will power the future of AI."

By 2030, Eastern Idaho can be a competitive hub for AI-driven industries. But only if we build the foundation now. Tuesday night's conversation made that clear—and set the stage for Wednesday's deeper exploration.

FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE: WORKFORCE MEETS AI

Wednesday morning opened with Matthew Martinez-Klingler from Melaleuca addressing the question everyone's wrestling with: How is AI actually changing the future of work? “AI doesn’t eliminate expertise—it amplifies those who know how to use it. If you’re not adopting it, others are—competitors and bad actors alike—and they’re now amplifying their capabilities beyond yours.” Martinez-Klingler continued, “A tsunami doesn’t ask if you’re ready—it just arrives. AI is no different. The organizations that thrive won’t be the ones that feared it or tried to contain it, but the ones that learned how to channel its power—through their people.”

Not in abstract terms. In practical, Idaho-employer terms. What does it mean when one of the state's largest companies starts integrating AI across operations? What skills matter? What roles evolve? How do you prepare a workforce for transformation that's happening now, not in some distant future?

The "Meet the Boss LIVE" panel that followed brought employer perspectives from across industries: Moderator: Rob Tietjen , BYU Idaho, James Holloway from Curtiss-Wright, Brock Walters from Silver Star, Dr. Lori Barber from College of Eastern Idaho, Isaac Bottelberghe from Melaleuca, and Reid Stephan from St. Luke's Health System.

For students and job seekers in the audience, this wasn't career advice—it was market intelligence. What do Idaho's major employers actually need? Where are the gaps? What makes someone competitive in 2026 and beyond?

"iTECH's success is proof of what happens when leadership, industry, and community come together to make good things happen," reflects Dr. Lori Barber , President of College of Eastern Idaho. "The Meet the Boss panel was a privilege to join, and it's exciting to be a part of the shared commitment to Idaho's technology ecosystem."

Reid Stephan , Board Chair of the Idaho Technology Council and CIO of St. Luke's Health System, reinforced the collaborative imperative: "Idaho's tech future won't be built by any one company or sector - it will be built by a community that chooses to collaborate. The iTECH Summit was a great example of the type of community collaboration that will be necessary. "

BALANCING INNOVATION AND FOUNDATIONS

Erik Madsen from EOS Worldwide addressed a tension every leader feels: How do you embrace AI innovation without losing the timeless principles that build great companies? Vision. Traction. Healthy teams.

His session on "AI & Leadership Balance" acknowledged that speed and transformation matter—but so does discipline. So does culture. So does the human element that no algorithm can replace. " In the age of AI, curiosity isn't just valuable, it's essential. The most exciting thing happening in business right now isn't AI replacing human capabilities, it's AI amplifying them. But only if we build the human foundation first. The leaders and professionals who will thrive aren't those who know the most answers today, but those who ask the best questions tomorrow and understand that balance. That's the foundation AI cannot replace." , Madsen expressed to not just the leaders in the room, but the large attendance of college students.

This wasn't anti-AI. It was pro-wisdom. A reminder that the companies that win won't just adopt tools fastest—they'll integrate those tools most thoughtfully into systems that already work.

IDAHO CAN BUILD HIGH-GROWTH COMPANIES

When Stuart Draper took the stage, you could feel the energy shift.

Stu, founder of Stukent and host of the Startups with Stu podcast, returned to the ITC stage by popular demand. His message: You can build high-growth companies from Idaho. Not just in Idaho—from Idaho.

It's not theory for Stu. It's lived experience. He built Stukent to serve universities worldwide, all while staying headquartered in Idaho. He invests in Idaho startups as an angel. He's living proof that geography isn't destiny.

Stu resoundingly exclaimed, "The east side of the state of Idaho has some tech businesses that can and will continue to shape the future of our nation, and we're all so grateful that the Idaho Technology Council brought us together. There is power in a gathering of the minds."

INNOVATION ON STAGE: THE IDEA² PITCH COMPETITION

And then came the moment that might have mattered most.

Seventeen entrepreneurs—students and aspiring founders—took the stage for the inaugural IDEA² (Innovation, Determination, Entrepreneurship, Aspiration) Pitch Competition.

Sixty seconds. One slide. Make your case.

The diversity of innovation was remarkable. AI-powered solutions. Hardware innovations. Services tackling real-world inefficiencies. Products addressing market gaps nobody else saw.

"I've been involved with the Idaho Technology Council the last two years, and you can actually see something starting to build in Eastern Idaho," notes Milo Siepert , founder of Go Gone Bait. "Go Gone Bait is part of that growth, turning materials innovation into real world solutions."

Andrew Jensen , founder of EvenHeat Microwave Plates, captured what the competition meant to participants: "I loved being a part of the Idea2Pitch competition! The networking was invaluable and the competition was a blast. I still can't believe I won audience favorite. The prize money will be a valuable asset in helping me launch the EvenHeat Microwave Plate."

Dr. Nathan Jack from BYU-Idaho understood what IDEA² represents for the broader ecosystem: "The 'Idea2 pitch' was the highlight for me. That's what the ITC tries to promote: new ideas in tech. Great addition to the program."

The judges didn't just score. They mentored. After the pitches, participants networked with industry leaders at judge cluster tables, collecting feedback and building relationships that will matter long after the scores were tallied.

The audience didn't just watch. They voted, engaged, encouraged. This is what "Community Led" looks like in practice.

All seventeen participants— Strtups, Now What?, Go Gone Bait, Rydlnk, Memora.ai, Sampleton, Literal, Bro Scrub, Keystone Motors, EvenHeat, CFO-Bot, CYNCH, Blacksheep OI, Tristan Allen, Forward Motion Prosthetics, The Digitizing Guy, and Emerald Automations—inspired the room. Whether they placed or not, they proved something essential: Idaho's entrepreneurial ecosystem is alive, diverse, and ambitious.

PRACTICAL FRAMEWORKS FOR REAL BUSINESSES

Teresa McKnight from Elevate Idaho arrived with perfect timing. Congress had just reauthorized SBIR and STTR programs, restoring access to $5 billion annually in federal innovation funding for small businesses. Her presentation on non-dilutive funding—grants that don't require giving up equity—gave entrepreneurs in the room a concrete next step. This wasn't aspirational. This was actionable.

Dustin Harris from Dustin Harris Coaching closed the afternoon with a session that felt like relief for small business owners swimming in AI hype: "The 5 Questions Every Small Business Owner Should Be Asking About AI."

"It was an honor to speak at the iTECH Summit and witness firsthand the incredible momentum building in Eastern Idaho's tech community," Harris reflects. "The energy from such a diverse and engaged audience proves that this region is becoming a true hub for innovation."

Not "which tool should I buy?" Not "will this replace my employees?" But diagnostic questions that help you identify where AI can actually save your business time, money, and mental energy. Customer service. Back office operations. Finding ideal customers.

Frameworks you can use that same afternoon. No technical background required. Just practical implementation for businesses that need results, not buzzwords.

TECHNICAL DEPTH FOR PRACTITIONERS

The "AI Tools & Technical Integration" panel, moderated by Jon Parker from AreaPro and featuring Michael Magalsky , Infovia, Stanton Smith , Amplix, David Ashby , BYU-Idaho, and Sunday Maust , Project Engineer, gave technical audiences what they needed: specifics.

What tools are actually in production? What integration challenges matter? How do you move from proof of concept to reliable deployment? What's the cost-value equation?

Not vendor pitches. Practitioner insights. The kind of technical deep dive that helps developers and IT leaders make informed decisions.

THE ENERGY EXTENDED BEYOND THE STAGE

Mark Holterman , CIO of Idaho National Laboratory, captured what made the event work: "The iTECH event in Idaho Falls was a clear success! From students to educators to technology professionals to aspiring entrepreneurs to executive leaders in technology, all came together to collaborate, innovate, inspire, learn, and invigorate technology for Idaho! I am thankful to have had the opportunity to participate and to be part of ITC!"

Marty Blair from Idaho State University felt it too : "It was great to see and feel the energy as students, business leaders and technology experts talked about ways to continue growing the East Idaho tech sector. We talked about common challenges and collaborative solutions."

That's the difference. Not just parallel sessions people sit through. Actual conversations. Common challenges. Collaborative solutions.

TECH POWERED. COMMUNITY LED.

The theme wasn't marketing copy. It was philosophy made visible.

Technology is powerful. We saw that in every session. AI transforming workflows. Infrastructure enabling innovation. Tools accelerating execution.

But community gives it purpose. We saw that too. Employers connecting with educators about workforce needs. Entrepreneurs getting feedback from investors and mentors. Students hearing directly from hiring managers about what matters.

Speakers sharing frameworks generously. Panelists having real conversations, not corporate speak. Judges investing time to mentor, not just score. Sponsors investing resources to build ecosystem, not just buy booth space.

Over two days in Idaho Falls, something became clear: Idaho can compete in AI, infrastructure, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. Not despite being Idaho. Because we're Idaho.

We have assets others don't. Access to a premier national laboratory. Reliable, cost-effective power. Lower operating costs. A quality of life that attracts talent. And a community culture that defaults to collaboration over competition.

Eastern Idaho is building something. You could see it in the sold-out venue. You could feel it in the energy. You could hear it in the conversations that continued long after sessions ended.

The infrastructure conversations from Tuesday night set foundation. The workforce discussions Wednesday morning addressed talent. The entrepreneurial pitches showcased innovation. The technical sessions provided implementation guidance. The networking created connections that will compound.

WHAT COMES NEXT

iTECH Summit 2027 is already in planning. Likely with a bigger venue—because if 2026's waitlist taught us anything, it's that demand exists.

But the real work happens between summits. The partnerships formed. The implementations executed. The students trained. The companies built. The infrastructure investments made.

The conversations started at iTECH Summit 2026 continue. In boardrooms and classrooms. At coffee shops and conference rooms. Wherever Idaho's technology community gathers to collaborate, innovate, and build.

Because this isn't about an event. It's about an ecosystem.

And Idaho's technology ecosystem—powered by technology, led by community—is just getting started.

---

*iTECH Summit 2026 was made possible by sponsors including Curtiss-Wright, Melaleuca, Silver Star Communications, ICCU, Idaho National Laboratory, Amplix, ValorC3, MoatIT, College of Eastern Idaho, BYU-Idaho, Idaho SBDC, Idaho Innovation Center, Elevate Idaho, Idaho State University, and many more partners who invest in Idaho's technology future.*

*To stay connected with Idaho's technology ecosystem year-round, visit idahotechcouncil.org*

SAVE the DATE: iTECH 2026 - Twin Falls, Idaho

Location: College of Southern Idaho

Date: June 16,17

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Meet Sheila Franek

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:08:50 GMT

Introducing: Sheila Franek, Software Architect & Could Migration Manager, at ZeroCookie.NET

Describe the business/organization you work for:

ZeroCookie is built for organizations that want to offer a simple, trustworthy promise to their visitors: we don’t track you, we don’t sell your data, and you don’t need to click through a cookie banner. Many small websites want to respect privacy but don’t realize how many tracking scripts are quietly introduced through plugins, themes, and embedded tools. As a result, they rely on intrusive consent popups they don’t actually need. ZeroCookie scans for and disables tracking scripts, provides clear remediation guidance, and verifies true no-tracking compliance through an AWS-powered scanning and verification engine—allowing sites to remove cookie banners entirely and replace them with real privacy by design.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

I started this business after hearing the same frustration over and over from clients and everyday users: cookie popups are annoying, confusing, and feel meaningless. Most people don’t understand what they’re agreeing to, and most site owners don’t fully understand what their own websites are doing behind the scenes. I realized the real problem wasn’t consent—it was that tracking had become the default, even for businesses that never intended to collect data at all. ZeroCookie was born from the idea that privacy should be simple, honest, and proven by design, not buried behind popups and legal jargon

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

What sets ZeroCookie apart is that it eliminates the need for cookie banners altogether instead of trying to manage them. Most tools in this space focus on collecting consent for tracking that’s already happening. ZeroCookie takes the opposite approach by identifying and disabling tracking at the source, then continuously verifying that no tracking is occurring. Rather than forcing users to accept confusing choices, ZeroCookie allows businesses to operate with a true no-tracking model and prove it through ongoing, automated verification. The result is genuine privacy by design, not privacy theater.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has been cutting through widespread confusion around privacy and compliance. Many businesses assume cookie banners are mandatory and don’t realize they’re often responding to a problem they don’t actually have. Overcoming this meant spending time deeply understanding the technical and regulatory landscape, then translating it into something practical and non-intimidating for nontechnical site owners. Another challenge has been building trust in a space crowded with fear-based compliance tools. We addressed that by focusing on transparency, clear explanations, and verifiable results—proving privacy through how the product works rather than through marketing claims.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Learn the fundamentals, build for the real world, and don’t chase hype. The best tech products are the ones that quietly work, scale cleanly, and solve real problems without getting in the user’s way.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Sheila on LinkedIn HERE

Check out ZeroCookie.NET HERE

Why Healthy Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Matter for Idaho’s Next Growth Phase

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:36:49 GMT

Healthy Ecosystems Don’t Happen by Accident — They’re Built

A thriving technology ecosystem is not defined by the number of companies headquartered in a state.

It’s defined by how well we help the next generation of founders succeed.

At the Idaho Technology Council, we spend a great deal of time thinking about what makes an ecosystem durable — not just fast-growing, but resilient. Growth is exciting. But sustainability requires something deeper: a healthy, supported, connected entrepreneurship pipeline.

That pipeline doesn’t build itself.

It requires capital.
It requires mentorship.
It requires visibility.
And it requires intentional platforms that elevate new ideas into real companies.

Why Entrepreneurial Health Matters Now

As Idaho’s technology sector matures, we are entering a new phase.

We have strong companies.
We have national recognition.
We have momentum.

Now the question becomes:
Are we building enough new founders to sustain that growth 10–15 years from now?

In our 2026 Strategic Plan, we introduced a new pillar: Capital & Innovation Investment .

This is not accidental.

Healthy ecosystems depend on:

Founder-to-mentor connectivity
Early-stage capital access
Cross-industry innovation
Public-private collaboration
Platforms that make innovation visible

If we want Idaho to be a premier tech destination, we must support entrepreneurs before they become headlines.

Why Pitch Competitions Matter More Than We Think

Pitch competitions are often viewed as startup theater — a stage, a deck, a winner.

But in reality, they are ecosystem infrastructure.

They create:

Confidence for first-time founders
Early validation
Investor exposure
Community visibility
Cross-sector collaboration

They send a signal:
Innovation lives here.

When founders know there is a stage waiting for them, they build differently.

That is why we are intentionally incorporating the IDEA² Pitch Competition into the iTECH Summit.

This isn’t an add-on.

It’s alignment.

The iTECH Summit brings together technology leaders, investors, operators, and policy influencers from across Idaho. By integrating IDEA² into this environment, we’re placing founders directly in front of the ecosystem they need.

Capital meets innovation.
Mentorship meets ambition.
Experience meets bold ideas.

That is how ecosystems compound.

Building the Flywheel

Healthy entrepreneurial ecosystems operate like flywheels:

Founders build companies.
Companies create talent and capital.
Talent and capital reinvest into new founders.
The cycle accelerates.

But flywheels require friction reduction.

That’s our role.

Through our Capital Advisory Group, statewide listening sessions, founder-mentor connections, and now IDEA² at iTECH, we are strengthening the connective tissue of Idaho’s innovation economy .

This is about long-term positioning.

It’s about ensuring that when national capital looks toward Idaho, it sees not just strong companies — but a strong pipeline.

Introducing IDEA² at iTECH Summit

At this year’s iTECH Summit, we will showcase emerging founders through the IDEA² Pitch Competition — a platform designed to elevate bold ideas and connect entrepreneurs to the ecosystem resources they need to scale.

If you are:

An early-stage founder with a scalable idea
A technologist ready to commercialize innovation
A small business leader evolving into tech-enabled growth
An investor looking for Idaho’s next wave

This is your stage.

More than a competition, IDEA² represents our belief that innovation should be visible, celebrated, and supported.

Because ecosystems don’t grow in silence.

They grow when leaders show up.

A Call to the Ecosystem

If you are a CEO, investor, board member, or policy leader — your presence matters.

Entrepreneurial ecosystems strengthen when experienced operators:

Serve as judges
Offer mentorship
Open networks
Invest capital
Provide real feedback

The next generation of Idaho technology leaders is watching.

The question is not whether innovation is happening.

It is whether we are creating enough access, alignment, and amplification for it to scale.

That’s the work.

And it’s why IDEA² at iTECH is more than a program addition — it’s a strategic signal about where Idaho is headed.

If we want Idaho to be known nationally as a premier tech destination, we must be intentional about nurturing the founders who will define the next decade.

Let’s build the flywheel — together.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Idaho Delegation Completes Historic Trade Mission to Taiwan, Advancing Semiconductor Workforce Development and International Business Partnerships

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 21:48:10 GMT

Meet Aditya Ravindra

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:17:53 GMT

Introducing: Aditya Ravindra, Enterprise AI & Analytics Expert, InterMountain AI Consultants

Describe the business/organization you work for:

InterMountain AI Consultants helps small and medium-sized businesses transform data chaos into competitive advantages. I specialize in sifting through complex details and compiling them into actionable insights—and no, it's not as boring as it sounds. Here's a real example from this week: A local Idaho-based moving and storage company was drowning in spreadsheets, unable to see their financial picture in realtime. I built them a custom financial dashboard that consolidates revenue, expenses, and profitability metrics into live visualizations they can access from any device. Now their leadership team makes data-driven decisions in minutes instead of spending hours digging through Excel files. The dashboard transforms their raw operational data into clear insights about which services are most profitable, seasonal trends, and cash flow patterns. Simply put: data talks, I listen, and I help business leaders join the conversation.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

Scope and impact. I currently work as a Senior Data Consultant at a Fortune 5 healthcare company, where every day presents new challenges at enterprise scale. While pursuing my Master's in AI from UT Austin, I've found it incredibly rewarding to apply cutting-edge theories to realworld problems. However, working within a large organization often means being channeled into specific projects. I wanted to branch out—to create customized solutions across diverse industries and help regional businesses access enterprise-level AI expertise. I need variety to thrive, and consulting allows me to bring Fortune 500 methodologies to local Idaho businesses who need them most.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Continuous education and cutting through the AI hype. My approach isn't just about degrees and credentials—it's about staying on the cutting edge. I regularly complete the latest training workshops, AI certifications, and technical courses to understand what's actually emerging in AI versus what's just buzzwords. This knowledge lets me guide businesses toward practical, ROI-driven solutions rather than expensive experiments. I translate complex AI capabilities into business language and help leaders understand what will actually move the needle for their specific operations. Think of me as an AI translator who speaks both data science and business outcomes.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge is navigating client fear and skepticism around AI. Many business leaders feel overwhelmed by AI hype or worry about implementation complexity. I've turned this into my superpower—I guide clients through the noise toward what's genuinely useful for their specific needs, distinguishing practical tools from empty promises. The second challenge is the "how"—designing the optimal customized solution from thousands of possible approaches. While sometimes overwhelming, this is also the most rewarding part. Each client's unique data environment requires creative problem-solving, and finding that perfect fit between their needs and the right AI tools keeps the work engaging.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Three pieces of advice: First, just start. Don't wait for perfect conditions—pick a course, open your laptop, and begin. We're at the ground floor of AI, and this opportunity won't last forever. Second, embrace failure as education. Not every approach will work, but each failure teaches you what will succeed next time. The projects that work best are often built on lessons from the ones that didn't. Third, find ways to make it fun. Every job has monotonous moments, but approaching AI problems creatively keeps both learning and application enjoyable. The intersection of curiosity, persistence, and practical application is where real value emerges.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Aditya on LinkedIn HERE

Check out InterMountain AI Consultants HERE

From 'I Can't Code' to 'I Just Built That': My AI-Powered Learning Journey

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 01:01:27 GMT

From 'I Can't Code' to 'I Just Built That': My AI-Powered Learning Journey

Three months ago, if you had told me I'd be writing HTML code, reading through stylesheets, and launching custom landing pages for the Idaho Technology Council, I would have laughed. Not because I didn't want to learn—but because "coding" felt like someone else's domain. I had my lane. They had theirs.

Then I got curious.

The Shift: From Consumer to Creator

Like many leaders, I'd been using AI tools to write faster, research better, and think more clearly. But I hadn't considered that these tools could help me build things I'd previously built using drag and drop features which worked but also very time consuming.

The breakthrough came when I stopped asking "Can AI do this for me?" and started asking "Can AI teach me to do this myself?"

Working with Claude, I didn't just get a landing page delivered to me. I got to make one. Together. And then another. And another.

What Actually Happened

Here's the thing nobody tells you about "vibe coding" with AI: it's not about becoming a developer. It's about becoming conversational with technology.

I'd describe what I needed: "This section needs to feel more welcoming. Can we add testimonials here? The Idaho map should be more prominent."

Claude would generate the code. I'd look at it—really look at it. Ask questions. "What does this section do? Why is this formatted this way?"

Then I'd start making my own edits. Small ones at first. Changing colors. Adjusting text. Then bigger ones. Restructuring sections. Adding new components.

The Leveling of the Playing Field

This matters beyond my personal learning curve.

As CEO of a technology trade association, I'm constantly advocating for Idaho's tech ecosystem, talking about innovation, championing digital transformation. But there was still this gap between my advocacy and my personal technical fluency.

Now? I can have different conversations. I understand what's possible. I can prototype ideas quickly. I can evaluate vendor proposals with fresh eyes. I can teach my team to do the same.

For the Curious, Not the Credentialed

Here's what I want other nonprofit leaders, association executives, and "non-technical" professionals to know:

You don't need a computer science degree. You need curiosity and willingness to try.

You don't need to become an expert. You need to become conversant enough to ask better questions and make informed decisions.

You don't need expensive developers for everything. You need to know when to DIY and when to bring in specialists—and AI helps you understand that distinction.

The barrier to entry for digital creation has fundamentally changed. The question is no longer "Can I afford to build this?" but "Am I willing to learn how?"

The Broader Implications

This shift has implications for:

Workforce development : We're preparing people for jobs that require "traditional" coding when AI-assisted development might be the actual future
Organizational agility : Teams that embrace AI collaboration can iterate faster and reduce dependency on external resources
Leadership literacy : Executives who understand how to work with AI tools are better positioned to guide their organizations through digital transformation
Economic access : Smaller organizations and rural communities (like many ITC members) can compete with better-resourced peers

The Idaho Advantage

Idaho has always punched above its weight in technology because we're scrappy, curious, and willing to figure things out. We don't have the luxury of waiting for someone else to solve our problems.

This AI-collaborative approach to building? It's very Idaho. Very, "let me see if I can do this myself first."

And it's working.

An Invitation

If you've been curious about AI but haven't found your entry point, consider this: What's something you've always outsourced because you "didn't know how"? What if you asked AI to teach you instead of just doing it for you?

The landing pages I built aren't perfect. They don't need to be. They're mine. I understand every section. I can modify them when priorities shift. I can teach others to do the same.

That's power. That's capability. That's the future of work.

And it's available to anyone willing to ask: "What if I could?"

Then do.

- Diane Temple, ITC President and CEO

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Meet Scott Manning

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 20:02:50 GMT

Introducing: Scott Manning, CEO & Founder, CalmLogic

Describe the business/organization you work for:

For too long, IT and other high-pressure professionals have grappled with stereotypes of poor communication and lacking emotional regulation, often leading to burnout, health challenges, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. At CalmLogic, I teach you to engineer your internal emotional network with the same logic you apply in your craft. Just using a different tool set. Our corporate workshops, event services, breathwork sessions, and retreats provide the education and experiences necessary to cultivate emotional intelligence, empowering professionals to navigate stress effectively and become their best, most resilient selves.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

After years in the industry accumulating lots of certs and climbing the ladder in many different roles, I noticed some unhealthy trends in myself and my colleagues. High levels of burnout, stress, poor work/life balance, and poor communication skills. This led to unhealthy coping mechanisms, most commonly just numbing ourselves. The method of numbing is different for many, but common ones were alcohol, cannabis, video games, doom scrolling, binge watching TV/movies, hiding in our home labs, hyper-focusing on work, etc.

I eventually couldn't sustain the cycle and hit the bottom - job on the line due to lack of motivation, marriage on the fence from constant numbing, dark thoughts, health issues creeping in, and depression. Climbing out of that hole, with the help of my therapist and coach, I found a better way to face life's challenges than numbing. It was to actually face and feel everything that was coming up. Scary, right!

Being logically minded, I needed to understand how those emotions worked and why they snuck up on me when they did. This led me to the world of Emotional Intelligence and mindfulness. I realized I could work through my emotional and mental health struggles using some of the same methods I used in my day job. I could troubleshoot my internal network, find the root causes of the issues, escalate when necessary, and make the necessary changes to fix it. I just needed to learn how to use this different set of tools.

Now I spend my days teaching other professionals how to use those evidence-based tools along with science-backed education to reframe how you view your internal world. I want to share what I've learned with other IT, and non IT, professionals in hopes that maybe they can change course before hitting the bottom like I did .

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

The difference between CalmLogic and other emotional intelligence or mindfulness companies is in experience. I come from 20 years of experience in the IT space. Specifically in the networking and Wi-Fi world. I have seen and lived first hand many of the stresses, pressures, and unhealthy patterns that are accepted as normal in the industry. I can speak your language and relate to your experience, because there is a really good chance I've been there too.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge is convincing other companies that this is a problem that is worth addressing. Many recognize and see the issues and patterns, but for some reason refuse to work on them and instead accept the "this is just how it is" mentality. Watching your employees, coworkers, or even yourself struggle with mental health issues, burnout, and overwhelm is not normal and can be addressed directly. You just have to be willing to say yes.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

The IT industry is a fascinating place. It is equally the fastest growing industry while also one of the industries with jobs most under threat from AI. My advice would be to jump into the space knowing you will likely need to pivot and learn new skills or technology quickly to stay relevant. Don't assume you'll be doing the same thing even a few years down the road. Be an observer of the industry and watch the waves form that you can jump on to propel yourself further.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn HERE

Check out CalmLogic HERE

WiTECH Summit Launches with Impact: Tech Powered. Women Led.

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:08:04 GMT

WiTECH Summit Launches with Impact:

Tech Powered. Women Led.

WiTECH Summit Launches with Impact: Tech Powered. Women Led.

Boise, Idaho — Over two days of programming, more than 200 leaders, technologists, educators, and community partners gathered at JUMP Boise for the inaugural WiTECH Summit and its pre-summit VIP Fireside Chat, creating a powerful moment for women in technology across Idaho.

VIP Fireside Chat Sets the Stage

The summit experience began December 9th with an intimate, invitation-only VIP Fireside Chat that brought together the Idaho Technology Council Board of Trustees, summit speakers and panelists, sponsors, and special guests for an evening of meaningful connection ahead of the main event.

Hosted by Amy Gile, Founder and CEO of Silverdraft Computing , the fireside conversation featured candid dialogue about the opportunities and challenges facing women in technology. Gile, whose company provides high-performance computing solutions to the entertainment and engineering industries, guided the evening with warmth and insight, interviewing a notable technology leader whose insights on navigating high-stakes environments, breaking barriers in male-dominated industries, and building influential careers resonated deeply with attendees.

The intimate, off-the-record format created space for honest conversation about leadership, mentorship, and building sustainable careers in tech—the kind of vulnerability and wisdom that's only possible when the spotlight is dimmed and the cameras are off.

The VIP event offered attendees a chance to connect personally with the next day's speakers, build relationships with fellow leaders, and set intentions for the summit ahead. The intimate setting fostered the kind of authentic conversation that would carry through to the main event—creating community, not just content.

A Full Day of Leadership, Innovation, and Connection

On December 10th, the summit opened its doors to over 200 attendees for a full day of programming under the theme "Tech Powered. Women Led." Co-emceed by Diane Temple, President and CEO of the Idaho Technology Council, and Sheli Gartman, Founder of Whole Human Consulting, the event balanced inspiration with action, delivering practical insights alongside powerful storytelling.

"This sum mit was about more than technology," said Temple. "It was about visibility, confidence, and equipping women at every stage of their career to lead with clarity and courage in a rapidly changing world."

Leading Through Change: Navigating Transformation with Courage

The summit opened with Leading Through Change: Women Shaping the Future of Work, moderated by ITC Board Vice Chair Jessica Cafferty of RNG Group. The panel tackled the unprecedented pace of technological and organizational change reshaping leadership today.

Panelists included:

Brenda Jaimes , Senior Vice President and Head of Value Management Office at TechCU, who shared insights on guiding leadership teams through competing priorities in high-stakes environments

Cindy Blendu, Chief Transformation Officer at Clearwater Analytics, who has led transformational change across Deloitte, BCG, and major M&A integrations, offering a masterclass in driving meaningful change while maintaining stability

Ridhi Tatineni, CEO of Chelo Software Lab, a women-led consultancy, who spoke about the unique challenges and freedoms of founder-led leadership and helping teams adapt quickly while staying aligned with long-term vision

Matisse Weigel, ERP Applications Senior Manager at Idaho Power, who brought perspective from mission-critical infrastructure, discussing how to implement digital transformation where stability, safety, and continuity matter every single day.

Featured Voices: Stories of Courage and Reinvention

Throughout the day, three featured speakers shared deeply personal and actionable insights:

Nikita Rubocki , who described herself as an "unintentional technologist," shared her winding journey into technology leadership. Her story resonated with attendees who may not have followed traditional tech pathways, proving that diverse backgrounds and unexpected pivots can lead to profound impact.

Elizabeth Hopkins, President of Sapidyne Instruments, delivered a powerful keynote titled "From Small Town to CEO: The Power of Trying What Scares You." Hopkins's story of building a scientific instruments company from rural Idaho demonstrated that geography is not destiny—and that courage, not pedigree, often determines success.

Debbie Trujillo, retired Corporate Responsibility Officer and philanthropist, brought decades of leadership wisdom to her talk on managing mental load in high-performance environments. Her practical frameworks for protecting energy and well-being resonated deeply with women navigating the invisible labor of leadership. An emotional and powerful moment as shared the power to "pause".

It's Never Too Late: Embracing Digital Fluency at Any Stage

One of the day's most inspiring panels, It's Never Too Late to Learn: Women Who Have Embraced the Digital Shift, shattered the limiting belief that there's an age limit for entering or advancing in tech careers.

Moderated by Brittany Giudici, Director of Communications at Microsoft and founder of Treasure Valley Women in Tech, the panel featured four women whose career journeys proved that continuous learning and bold reinvention are possible at any stage:

Lisa Guess, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience at Ericsson, who holds both an MBA and a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering and has spent 30+ years navigating technology evolution from mainframes to 5G and AI—a living example of the power of continuous learning across decades

Amy Brumfield , Executive Director of Institutional Research and Government Affairs at College of Eastern Idaho, who bridges data, research, and policy in higher education

Betsy Davies, Vice President of Operations at Idaho Technology Council, who has supported Idaho's entire tech ecosystem and embraced digital tools to scale impact

Lori Meyer, Linux Engineer at apiphani, whose story of pivoting from Intel engineering to full-time motherhood and back to technology as a Linux engineer embodied the panel's message that it's never too late to return, reinvent, or restart

AI 2.0: Cutting Through the Hype

The afternoon session AI 2.0: 10X Your Tech and Business with Smart Tools moved beyond AI hype to practical, real-world application. Moderated by Marlene Myers, Senior Vice President at U.S. Bank and Co-Founder of ConnectHER Idaho, the discussion focused on how women across technical and non-technical roles can position themselves to lead in the AI era.

Panelists included:

Darrel Cherry, Distinguished Engineer at Clearwater Analytics, who shared insights on integrating AI across investment management platforms at enterprise scale

Paige Giese , Data Strategist at buildAIdaho, who emphasized that AI is only as good as the data strategy behind it and warned against common mistakes businesses make rushing into AI adoption

Erin-Todd Hansen, Principal Solution Architect at Intuit, who discussed AI-powered financial solutions and the architectural practices that enable AI at scale

Director of Solutions Engineering at HP and Co-Founder of Women Innovators (W.IN), who championed diversity in AI leadership and discussed what "AI fluency" really means for women leaders

Backcountry to the Boardroom: Uniquely Idaho Leadership

A standout lunchtime panel, Backcountry to the Boardroom: Leadership Lessons from Idaho's Outdoors, offered a distinctly Idaho perspective on leadership, resilience, and renewal.

Moderated by Jennifer Dempsey of Dempsey Foster PLLC, the conversation explored how lessons from navigating Idaho's rugged wilderness—assessing risk, building resilience, leading authentically under pressure—translate directly to boardroom leadership.

Panelists included:

Jeanne McFall, PE, MS, President of RIVHAB Engineering & Earthworks, a Professional Engineer whose work on complex environmental and engineering projects requires precision and calculated risk assessment both in the field and in business

Shannon Madsen , District Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration's Boise Office, who guides small businesses through uncertain economic landscapes and shared parallels between navigating backcountry terrain and business challenges

The panel resonated deeply with Idaho's culture and identity, grounding leadership lessons in the landscapes that define the state.

Redefining Balance: Sustainable Careers in High-Pressure Environments

The day's final panel, Redefining Balance: Building Sustainable Tech Careers, tackled one of the most critical challenges facing women in technology: how to build careers that sustain over decades, not just peak and burn out.

Moderated by Paula Kluksdal, Partner at Hawley Troxell, the panel addressed burnout, boundaries, energy management, and the particular challenges women face balancing caregiving responsibilities with demanding careers.

Panelists included:

Sarah Marshall from Microsoft, who shared strategies for maintaining sustainability in one of the world's most demanding tech environments

Amy Johnson, Director of Government Affairs, Sales and Marketing at Syringa Networks, who discussed balancing wide-ranging responsibilities across multiple domains

Jinju Beineke , Senior Director of Engineering Technology at Photronics, who spoke about building psychological safety in high-precision, high-performance engineering teams

Eren Barker, Program Manager of Employee Well-Being at St. Luke's Health System, who brought professional expertise on burnout prevention and workplace wellness directly to the conversation

The panel offered both personal vulnerability and practical frameworks, giving attendees permission to prioritize their well-being alongside their ambition.

The Female Stack: A New Framework for the Machine Economy

The summit concluded with a powerful closing session from co-emcee Sheli Gartman, Founder of Whole Human Consulting. Gartman introduced attendees to The Female Stack—a framework for understanding and leveraging women's unique wiring, strengths, and tools as an advantage in the machine economy.

Rather than asking women to adapt to systems built for different brains and bodies, Gartman challenged the audience to recognize their inherent strengths—relational intelligence, systems thinking, adaptive capacity—as exactly what's needed to lead in an AI-powered world. The closing left attendees energized, equipped, and ready to lead from their authentic strengths.

Community Support and Partnership

WiTECH Summit 2025 was made possible through the generous support of sponsors and ecosystem partners whose investment in women, innovation, and Idaho's technology workforce was evident throughout the event.

Sponsors included: Regence BlueShield of Idaho, ICCU, Perkins Coie, Technology Credit Union, Hawley Troxell, Western Governors University, Meta, Microsoft, and St. Luke's Health System.

Their support enabled inclusive access, student and educator participation, and a summit experience that reflected the depth and diversity of Idaho's tech community.

Additionally, ITC partnered with fellow nonprofits focused on women and girls in tech: Treasure Valley Women in Tech, ConnectHER Idaho, Women Innovators (W.IN), and Health Tech Idaho —many of whom participated on panels and brought their communities to the summit.

Large events take time, resources, and people. We offer a sincere thank you to our ITC Ambassadors - Nate Hebbert, Selfware Consulting, Jeremy Calvin , Experis, Oliver MacDonald , QTexAI, and Kurt Temple, Technologent.

Looking Ahead: WiTECH is Here to Stay

The success of the inaugural WiTECH Summit signals a strong appetite for programming that centers women, technology, and leadership in meaningful and actionable ways. The Idaho Technology Council plans to build on this momentum with year-round engagement through the WiTECH Community, which will launch soon with in-person and virtual "Coffee Chats" to sustain connection, mentorship, and professional growth.

Photo credit: Our amazing volunteer, Eric Larson.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Meet Zach Adams

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:03:51 GMT

Introducing: Zach Adams, CEO & Co-Founder, Pitch Aeronautics

Describe the business/organization you work for:

I'm the co-founder of Pitch Aeronautics. Pitch Aeronautics provides weather-based data insights to electric utilities enabling them to push more power through existing lines, increase reliability, and decrease wildfire risk. We use a vertical stack of technologies including AI/ML weather software, IoT power-line mounted weather stations, and a ultraprecise drone which can install these sensors and other components on energized power lines.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

When I was finishing up my dissertation I felt like the technology I developed would just be stranded in academia. I brought this up to Ian Gibson, a friend and classmate of mine from the Air Force Academy, and he suggested we see if we could start a business to commercialize it. We certainly would have never guessed we would end up helping utilities increase electric transmission capacity!

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

We've made the only drone in the world capable of installation different components on energized power-lines. This platform enables us to install IoT sensors and other components at far lower costs and ultimately aggregate better data for utilities. We use this data to provide better forecasts for transmission capacity, wildfire risk, and more.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

Every stage of business has had it's challenges and I am thankful we've gotten to learn and grow from each one of them. When we were first starting out it was learning how to communicate and pinpoint the value of the technology. Now it's figuring out how to deliver for all the customer orders, juggling HR, and working with strategic partners. It's the challenges that make it fun!

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Talk to as many customers as you can

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Zach on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Pitch Aeronautics HERE

Meet Ismar Vallecillos

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 21:39:19 GMT

Introducing: Ismar Vallecillos, Western Governors University, Regional Director of Operations

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Western Governors University (WGU) is a nonprofit, fully online, accredited university driven by a mission to expand access to high quality, affordable education for working adults across the United States. Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors, WGU pioneered the competency-based education model, allowing students to progress through coursework based on their ability to demonstrate mastery, rather than seat time. Serving over 195,000 students and boasting more than 360,000 graduates, WGU offers bachelor's and master's degree programs in high-demand fields such as business, information technology, health professions (including nursing), and teaching. WGU is recognized for its innovative use of technology, commitment to student success, and deep partnerships with employers and workforce development agencies nationwide. The university works to close skill gaps, promote social mobility, and deliver measurable economic impact through education that is accessible, equitable, and responsive to regional needs.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

What sets WGU apart is its competency-based model, which lets students advance by demonstrating mastery—not by spending a set amount of time in class. Combined with flat-rate tuition, personalized mentoring, and fully online programs, WGU offers a flexible, affordable, and career aligned education that adapts to the lives of working adults—unlike most traditional or even other online universities.

Share something you love about Idaho, or a specific community you serve, or any special projects you would like to share with our followers, or even something specific you love or want to share about the company you represent.

My connection to Idaho began with my 2-year mission, which placed me in various towns and cities across eastern Idaho. As an education professional, I lived in Rexburg while working for BYU-Idaho. Having lived in various rural communities, I became aware of the need for flexible and affordable education among rural communities. With this understanding in mind, I have labored to expand awareness of the value that WGU's online degrees can bring to members of these communities. Online education is the key to helping rural communities to train, educate, and keep their members within the community.

What inspired you to join the ITC?

I was inspired to join the Idaho Technology Council because I believe in its mission to foster innovation, drive economic growth, and elevate Idaho’s position as a leader in tech. As someone passionate about expanding access to education and career opportunities—especially in underserved regions—I saw the ITC as a natural fit. It offers a powerful platform to connect industry, education, and workforce leaders to shape Idaho’s tech future in meaningful, forward-thinking ways.

What are you looking forward to the most about serving as a board member of the ITC?

As a leader in education, I am looking forward to contributing to Idaho's tech future through workforce development. At the heart of any industry's growth is a well prepared and skilled workforce. This can only be accomplished through the right collaborative environment between educational institutions and leading industries.

What do you like to do in your free time, or anything else you would like to share with our network?

As a leader in education, I’m most looking forward to contributing to Idaho’s tech future by helping build a stronger, more agile workforce. At the heart of any thriving industry is a pipeline of well-prepared, highly skilled professionals. I believe this can only be achieved through intentional collaboration between educational institutions and leading industries. By serving on the ITC board, I’m excited to help bridge those sectors—aligning academic programs with real-time workforce needs, promoting access to tech career pathways across all communities in Idaho, and supporting innovation that keeps Idaho competitive. It’s an incredible opportunity to shape not only the future of tech in our state, but to create sustainable upward mobility for the next generation of talent.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Ismar on LinkedIn HERE

Check out WGU HERE

Mission 10K: Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Through Technology, Capital, and Community

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 03:15:02 GMT

Mission 10K: Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Through Technology, Capital, and Community

Eagle, ID — The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) , in partnership with the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance (VEA) , proudly hosted Mission 10K, a hands-on workshop designed to equip veteran- and spouse-owned businesses with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to pursue growth opportunities through technology and access to capital.

Held at Alturas HQ in Eagle, Idaho, Mission 10K centered on a Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant Workshop, where participants received step-by-step guidance to complete and submit live applications for the $10,000 Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant. The event combined practical instruction, peer networking, and mentorship support — creating an environment focused on action, momentum, and results.

Bridging the Gap Between Service and Entrepreneurship

Mission 10K was intentionally designed to bridge the gap between emerging technology, business readiness, and veteran entrepreneurship. By demystifying grant access and digital tools, the workshop empowered participants to move from interest to execution — many leaving with completed applications and new clarity around next steps for their businesses.

“It was a pleasure to bring such a great platform of knowledge to veteran entrepreneurs,” said Tim Munkres , ITC Mentorship Coordinator. “It was an honor to be in the room with them, knowing that they also stood and fought for our freedom. They inspire in many ways. Co-hosting with Isaac Belden from the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance was a great learning experience. His leadership and guiding advice helped build a great event, bringing his members together with the ITC to further bridge the gap between AI, tech, and veteran entrepreneurs.”

“If something here fits your business, go for it. Apply. Put your story out there,” said Isaac Belden , Founder of the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance. “And if you need help getting it dialed in, reach out. VEA is here to help Idaho veterans and spouses chase opportunities, build momentum, and secure the resources you need to grow.”

Looking Ahead: Expanding Digital Literacy and Access

Mission 10K reflects a broader commitment to ensuring entrepreneurs — especially those who have served — have access to the education, tools, and resources needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

“The Idaho Technology Council is committed to supporting organizations that assist entrepreneurs by delivering programs, grants, and education that strengthen digital literacy,” said Diane Temple , President and CEO of the Idaho Technology Council.
“In 2026, ITC will host additional in-person and virtual digital literacy education opportunities in partnership with Rural LISC, Verizon, and other local and national organizations.”

Through continued collaboration and intentional investment, ITC and its partners are working to build a more inclusive, tech-enabled entrepreneurial ecosystem across Idaho.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Building Idaho’s Innovation Pipeline: From Student Ideas to Industry Impact

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 03:48:07 GMT

Building Idaho’s Innovation Pipeline: From Student Ideas to Industry Impact

Moscow, ID — During Idaho Entrepreneurs Week 2025 , the Idaho Technology Council (ITC) , in partnership with the University of Idaho College of Business and Economics , played a central role in advancing Idaho’s innovation ecosystem — connecting students, founders, educators, and industry leaders across multiple days of programming focused on the future of work, entrepreneurship, and technology-enabled growth.

Hosted on the University of Idaho campus in Moscow , ITC’s engagement across Day 3 and Day 4 highlighted a clear and intentional throughline: supporting talent at every stage — from student ideation to scalable innovation.

Day 3: Inspiring the Next Generation at Idaho Pitch

On Day 3 of Idaho Entrepreneurs Week, ITC President and CEO Diane Temple joined University of Idaho faculty and leadership to support Idaho Pitch , a signature student pitch competition showcasing emerging entrepreneurial talent.

Temple delivered a keynote to students centered on turning ideas into impact — emphasizing the importance of confidence, communication, and adaptability alongside technical skill. She also served as a pitch competition judge , offering direct feedback and encouragement as student teams presented innovative business concepts.

The event highlighted the depth of talent across the University of Idaho, with students demonstrating not only strong ideas, but also collaboration, professionalism, and readiness to lead.

The success of Idaho Pitch was made possible through the dedication of University of Idaho faculty and staff, including George Tanner, Director of the Idaho Entrepreneurs Program , Tiff Reiss, Adjunct Faculty , Britnee Christen, Student Experience Coordinator , and Lori Rock, Marketing and Communications Manager , whose collective efforts ensured a meaningful and high-impact experience for participating students.

Day 4: Idaho Innovation & Tech Forum — Building Forward Together

Momentum continued on Day 4 with the Idaho Innovation & Tech Forum , co-hosted by the Idaho Technology Council and the University of Idaho as part of Idaho Entrepreneurs Week.

The forum convened entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration are actively shaping Idaho’s economy and workforce.

The morning opened with a keynote from Diane Temple , titled:

“AI and the Future of Work: See the Shift and How We Build Forward.”

Her remarks challenged attendees to move beyond awareness and into action — emphasizing the responsibility of leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs to intentionally shape how technology impacts people, work, and opportunity across Idaho.

A featured Fireside Chat bridged industry and academia, featuring University of Idaho leaders deeply engaged in research, entrepreneurship, and applied learning:

Tiff Reiss , Adjunct Faculty in Entrepreneurship
Arch H. , Assistant Vice President for Research
Matthew Swenson , Director of Interdisciplinary Capstone Design & Associate Professor

Moderated by George Tanner , the conversation explored how interdisciplinary education, applied research, and industry partnerships translate into real-world innovation.

The forum concluded with Innovation Lightning Chats , spotlighting Idaho founders building across sectors:

Shawn Schneider , Founder of Eldil Ai.ai
David Foucachon , Co-Founder & CEO of Veritas Surgery
Jeff Mau , Founder & Head of Strategy at Tenicor

Moderated by Stefan Haney , Managing Principal at Vantage International, the session underscored how vision, execution, and adaptability are driving innovation across Idaho.

Building the Future, Together

Reflecting on the impact of Idaho Entrepreneurs Week and the importance of connecting students to industry, Mya Groza, Associate Dean and Professor of Marketing at the University of Idaho College of Business and Economics, emphasized the value of experiential learning and collaboration:“From Idaho Pitch to the Innovation & Tech Forum, we saw ideas move from the classroom to real-world application,” said Groza.
“These experiences help students understand how innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology intersect — and how they can lead in that space.”

Reinforcing ITC’s long-term commitment to Idaho’s innovation ecosystem, Diane Temple highlighted the organization’s statewide approach: “The Idaho Technology Council is committed to supporting Idaho’s technology ecosystem statewide,” said Temple.
“By partnering on events like this and traveling across the state, we’re intentionally engaging with students — our future leaders — as well as small business owners and entrepreneurs to ensure innovation and opportunity reach every region of Idaho.”

Through continued collaboration, on-campus engagement, and community partnerships, the Idaho Technology Council and the University of Idaho are helping ensure Idaho’s next generation of innovators is prepared to lead — from the classroom to the marketplace.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hu b for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Meet Sarah Marshall

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 23:56:16 GMT

Introducing: Sarah Marshall, Microsoft, Sr. Director, Public Affairs

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. The company's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. I sit within the Public Affairs team in our Corporate and Legal Affairs department where my role is to lead the company's communications around a $4B USD initiative to provide AI tools and skilling to global education and nonprofit organizations for Microsoft Elevate.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Very few companies can say they've shaped the technology sector for fifty years—Microsoft marked its half-century milestone in 2025. The company began with a vision to have a personal computer on every desk and now focuses on harnessing artificial intelligence to drive global economic growth and opportunity. Microsoft’s decades of influence highlight the importance of working together to ensure technology is used responsibly. With AI, we know it's vital that people are given the skills necessary to use it safely and to their advantage.

We moved to Idaho nearly 14 years ago to grow our business and raise our boys. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else! I’ve been privileged to work in this beautiful state, while also representing a multinational organization, and I believe that perspective has been valuable to both my employer and me personally. At Microsoft, I’m proud that we’re teaming up with organizations like Future Farmers of America, 4-H, the American Teachers Federation, and the National Education Association to introduce technology into classrooms across all 50 states. I believe children need exposure to opportunities to imagine themselves achieving them, and these programs play a significant role in broadening their horizons.

What inspired you to join the ITC?

The tech scene in Idaho is growing and has so much to offer. I’m inspired and incredibly grateful to join ITC to support the innovators, organizations and policy positions that will ensure Idaho remains a great state for generations to come.

What are you looking forward to the most about serving as a board member of the ITC?

I’m most excited to learn firsthand about the issues that matter to local business leaders, start-ups, and innovators who drive our state’s economic growth. Supporting a healthy, thriving business environment in Idaho is a shared goal, and I value the opportunity to learn from such an impressive and talented group of individuals on the board. Their diverse experiences and perspectives will be invaluable as we work together to strengthen our community and champion the interests of businesses across Idaho.

What do you like to do in your free time, or anything else you would like to share with our network?

Who has free time! My husband and I are typically busy with kids’ sports, but we also cherish the time and know it won’t last forever. Our family loves the outdoors and if we aren’t in a gym or field somewhere watching our kids compete, we’re typically on the mountain skiing, or you can find the boys golfing or in a river fishing. Aren’t we all so lucky to live here!

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Microsoft HERE

Meet Taylor Kaufman

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:43:35 GMT

Introducing: Taylor Kaufman, Account Executive, Nile

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Nile is a next generation wired and wireless LAN that instantly prevents ransomware attacks, continuously monitors and tunes its performance, and automates management.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

Founded by former Cisco CEO John Chambers and Chief Development Officer Pankaj Patel, Nile's industry experience is unmatched and learning from leaders like them is what made me choose Nile.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Nile's takes a wholly unique approach to addressing network complexity, cybersecurity, and financial burdens. Through cloud native, AI orchestrated provisioning and built-in security functions, Nile eliminates bolt-on tools and provides the functionality of a next generation LAN; without the headache of refresh cycles.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

The industry we work in is inherently risky. Technology changes daily and people structures are changing more frequently than ever. These changes have affected my career trajectory from a focus on professional services to technology products. I've learned that knowledge determines your approach but effort and attitude determine your results. I learned not to be afraid to try something new and fail; as long as you get back up and keep trying.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Be yourself and let your passion show. We're all humans working in an, increasingly inhuman, industry. People gravitate towards those who are authentic, kind, and supportive.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Taylor on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Nile HERE

Idaho Technology Council Celebrates “Uncharted Brilliance” at 2025 Hall of Fame Gala

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:20:28 GMT

Idaho Technology Council Celebrates “Uncharted Brilliance” at 2025 Hall of Fame Gala

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 20, 2025

Boise, ID — On Thursday, October 16, more than 400 guests gathered at the Boise Centre for the Idaho Technology Council’s 2025 Hall of Fame Gala, an evening that celebrated visionaries shaping Idaho’s innovation landscape. Themed "Uncharted Brilliance," the Gala honored those whose leadership, invention, and service are charting bold new frontiers in technology and community impact.

A Night of Inspiration and Leadership

The program began with Carolyn Holly, who celebrated her 10th year as Emcee, and Aamir Khan, Chief Technology Officer of Idaho Central Credit Union, this year’s Presenting Sponsor. The pair welcomed guests with remarks honoring the evening’s spirit of innovation and inclusion.

Governor Brad Little was among the distinguished guests, attending to recognize Tom Kealey, Director of the Idaho Department of Commerce, who received this year’s Public Policy Champion Award.

Returning for a special appearance at the VIP Reception was Rich Raimondi, 2024 Hall of Fame Inductee and co-founder of both the Idaho Technology Council and the Hall of Fame Gala .

Hall of Fame Inductee – Brent J. Stacey

Brent J. Stacey, former Associate Laboratory Director at the Idaho National Laboratory, was inducted as the 29th member of the ITC Hall of Fame. His pivotal role in the creation of the Idaho Regional Optical Network (IRON) and leadership in expanding broadband access across rural Idaho were recognized as transformative to Idaho’s tech future.

The induction was presented by:

Mark Ruszczyk, President, Regence BlueShield of Idaho
Stephanie Smith, Vice President for Research and Economic Development, Idaho State University

TechBridge Mentorship Spotlight

The evening also celebrated the success of ITC’s TechBridge program, launched to connect students to mentors and provide scholarship support.

Over 200 students matched with industry mentors
More than $100,000 awarded in scholarships

Christopher Johnson , senior at BYU–Idaho, shared his experience in the program and his recent participation in a national public policy internship in Washington, D.C.

Award Recipients

Public Policy Champion Award

Tom Kealey, Director, Idaho Department of Commerce
Presented by Rachel Burkett, Director of U.S. Government Affairs, Micron Technology

Sawtooth STEM Educator Awards

Presented by:

Dee Mooney, Executive Director, Micron Foundation
Richard Ruiz , Vice President - Head of Growth & Market Development at Technology Credit Union
Angelique Rood , Vice President – Corporate Services and Communications Recipients:
K–6: Travis Ewert , Ramsey Magnet School of Science
7–12: Brandi Milliron , West Minico Middle School
Higher Ed: Lynn Watson, Brigham Young University–Idaho

Idavation™ Awards

Presented on behalf of Scoggin Capital, the Idavation™ Awards recognize excellence in Idaho's technology ecosystem across four unique categories.

Mt. Borah Visionary Leader Award

Winner: Scott Green, President of the University of Idaho
Finalists: Prabhat Tripathy (INL), Chris Morgan (Bastian Solutions)
Presented by Paul Zurlo, President & CEO, Blue Cross of Idaho

Hells Canyon Emerging Company Award

Winner: Galena Innovations – Founder, Ashley Crafton
Finalists: IoAire, , Fonder, Thomas Jensen, and Vessel Derik Ellis, CEO and Molly Lenty, COO
Presented by Chris Mickey, Community Development Regional Manager

, Meta

Peregrine Innovative Technology Award

Winner: Lovevery, Co-Founders, Jessica Rolph and Roderick Morris (accepted by Jessica’s daughter)
Finalists: Flashpoint Building Systems, Soiltech Wireless
Presented by Andrew Barofsky, Vice President of Innovation & Research, St. Luke’s Health System

Star Garnet – Women Leading Tech Award (Inaugural)

Winner: Dr. Carolyn Bohach, (Professor at the University of Idaho, accepted by Chandra Ford
Finalists: Elizabeth Hopkins, President, Sapidyne Instruments, and Rachel Wilson, Co-Founder, BoldHue
Presented by Jim Buie, President, ValorC3

Chairman’s Award for Service Excellence

Recipient: Rachel Burkett, Director of U.S. Government Affairs, Micron Technology
Presented by Reid Stephan, Vice President & CIO, St. Luke’s Health System and Chair of the ITC Board

A Message from the CEO

“Uncharted Brilliance is about recognizing the people and companies who are not only navigating change—but leading it,” said Diane Temple, President and CEO of the Idaho Technology Council. “We are proud to celebrate each of tonight’s honorees, and we thank every sponsor, mentor, educator, and partner who continues to strengthen Idaho’s innovation ecosystem.”

Thank You to Our 2025 Event Sponsors (and to the many table sponsors)

ICCU (Presenting Sponsor)
Micron Technology
Scoggin Capital
Regence BlueShield of Idaho
Idaho State University
Dorsey Whitney
Meta
St. Luke’s Health System
Blue Cross of Idaho
ValorC3
Technology Credit Union
Idaho Power
Idaho National Laboratory
IBL Events

Production support provided by Valiant Productions and Elsberg Studios. Photos by Sadie Jane Photography

A Special thanks to our amazing volunteers from Experis and BBSI, the ITC Ambassador Committee, Eric Larson, and to the Boise Centre for hosting and their staff.

Videos for each segment can be found on the Idaho Techology Council YouTube pgae:

https://www.youtube.com/@IdahoTechCouncil

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho a s a hub for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

How I Almost Got Scammed: A Real-Life Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:03:28 GMT

How I Almost Got Scammed: A Real-Life Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call

By Betsy Davies, Vice President of Operations, Idaho Technology Council

It happened on an ordinary afternoon. I was scanning my inbox—hundreds of unread emails as usual—when one message caught my eye. It looked legitimate: clean formatting, proper logos, no obvious typos. The subject line said something about a new charge for $810.45 at Kraken.com through PayPal. That number alone made my stomach drop.

The email appeared to come from PayPal and even included familiar links and disclaimers. It claimed that if I didn’t recognize the charge, I should call their customer service number immediately. I wasn’t thinking about cybersecurity—I was thinking about how $810 could wreck my budget. So, without hesitation, I called.

The Call That Almost Cost Me Everything

An automated voice answered, saying I’d reached PayPal’s customer service and that they were experiencing high call volume. It sounded exactly like any other professional support line. When a live agent came on, he was calm, reassuring, and polite. He told me not to worry—they’d help secure my account.

Then came the “verification” process. He asked for my email and phone number and said he’d send me a code to “reset my password” for security reasons. When the code arrived, the text message itself warned me not to share it with anyone. That was my first red flag. I mentioned this to the man, but he quickly reassured me that it was safe to share it “with PayPal.”

That explanation didn’t sit right with me. As he continued asking about my devices and insisted I use my personal computer—not my phone, tablet, or work device—to log in, my suspicion grew. When I started asking more questions, his tone changed—impatient, almost irritated.

That’s when I knew.

Trusting My Gut—and Taking Action

I told him I couldn’t access my personal computer just then and hung up. My hands were shaking. I immediately looked up PayPal’s official customer service number from their website and called. The real PayPal representative confirmed my worst fear: the email and phone number were part of a phishing scam. She helped me secure my account immediately.

What I Learned—and Why I’m Sharing This

Even as someone who works for a technology organization, I nearly fell for it. And that’s the part that stung. I felt angry, embarrassed, and a little shaken. But I also realized something important—these scams are sophisticated, targeted, and emotionally manipulative.

I’m sharing my story to help remove the stigma that so many feel after experiences like this. Falling for a scam doesn’t make you naïve; it makes you human. The more we talk about these incidents, the better equipped our community will be to recognize them and stop them before any real harm is done.

Staying Safe Online: Practical Tips for Everyone

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is the perfect time to remind ourselves—and each other—how to stay safe online. Here are a few steps that can make all the difference:

Pause before reacting. Scammers thrive on panic. Take a breath and verify before clicking or calling.
Check the sender’s details. Look carefully at the email address and links—slight variations often reveal fakes.
Never share verification codes or passwords. No legitimate company will ask for these over the phone or by email.
Access accounts directly. If you get a suspicious message, go to the company’s official website or app instead of following links in the message.
Use multifactor authentication (MFA). It adds an extra layer of protection even if your password is compromised.
Talk about it. If you almost get scammed—or do—share your experience. It helps others learn.

A Final Word

Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a community issue. The more informed and connected we are, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed. My hope in sharing this story is that someone else will think twice before dialing that fake customer service number or clicking that too-convincing link.

Let’s stay vigilant, stay curious, and keep protecting one another.

Betsy Davies is the Vice President of Operations at the Idaho Technology Council, where she works to bridge the gap between business, community, and technology.

Meet Kurt Temple

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 18:13:52 GMT

Introducing: Kurt Temple, Client Director, Technologent

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Technologent is a women-owned, WBENC-certified and global provider of Information Technology solutions and services for Fortune 1000 companies. With our internationally recognized technical and sales team and well-established partnerships between the most cutting-edge technology brands, Technologent powers your business through a combination of foundational IT disciplines: Data, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud and Security. Together with Professional Services, Financial Services, Service Provider Solutions and our people, we’re paving the way for your business operations with advanced problem-solving that isn't just reactive, but forward-thinking and future-proof.

Technologent is the premier global edge-to-edge IT services company that delivers agile solutions for accelerating digital transformation. We bring inspiration and innovation to every organization.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

I had the opportunity to work closely with Technologent when I covered a global entertainment and gaming company in Las Vegas while I was at Cisco. Technologent's expertise across architectures is unparalleled. The company always fulfilled the business outcomes the customer was looking for with speed and agility - a true partner that is committed to serving its customers.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

At Technologent, we place your specific business requirements and desired results at the center of each solution. Our primary goal is to simplify technology and focus on a solution, not just a product. With our proven methodology, best-of-breed tools and extensive product certifications, we help you and your IT organization architect, integrate and maintain a secure high-performance business infrastructure. The goal of every Technologent employee is to provide solutions that solve our customers’ biggest, most important technology issues.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

Working for large organizations at times can be challenging. As a sales professional, you strive to keep your customer's best interest and strategic vision top of mind. Often times, you have to be the voice of the customer and advocate for them internally to ensure the company stays aligned to your customer's goals. In order to accomplish this I have had to learn how to effectively manage up in each organization - thinking outside the box and effectively communicating with executives to ensure my customer's needs are met.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Trust the process and always be willing to learn in this fast-paced and everchanging industry. Find a mentor. Always be the voice of your customer and listen to their needs. Deliver on what you say you will do.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Kurt on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Technologent HERE

Meet Louis Katz

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 17:48:57 GMT

Introducing: Louis Katz, Chief Courage Catalyst At The Courage Inside

Describe the business/organization you work for:

I'm a storytelling standup comic keynote speaking "wise man" (in other words, old) who owned a managed IT services company and sold it after 23 years. I help organizations tap into the core traits and values that make you great and use that to boost your everyday courage. I'm the Chief Morale Officer for hire, and I've got your back in the midst of fear, uncertainty, and doubt. I cheer you on and give you reason to forge ahead through both good times and bad.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

Starting businesses is something I do from time to time. I get a bright idea and act on it. I wanted to get up on stage and tell funny stories that would make people laugh yet at the same time inspire them to get up on their own stage and shine.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

I'm one of the few former IT guys who's now doing standup and storytelling. I understand what it's like to go through the fire of the day to day grind of business, and I've been yelled at by the former president of all three major TV networks. I can take a punch without being a punching bag. I charm to disarm. I've been through the middle, where it feels like failure. And I meet you where you and your team are, and we go from there.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

I'd say the biggest challenge is that we often underestimate how long it will take to accomplish an ambitious goal. The challenges and obstacles I've overcome gave way when I was willing to put in hard work and be patient.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Open your heart and your mind, be willing to learn along the way. Assume whatever goal you've set can take longer than expected to achieve. Have fun, enjoy the journey.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Louis on LinkedIn HERE

Check out The Courage Inside HERE

2025 Hall of Fame Announces Inductee and Idavation Award Finalists

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 20:48:23 GMT

For Immediate Release: September 3, 2025

BRENT J. STACEY TO BE INDUCTED INTO IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL HALL OF FAME 2025 "UNCHARTED BRILLIANCE" GALA TO CELEBRATE INNOVATION AND THE GREATER IDAHO TECH ECOSYSTEM

Boise, Idaho - Brent J. Stacey, founder and Past Chair of the Idaho Regional Optical Network (IRON) and retired Idaho National Laboratory (INL) Associate Laboratory Director, is the 2025 inductee into the Idaho Technology Council (ITC) Hall of Fame. Since 2010, the ITC has honored iconic Idahoans who have advanced society and created a lasting impact in Idaho's technology ecosystem. The Hall of Fame inductees are nominated by the ITC Executive Committee with the winner selected by the ITC Board of Trustees.

Stacey brings over 40 years of experience in leadership, innovative technology strategy and risk-based cybersecurity solutions. As founder of IRON in 2007, he advanced Idaho's mission to connect higher education institutions to Idaho National Laboratory's assets and researchers, enabling Idaho students to succeed in competitive markets. Today, IRON supports Idaho's entire nonprofit community and higher education with reliable, high-speed, and affordable networking solutions.

At INL, Stacey led the National and Homeland Security mission as Associate Laboratory Director, overseeing national security technology, nuclear nonproliferation, critical infrastructure protection, and defense systems. He previously served as INL's Chief Information Officer and Director of Technology Deployment, transforming the laboratory's technology commercialization efforts. Before joining INL, he served as CIO for Argonne National Laboratory and co-founded SRV.net, among the earliest Internet service providers in the Pacific Northwest.

Stacey's distinguished career includes recognition as Idaho's Information Technology Executive of the Year in 2002, induction into the CIO Hall of Fame by CIO magazine in 2010, and recognition as a Premier 100 IT Leader by Computerworld in 2012.

This year's Hall of Fame celebration embraces the theme "Uncharted Brilliance," honoring the pioneers lighting the way forward in an era defined by rapid transformation and relentless innovation. The theme celebrates the daring visionaries, bold technologists, and creative problem-solvers navigating new frontiers in technology with clarity, courage, and brilliance.

"Brent exemplifies the spirit of Uncharted Brilliance that defines Idaho's tech ecosystem," said Diane Temple, ITC President and CEO. "His leadership in connecting Idaho's research institutions, advancing cybersecurity solutions, and fostering technology commercialization has had a transformative impact on Idaho's innovation landscape. We're proud to recognize his exceptional contributions to our state's technological advancement."

2025 Idavation™ Award Finalists

The 2025 Idavation™ Award Finalists highlight the breadth and depth of innovation across Idaho. Through a public nomination process and a vote by the ITC Board of Trustees, three finalists are selected in each category and honored at the Gala. The winner in each category will be announced live on stage.

Mt. Borah Visionary Leader Award , which is given to a leader who has expanded the horizons of Idaho's technology and entrepreneurial community:

Chris Morgan , Bastian Solutions - Has been part of Idaho's innovative and tech community for over 22 years and currently serves as Chief Innovation Officer at Bastian Solutions, part of Toyota Automated Logistics companies. He leads one of Idaho's most innovative hardware, software, firmware, and cyber teams, designing world-class solutions with robotics for autonomous driving forklifts and other vehicles that serve customers globally. Previously serving 13 years at HP with his final role as Engineering Robotics Manager, Chris has been a key advocate for technology and innovation, creating unity to ignite creative spirit for highest quality emerging technologies. His amazing energy, optimism, and solution-focused approach make him a world-class leader and advocate for growing talent and intellectual property in Idaho.
President Scott Green , University of Idaho - Since his appointment in 2019, has positioned the University of Idaho as the first and only institution in Idaho to achieve prestigious Carnegie Research Level 1 (R1) classification, joining an elite list of 187 of the most impactful research institutions in the country. Under his leadership, U of I achieved record research expenditures of $135.9 million in fiscal year 2023, generating more research expenditures than all other Idaho higher education institutions combined. His strategic investments and guidance have led to breakthrough research in cybersecurity, agriculture, rangeland health, and biomedical sciences, directly benefiting Idaho's economy and national security. Through initiatives like the Center for Secure and Dependable Solutions, groundbreaking sage-grouse research, successful potato pest eradication, and the 25-year INBRE biomedical network, President Green has demonstrated how university research drives innovation and economic resilience across Idaho.
Prabhat Tripathy , Idaho National Laboratory - A distinguished scientist making significant contributions to materials science and engineering, particularly in sustainable and clean energy solutions. His work in net zero manufacturing and environmental remediation is positioning Idaho National Laboratory as a leader in clean energy innovation. The commercialization of his invention for fabricating rare earth permanent magnets is particularly noteworthy given the strategic importance of these materials.

Peregrine Innovative Technology Award , which showcases an innovative technology that has been launched successfully:

Flashpoint Building Systems - Nick Stoppello - Has redefined construction layout through their patented Integrated Layout System (ILS), which dramatically improves accuracy, efficiency, and speed in the construction process by replacing traditional layout methods with digitally printed subfloor panels that incorporate architectural and structural layout directly. This transformative technology enables builders to eliminate multiple construction steps, reduce costly mistakes, and address the skilled labor shortage by making high-precision layout accessible to less experienced workers. What once took multiple trades and days to complete can now be done by a single crew in hours, with contractors reporting significant time savings and fewer call-backs. Created by builders for builders, Flashpoint has earned traction in a highly skeptical and cost-sensitive market through deep industry insight, technical ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to improving how buildings come together.
Lovevery - Co-founded by Jessica Rolph and Roderick Morris , Lovevery is transforming early childhood development through its innovative, research-driven support system for learning and play. Known for its award-winning, stage-based Play Kits program and the companion Lovevery App, the company provides science-backed tools that empower parents with confidence and nurture children’s development from birth. The company has navigated the challenging early-stage gauntlet and emerged with remarkable success, helping parents feel confident they are giving their children exactly what they need for optimal brain development during the early years.
Soiltech Wireless - Ehsan Soltan - Rural Idaho-grown Soiltech Wireless has scaled from an early collaboration with three of Idaho’s largest growers to hundreds of farms across the United States and beyond. Soiltech prides itself on delivering real results: on a 10,000-acre farm, its soil-to-storage monitoring system saves 500 million gallons of water, cuts carbon emissions equal to 250,000 gallons of gasoline, and boosts yields by 4% each year. By turning grower insights into actionable recommendations through its cutting-edge technology, Soiltech is redefining sustainable agriculture whilst helping America’s farmers to do more with less.

Hells Canyon Emerging Company Award , which recognizes a company that experienced a daunting journey to achieve success:

Galena Innovations - Developed a life-saving technology that solves a medical issue with pregnancies that existing devices and procedures fail far too often to resolve. The company's founder has demonstrated tremendous determination and resilience to develop technology, raise capital and face the challenging gauntlet of FDA approval.
Vessel - Has bootstrapped their entire journey building a technology company using local resources to solve state, regional, and national problems. Their Smart Assessment Platform equips experts in local, state, federal, and private agencies with technology to assess the needs of local manufacturers, suppliers, and business ecosystems while connecting them to AI-enhanced smart recommendations. The platform collects and visualizes data to identify supply chain gaps and provides industry-level benchmarking across workforce pipeline, supply chain, and technology readiness. Vessel is deeply committed to reshoring US manufacturing through small-to-medium sized manufacturers and creating a more resilient US economy.
ioAire Inc - Founded and led by CEO Tom, an accomplished entrepreneur with 28 patents who has successfully founded and exited two prior tech companies. ioAire represents a massively disruptive technology primed for growth in the next generation of AI-connected devices for IoT. The company's innovative solutions provide highly improved connectivity over distance and obstacles, positioning it as a game-changer in the connectivity space.

Star Garnet Women Leading Tech Award (Inaugural Award) , recognizing exceptional women driving innovation and leadership in Idaho's technology sector:

Carolyn Hovde Bohach , Distinguished Professor, University of Idaho - Has led Idaho's NIH INBRE program for over 20 years, transforming Idaho's biomedical research landscape and elevating all higher education institutions in the state. Her leadership has fostered 2,076 scientific publications, 7,080 scientific presentations, and secured 629 new research grants, making her a nationally recognized advocate for biomedical sciences and mentorship. She has received multiple prestigious awards including the National W. Fred Taylor PhD Award, University of Idaho Faculty Member of the Year, and is a Fellow of the AAAS. NIH INBRE Directors across the country look to Carolyn as a mentor and her Idaho INBRE program as the "Gold Standard," with Governor Little recently declaring August as Idaho INBRE month in recognition of her transformative impact.
Elizabeth Hopkins , a native of Idaho and proud graduate of Boise State University with both a Bachelor of Science and an Executive MBA, has served as President & CEO of Sapidyne Instruments Inc. since 2015. Liz is passionate about growing the molecular sciences in Idaho, supporting the state’s emerging talent, and ensuring researchers have the accurate, reliable data they need to develop life-changing pharmaceuticals. She began her career at Sapidyne as a Staff Scientist and advanced through Senior Scientist and Lab Manager roles before stepping into leadership, giving her a deep understanding of both the science and the business. Under her guidance, Sapidyne has evolved from an instrument manufacturer into a global leader in antibody and drug development research. Today, her vision continues to shape the company’s R&D, driving innovative instrumentation and experimental designs that help scientists accelerate discovery.
Rachel Wilson, BoldHue - CEO and Co-Founder of BoldHue, a disruptive beauty-tech company solving foundation shade-matching with proprietary scanning and formulation technology that creates millions of personalized foundation shades in under a minute. Co-founded in 2020 during the pandemic, BoldHue has become a 7x award-winning company recognized by Elle, Cosmopolitan, Fast Company, and Oprah Daily for its industry-shaping innovation. A serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience, Wilson previously launched a boutique candle brand that achieved national retail placement in Nordstrom and Crate & Barrel within six months. Built on a mission of inclusivity, BoldHue is reshaping the future of beauty by eliminating the guesswork and exclusion that have long defined the shade experience.

2025 Chairman's Award for Service Excellence, Public Policy Champion, and Sawtooth Educator of the Year Award Winners will be announced LIVE on stage at the Gala.

2025 Keynote Speaker

Dr. Chris Progler, Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer & Strategic Planning at Photronics, Inc., will deliver the keynote address. Dr. Progler brings over 25 years of experience across integrated circuit (IC) and flat panel display sectors, directing global strategy, R&D, and advanced manufacturing for the publicly traded technology company with 1,900 employees across 11 international sites. He has spearheaded strategic joint ventures and collaboration models in Asia and US that generate the majority of company IC revenue and serves as a global thought leader through cutting-edge publications and speaking engagements.

Dr. Progler holds a B.S. in optics from the University of Rochester and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Texas.

Event Details:

The Hall of Fame and Idavation™ Awards Gala is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Idaho Central Credit Union (ICCU ); Idavation™ Awards Sponsor Scoggin Capital Investment; VIP Reception and Public Policy Champion Award Sponsor Micron Technology. Community Champion Sponsors Meta, St. Luke's Health System, ValorC3 Data Centers, and Technology Credit Union will participate in the Idavation™ award presentations, while Inductee Sponsors Regence BlueShield of Idaho and Idaho State University will kick off the inductee ceremony followed by the keynote speaker sponsored by Dorsey & Whitney LLP.

ABOUT THE IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

The Idaho Technology Council is a membership organization committed to increasing awareness of a thriving technology ecosystem statewide. We are dedicated to fostering an innovative tech community in Idaho by acting as a catalyst that brings together leaders, drives collaboration across all industries, and advocates for tech growth. As a nucleus of thought leaders, innovation, and tech advocacy, we empower government, industry, and reinvestment. Our mission is to position Idaho as a premier tech destination by attracting tech companies and talent, driving educational support and policy, convening tech leadership, and initiating conversations on emerging topics.

Email : info@idahotechcouncil.org
Website : https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Making Connections Across Idaho: High-Tech Connect in Moscow

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 16:24:33 GMT

August 19, 2025 - Moscow, Idaho - The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) brought its momentum back to Moscow, Idaho. High-Tech Connect gathered Idaho’s tech ecosystem together in Moscow for a powerful day of ideas, networking, and connection between students, educators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.

Connecting North Idaho’s Tech Leaders, Talent & Visionaries

What a day in Moscow! The Idaho Technology Council packed the room at Lightcast HQ for an energizing edition of High-Tech Connect , where innovation, collaboration, and Idaho’s future tech talent took center stage.

From University of Idaho students and faculty eager to grow and stay in Idaho, to angel investors, entrepreneurs, and seasoned tech professionals , the event brought together the full spectrum of our state’s technology ecosystem. Together, we explored how to cultivate opportunity, foster mentorship, and strengthen the pipeline between education and industry.

Highlights from the Day

A standout moment came from Gresham Schlect, CTO at Lightcast , who shared forward-looking insights on the future of tech workforce development and the power of data-driven innovation. His remarks reinforced how Idaho can become a national leader in preparing the next generation of tech professionals.

We’re deeply grateful to ICCU and Jenny Ford for sponsoring lunch, and to our co-hosts—the University of Idaho College of Business and Economics and Lightcast —for helping to make this gathering possible.

Networking with Purpose

As with every ITC event, High-Tech Connect in Moscow wasn’t just about listening—it was about connecting . Every attendee introduced themselves and shared what they were looking for—whether a job, talent to hire, investment opportunities, or a mentor.

These moments of connection are at the heart of what makes our events unique. We don't view networking as a formality—we see it as the launchpad for collaboration, partnerships, and long-term impact across Idaho’s tech sector.

Keeping the Momentum Going

The energy in Moscow mirrors the momentum we’re seeing across the state. From Rexburg to Coeur d’Alene, Boise to Idaho Falls, the Idaho Technology Council is on the move—bringing people together to help shape the future of work, innovation, and economic opportunity .

And we’ll keep asking:

�� Who do you need to meet?
�� How can we help you grow?
�� What’s your next step in Idaho’s tech journey—and how can we walk it with you?

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Moscow. Idaho’s tech future is bright—and better together .

ABOUT THE IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

Email : info@idahotechcouncil.org
Website : https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Meet Dana Cotton

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 19:42:54 GMT

Introducing: Dana Cotton, Chair of Humanistic and Artistic, Social Science, and Written and Oral Communication, College of Eastern Idaho

Describe the business/organization you work for:

The College of Eastern Idaho is the newest designated public community college in Idaho. The main campus is located in Idaho Falls, but the outreach spreads all through the region and state.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

I have been an educator for over twenty-five years, with more than half of that experience being through distance modalities. When I became acquainted with CEI, formerly Eastern Idaho Technical College (EITC), I instantly connected to the people and their mission to serve a variety of students, local industries, and the community.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

What most obviously sets CEI apart from other higher education institutions is that we are the newest college in Idaho, making it an exciting time to be part of the team that continues to create CEI's foundation as an impactful resource and asset to our region and state.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

From our first president, Dr. Rick Aman, came a quote we now use often at CEI: "Building the airplane while it's flying." While the campus has established many facets of our institution, we continue to grow rapidly, providing us with plenty of opportunities to keep building the airplane while it's still in the air. As a department chair, my biggest challenges are my biggest rewards: navigating learning and teaching by meeting students and faculty exactly where they are, and supporting their success. Open communication, collaboration, and problem-solving are essential processes for overcoming any challenge I face.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

There are many types of people and positions that contribute to making a college successful, so my first piece of advice is to determine where their talents can best serve an institution of higher education. If it is through teaching, I suggest applying to be an adjunct instructor to see what teaching at a college is all about.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Connect with Dana on LinkedIn HERE

Check out College of Eastern Idaho HERE

Bridging Education and Industry: High-Tech Connect in Rexburg

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 22:24:35 GMT

July 15, 2025 - The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) brought its momentum to Rexburg with a dynamic High-Tech Connect event—our first in the Upper Snake River Valley region of eastern Idaho and a powerful step in our mission to serve Idaho’s tech ecosystem statewide.

In partnership with our newest ITC member, Brigham Young University–Idaho , and with leadership support from ITC Board Member Dr. Nathan Jac k, the gathering drew over 65 students, faculty, and industry professionals. Attendees came together to network, explore shared interests, and align academic goals with future employment opportunities in Idaho’s growing tech sector.

Strategic Partnerships that Drive Connection

The success of the event was made possible by the generous sponsorship of Laurel Mueller, Owner of CMIT Solutions , and Jeremy Bosco, Founder of HireMySub.com and MobileDash.com —both champions of tech workforce development and student engagement.

These sponsors and partners helped catalyze a series of meaningful introductions between industry professionals and students pursuing tech degrees at BYU–Idaho. The enthusiasm in the room was inspiring, as students shared their aspirations and connected with employers, like Idaho National Laboratory , invested in Idaho’s future.

Rural Reach, Statewide Vision

High-Tech Connect in Rexburg marks the beginning of a new chapter for ITC—bringing resources, relationships, and opportunities beyond the Treasure Valley and into rural communities. Following the success of the Tech Expo in Idaho Falls earlier this year, the ITC is committed to deepening its engagement in Eastern Idaho.

While in Rexburg, ITC CEO, Diane Bevan , also conducted a follow-up meeting at the Mayor’s Office with Aaron Denney, Economic Development Professional for the City of Rexburg. Their ongoing conversation centers on a bold vision: attracting tech companies to open satellite offices in Rexburg and capitalize on the exceptional talent emerging from BYU–Idaho .

TechBridge providing pathways to Semiconductor

Many of the students who attended High‑Tech Connect are currently enrolled in ITC’s new TechBridge program, a mentorship and support initiative funded by NATCAST under the Workforce Partner Alliance. The program is specifically geared toward students aspiring to enter the semiconductor industry, pairing mentees with experienced professionals while also offering TechBridge Access Grants to cover essential services like housing, childcare, transportation, mental health, and addiction support nist.gov+6idahotechcouncil.org+6ectownusa.net+6 . With participants already statewide, TechBridge is actively expanding its reach and welcomes both students and mentors to get involved. For more information, please reach out to our TechBridge coordinator, Tim Munkres, at  tim@idahotechcouncil.org .

A Talent Pipeline Ready to Activate

As Idaho’s top producer of college graduates, BYU–Idaho plays a critical role in fueling the state’s tech workforce. Yet retaining this talent in-state requires a robust connection between education and employment.

Through High-Tech Connect and related initiatives, the ITC is building the bridge. We are working to align employers with emerging talent and positioning Idaho as a destination for innovation, entrepreneurship, and career development.

What’s Next for ITC

The Idaho Technology Council continues to travel the state to meet with stakeholders, tech leaders, startups, and employers who are ready to shape Idaho’s economic future. With a clear mandate to be the statewide voice of technology, our strategic plan includes launching localized events, statewide campaigns, and industry roundtables to ensure every region has a seat at the table.

If you're a company looking to tap into Idaho’s tech talent—or a student eager to stay and build here—we invite you to join the ITC movement.

Together, we are building Idaho’s tech future—one connection at a time.

Meet Andy Binder

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 02:55:26 GMT

Introducing: Andy Binder, President and CEO, Idaho Regional Optical Network Inc.

Describe the business/organization you work for:

The Idaho Regional Optical Network (IRON) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-speed, fiber-optic connectivity to Idaho's nonprofit and public-sector communities, including education, research, healthcare, and government institutions. As a mission-driven organization, IRON focuses on delivering cost-effective, scalable, and high-performance networking solutions that empower its members to advance their work in the public interest.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

After a successful career in the private sector, I joined the Idaho Regional Optical Network (IRON) because I want to give back to the people of Idaho and make a lasting and meaningful difference in our communities. I believe that connectivity is a cornerstone of opportunity, and I'm passionate about bridging the digital divide, especially in rural and underserved areas of Idaho. Expanding access to high-speed infrastructure isn't just about technology, it's about keeping our next generation of students in Idaho, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to thrive right here at home. My work with IRON is driven by a vision of a more connected, innovative, and prosperous Idaho, where technology helps every community and individual reach their full potential.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

What sets the Idaho Regional Optical Network (IRON) apart is our unique mission-driven approach as Idaho's only 501(c)(3) nonprofit regional optical network. Unlike commercial providers, we are not profit-driven and our sole focus is on serving Idaho?s nonprofit community, including education, research, healthcare, and public service organizations. Our statewide coverage ensures we can deliver an expansive, reliable, and resilient high-speed network to meet the diverse needs of Idaho, from connecting supercomputers at the Idaho National Laboratory to supporting community outreach for Idaho's universities and enabling highly reliable emergency services in remote counties. By investing in our infrastructure and prioritizing mission over margins, IRON provides Idaho's public-serving institutions with the connectivity they need to innovate, educate, and protect communities across the state.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

As a business leader, one of the biggest challenges I've faced is resistance to change. Whether it's adopting new technologies, shifting long-standing processes, or encouraging a new way of thinking. Change can be uncomfortable, especially in industries where stability and tradition are highly valued.

To overcome this, I've focused on building trust, communicating a clear vision, and demonstrating value. I've learned that people don't resist change itself, they resist uncertainty. By actively listening to concerns, providing transparent information, and showcasing real-world benefits, I've helped teams and stakeholders see change not as a disruption, but as an opportunity for growth and innovatio n.

Another key challenge has been navigating resource constraints while ensuring we continue to drive impact and serve our mission. In these moments, I've leaned on strategic partnerships, creative problem-solving, and a focus on long-term sustainability to find solutions that work not just for today, but for the future.

Ultimately, leadership is about inspiring others to embrace progress, adapt to new realities, and work together toward a shared goal, and that's exactly the mindset I bring to every challenge I fac e.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

My advice to anyone looking to join this industry is simple: Be curious, keep learning, and don't be afraid to challenge the status quo. Technology and connectivity are constantly evolving, and the best way to stay ahead is to ask questions, seek knowledge, and embrace growth.

You'll inevitably encounter people who say, "This is the way it has always been done." When you do, don't let fear hold you back. Innovation comes from those willing to push boundaries and rethink old ways of doing things. Be bold, take calculated risks, and always focus on finding better solutions that serve the greater good.

Most importantly, stay mission-driven. Whether you're working in networking, infrastructure, or digital transformation, remember that technology exists to empower people and communities. Keep that purpose at the heart of what you do, and you'll make a meaningful impact in this industry.

Connect with Andy on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Idaho Regional Optical Network Inc. on their website HERE

ITC Statement on the Congressional passing of R&D Expensing Legislation

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 19:08:38 GMT

Idaho Technology Council Statemednt on Congressional Passage of R&D Expensing Legislation
July 3, 2025

The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) applauds the United States Congress for the bipartisan passage of legislation that restores full and permanent R&D expensing under Section 174. This action marks a critical milestone for American innovation and economic competitiveness—especially for the small and mid-sized technology businesses that are the backbone of Idaho’s innovation economy.

As an active member of the Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) Public Policy Committee, ITC has worked in close collaboration with peer tech councils across the country to advocate for this essential reform. Over the past year, ITC has made multiple trips to Washington, D.C., meeting directly with Idaho’s Congressional delegation to highlight the impact of R&D amortization on our state’s innovators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. These advocacy efforts were instrumental in raising awareness and building momentum for reform.

The ITC especially appreciates the steadfast leadership of Senator Mike Crapo, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, whose commitment to restoring and making R&D expensing permanent was vital to moving this legislation across the finish line. His understanding of the innovation economy and consistent support for Idaho’s tech sector have helped ensure that our state remains a stronghold of entrepreneurial growth and advanced technology development.

Restoring full and permanent R&D expensing delivers long-term certainty to technology companies of all sizes, enabling them to invest confidently in research, workforce development, and innovation that drives high-value job creation. The inclusion of retroactive relief for small businesses is particularly meaningful for Idaho’s early-stage companies navigating the challenges of growth and global competitiveness.

ITC remains committed to championing policies that strengthen Idaho’s innovation ecosystem and appreciates the continued partnership of our federal delegation in achieving these goals.

The R&D provisions include:

Permanent full expensing for R&D investments under Section 174, reversing the harmful amortization requirement that went into effect in 2022.
A small business retroactivity provision, allowing businesses with annualized receipts of $31 million or less to reclaim previously incurred R&D expenses and receive refunds.

These provisions are the result of more than three years of sustained advocacy by TECNA.

About the Idaho Technology Council
The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for i nnovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org .

Contact: Diane Bevan, CEO | diane@idahotechcouncil.org | www.idahotechcouncil.org

Meet Nathan Jack

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:23:51 GMT

Introducing: Nathan Jack, Department Chair of Computer Science and Engineering, Brigham Young University Idaho

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Brigham Young University-Idaho is a private four-year university owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. BYU-Idaho offers 2- and 4-year degrees in a broad variety of disciplines. Many of the technology-specific degrees offered are housed in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Degree options within this department include Computer Science, Software Engineering, Web Design and Development, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

I enjoy working for BYU-Idaho because of the teaching-centric focus of the university. The faculty truly care about each and every student; they are 100% focused on teaching and mentoring students. Nearly all faculty have significant industry experience, resulting in a very practical and hands-on experience for our students.

Our graduates are hard-working individuals equipped with the knowledge and skill sets needed for the fast-paced tech industry. Equally important, they are individuals of high integrity. They demonstrate a collaborative and friendly spirit in their interactions with others. They are truly a joy to work with.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Our students come to us from all 50 states and several countries. We are one of the largest universities in Idaho in terms of enrollment and graduates in technical fields. We are eager to engage with local employers and educators and work together to strengthen the tech industry in Idaho.

Connect with Nathan on LinkedIn HERE

Check out BYU Idaho on their website HERE

Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs: Diane Bevan at Punchbowl News' Small Business Summit

Tue, 13 May 2025 16:52:46 GMT

Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs: ITC CEO, Diane Bevan, at Punchbowl News' Small Business Summit

May 13, 2025 Washington, D.C.

This morning, Washington, D.C. buzzed with energy as Punchbowl News hosted The Summit: Investing in Small Businesses, a dynamic event spotlighting the pivotal role of small enterprises in bolstering the U.S. economy. Among the distinguished speakers was Diane Bevan, President and CEO of the Idaho Technology Council , who delivered compelling insights on fostering entrepreneurship in rural communities.

Championing Rural Innovation

In a panel discussion moderated by Punchbowl News' senior congressional reporter Andrew Desiderio , Bevan emphasized the necessity of advocating for policies that nurture entrepreneurship beyond urban centers. Drawing from her extensive experience, she highlighted the unique challenges rural entrepreneurs face and the importance of tailored support systems to ensure their success.

The Verizon Digital Ready Advantage

Bevan also shed light on the transformative impact of Verizon's Small Business Digital Ready program. This free, online platform offers over 50 self-paced courses, one-on-one coaching, and networking opportunities, equipping small business owners with the tools and confidence needed to navigate the multifaceted world of entrepreneurship. Bevan noted how such resources are invaluable in leveling the playing field for rural businesses, enabling them to thrive in today's digital economy.

Engaging Conversations with Industry Leaders

The Summit featured a series of enlightening sessions, including a one-on-one interview between House GOP Conference Chair Lisa McClain and Punchbowl News Founder and CEO Anna Palmer . A fireside chat followed, featuring Verizon Chair and CEO Hans Vestberg and Hall-of-Fame quarterback Joe Montana, now Managing Partner at Liquid 2 Ventures . Their discussion delved into the intersection of technology, investment, and small business growth. "You need to believe in what you're doing," Verizon's Vestberg says. "I think large companies like us need to take responsibility for their ecosystem." Joe Montana noted that his firm is currently investing in 900 small businesses. He reiiterate that relationships are the most important tool in running a successful business. Joe Montana says he learned to stay out of politics a long time ago."Just always want to be on the winning side," Montana said.

A Collaborative Effort for Economic Growth

The event culminated in a panel that brought together diverse perspectives from industry and policy experts. Alongside Bevan, panelists included Jim Gowen, Senior Vice President of Global Sourcing and Supply Chain and Chief Sustainability Officer at Verizon; Tom Demarest, CEO of OKIN Process; and Michael O'Rielly, former FCC Commissioner and President of MPORielly Consulting, LLC. Their dialogue underscored the collective effort required to support and sustain small businesses across the nation.

Demarest shared how Verizon's Small Business Digital Ready platform made a huge impact on his businesses. O'Rielly shared the importance that policy plays in the success of America's small business owners. The panelists emphasized the importance of digital connectivity, consistent spectrum policy, resilient supply chain and relationships for small businesses.

Bevan's participation in The Summit not only highlighted the critical needs of rural entrepreneurs but also showcased the power of collaboration between public and private sectors in driving inclusive economic development. Her insights serve as a call to action for continued advocacy and support for small businesses, ensuring they remain a vibrant and integral part of America's economic landscape.

For more information on the event and its speakers, visit Punchbowl News Events .

About Idaho Technololgy Council

The Idaho Technology Council has a mission to build a strong tech community in Idaho by bringing people together, supporting tech education, and advocating for policies that promote sustainable growth. Together, we’re making Idaho a top destination for technology and innovation.

Meet Jillana Finnegan

Wed, 07 May 2025 23:36:11 GMT

Introducing: Jillana Finnegan, Executive Director of Strategic Projects, College of Western Idaho

Describe the business/organization you work for:

College of Western Idaho opened its doors as the Treasure Valley's first community college in 2007. Today, we serve over 30,000 students annually. CWI serves community members at any stage of life's path with these educational programs:

Dual Credit: Get a head start on your college education, explore your interests, and save time and money while in high school.
Academic Transfer: Build the right foundation for a career pathway or to transfer by earning an associate degree.
Career & Technical: Engage in fast-paced, hands-on, and focused training to gain the competitive edge employers are seeking.
Workforce Development: Rapidly acquire career-focused skills to facilitate employment, retrain, or advance in your career.
Adult Education: Gain life-changing, essential skills to reach your goals and succeed, such as completing a GED or improving literacy skills.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

CWI change's the trajectory of lives for generations to come. We offer:

Open, affordable access unparalleled in the Treasure Valley.
Student-centered commitment, adapting to meet students where they are.
Career-oriented outcomes to provide students a competitive edge.

CWI students are the most hardworking and tenacious I have ever met. They are from all walks and stages of life. There is no typical CWI student, except that most are managing multiple responsibilities and challenges that could easily make them quit on their education. Instead, it seems to fuel their determination to continue.

What inspired you to join the ITC?

The two strategic projects I am leading right now are related to growing the tech workforce. I support our partnership with Micron to train more technicians and am the chair of CWI's AI Committee. Both projects have given me insights into the challenges and opportunities of building the workforce we need right now and predicting what will be needed in the future. I am inspired by ITC's mission to connect the tech community, because I know how vital collaborative and coordinated efforts will be to our success as a State.

What are you looking forward to the most about serving as a board member of the ITC?

I am looking forward to building relationships with other members and finding opportunities to collaborate.

What do you like to do in your free time, or anything else you would like to share with our network?

Like most Idahoans, I like to spend my free time with my family, friends, and dogs; ideally enjoying Idaho's beautiful outdoors.

Connect with Jillana on LinkedIn HERE

Check out CWI on their website HERE

Meet Nathan Foss

Wed, 07 May 2025 23:15:22 GMT

Introducing: Nathan Foss, Account Executive, Lightcast

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Lightcast connects people with jobs by providing businesses, communities, and education institutions with the best labor market data possible. Our data-driven insight enables better, faster decisions.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Lightcast prides itself in having the most robust selection of labor market data while also having the most accurate on the market. We combine traditional government labor market information with proprietary real-time labor market information to better understand where there are gaps in the workforce in terms of people, education, certifications, skills and much more.

Lightcast is proud to be headquartered in Moscow, ID. Being located in Idaho provides unique opportunities and advantages for our business. In Moscow, we are able to have direct access to both the University of Idaho as well as Washington State University. This gives us a chance to cultivate our talent from the ground up, as well as help us grow the region by keeping our students local instead of them having to move out of state for a job.

We have partnered with a variety of groups across Idaho to help grow our economy. Some of these groups include the Idaho Technology Council, Idaho Department of Commerce, Idaho Department of Labor, Inland Northwest Partners, and many more.

What inspired you to join the ITC?

As a quickly growing data company in Idaho, we are always looking for new connections throughout the state. The ITC provides opportunities to network with other tech companies, get to know our market and region, and learn about potential new partners.

What do you like to do in your free time, or anything else you would like to share with our network?

I am an avid golfer, and am always looking for some good competition. I believe at this point, I have played a large majority of the courses in Boise, so if you are ever looking for recommendations or some friendly competition, reach out!

Connect with Nathan on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Lightcast on their website HERE

ITC Hosts State of Technology Annual Event

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Wed, 07 May 2025 02:45:12 GMT

ITC Hosts Annual Gathering for the State of Technology event.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Idaho Technology Council Hosts 2025 State of Technology Luncheon and Small Business Showcase

Boise, ID — May 7, 2025 — Yesterday, the Idaho Technology Council (ITC) brought together more than 250 business, technology, and civic leaders for its 2025 State of Technology Luncheon, held at JUMP in downtown Boise. The sold-out, standing-room-only event celebrated innovation, investment, and the continued rise of Idaho’s technology sector.

Board Gathering and Special Guests

The day began with 35 of ITC’s 50-member Board of Trustees gathering for one of their annual in-person meetings. They were joined by Idaho Governor Brad Little and Kelly Loeffler, the newly appointed 28th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, who both affirmed their support for ITC’s leadership in driving technology growth across the state. The ITC Board—comprising educators, tech leaders, and industry professionals—works collaboratively to support Idaho’s fast-evolving innovation economy.

Luncheon Program Highlights

Following the Board meeting, trustees joined attendees in JUMP’s Pioneer Room for the luncheon. Jessica Cafferty , Founder and President of Route Networking Group and ITC Vice Chair, emceed the event—welcoming guests, recognizing sponsors, Alturas, Key Bank and Meta, and honoring veterans and ITC Board members.

Blake Hansen , Founder of Alturas and Title Sponsor, opened the program with a message on Idaho’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Hansen also presented highlights from the Idaho Deal Flow Report, a signature publication tracking investment trends, M&A activity, and business growth statewide. Hansen revealed over a decade of success stories in large investments into and as exits.

Holli Davies , Regional Community Development Manager at Meta, spoke about Meta’s infrastructure investments and the importance of local partnerships. She expressed Meta's commitment to communities that they choose to build their data centers.

Alice Crisci, Founder and CEO of Ovum Health, then delivered a powerful narrative of her journey as a cancer survivor and entrepreneur, describing how Ovum Health is using technology to redefine fertility care and preservation.

Scott Schlange , Idaho Market President at KeyBank, introduced SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, who celebrated Idaho’s entrepreneurs during National Small Business Week and reaffirmed the SBA’s nationwide commitment to small business and tech sector success. Earlier that morning, she participated in a presentation of Idahos small businesses of the year, including ITC member, Derik Ellis, founder of Vessel as the Veteran Idaho small business of the year.

Diane Bevan , ITC President and CEO, then acknowledged sponsors and welcomed guests to the Small Business Showcase, featuring 12 emerging companies and their innovations.

Attendees also heard from leaders and changemakers across several key sectors:

Adam Rak, Executive Director of CyberUSA, discussed collaborative cybersecurity readiness and action strategies to protect critical infrastructure.

Andrew Crapuchettes , Founder and CEO of RedBalloon, spoke about the entrepreneurial opportunities in Idaho and shared growth strategies from his own ventures—emphasizing how he has used technology and data to drive talent retention and innovation.

Carmen Achabal , Senior Director at Micron, gave an update on the company’s $15 billion Idaho expansion and detailed new semiconductor workforce initiatives. She showed an aerial video of the construction site revaling the massive size to be 2 football fields wide by 5 long, for a total of 10 fields in size.

Greg Wilson, Chief of Staff at the Idaho State Department of Education, shared updates on statewide programs aimed at equipping students with essential digital and career skills and announced to successful win in the most recent legislative session with Digital Literacy crossing the finish line as now a 1 credit HS requirement. This new ruling will go into effect in 3 years giving time to implement it into all Idaho school districts. Greg thanked the ITC for the many years of support in this effort.

Nathan Foss , of Natcast, unveiled a new and improved Knowledge Report with an interactive data dashboard to tract tech jobs, tech workforce, tech employers as well as informative trends.

To conclude the program, Diane Bevan presented the official ITC Impact Report, showcasing the Council’s statewide collaborations, key initiatives, and growing influence in shaping Idaho’s tech future. She express her gratitude for a successful first year as the new President and CEO and is excited to move the organization forward utlizing technology to grow and scale.

Breakout Workshops: "The Event After the Event"

Attendees then moved to JUMP’s 5th floor for a series of dynamic breakout sessions designed to foster deeper engagement and learning. Sessions included:

Investing in Innovation — Sheli Gartman , Whole Human Consulting

Mentorship through TechBridge — Betsy Davies, ITC Vice President of Operations

AI Tools for Small Business — Irene Gonzalez, SBA Business Opportunity Specialist

Cybersecurity Trends and Preparedness — Adam Rak, Executive Director, CyberUSA

Semiconductor Workforce Development — Carmen Achabal (Micron) & Dan Lamborn (Boise State University)

Exporting Tech & Services Globally — Tracy Day (Idaho Commerce) & Jennifer Verndon (U.S. Commercial Service)

These interactive sessions capped off the day with actionable insights, connections, and collaborative energy to carry Idaho’s innovation economy forward.

About the Idaho Technology Council

ITC Attends Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leader Summit in WA

bdavies@idahotechcouncil.org (Betsy Davies) — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 20:34:09 GMT

ITC Attends Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit

Written by: Betsy Davies

April 9, 2025

A Week of Innovation, Inspiration, and Impact: Microsoft TechSpark Fellows Summit and Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit

From March 24th to 28th, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to the Seattle area and immerse myself in a week full of learning, connection, and empowerment at two transformative events hosted by Microsoft: The TechSpark Fellows Summit and the Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leaders’ Summit (GNPLS). The experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

Connecting Across the Country: TechSpark Fellows Summit

The TechSpark Fellows Summit, held on Microsoft’s Redmond campus, brought together fellows from across the U.S.—each of us working at the intersection of technology and community impact. It was incredibly powerful to be surrounded by such passionate changemakers, all dedicated to driving digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity in our respective regions.

The agenda was packed with energizing content, including:

A preview of the AI Readiness Report , by the Berkeley Group, offering insights into the current state of AI innovation and strategies for communities to become future-ready.
Two impactful AI in Motion Panels , where Fellows shared real stories from the field—highlighting everything from digital skilling efforts to inclusive entrepreneurship initiatives.
The unveiling of the new TechSpark Playbook , an invaluable tool to help us better communicate our stories and outcomes back to our communities.

One of the most inspiring parts of the summit was the AI in Motion Pod Panel , where Fellows answered questions about our most impactful projects, challenges faced, and aspirations ahead. These candid conversations sparked new ideas and forged deeper bonds across the network.

It was a week of not just sharing what we’ve done but dreaming together about what’s possible when we work collaboratively across geographies, with Microsoft’s powerful resources and vision behind us.

Global Vision, Local Action: Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit

Midweek, I joined hundreds of nonprofit leaders from around the world at the Microsoft GNPLS in Bellevue. This summit focused on how nonprofits can harness the power of Microsoft technologies—from AI and cloud solutions to cybersecurity tools—to amplify their missions and drive greater impact.

Sessions explored themes such as digital transformation, sustainability, data-driven decision-making, and building resilient nonprofit ecosystems. It was empowering to see how aligned Microsoft is with the values and needs of the nonprofit sector—and how committed they are to helping us scale our work responsibly and inclusively.

Lasting Impact

Walking away from this week, I feel deeply grateful—not only for the opportunity to participate in these summits, but for the continued support and inspiration provided by Microsoft through the TechSpark program.

This experience reinvigorated my commitment to community innovation and gave me fresh ideas, new tools, and powerful partnerships to help move our mission forward. I’m excited to implement the insights I’ve gained and to stay connected with this vibrant network of leaders who are reimagining what’s possible in their communities.

Thank you, Microsoft TechSpark and GNPLS, for an unforgettable experience. The future is bright—and I’m more ready than ever to help shape it.

###

ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. Our mission is to build a strong tech community in Idaho by bringing people together, supporting tech education, and advocating for policies that promote sustainable growth. Together, we’re making Idaho a top destination for technology and innovation. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies.

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Eastern Idaho Tech Expo and VIP Stakeholder Event a Resounding Success

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:25:46 GMT

Eastern Idaho Tech Expo and VIP Stakeholder Event a Resounding Success

For immediate release:

Idaho Falls, ID – March 25, 2025

The 1st Annual Eastern Idaho Tech Expo and VIP Stakeholder Event brought together industry leaders, tech innovators, and economic development partners on March 18-19, 2025, for two days of engaging discussions, networking, and groundbreaking technology showcases. Hosted by the Idaho Technology Council (ITC), the event served as a catalyst for strengthening Eastern Idaho’s tech ecosystem and fostering future growth.

VIP Stakeholder Event – Driving Collaboration & Innovation

The VIP Stakeholder Event on March 18 set the stage for meaningful dialogue among entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. Speakers shared insights into Idaho’s tech industry expansion, innovation trends, and economic development strategies.

Highlights included:
�� Ryan Harris, CEO of RizeX , led a dynamic networking activity to spark new connections.
�� Kurtis Clark, Technical Services Manager. at BioLogiQ , introduced sustainable cutlery made from potato starch.
�� Jason Jenkins, VP of Silver Star Communications , emphasized the importance of connectivity and community collaboration .
�� Rich Stuppy, former ITC Board Chair , energized the audience with his passion for growing Idaho’s tech ecosystem .
�� Stu Draper, Founder of Stukent/Get Found First , shared his entrepreneurial journey and love for Eastern Idaho.

Keynote speaker Mark Holtermann, CIO of Idaho National Laboratory , highlighted the opportunities to expand Idaho’s leadership in energy and technology .

Additionally, Mayor Jerry Merrill (City of Rexburg) and ITC CEO Diane Bevan discussed Rexburg’s vision for tech growth , while Teresa McKnight, CEO of REDI , showcased Idaho’s success in securing SBIR/STTR grants for small businesses.

The event closed with an inspiring message from Dr. Lori Barber, President of College of Eastern Idaho , who called on attendees to unite in strengthening Idaho’s tech talent pipeline .

Breakout Sessions & Tech Expo – Engaging Discussions & Innovation Showcases

On March 19 , attendees participated in thought-provoking breakout sessions led by top tech and business experts on topics ranging from AI and cybersecurity to entrepreneurship and commercialization .

Featured sessions included:
On March 19 , the breakout sessions featured industry-leading experts and organizations sharing insights on AI, cybersecurity, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and commercialization.

Breakout Sessions, hosts, and panelists:

�� Enhancing Enterprise Performance through the Effective Adoption of M365 & Co-Pilot
Sponsored by: Slalom Consulting & Microsoft

Brandon Showers, Director, Account Technology Strategist, Microsoft
David Drinkwine, Senior Director, Modern Work Global Practice, Slalom

�� Cashing in on Your Bright Ideas: America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR Program)
Hosted by: Regional Economic Development for Eastern Idaho (REDI)

Teresa McKnight, CEO, REDI
David Noack, Region VI Director, Idaho SBDC
Bam Omotowa, Region VI Director, APEX

�� Futureproofing with Education - Tech Fluency Augmented with Durable Skills
Hosted by: College of Eastern Idaho

Dr. Henry C. (Chuck) Bohleke, Dean of Business, Technology & Trades, CEI
Dr. Matthew Taylor, Dean, Health Sciences, CEI
Jacob Haeberle, Interim Dean of General Education, CEI

�� AI in Action: Streamlining Operations and Strengthening Cybersecurity for Modern Businesses
Hosted by: MoatIT

Ali Khan, Founder/CEO, MoatIT

�� Beyond the Chatbot: DRIFT Tools for Utility & Industry Filings
Hosted by: Slalom Consulting

Joe Kennedy, Senior Director, Slalom

�� Technology Resources for Entrepreneurs
Hosted by: Idaho Entrepreneur Center

Ryon Brewer, CEO/Executive Director, Idaho Entrepreneur Center
Scott Allred, COO, Idaho Entrepreneur Center

�� SMART Business Strategic Planning
Hosted by: Idaho Innovation Center

Jared Oviatt, Business Partner, BBSI
Garrett Foster, Owner, Prevail—Legacy Builders
Bryan Magleby, Executive Director, Idaho Innovation Center

�� Building AI Knowledge, Skills, and Responsibility
Hosted by: City of Rexburg & Brigham Young University-Idaho

Aaron Denney, Economic Development, City of Rexburg
Sidney Palmer, Ph.D., University AI Officer, BYU-Idaho
Dave Ashby, Director of Learning Innovation & Technology, BYU-Idaho

�� From Lab to Launch: The Art of Commercialization
Hosted by: ISU Bengal Solutions

Nikola Layton, Director, Bengal Solutions Research and Commercialization Center, ISU

�� The Region’s Growing Role in AI Leadership
Hosted by: Idaho National Laboratory

Chris Ritter, Division Director, Scientific Computing & AI, INL
Srini Yeduru, Sr. Manager, Micron Technology
Edoardo Serra, Associate Professor, Boise State University
Brian Smith, Director, Nuclear Reactor Development, INL

Unparalleled Networking & Industry Growth

The expo floor provided a space for startups, established tech companies, and investors to connect, showcase innovations , and explore new partnerships. On behalf of the Idaho Technology Council, we give our heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, exhibitors, and presenters on both days. it is with your collaboration that this event was a success.

Looking Ahead – Save the Date for 2026!

The Eastern Idaho Tech Expo proved that Idaho is on the rise as a technology hub. With overwhelming participation and positive feedback, plans for the 2026 event are already in motion. Stay tuned for updates!

ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Idaho Technology Council Announces Keynote Speakers for Annual State of Technology: ITC Report & Conference

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 04:10:48 GMT

Idaho Technology Council Announces Keynote Speakers for Annual State of Technology: ITC Report & Conference

For immediate release:

Boise, ID – March 20, 2025 – The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is excited to announce its annual State of Technology: ITC Report & Conference, taking place on May 6, at JUMP BOISE. This premier gathering will bring together technology leaders, investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore the state of Idaho’s digital economy, the future of innovation in the state and celebrate National Small Business Week.

This year’s keynote speakers include:

Kelly Loeffler, 28th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, entrepreneur, executive, philanthropist, and former U.S. Senator from Georgia. Loeffler has dedicated her career to fostering business growth and expanding economic opportunities across industries.
Adam Rak, Executive Director of CyberUSA, a national initiative strengthening cybersecurity resilience by uniting organizations, resources, and intelligence to combat digital threats.

In addition to these powerful keynotes, the conference will highlight the 10-year evolution of the Idaho Deal Flow Report, providing an in-depth look at how investment trends in Idaho-based companies have shifted over the past decade. Blake Hansen, Founder & CEO of Alturas and creator of the Idaho Deal Flow Report, will present insights on emerging investment patterns and economic growth in the state.

The ITC will also unveil a new data dashboard designed to track and measure Idaho’s tech industry’s economic vitality. This innovative tool will provide real-time insights into the growth, challenges, and opportunities shaping Idaho’s technology sector.

Date & Time
Doors Open: 11:15 AM
Lunch & Networking: 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Main Program: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Featured Speakers

Andrew Crapuchettes , Founder & CEO, RedBalloon
Reid Stephan , Chief Information Officer, St. Luke's Health System, ITC Board Chair
Updates from ITC partners on current expansion and growth

Afternoon Workshops (Held on the 5th floor, JUMP Room)

Choose from two interactive sessions to gain industry insights and actionable strategies.

�� Round 1: 2:00 – 2:45 PM
�� Round 2: 3:00 – 3:45 PM

Workshop Topics:
Cybersecurity – Meet with CyberUSA
Artificial Intelligence – The Latest and Greatest in AI
Tech Jobs in Semiconductors – Shaping the Future Workforce
Exporting Tech Software & Services – Expanding Global Reach
Investment in Innovation – Preparing to Pitch for Big Dollars
TechBridge Mentorship Program – How to Get Involved

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and shape the future of Idaho’s tech ecosystem!

"The Idaho Technology Council is committed to fostering an environment where innovation thrives,” said Diane Bevan, President and CEO of the ITC. "This year’s event will not only reflect on the history of growth but will also introduce groundbreaking resources to drive Idaho’s tech sector forward."

ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Meet Gabe Lineman

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:19:44 GMT

Introducing: Gabe Linehan, Director of Partnerships, Qdeck, Imagine Venture Partners (SELTZi & Golfview RE Dev)

Describe the business/organization you work for:

I work closely with my mentor, Jagdeesh "Jag" Prakasam, in all of his endeavors through his Venture Comapny. My main work, and where I started first working with Jag, is with an AI-Driven financial technology/wealth management platform, called Qdeck. My title here is "director of partnerships" - beyond partnership curation, I have also been wearing many other hats, like that of sales, BD, fundraising & product design. We are in the start up phase but fully invested into building this company up to its highest potential, just got our AI/technology patent confirmed on 2/14/25 . I have also been working closely with our other portfolio companies, SELTZi, a craft brewed cocktail company, and the Gold View Apartment development inn Mountain home, which happened to be the first multi-family housing complex to be building Mountain Home since 2008. For those last two, I have been doing fundraising and business development.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

I met Jag and got introduced to Qdeck back in 11/2024. At that point, I recognized how special the technology was that the team had built, from which, all of Qdeck was being build atop of - that's when I targeted this as my next endeavor/career. Knowing I had such relevant experience in the space, spending eight years as a financial advisor myself, and the years since spent in sales & BD - I vied for my opportunity to come on board with Qdeck, and thankfully Jag was able to recognize my value and what I would be able to uniquely bring to the table. Since then, I have worked closer and closer within the other projects that Jag is at the helm of through running the Venture firm - SELZTi & RE development projects in Mountain home, Idaho.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Qdeck - patented AI technology - unique alignments with major players in the industry
SELTZi Cocktail Co.- brewed like a beer, put on tap like a beer, taxed & regulated like a beer - drinking like a (11x) internationally awarded cocktail
Imagine Venture Partners RE development - Golf View Apartments - 1st multifamily housing development project in the city of Mountian Home since 2008. this is a trailblazing endeavor to get finalized, and will echo into the future as far as impact or development for the city of MH.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

As a business owner, entrepreneur or trusted employee in the start up space - you MUST continue to believe in your vision for the future and the mission you are on to get there. I have had to fail many times, make wrong decisions based off best intentions, learn, bet on myself, and ultimately, put myself in positions others wouldn't (based off perceived risk), so I can eventually have what others can't. I have never settled for a job or opportunity, and taken the financial and personal risk it takes to see through those transitionary times - I continue to only put my efforts towards projects and people that have proven their long term visionary value/future. Surviving when needed, so I can thrive for good, based off my love for myself, the people around me, and for the endeavors I chose to put that time towards.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

If you are bold enough, and let your intuition and wisdom guide you - trust your feelings - put yourself first, never settle for any career path that does not fuel you and your creative spark. Once you know the direction you must go - trust it - and put yourself into positions that others won't, so eventually, you can have what others can't.

Connect with Gabe on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Qdeck on their website HERE

Meet Peter Wolsborn

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 21:41:32 GMT

Introducing Peter Wolsborn, Chief of Staff, in time tec!

Describe the business/organization you work for:

In Time Tec is an award-winning software development and IT company with offices in the US, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, UAE, India, Australia, South Korea, and Colombia.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

We truly believe that by living our values, we can create more in our world – more love, more financial success, more support, more education. For software development, this means that our services enable other companies to live their dreams and show up as powerful forces in their industry.

Share something you love about Idaho, and the community.

I love the openness and willingness of my professional network to help and support organizations, nonprofits, and education systems that are crucial for the health of our entire population. I've been fortunate enough to see the impact this support has on local entrepreneurs and students. Organizations like Trailhead, Boise Entrepreneur Week, Breaking Chains Academy, and Women Innovators do incredible work in our community through the support of businesses like In Time Tec and others within our ecosystem.

What inspired you to join the ITC?

I've worked with ITC throughout the years personally and have had the opportunity to work with Diane Bevan and the team more directly when I join In Time Tec over a year ago. In Time Tec has been a dedicated member of ITC for years and our CEO, Jeet Kumar, served as the Board Chair. I'm honored that Jeet asked me to serve as In Time Tec's representative board member and I am excited to work with ITC to make a difference in our community.

What are you looking forward to the most about serving as a board member of the ITC?

I'm extremely excited about this new avenue of service. Anything I can do to make a difference and make life better for Idahoans is exciting! their trajectory.

What do you like to do in your free time, or anything else you would like to share with our network?

When I'm not working, I'm either exercising, cooking, or reading!

Connect with Peter on LinkedIn HERE

Check out in time tec on their website HERE

Meet Noah Riley

bdavies@idahotechcouncil.org (Betsy Davies) — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 18:07:07 GMT

Meet the Vessel Team!

Describe the business/organization you work for:

At AI Genius Automations, we specialize in designing and building custom AI-powered applications, software, and advanced automations. Our mission is to help businesses streamline their operations, reduce inefficiencies, and unlock growth potential by leveraging cutting-edge technology.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide

to work for this specific organization?

We were inspired by the limitless potential of AI and automation to revolutionize how businesses operate. We saw an opportunity to fill a gap by offering businesses truly customized solutions—tailored applications and automations that align with their unique needs. Our passion lies in making technology approachable and impactful, so people can focus on being human, and get their time back.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

We test while others talk. We don't behave in predatory ways that take advantage of people's lack of technical knowledge. We approach our builds from a process engineering, with the goals, wants, and needs of the specific client at the forfront of the process.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

One of our biggest challenges has been helping clients overcome hesitancy toward adopting new technologies. To address this, we focus on education—breaking down complex concepts into simple, relatable terms and showcasing tangible benefits. By building trust through transparency and delivering results that speak for themselves, we’ve been able to overcome resistance and establish ourselves as experts through demonstration.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your

industry?

TEST EVERYTHING.

Connect with Noah Riley HERE

Website: https://aigeniusautomations.com/

Meet Vessel

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 22:19:41 GMT

Meet the Vessel Team!

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Vessel is a Veteran-owned, employee owned, mission-driven company dedicated to reshoring and strengthening the resilience of U.S. manufacturing. At the core of Vessel is a custom-built technology, specifically designed to deliver measurable economic impact for private, state, and federal agencies that consult or advise underserved U.S.

manufacturers.

The Vessel Smart Assessment Platform (VSAP) enhances agency effectiveness by providing more accurate recommendations, fostering sustainable relationships, and enabling ongoing engagement through an evergreen approach. The technology integrates industry-specific, geography-based, size-based, and topical manufacturing assessments with

AI-matched agency resources, partners, and external supply chain data points. This tailored matching system ensures that the unique needs of each manufacturer are met with precision.

Vessel prides itself in being a self-funded team of innovators committed to delivering high-impact solutions across the United States. Originally founded as a consulting agency, Vessel helped manufacturers visualize, clarify, and implement strategies to overcome barriers to growth and profitability. Today, their consulting services focus on supporting partner agencies closely in managing the tools, strategy, and timely

recommendations more effectively, enhancing their ability to drive results and build lasting awareness and relationships with their network of manufacturers.

Vessel is dedicated to helping U.S. manufacturers not only compete but thrive in a global economy. By equipping experts with the tools, insights, and strategies necessary for success, Vessel aims to foster a more sustainable and prosperous future.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide

to work for this specific organization?

At Vessel, we are united by a shared belief in the power of U.S. manufacturing to strengthen the national economy. Every team member is driven by this mission, and we each bring our own experiences and dedication to advancing this vision. Over time, Vessel has refined its

focus to address the most impactful areas for U.S. manufacturers, leveraging our hands-on industry experience to develop technology solutions that empower small to medium-sized manufacturers and the agencies supporting them.

Our commitment is to fortify U.S. manufacturing through clarity in supply chains and operational alignment. We aim to give manufacturers the agility and resilience they need to thrive amidst global challenges, ensuring their enduring success and impact.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Not many for-profit companies have the culture and shared belief that the Vessel team has. There are other software offerings that perform elements of what our Smart Assessments platform can accomplish, however we are the only multi-dimensional program with advanced and custom smart matching, data visualization, and dynamic reporting that infuses behind the scenes to create efficiencies and strength in data collection/reporting.

With our Vessel Smart Assessments platform now in multiple states across the country, we are able to reach into vertical markets to provide our tool as a solution across a variety of industries and use cases that include supporting Veterans as they transition into the workforce, bolster economic development, and support the full continuum of education onto meaningful careers. Our team has created an efficient and intuitive framework to analyze and visualize data and serve up AI-enhanced informed recommendations. We LOVE the work we get to do!

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

Culture is extremely important to our team. Fortunately, for us it has been a way to separate out people that may have the needed skill sets but don’t have the passion for the work we get to do, or appreciation for the people on the team. On the flip side, our mission and culture have also been catalysts for finding really talented and dynamic people who deeply care about the work of Vessel and want to be a part of building a company and

product we can all be proud of.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your

industry?

Being an entrepreneur is hard, overcoming external doubt is daunting, building technology is expensive, however, if you are willing to overcome those challenges, there is a seat at the table and a great need for supporting our U.S. Manufacturers and the cottage industries that fuel them.

Connect with Vessel HERE

Social Media Handles/Tags: @Vessel, #SmartAssessments #SupplyChainSoftware

Meet Steve Wood

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 22:50:08 GMT

Introducing Steve Wood, V.P., Global Services & Support, Ericsson

Steve recently joined the Board of Trustees of the ITC, representing Ericsson. We invite you to get to know Steve Wood.

Describe the business/organization you work for:

Ericsson is a global leader in information and communication technology (ICT) providing hardware, software, and services for connectivity to the largest telecommunications companies in the world. Cradlepoint is the global leader in wireless WAN connectivity providing hardware, software and services to the largest enterprise customers in the world. Cradlepoint became part of the Ericsson family in 2020 and is part of the Enterprise Wireless Solutions business unit providing wireless WAN, security and private cellular networking solutions to enterprises around the globe.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Ericsson's Enterprise Wireless Solutions is at the forefront of technology and the paradigm shift that has and is occurring in cellular communications' evolution from a voice connection for the masses to key data connection for the enterprise. Ericsson is uniquely positioned in providing solutions to both the telecommunications providers as well as the enterprises who consume those telecommunications services. As such, Ericsson solutions have the ability to provide unique value by integrating end to end. Ericsson is a technology leader in cellular and is bringing that leadership to the solutions for both telecommunications providers as well as enterprises at a level of integration that is very difficult for others to match and keep pace.

Share something you love about Idaho, and the community.

While I was raised and educated in Wyoming, my entire professional career has taken place in Idaho. However, my Idaho roots run deep. I spent summers working on the family farm in the Malad Valley splitting time between the dairy operation morning and night, raising hay & grain, running range cattle as well as a calf each summer to take to the fair to make my wages for the season. I learned the value of honest, hard work and pulling together as a community to accomplish larger goals. It was here I learned to lend a hand and not point a finger. It was here I learned to be humble and hungry or surely I would be if I weren't. I love our Idahoan spirit of the west wherein we aren't afraid to make bold choices and take risks and work hard to accomplish audacious goals.

What inspired you to join the ITC?

I have been very blessed to have had wonderful teachers and mentors along my journey. One of those mentors and recent ITC Hall of Fame inductee, George Mulhern reached out to me and suggested I think about joining the ITC. We had talked about giving back and sharing the benefits of the knowledge gained along the way with other Idahoans. I attended the 2024 induction ceremony and the energy and commitment from so many to a higher goal solidified my decision. I am hopeful that I will be able to share something that helps others as my past and current mentors have done for me. I hope that in doing so, I make them proud that their time they invested in me and my growth was time well spent and together we have furthered technology is This Great State.

What are you looking forward to the most about serving as a board member of the ITC?

I truly am looking at this opportunity to give back to the State and the communities who were seminal in my professional and technical success. I have been a part of start ups as a founder and an early employee as well as more mature companies in hyper-growth. I have also been part of companies that failed to make key decisions that unfavorably changed their trajectory. I want to be able to impart the knowledge and experience that I have gained to further the causes of the ITC and promote and further the burgeoning technology ecosystem Idaho enjoys. In my opinion and experience, Idaho technology and technologists are capable of collaborating with and/or successfully competing with any of our peers in technology the world over. I'm hoping to further that reality in some small way.

What do you like to do in your free time, or anything else you would like to share with our network?

I am active. I love the outdoors, the mountains and the rivers. I hike and backpack. I enjoy fishing, especially fly fishing. There is nothing better than drifting with my father through a hatch on The South Fork. I am an avid fitness junkie and can be found at the gym most days. I am excited for another ski season and look forward to hitting the slopes with my son. I still have hopes of becoming a decent powder skier albeit time is betting against me. I love college sports even amidst the significant changes in the past years. I am in therapy (wink wink) working through having a daughter at the University of Oregon and cheering for the Ducks who narrowly beat our Broncos. I am a classic car guy and love taking my own classic for jaunts through the Idaho mountain roads and visiting the wonderful Idahoans in small towns along the way that remind me of my times growing up and working in Malad. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you think I can be of assistance and help further the causes of the ITC.

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Ericsson on their website HERE

Check out Ericsson on YouTube HERE

ITC Announces Relaunch of CyberUSA, and Idaho Chapter

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:10:01 GMT

ITC Announces Relaunch of CyberUSA, and Idaho Chapter

For immediate release:

Boise, Idaho — November 22, 2024 — The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is excited to announce the relaunch of CyberUSA the formation of the ITC CyberIMPACT chapter, as an affiliate of CyberUSA. This initiative comes on the heels of CyberUSA's press release yesterday, highlighting their ongoing efforts to combat the rising tide of cybercrime and emerging threats anticipated in 2025. CyberUSA Press Release

“With our increased reliance on software, especially cloud-based platforms, comes increased security risk,” said CyberUSA Advisory Board Chairman Phil Bond, a former US Undersecretary of Commerce for Technology. “The statistics have shown that the economic and strategic damage from cybercrime continues to increase. The global cost of cybercrime will reach $15.6 trillion by 2029 according to Statista. Lest we forget, perpetrators increasingly include organized crime, terrorists, and state-sponsored actors.”

The ITC is looking forward to active participation with CyberUSA, leveraging the collective expertise and resources of this national network to enhance Idaho's cybersecurity resilience. The Idaho chapter will play a crucial role in uniting regional, state, and corporate cyber organizations in a collective effort. ITC members and nonmembers will have an opportunity to join the Chapter and participate in CyberIMPACT meetings.

Sam Evans, Vice President & Chief Information Security Officer at Clearwater Analytics based in Boise, Idaho, will represent the Idaho affiliation on the Advisory Board of CyberUSA. With over two decades of experience in information security and cybersecurity, Sam Evans brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to this role. His extensive background includes positions at Clearwater Analytics, Micron Technology, Gartner, and Transform Solar, where he has held various leadership roles such as Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer, Deputy Chief Security Officer, and Senior Director Analyst. Sam's expertise encompasses developing and directing information security programs, leading global cybersecurity operations, and advising Fortune 100 companies on digital transformation and security challenges.

"There has never been a more crucial time for CyberUSA and the ITC CyberIMPACT to emerge, offering essential support to Idahoans as cyber risks escalate daily. The Idaho Technology Council acknowledges the significant number of unfilled cybersecurity positions and is dedicated to enhancing the tech ecosystem by promoting digital literacy and collaborating with our educational partners to build the tech talent pipeline," said Diane Bevan, ITC President and CEO.

The launch of the CyberIMPACT chapter aligns with the ITC's 2025 strategic plan to build a community that manages and mitigates cyber risk through various methods. This includes working with partners, like CyberUSA, a national threat-sharing platform. The organization is dedicated to proactive coordination of public and private efforts to shape the education, innovation, and policy landscapes at the regional and federal levels. Cyber Idaho aims to strengthen the state's cybersecurity resilience collectively.

This renewed call for collaboration highlights the urgency of defending against escalating cyber threats in an increasingly connected world. “By fostering cooperation and sharing critical information across public and private sectors, organizations can collectively strengthen the nation's cybersecurity resilience,” commented CyberUSA’s incoming Executive Director Adam Rak. “This unified approach will help protect vital infrastructure, safeguard sensitive data, and ultimately secure the future of digital innovation in America.”

The ITC invites its members, technology cyber groups, public and private organizations engaged in mitigating the risks of cyber to join the ITC chapter and be part of this statewide movement to bolster Idaho’s cyber defense.

###

ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

About CyberUSA

CyberUSA is a trusted forum where American organizations can collaborate on solutions to protect us all. By transcending local, state, and national security silos, we ensure that leaders and practitioners have the best possible resources to safeguard their assets.

CyberUSA membership amplifies cyber defense effectiveness through a community of communities that scales and accelerates information sharing to an unprecedented level. Membership provides access to reliable resources available nowhere else, including a national threat-sharing platform. The organization is dedicated to proactive coordination of public and private efforts to shape the education, innovation, and policy landscapes at the regional and federal levels.

For more information about CyberUSA, visit https://www.cyberusa.us/

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Meet Thomas Jensen, Founder & CEO of ioAire, Inc.

bdavies@idahotechcouncil.org (Betsy Davies) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:13:05 GMT

Introducing Thomas Jensen, Founder & CEO of ioAire, Inc.

Describe the business/organization you work for

ioAire is a provider of products and services, particularly in the area of wireless connectivity, data security and networking solutions for industrial applications

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization?

I created ioAire to solve critical needs in industrial settings. I became aware of these needs from my experiences in working to solve complex issues in factory, laboratory and warehouse environments

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

We are early to market with unique and innovative approaches to the problems we're addressing.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

I've faced challenges as a founder in the team building area more than any other area. I believe that the "try before you buy" is a solid principle that has helped me in recruiting. Also, utilize the book Who? by Geoff Smart has been in invaluable resource that I think is a must-read for any entrepreneur.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Our sales within industries are B2B, where lasting relationships are the norm. Once you have relieved their pain, they will typically become a long-standing customer. Identify their pain, then articulate how your product or service will relieve that pain. Selling aspirin that brings relief is usually better than selling vitamins for prevention.

Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn HERE

Check out ioAire, Inc on their website HERE

Idaho Technology Council supports digital literacy requirement.

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:20:15 GMT

Idaho Technology Council Supports Digital Literacy Requirement

As published in IdahoED News and authored by ITC CEO, Diane Bevan

November 13,2024 - Idaho Technology Council: Digital literacy must be a core requirement in Idaho high schools.

As Idaho transitions into an increasingly digital world, it is imperative that our educational priorities evolve to meet the demands our students will face upon graduation. The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) fully supports state superintendent Debbie Critchfield’s initiative to replace the communication requirement with a digital literacy course. Digital literacy is not merely a technical skill; it is the foundation of modern communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving, and it is essential across every industry.

Too many Idaho graduates are leaving high school without the digital skills they need to thrive. Digital literacy has become the “new common language” that transcends industries, empowering students to adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of work and communication. Skills in coding, online safety, data privacy, and digital citizenship are not optional in today’s job market. Our students deserve the skills that will help them confidently navigate this world, from communicating in digital forums to understanding and applying new technologies. Preparing our students for this environment will position Idaho’s workforce as competitive and resilient.

It is also crucial to note that this shift does not diminish the value of traditional communication skills. Local school districts will retain the autonomy to continue offering speech and communication courses as electives if their communities see value in them. Districts can adjust their course offerings to align with local preferences while still prioritizing statewide needs for digital proficiency. This flexibility empowers schools to serve both the evolving needs of the modern workforce and the unique priorities of their communities.

The proposed change encourages teachers across subjects to incorporate essential communication skills into their curriculum. Many argue that interpersonal and advocacy skills are critical; we agree. However, these skills do not require a standalone course—they are, and should be, embedded in various disciplines. Group projects in science, persuasive writing in English, and presentations in history courses already foster these abilities. Students will still practice vital communication skills throughout their high school experience without sacrificing the fundamental digital literacy that modern careers require.

Speech teachers rightfully highlight the need for students to develop confidence, teamwork skills, and the ability to advocate for themselves. Digital literacy is not in opposition to these goals—it enhances them. Digital tools enable collaboration across distances, effective self-expression online, and participation in global conversations. Requiring digital literacy prepares students not just to be capable employees but also informed citizens who understand the digital world’s impact on their lives.

The Idaho Technology Council is dedicated to promoting a thriving technology ecosystem in Idaho by fostering collaboration, supporting education, and advocating for policies that drive tech growth. As a central hub, ITC connects industry leaders, educators, government, and tech entrepreneurs to enhance economic mobility and establish Idaho as a premier tech destination. One of ITC’s 2025 strategic objectives is to foster talent development and education by launching a new tech mentorship program, deploying support services for students focused on the semiconductor industry, and launching a new Workforce Development Resource Group. These initiatives are designed to build a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of the modern tech industry.

As we look toward the future, it is our responsibility to ensure Idaho’s graduation requirements reflect the realities of the world students are entering. This proposed change is not just a step in the right direction; it is essential to preparing Idaho’s youth for success.

ABOUT THE IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. The primary initiatives of the ITC are focused on the continued growth of innovation, transforming Idaho’s future around Talent, Access to Capital, and R&D/Commercialization. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies.

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Meet Brian de la Motte, the founder and CEO of Hidden Mountain Data

bdavies@idahotechcouncil.org (Betsy Davies) — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:25:26 GMT

Introducing Brian de la Motte, Founder & CEO of Hidden Mountain Data

Describe the business/organization you work for

Hidden Mountain Data is a boutique consulting company specializing in software, data, and cloud.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific

organization?

One of my earliest jobs was with a small startup in Idaho, a role that sparked my dream of becoming a business owner and innovator. As a kid, I was captivated by Thomas Edison and his drive to invent, a fascination that stayed with me as I gained experience across various tech roles, including with large tech companies.

However, something always felt missing. Many big tech environments often prioritize politics over people, whereas here in Idaho, we focus on mutual respect and getting the job done professionally. This Idaho spirit has deeply shaped my approach to innovation.

After helping dozens of companies bring their ideas to life, I recently realized that, in a way, I’m living my childhood dream. While I’m not inventing in the traditional sense, I’m using my skills to help others build and refine their own groundbreaking solutions, making an impact in my community through technology..

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

We often take on last-mile projects, helping clients reach that final 10% needed to cross the finish line. Rather than discarding existing work and starting from scratch, we refine and enhance, treating each project as if it were our own business. We emphasize understanding business logic before writing a single line of code—because effective communication often matters as much as the code itself.

When we build software, we bring together our collective expertise to create robust, scalable solutions. Quality data is essential to building great software and AI, which is why we embed it deeply in everything we create. Anyone can build an app, but ensuring it scales smoothly to thousands of users without needing a complete rewrite—that’s the level of excellence we deliver in every product.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

Learning nontechnical skills has been one of my biggest challenges. While I’ve always been an extroverted engineer, sales and marketing were new territories for me, and I've had to tackle them through trial and error, pushing myself out of my comfort zone. My greatest weakness has been impatience and wrestling with my inner critic—but I’m fortunate to have a great co-founder and COO who brings patience and balance. We lift each other up when one of us is feeling low.

The first year was the toughest, with unexpected challenges constantly popping up, adding immense stress—much of it due to my own overthinking. But each challenge has strengthened my resilience and thickened my skin. I now try to treat every crisis as a learning opportunity, making sure we don’t let any lessons go to waste. When we make mistakes, we return to the drawing board and ask ourselves how we can avoid relearning that lesson in the future.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Ask as many questions as you can—even the ones that feel “dumb.” Seek input from others, ask for mentorship, and don’t hesitate to say what’s on your mind. Join a community, or if one doesn’t exist, start your own meetup with others who share your interest in the field. Be sure this is the industry you want, because it moves incredibly fast. Even seasoned professionals are learning new things every day. Embrace that pace and be prepared to keep growing.

Connect with Brian on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Hidden Mountain Data on their website HERE

Join Hidden Mountain Data at Kiln Meridian for Hackfort Happy Hour! INFO HERE

Meet Jeff Simmons

bdavies@idahotechcouncil.org (Betsy Davies) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 17:50:05 GMT

Introducing Jeff Simmons, Superintendent - Idaho Digital Learning Alliance

Describe the business/organization you work for

At IDLA, our mission is to improve the quality of learning through innovative solutions, collaborative relationships, and the access and application of educational technology.

Idaho Digital Learning Alliance was created by the Idaho State Legislature (Title 33, Chapter 55 Idaho Code, 2002) and Idaho educators, developed for Idaho students and is recognized as a leader across the nation in online virtual education. Idaho Digital Learning Alliance was created to provide access, equity, and flexibility for students in the state of Idaho.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific

organization?

By creating Idaho Digital Learning Alliance, an online state virtual school, the Idaho Legislature, school administrators, and school boards created a collaboration of 115 school districts with highly qualified teachers, online courses, virtual services, and

eLearning expertise for the state in online virtual education policy, procedure, and implementation.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

IDLA stands out for its statewide reach, providing flexible, high-quality online education to students across Idaho, especially in rural areas. With customizable learning paths, including core subjects and advanced opportunity options, students can tailor their education to fit their needs. Certified Idaho teachers offer personalized instruction, ensuring strong teacher-student support. IDLA is also committed to innovation, using new technologies like AI and adaptive learning. By partnering with local school districts, IDLA enhances traditional education, making it a leader in digital learning in Idaho.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

IDLA faces challenges like the digital divide, student engagement, and keeping up with rapid technological changes. To address limited access to technology in rural areas, IDLA partners with local schools to provide resources. They keep students engaged by offering personalized instruction from certified teachers and using interactive tools like adaptive learning and gamification. To stay ahead of technological changes, IDLA invests in staff development and explores new educational technologies. These efforts ensure they continue delivering high-quality online education across Idaho.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

For anyone looking to join the online education industry, flexibility and adaptability are key. The field evolves rapidly with new technologies, so staying updated on trends and being open to learning new tools is essential. Building strong communication skills is also important, as connecting with students and colleagues remotely requires clear, engaging interaction. Additionally, having a passion for education and a student-centered mindset will help you succeed, as the focus is always on delivering a quality learning experience. Finally, collaboration is crucial working with schools, educators, and communities can greatly enhance the impact of your efforts.

Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn HERE

Check out IDLA on their website HERE

Check out IDLA on YouTube HERE

2024 Hall of Fame, Celebrating 15 years

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 23:18:57 GMT

October 11, 2024- A night to celebrate the Idaho Technology Council's 15th year in Idaho, at their annual Hall of Fame Gala and Idavation Awards and induct two Legacy Leaders into the Hall of Fame.

More than 500 attended on Friday, October 11, at Boise Center as co-emcees, Idaho Business for Education, Carolyn Holly and Presenting Sponsor, Idaho Centra Credit Union, Mark Willden enlightened guests with the theme of. "A Timeless Return". Following dinner, emcee, Carolyn Holly announced and brought to the stage, newly announced ITC CEO, Diane Bevan. An expected enthusiasm swept the audience with two notable Idaho leaders gracing the stage together to begin what would be an amazing night celebrating tech legacy leaders, honorees, awardees, and inductees.

The first to take the stage, was a panel of past and present ITC Board Chairs, moderated by former, ITC Founder and former CEO, Jay Larsen, now a Senior Business Development Director with Meta. Panelists included, Von Hansen, who served 5 years as an ITC Chair worked over 20 years and was on the first team to test and build the infamous laser printer. Paris, Cole, the former CEO and co-founder of Truckstop.com, and Reid Stephan, the current ITC Chair and CIO, for St. Luke's Health System. A robust conversation around the history of tech in Idaho, the companies that put Idaho on the map, and the role of the ITC founders.

Following the panel discussion, ITC Board Chair, Reid Stephan presented a plaque to former CEO, Jay Larsen for all of his years serving the organization, and to Jeet Kumar, Founder of InTimeTec, for his role as the outgoing Board Chair, serving from 2021-2023. He then announced a new award to the annual event, the Chairman's Award for Service Excellent to recognize a member or staff for their contribution to the community and organization. He chose the Paola Aguilar, the former Programs Manager. Paola passed away after a long battle with a chronic illness earlier in 2024. The award was presented to her brother, Roger Aguilar, and sister, Isabel Brito.

The next award on the program, presented by returning sponsor, Micron, was the Policy Champion award. This award is presented to an elected official who has played a key role in developing public policies supporting innovation in Idaho. Rachel Burkett, the chair of the ITC Public Policy Committee, member of the ITC Executive Board and Director of US Government Affairs at Micron, presented the 2024 Policy Champion Award to, the State Superintendent of Education, Debbie Critchfield. Superintendent spoke on the importance of supporting Idaho's students and her commitment to including digital literacy as a graduation requirement.

The Sawtooth STEM Educator Awards were next on the night's program, starting with the introduction of the Idaho STEM Action Center's new Executive Director, Dee Mooney. She was joined by sponsor, Richard Ruiz, Vice President - Growth & Marketing Development, Technology Credit Union. Dee stated, " We are all here, in part, because of the commitment and work of a great teacher. Educators have an impact that spans lifetimes, shapes careers, and touches the lives of each of their students far beyond the time those students spend in a classroom. Tonight, we’re here to honor teachers who are going above and beyond in science, technology, engineering, and math education, shaping the next generation of innovators."

The Sawtooth STEM Educator Award is presented to two outstanding teachers who excel at opening doors of opportunity for their students. Junsong Su and Todd Anderson with the 2024 Sawtooth STEM Educator Awards. Junsong Su has been instrumental in the implementation of the South Fork Elementary robotics program, identifying funding sources and securing funding to allow the school to purchase several robotics kits. He also implemented an after-school 3D-printing program, teaching himself to assemble a 3D printer in the school’s storage. He spent many hours outside school time communicating with the supplier for the 3D printer, troubleshooting defects and coordinating the shipment of replacement parts. Mr. Su sparks excitement and innovation in the minds of his students and opens their eyes to the possibilities offered by STEM education. Todd Anderson , after starting his position at Canyon Ridge High School, he started a First Tech Challenge robotics team, which has competed for the last two years. He joined SkillsUSA in the 2023-24 school year, and his advanced engineering students took first, second, and third place in the state 3-Axis Milling Programmer event in April 2024. He has organized and run a virtual reality design summer camp for multilingual learners. Mr. Anderson has advanced the engineering program at Canyon Ridge High School so that it pushes students to build skills in engineering and catalyze their futures in STEM.

This year's keynote speaker made global news as she scored in the final seconds at the recent Olympics in Paris, securing a first-time medal for Team USA, Rugby 7s. Alex "Spiff" Sedrick, was introduced by Keynote Speaker sponsor, ITC Executive Officer and a member of the Dorsey Whitney PLLC firm, Jordan Stott and Jody Sedrick, founder of Zenware (and Spiff's uncle). Her intro wowed the crowd showing the infamous 8 second run as her opener which brought the entire room to their feet. Spiff spoke of challenges during her formative years, how she navigated through them and stayed resilient to many barriers that she faced. Her perseverance prevailed in each situation getting her closer to becoming an Olympian.

A key element in ITC’s mission is to raise public awareness of the innovators and innovations across our state. The IDAVATION AWARDS, sponsored by Scoggin Capital Investment, included public nominations and voting as a component in the selection of the award winners as well as input from the Board of Trustees. This year’s nominees spanned across Idaho. This year, we invited each finalist to walk the stage, receive an engraved award and celebrate this milestone of excellence. All honorees and finalists, as well as the winners were listed in the event magazine that was given out at the close of the evening.

Scoggin Capital Investment, CEO, Andy Scoggin, announced the first category, the Mt. Borah award. “When looking at Idaho visionaries, many would put Senator William Borah near the top of the list, so much so that Idaho’s highest peak was named after him! To ascend a peak like Mt. Borah is to truly be able to see for miles around and that leads us to our 3rd category we named the Mt. Borah Visionary Category. This award is granted to a leader that has expanded the horizons of Idaho’s technology and entrepreneurial community." said Scoggin. Finalists awarded: (descriptions were provided by the nominations received)

Jason Crawforth, founder of SWEAR - A visionary serial entrepreneur who has significantly impacted Boise's tech ecosystem through his innovative ventures and dedication to community growth. After founding and successfully exiting TreeTop Technologies and Groupware Technologies, he established Trailhead, Boise’s leading entrepreneurial hub, which has contributed over $1 billion in economic impact. His latest venture, Swear.com, addresses digital disinformation by authenticating digital content, driven by his commitment to fostering truth and transparency in the digital age. Jason's leadership continues to shape Boise's tech landscape and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Lisa Grow, CEO of Idaho Power - Lisa Grow was one of the first female engineers at Idaho Power and paved new paths for women in engineering roles in Idaho. Now the CEO of Idaho Power (first female in this role) and has shown great determination, leadership, and innovation as she leads Idaho Power through a complex/changing time related to power supply, regulation, transmission, and alternative energy demands. Lisa was unable to attend and her award will be delivered.

Andrew Crapuchettes: RED BALLOON - Andrew has been driving technology growth and entrepreneurship in North Idaho for over 20 years. His efforts have driven growth of 3 different software startups employing hundreds of people in Moscow and beyond. He is a principle in an additional portfolio of software companies. Stephan Sawyer, accepted the award on Andrew's behalf.

The winner of the 2024 Mt. Borah Visionary Leader Award is, Jason Crawforth, SWEAR.

Andy Scoggin, announced the second category, the Hells Canyon Emerging Company. Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in the United States and presents a daunting journey for those who wish to travel through and emerge from the other side. This award is granted to a startup that has experienced a similar journey of hardship and sacrifice to achieve success. Finalists awarded: (descriptions were provided by the nominations received)

Red Aspen - Founded by three Boise women, Red Aspen has found success in the social selling beauty and consumer products space thanks to its powerful mission which drives every decision. Red Aspen has been included twice on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies in the nation and has earned numerous other accolades for their success both in the consumer product space and the social selling world. Their revenues have grown annually to $40 million.

Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Founder, Isaac Belden - The Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance is a staple in the veteran entrepreneur community. The VEA is an overwhelming force of commitment, driven to the support of veteran and veteran spouse business owners. Isaac Belden has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in leveraging technology to support veteran entrepreneurs.

Hidden Mountain Data: Founder Brian de la Motte - In, 19 months, HMD, a Treasure Valley software agency, has made a big impact. Their focus on professionalism, quality, and customer focus is fueled by their team of talented local developers who tackle complex projects and build long-term partnerships. Despite the competitive landscape, HMD's rapid growth is a testament to their tenacious spirit and unwavering commitment to core values.

The winner of the 2024 Hell’s Canyon Emerging Company Award is Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance

Our final category is for the night was the Peregrine Innovative Technology Award. The Peregrine Falcon is extremely agile and flies at speeds up to 242 mph. This award is granted to a company or team that has created an innovative technology, which often requires agility and speed to bring this technology to market. Finalists awarded: (descriptions were provided by the nominations received)

Bastian Solutions, Chris Morgan - Ba stian Solutions has been working on a robotic bin picking solution named Bastian Solutions SmartPick. The smart pick solution integrates artificial intelligence with robotics to deliver fast picks. This system is equipped with sophisticated cameras and sensors that accurately identify and locate items, even in cluttered and unstructured environments. This reduces errors associated with manual picking. The smart pick solution also reduces labor costs, improves efficiency and reduces human involvement in hazardous tasks.

SWEAR, Jason Crawforth – SWEAR patented technology, which includes real-time cryptographic watermarking and blockchain integration, ensures the integrity of digital content from the moment of capture. This proactive approach addresses the pervasive issue of digital manipulation, offering unbreakable proof of authenticity and setting new industry standards.

INL, Matthew Sgambat i – Idaho National Laboratory, technology Vigilant Shield is an innovative technology designed to keep viruses, malware and other malicious software from invading critical communication networks by using machine learning to sequester malicious network packets – digital containers filled with data – before they reach their intended destination. Backed by Idaho National Laboratory and Sub Rosa Ventures (SRV), a company spun out of Cleveland Electric Laboratories, Vigilant Shield exemplifies agility, efficiency, and market readiness, making it a key player in global technological leadership. Its commitment to quality and strategic industry engagement further solidify its alignment with the award's values of innovation, speed, and excellence.

Silverdraft, Amy Gile - Silverdraft created a next generation real time graphics rendering architecture in under 6 weeks for the live broadcast of the Superbowl. The creative team at Paramount/CBS/Nickelodeon had an idea to create a special version of the Superbowl that would be set in the world of SpongeBob SquarePants to be simulcast with the Superbowl on Nickelodeon. Using live graphics and visual effects the stadium would appear to be "under the sea" while SpongeBob and his friends would appear on the field as well as in the announcer booth. This is effectively a hyperscale data center in a tiny footprint with performance-critical resiliency.

The winner of the 2024 Peregring Innovative Technology Award is, SWEAR, Jason Crawforth.

The close of the event was the moment many attendees had waited for, the induction to the Hall of Fame. Earlier in the night all former inductees were honored in commemorative slide by the year they were received. Introducing our first inductees of the evening, it is my pleasure to introduce Trish Quarles , Vice President of Sales for Regence BlueShield of Idaho , inductee sponsor and Vice President of LaserJet Supplies at HP, Justin Miller.

"It is my great honor to introduce George Mulhern , a visionary leader whose passion for technology and dedication to community building have left an indelible mark on Idaho's technology ecosystem. With a career spanning more than 35 years, George has consistently demonstrated his ability to combine strategic insight with a passion for growth, innovation and mentorship.

From his early days at HP to his leadership roles at Highway 12 Ventures and Cradlepoint, George has shown a relentless pursuit of excellence, driving transformation and growth in every organization he has touched. His vision and execution have been instrumental in shaping the technology industry, and his commitment to fostering local talent and advancing Idaho's economic development has had a lasting impact on the community.

Throughout his career, George has been driven by a passion for technology and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. He has been a mentor, a leader, and a champion for innovation, and his contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades.

But George's impact goes far beyond his impressive resume. He is a leader who understands the importance of culture and staying humble, always recognizing the value of teamwork and collaboration. And, as he would be the first to admit, his greatest critic and biggest supporter is his wife Karen, who keeps him grounded and focused on what truly matters.

His legacy is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, and we are honored to have him as a part of our community. Please join me in celebrating George Mulhern's outstanding achievements and his well-deserved Hall of Fame recognition," explained, Trish Quarles .

Justin added, "HP started the Boise technology presence 5 decades ago when Ray Smelek, one of the first ITC hall-of-fame inductees, chose Boise as the ideal place to build a new site for a fledgling HP printing business. HP Boise became the global headquarters of the LaserJet printer, one of the most successful products in HP history and in the entire printing industry! Ray chose Boise for its outdoor sporting availability and as a great place to raise a family all those years ago it is those same attributes today that makes Boise a great place for technology talent! "

George Mulhern took the stage, accepted his award and expressed thanks to his family, the ITC, and all those who supported him along the way in his tech journey.

The second inductee of the night, was introduced and presented by, Idaho State University’s Vice President for Research and Economic Development, Marty Blair. He is a legacy leader who has been instrumental in the growth of the ITC as one of the Founders and the First Board Chair, Rich is a dual retiree - in 2008, after 30 years with Hewlett-Packard, 16 of which he served as a Vice President/Senior Vice President in several businesses inside HP and, again in 2022, after 12 years serving as president of Bishop Kelly High School.

He currently serves on the boards of St. Luke’s Health System; LED, a project-based arts nonprofit (Chair), the Idaho Film Society (Vice-Chair), the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights and the College of Idaho Advisory Council. He was the founding Chair of the Idaho Technology Council from 2010 to 2015 and has also served on the boards of the Treasure Valley Education Partnership, Trey McIntyre Project, Treasure Valley YMCA and Vision for the Valley.

Rich was born and raised in Sacramento, California. He graduated from Stanford University in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and in 1979 earned an MBA in Finance at the University of Oregon.

Rich and his wife of 47 years, Georgiann, have three children, all of whom are Bishop Kelly High School and Santa Clara University graduates – Matthew, 41, who lives in New York City with his wife, Liz, and son, William; Megan, 39, who lives with her husband Adam and daughter, Josie, and son, Oliver, in Boise, ID; and, Emily, 33, who lives in San Francisco.

Rich Raimondi took the stage as a new inductee to the 2024 Hall of Fame. Rich honored the ITC and Gala attendees with a 15 year history lesson of what had been achieved by not only the ITC but the Idaho tech industry. He added, " Given we are celebrating the 15th anniversary of the ITC, to share what the state of the tech industry in Idaho was like back then and to acknowledge just how far we have come. In my opinion, little of the success of the tech industry in Idaho that we are celebrating this evening would have happened without the ITC and the engagement and support of its initial executive board members and trustees, sponsors and Jay Larsen. People like George Mulhern, Archie Clemins, Doug Sayer, Mike Reynoldson, Haven Baker, Kelly Anderson, Peter Midgley, Doug Jones, Bob Lokken, Pete Gombert, Von Hansen, Scott Peyron, Brady Panatopolous, Mark Solon, Rich Stuppy, John Grossenbacher and Steve Meyer - plus some 27 trustees from across Idaho who loved this state and cared about the people and economy here."

He concluded, "It might be hard for some to remember, but 2009-2010 were tough times for Idaho and the tech industry. The Great Recession hit Idaho and the nation hard. HP and Micron were laying off thousands of employees. And most of them wanted to stay in Idaho. The problem was there were few tech jobs in Idaho outside of HP and Micron because there were few mid-size tech companies and not a good early stage startup sector. And what there was here was not well known, connected or coordinated. Our three universities were doing their own thing. There was no voice for technology in the state. There was not enough human capital/talent at both the engineering and leadership levels. Access to capital was lacking, especially when startups needed it. And we had little awareness or support at the state government level. As you heard earlier in the past Chair panel, we conducted 12 focus groups around the state and identified the common problems and prioritized what to do in the first year, with a long term vision in mind. We formally launched the ITC in January 2010 under the leadership of Jay Larsen as our CEO/President.

Two things we did immediately to kick start our efforts:

The first was to bring the industry together, establishing the Hall of Fame and integrating the Stoel-Rives Innovation Awards into one evening in October 2010. Our goal was to celebrate and inspire and showcase some of the amazing things that were happening around the state
The second was to meet quarterly with Governor Otter, who was anxious to help but knew little about technology. Some ITC board members and the media were skeptical about what he and others could do since they did not seem “to get tech”. I told them that was our problem, not his. It was our responsibility to educate him and others on what was happening already in Idaho by showcasing companies at each meeting and to tell him what the industry needed to grow from a policy perspective.

ITC became the catalyst to begin addressing these issues and to facilitate building a connected tech ecosystem here in Idaho. And thanks to the efforts of those early pioneers and all those since who have continued to build on this foundation, we now have a thriving tech industry to build upon."

It was truly, "A Timeless Return", and an incredible gathering of leaders. We look forward to the next 15 years with excitement, and I personally look forward to the future of the ITC," said Diane Bevan, ITC President and CEO in her closing.

The Hall of Fame and Idavation™ Awards Gala is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Idaho Central Credit Union ; Idavation™ Awards Sponsor Scoggin Capital Investment ; Keynote Speaker Sponsor Dorsey & Whitney ; and Inductee Sponsors Regence BlueShield of Idaho and Idaho State University . The VIP reception and Public Policy champion sponsor is Micron . Community sponsors include Meta, St. Luke’s Health System, Technology Credit Union, and Beneficient/Ataraxis PEO, and program sponsor, Wilson Sonsini.

ABOUT THE IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. The primary initiatives of the ITC are focused on the continued growth of innovation, transforming Idaho’s future around Talent, Access to Capital, and R&D/Commercialization. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies.

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Photographer, Sadie Jane Christopher , https://www.sadiejanephoto.com/

Idaho Tech Council Awarded Antcipated $1.2 M through NSTC Workforce Partner Alliance Program

diane@dianebevan.com (Diane Temple) — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:07:43 GMT

Idaho Technology Council Awarded Anticipated $1.2 M through

NSTC Workforce Partner Alliance Program

Natcast award will support an innovative workforce development program in Idaho to close

critical workforce and skills gaps across the U.S. semiconductor industry

For immediate release:

Boise, Idaho, September 26, 2024 – Idaho Technology Council today announced it has been selected as an anticipated National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) Workforce Partner Alliance (WFPA) program awardee. The $1,263,720 in anticipated funding will enable the Idaho Technology Council (ITC) to lead a transformative workforce development program in Idaho aimed at closing critical workforce and skills gaps across the U.S. semiconductor industry.

The WFPA program is administered by Natcast , the purpose-built, non-profit entity created to operate the NSTC consortium, established by the CHIPS and Science Act of the U.S. government. On September 25, 2024, Natcast announced $11.5 million in anticipated total WFPA awards coinciding with the launch of the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence (WCoE).

"The anticipated WFPA funding will create opportunities for thousands of students, educators, and professionals to join the U.S. semiconductor workforce, supplying employers with in-demand talent and solidifying the U.S. as a leader in this vital industry,” said Michael Barnes, senior manager of workforce development programs at Natcast. "By investing in transformative programs like Enhanced Access to the Semiconductor Industry in Idaho (EASII), we’re ensuring that American workers are equipped with the skills necessary to compete in the global semiconductor market.”

The anticipated funding will support the Enhanced Access to the Semiconductor Industry in Idaho (EASII), a program designed to provide supportive services to approximately 430 individuals across the State of Idaho as they enroll, progress in, and complete a training program leading to employment in the semiconductor industry in Idaho. Training opportunities are provided by our grantees in all six regions of the state. These programs meet the need for training opportunities, but many Idahoans need support to complete these programs and move into employment. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding has remained stationary in comparison to rampant inflation in recent years, creating a gap for many Idahoans. To close this gap, we plan to scale the impact of our semiconductor education and training programs by providing wraparound supports for participants in the key areas of child/dependent care, transportation, mental health and substance abuse counseling, and housing support.

This program is expected to prepare over 400 for careers in the semiconductor industry over the next two years, making a significant impact on the industry’s workforce development ecosystem and contributing to U.S. leadership in semiconductor technology. Enhanced Access to the Semiconductor Industry in Idaho (EASII) was one of seven programs selected from a highly competitive pool of more than 100 submitted proposals to receive anticipated WFPA funding.

“We are honored to be selected by Natcast to be a part of this vital national initiative,” Diane Bevan, ITC President and CEO. “Through the Enhanced Access to the Semiconductor Industry in Idaho (EASII), we will support industry professionals with the necessary skills to succeed in semiconductor-related fields. Working alongside our industry, academic, and community partners, this investment will have a lasting effect on the U.S. semiconductor workforce ecosystem and help the country meet the evolving demands of this rapidly growing and critical sector. While many of our partners already employ methods to serve historically underrepresented and underserved communities, the Idaho Technology Council, through the EASII program will maximize the program’s accessibility to those who need it most.”

As part of the initiative, Idaho Technology Council will continue to develop its outreach within the ecosystem as a leader in collaboration and engagement. This industry-driven approach will provide participants with valuable opportunities for employment and career advancement in the semiconductor industry and help employers fill critical workforce needs. In partnership with the Idaho Workforce Development Council and leveraging existing relationships within Idaho’s workforce ecosystem EASII will support participants’ co-enrollment in appropriate workforce programs, which may include, WIOA programs, Vocational Rehabilitation, veterans support services, or other services as identified. Co-enrollment will help us to provide true wraparound support, covering as many of our participants’ needs as possible for as long as possible

“As Chair of the Idaho Technology Council Board of Trustees, I am deeply grateful for the collaboration between the ITC and the Idaho Workforce Development Council, which has led to the award of the National Semiconductor Technology Center Workforce Partner Alliance grant, said Reid Stephan, St. Luke’s Health System. This partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to advancing workforce development and building a robust talent pipeline for Idaho's growing tech ecosystem. Together, we are ensuring Idaho remains a leader in innovation, creating quality, high-paying jobs and equipping our workforce to meet the challenges of the semiconductor industry and beyond.”

“Congratulations to the Idaho Technology Council (ITC) for being recognized as a Natcast Workforce Partner Alliance awardee. For many years, the ITC has been a leader in Idaho’s technology ecosystem success and promoting the growth of the semiconductor industry. Micron applauds the ITC’s latest program, Enhanced Access to the Semiconductor Industry in Idaho (EASII), which will help open access to careers in the semiconductor industry to individuals from all backgrounds,” said April Arnzen, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer, Micron.

“The Idaho Workforce Development Council is thrilled to support the Idaho Technology Council in implementing the Workforce Partner Alliance Program. Our efforts to align access to training in the semiconductor industry are enhanced by this grant which will remove barriers to completing training. It’s a win-win for Idahoans and the industry!” Wendi Secrist, Executive Director, Idaho Workforce Development Council.

The WFPA program is the first of several anticipated workforce program funding opportunities to be offered through the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence. With a $250 million investment from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the WCoE will lead collaborative efforts with NSTC consortium members to drive innovation and significantly bolster the U.S. semiconductor workforce development ecosystem to strengthen America’s national security, economy, and global competitiveness.

To learn more about the Idaho Technology Council and the Enhanced Access to the Semiconductor Industry in Idaho (EASII), visit www.IdahoTechCouncil.org .

To learn more about the NSTC Workforce Partner Alliance program, the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence, or other workforce funding opportunities, please visit www.natcast.org/workforce .

White House announcement: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2024/09/biden-harris-administration-launches-nstc-workforce-center-excellence

###

ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. The primary initiatives of the ITC are focused on the continued growth of innovation, transforming Idaho’s future around Talent, Access to Capital, and R&D/Commercialization. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies.

ABOUT NATCAST

Natcast is the purpose-built, non-profit entity created to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), established by the CHIPS and Science Act of the U.S. government. The NSTC is a public-private consortium dedicated to semiconductor R&D in the United States. It convenes the U.S. government, allied and partner nations, and organizations across the semiconductor ecosystem—including academia and businesses of all kinds—to address the most challenging barriers to continued technological progress in the domestic semiconductor industry, including the need for a capable workforce. The NSTC reflects a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the U.S. to drive the pace of innovation, set standards, and re-establish global leadership in semiconductor design and manufacturing. Learn more at www.natcast.org .

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Meet Gary Stringham

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:03:27 GMT

Introducing Gary Stringham, Chief Paperless Pusher

Describe the business/organization you work for

For two decades, companies have attempted to get their customers to switch to paperless bills and statements. However, most studies show that 50 to 70 percent still get paper copies. Cubby Paperless has developed patented technology which delivers paperless copies via an online platform. This service helps businesses and end consumers reduce their environmental impact while improving efficiency in their businesses and lives.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific

organization?

I was an end consumer getting my bills and statements on paper but was nagged by companies to go paperless. But I had also been an engineer in Hewlett-Packard's printer business and I knew the cost of paper, printing, and postage and why companies were trying so hard to get their customers to switch. I saw that today's solutions were having an opposing effect on each other, leaving one side winning at the expense of the other. Eventually I developed a solution that made it a win-win for both sides, and I started Cubby Paperless to deliver that win-win service.

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Businesses delivering paperless bills and statements only deliver their own, forcing end consumers to log into several company websites, many of which are cumbersome, to get their paperless copy. Cubby consolidates these documents from multiple companies and

delivers them to end consumers under one login. A few other companies have tried to provide the consolidating service but have been

forced to shutter their operations due to increasing cybersecurity requirements. Using the patented technology, Cubby acquires the documents in a more secure manner and provides them to the end consumers.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

Cubby has a B2C side and it has been warmly received by end consumers, most of whom cannot wait to get their bills and statements on Cubby. However, Cubby also has a B2B side, in that companies need to sign on for Cubby. The B2B sales process of finding and talking to the right person within a company, and making a sale, is a challenge, especially for an "enginerd".

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

When starting a company, it helps to have a good handle on the market, the problem, and existing solutions. While I would not have considered myself an expert in the paper and paperless bill and statement industry in the beginning, I know a lot more now and can speak confidently on the subject. Don't be shy about looking into what appears to be a competitor or a competing solution. By understanding it in depth, you will learn more and can strengthen your own offering.

Connect with Gary on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Cubby Paperless on their website HERE

Meet Layne Lewis

bdavies@idahotechcouncil.org (Betsy Davies) — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 21:55:06 GMT

Introducing Layne Lewis, President, Willowview Consulting.

Describe the business/organization you work for

Founded in 2003 by Mrs. Layne Lewis, Willowview has worked hard to earn the trust of clients ranging from privately held large corporations to small technology start-up companies and large government agencies. Our team works with our clients to develop

innovative strategies and tactics to achieve success.

Our team offers “edge to app” engineering and product development services from ideation to deployment. We currently provide engineering solutions and program management to commercial companies in the United States and around the world. Our staff brings a wealth of experience from both the government and commercial arenas to

fully understand product definition, development, and acquisition processes.

We are highly skilled at solving technical problems efficiently through our “Just Enough” engineering methodology and an agile engineering approach – together with rapid prototyping – we’ll get the right solution into customer’s hands quickly and at

lower cost.

Our staff has a diverse background and education. Our team includes previous Special Operations Forces Operators; Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical and Systems Engineers; Computer Science and Information Systems experts, as well as Data Scientists and

Programmers.

What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific

organization?

From a young age, I was fascinated by aerospace engineering and the vast frontiers of space. After graduating college with a degree in the field, my dream came true when I landed a role at Booz Allen Hamilton supporting NASA's Space Station Program.For the next nine years, I gained invaluable experience working as a systems engineer on some of NASA's most high-profile missions. I was based out of offices in Reston, VA, Houston, TX, and Huntsville, AL - getting up close to various NASA centers' operations and gaining diverse technical expertise. When tragedy struck and I lost my father in 1993, it prompted deep reflection on my priorities. By that point married with two young sons, I realized I wanted a career path allowing greater personal relevance. We moved to Idaho in 1995 so I could join Hewlett-Packard, hoping for a better work-life fit. However, at HP I found myself performing repetitive tasks that failed to fulfill my entrepreneurial spirit. Determined to work at my own pace, I pursued an MBA with HP's sponsorship. I co-founded her first company in 2002 and rediscovered the gratification of pushing boundaries through innovation - igniting my drive as a businesswoman committed to enabling progress both professionally and personally for others. I have become a serial entrepreneur, starting 7 companies - clearly, it's in my blood!

What sets this business apart from others in the industry?

Our ability to work with very diverse customers - those who understand the technologies being evaluated, and those who do not - to distill very hard tech and complex issues into manageable projects, and to deliver rapid prototypes of solutions is a formidable task, and one that we excel at. For both government and commercial clients, we are trusted with a hard problem set, a budget and a timeline - and we do not fail to deliver.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them?

Ha! SO many! 2020 and COVID was an absolute joy (said no one ever!). One of our clients called me and told me he was going to stop paying me and I needed to still do the work for him but I could use the "government paycheck protection funds". What - what? that taught me a lot - how to manage through intense fear and stress, how to hold to my ethical lines, and how to work more effectively as a team. I remember bringing all of the employees into the conversations during that year, where we had to make some very hard decisions, and realizing that we were all in this together so we could all add value to the discussions-I did not have to do it all alone as the CEO. It made all of the difference, and we evolved as an even stronger team on the other side!

What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry?

Come on, let's go! Working to solve hard problems is the most fun job ever!! I love my job and encourage anyone who is interested to shadow an engineer for a day!

Connect with Layne on LinkedIn HERE

Check out Willowview Consulting on their website HERE

Meet Travis Hawkes

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 22:54:11 GMT

Introducing Travis B. Hawkes, Managing Partner at Capital Eleven.

2024 Hall of Fame Press Release

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 21:40:52 GMT

For Immediate Release: August 22, 2024

Boise, Idaho, - RAIMONDI AND MULHERN TO BE INDUCTED INTO IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL HALL OF FAME, WITH ALEX “SPIFF” SEDRICK, Rugby 7s, OLYMPIC BRONZE MEDALIST, TEAM USA AS KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Rich Raimondi, Founding Chair of the Idaho Technology Council (ITC), serving over 30 years with Hewlett Packard and George Mulhern, former CEO at Cradlepoint, and current member of the Executive Board of the ITC, are the 2024 inductees into the Idaho Technology Council (ITC) Hall of Fame . Since 2010, the ITC has honored iconic Idahoans who have advanced society and created a lasting impact in Idaho’s technology ecosystem.

“This year’s inductees exemplify what is awesome about Idaho,” said Jay Larsen, ITC founder and former president. “Rich and George were both recruited to Idaho by Hewlett Packard (HP) and have been tremendous leaders growing innovation and mentoring and developing talent. I have great fondness and admiration for them. These two truly have their fingerprints all over the local innovative ecosystem.”

Rich is a dual retiree - in 2008, after 30 years with Hewlett-Packard, 16 of which he served as a Vice President/Senior Vice President in several businesses inside HP and, again in 2022, after 12 years serving as president of Bishop Kelly High School.

He currently serves on the boards of St. Luke’s Health System; LED, a project-based arts nonprofit (Chair), the Idaho Film Society (Vice-Chair), the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights and the College of Idaho Advisory Council. He was the founding chair of the Idaho Technology Council from 2010 - 2015 and has also served on the boards of the Treasure Valley’s Education Partnership, Trey McIntyre Project, Treasure Valley YMCA and Vision for the Valley.

George retired from his role as the CEO of Cradlepoint and Ericsson’s Enterprise Wireless Solutions Global Business Unit in July 2024. He joined Cradlepoint in 2011 and worked with an exceptionally talented team to build the company into the global leader for enterprise cellular wide-area networking. In November of 2020 the company was acquired by Ericsson.

Prior to joining Cradlepoint, George spent three years as a General Partner at Highway 12 Ventures, a Boise based venture capital firm. He began his career in technology at Hewlett Packard, where he spent 20 years and had the opportunity to lead several HP businesses. His last position with HP was as Senior Vice President, leading the LaserJet Global Business Unit.

George currently serves as an Independent Board Director for Cambia Health Solutions, Regence Blue Shield of Idaho and Tracer - a Boise based brand security company. He also serves on the Executive Board of the ITC. George was a member of Idaho Governor Kempthorne’s Science and Technology Advisory Council and a member of Idaho Governor Little’s Cyber Security Task Force.

Raimondi and Mulhern will be honored at the 2024 Hall of Fame scheduled for October 11, at the Boise Centre. Community members may purchase tables and tickets at www.idahotechcouncil.org /events or email info@idahotechcouncil.org for more information.

“We invite the Idaho community to attend to honor the inductees and honor the former inductees who have shaped the Idaho Technology Council as well as the Idaho tech ecosystem. It will be a night to celebrate the 15 ^th year, “A Timeless Return” and to network, make connections, and hear from this year’s keynote speaker, Olympian, Alex “Spiff” Sedrick, TEAM USA Rugby team”, said Diane Bevan, new ITC President and CEO.

The 2024 Idavation™ Award Finalists are:

Mt. Borah Award, which is given to a leader who has expanded the horizons of Idaho’s technology and entrepreneurial community.

Andrew Crapuchettes, RedBalloon

Jason Crawforth, Swear

Lisa Grow, Idaho Power

The Hells Canyon Emerging Company Award , which recognizes a company that experienced a daunting journey to achieve success.

Hidden Mountain Data

Red Aspen

Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance

The Peregrine Innovative Technology Award , which showcases an innovative technology that has been launched successfully.

Bastian Solutions

Idaho National Laboratory

Silverdraft

Swear

ABOUT THE IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. The primary initiatives of the ITC are focused on the continued growth of innovation, transforming Idaho’s future around Talent, Access to Capital, and R&D/Commercialization. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies.

Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org

Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Meet Aaron Brinton

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 02:29:15 GMT

Introducing Aaron Brinton, Chief Strategy Officer at Ventive. Aaron has over 30 years of experience in business development, software engineering, and information technology.

Email: aaron@getventive.com

Website: https://www.getventive.com

Meet Matt Archer

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:52:31 GMT

Introducing Matt Archer, the Founder of Tech Hub and new Idaho Technology Council member. Matt is also serving on the 2024 Hall of Fame Committee as the AV Project Lead.

Email: matt.archer@techhub.us

Website: https://www.techhub.us

Meet Eric Crawford

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 17:11:09 GMT

Introducing Eric Crawford from IFP Connect, an organization that manufactures patented fiberoptic hardware that revolutionizes how buildings are wired for data networks. As the name suggests, Integrated Fiber Platform’s hardware allows buildings to be wired entirely with fiber instead of copper for data networks, reducing costs, improving performance, and increasing efficiency. Their patented transceivers install in less time and deliver a lower cost than traditional copper category cable and connectors. IFP Connect’s products allow architects, builders, and building owners to deliver a better data network at the same or lower cost. Crawford, as the CEO, is a former low voltage contractor and engineer, and uses these past responsibilities to revolutionize how buildings are wired!

Email: eric.crawford@ifpconnect.com

Website: https://ifpconnect.com/

ITC Celebrates Idaho Students who Participated in 2024 SkillsUSA National Competition

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 16:38:39 GMT

Idaho Students Participate in 2024 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference

Students from across Idaho were invited to participate in America’s preeminent workforce development event. The 2024 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference was held in June in Atlanta for career and technical students from across the nation. 197 Idahoans attended, including 95 student competitors. At the conference, students participated either as competitors or as voting delegates. Competitors focused on one skill area, while delegates represented their state and conducted the business of the organization. Most students had opportunities to meet with business and industry representatives as part of their events. Thousands of students competed in 115 occupational and leadership skill areas at the annual event. The main contest days were June 26-27 with other days set aside for orientation, interviews and written tests. The event concluded with an awards ceremony on June 28. Students also interacted with business and industry representatives, heard from government officials and attended educational sessions.

Idaho students worked hard throughout the week. The following is a list of the Idaho students that received awards in their competition, as well as their school’s name:

Gold Medalists

Welding Fabrication : Emma Salka, Caleb Williams, and Joseph Wood - Bringham Young University - Idaho

Automated Manufacturing Technology: Jonathan Coy, Joel Fillmore, and Peter Munk - College of Southern Idaho

Electronics Technology: Joshua Makuch – Dennis Technical Education Center

Computer Programming: Kayden Humphries – Meridian Technical Charter High School

Web Design and Development: Rhys Jordan and Steven Shoen – Meridian Technical Charter High School

Collision Repair Technology: Jonathon Brunko – North Idaho College

Silver Medalists

Telecommunications Cabling : Aaron Cockrell – Dennis Technical Education Center

Bronze Medalists

Heavy Equipment Operation: Parker Osterhout – Cassia Regional Technical Center

Entrepreneurship : Sydney Cooper, Bailey Hayes, Natalie Klucken, Jessica Mercier – College of Southern Idaho

Telecommunications Cabling: Tony Ha – College of Western Idaho

Electronics Technology: Ty Linder – Dennis Technical Education Center

In addition to the competition awards, Bailey Jensen from Boise State University was elected to serve as a SkillsUSA National Officer for the 2024-2025 year, and Dr. Harold Nevill was awarded the SkillsUSA Honorary Life Membership Award for 30 years of service and dedication to SkillsUSA and Idaho CTE programs.

About SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is America’s proud champion of the skilled trades. It’s a student-led partnership of education and industry that’s building the skilled workforce our nation depends on with graduates who are career ready, day one. Representing over 380,000 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. SkillsUSA’s mission empowers students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members. That mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into classroom curriculum. Through Framework instruction, students develop the character-shaping leadership skills — teamwork, communication, professionalism and more — that successful careers and lives demand. At the same time, students hone their high-level technical skills against current industry standards in more than 130 skilled trade areas, from 3-D Animation to Welding. The result? Focused, confident and highly skilled graduates who are ready to work, ready to lead and ready to make a difference in our schools, workplaces and communities. A vital solution to the skills gap, where more in-demand skilled trades positions are available than qualified professionals to

fill them, SkillsUSA has served over 14 million difference-making members since 1965. For more, visit www.skillsusa.org.

Meet Jenny Hoban

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 21:25:27 GMT

Introducing Jenny Hoban, from Summit Innovation Lab, a start-up dedicated to STEM education for young children in Boise. The lab operates with the goal to get kids more involved in STEM at a young age. As the tech space continues to grow, there will be a need for more educated young adults to continue to develop the innovation pipeline. Hoban hopes to inspire young children interested in technology and help them develop skills through her camps and classes!

Email: jenny.hoban@summitinnovationlab.com

Website: https://summitinnovationlab.com/

Facebook: summitinnovationlab

More on Jenny and Summit Innovation Lab…

Describe your organization:

STEM Classes and Camps in Boise, Idaho for Students Ages 6-12!

In response to the growing demand for quality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, Summit Innovation Lab is excited to provide cutting-edge STEM classes and programming catering to students ages 6+ in Boise, Idaho. Our programming aims to inspire and engage young minds, fostering a passion for learning and innovation.

Reading Intervention:
In response to the increasing need to support students diagnosed with a reading disability and students who did not receive adequate direct instruction during the pandemic, Summit Innovation Lab will provide students with individual/small group reading instruction using the Wilson Reading System. This intervention is an explicit instruction, systematic, and multi-sensory approach.

Mission and Vision:
At Summit Innovation Lab, we believe in the power of knowledge and creativity to transform lives. Our mission is to ignite a passion for learning and innovation in students of all ages, from kids to adults. By providing expert remedial tutoring through the Wilson Reading System, we empower struggling readers to achieve their full potential.

Our innovative STEM Education and learning center uses the engineering design process to teach coding, science, engineering, and robotics, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In our Cricut Workshop, students can unleash their creativity using the full suite of Cricut maker products, discovering the joy of making and creating. Summit Innovation Lab is your partner in the journey of lifelong learning and innovation. Together, we can build a brighter future, one student at a time.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I am inspired by what's possible when we invest in students. I have been teaching children, teens, and adults for 24 years. When students are provided high-quality, interactive, and systematic instruction, the sky is the limit to their growth. My business provides participants with high- quality, interactive, and systemic instruction in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Reading.

What sets your business apart from others in your industry?

Other businesses and programs around the valley provide training in coding, access to Robotics kits, or other STEM-related activities. At Summit Innovation Lab students are explicitly taught how to use the engineering design process (identify the problem, research, brainstorm, create, test, and improve) to solve problems, while also learning critical thinking skills, and how to participate as an effective member of a group. Students use the engineering design process to learn to code, engage in robotics, and explore engineering and science. My business is also the first in the area to offer kids, teens, and adults access to the full suite of Cricut maker products to express their creativity and make personalized products.

Summit Innovation Lab is also able to provide reading and math intervention to students who need it.

What challenges have you faced as a new business owner, and how did you overcome them?

As a business new owner who also works full-time and also has a family, I have faced many challenges on all 3 of those fronts. I overcome challenges by returning to the basics. I re-read the Summit Innovation Lab mission statement, visit my vision board, and make time for my movement practice. Lifting weights, going for a bike ride or a run always provides me space to think creatively and strategically. I keep my strategy notebook close by where I can write down my thoughts or take notes on my phone.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own business?

Never give up! Boise has an amazing community of small business owners who are willing to share invaluable insights and help reach your targets.

And I have most recently learned and adopted this strategy - Read twice, respond once!

Be sure to check out Jenny using the social media links below. If you think your kids might be interested in one of her summer camps, be sure to check out the Summit Innovation Lab website, instagram, or facebook.

ITC TechWire Blog

HP Boise’s incredible impact: How HP helped start the technology industry here in Idaho

Meet Kevin Phithak

Idaho Advances AI in Education with Landmark Legislation, Strengthening Future Workforce Pipeline

Idaho Advances AI in Education with Landmark Legislation, Strengthening Future Workforce Pipeline

ITC Brings Eastern Idaho together in 2nd Annual iTECH Summit, Tech Powered. Community Led.

ITC hosts iTECH Summit in Idaho Falls in partnership with area leaders.

iTECH Summit 2026, Idaho Falls, a sold-out event.

**THE FOUNDATION: INFRASTRUCTURE CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER**

**FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE: WORKFORCE MEETS AI**

**BALANCING INNOVATION AND FOUNDATIONS**

**IDAHO CAN BUILD HIGH-GROWTH COMPANIES**

**INNOVATION ON STAGE: THE IDEA² PITCH COMPETITION**

**PRACTICAL FRAMEWORKS FOR REAL BUSINESSES**

**TECHNICAL DEPTH FOR PRACTITIONERS**

**THE ENERGY EXTENDED BEYOND THE STAGE**

**TECH POWERED. COMMUNITY LED.**

**WHAT COMES NEXT**

SAVE the DATE: iTECH 2026 - Twin Falls, Idaho

Location: College of Southern Idaho

Date: June 16,17

Meet Sheila Franek

Why Healthy Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Matter for Idaho’s Next Growth Phase

Healthy Ecosystems Don’t Happen by Accident — They’re Built

Why Entrepreneurial Health Matters Now

Why Pitch Competitions Matter More Than We Think

Building the Flywheel

Introducing IDEA² at iTECH Summit

A Call to the Ecosystem

Idaho Delegation Completes Historic Trade Mission to Taiwan, Advancing Semiconductor Workforce Development and International Business Partnerships

Meet Aditya Ravindra

From 'I Can't Code' to 'I Just Built That': My AI-Powered Learning Journey

From 'I Can't Code' to 'I Just Built That': My AI-Powered Learning Journey

Meet Scott Manning

WiTECH Summit Launches with Impact: Tech Powered. Women Led.

WiTECH Summit Launches with Impact:

Tech Powered. Women Led.

Meet Zach Adams

Meet Ismar Vallecillos

Mission 10K: Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Through Technology, Capital, and Community

Building Idaho’s Innovation Pipeline: From Student Ideas to Industry Impact

Building Idaho’s Innovation Pipeline: From Student Ideas to Industry Impact

Day 3: Inspiring the Next Generation at Idaho Pitch

Day 4: Idaho Innovation & Tech Forum — Building Forward Together

Building the Future, Together

Meet Sarah Marshall

Meet Taylor Kaufman

Idaho Technology Council Celebrates “Uncharted Brilliance” at 2025 Hall of Fame Gala

Idaho Technology Council Celebrates “Uncharted Brilliance” at 2025 Hall of Fame Gala ﻿

How I Almost Got Scammed: A Real-Life Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call

How I Almost Got Scammed: A Real-Life Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call

Meet Kurt Temple

Meet Louis Katz

2025 Hall of Fame Announces Inductee and Idavation Award Finalists

Making Connections Across Idaho: High-Tech Connect in Moscow

Connecting North Idaho’s Tech Leaders, Talent & Visionaries

Highlights from the Day

Networking with Purpose

Keeping the Momentum Going

Meet Dana Cotton

Bridging Education and Industry: High-Tech Connect in Rexburg

Strategic Partnerships that Drive Connection

Rural Reach, Statewide Vision

TechBridge providing pathways to Semiconductor

A Talent Pipeline Ready to Activate

What’s Next for ITC

Meet Andy Binder

ITC Statement on the Congressional passing of R&D Expensing Legislation

Meet Nathan Jack

Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs: Diane Bevan at Punchbowl News' Small Business Summit

Championing Rural Innovation

The Verizon Digital Ready Advantage

Engaging Conversations with Industry Leaders

A Collaborative Effort for Economic Growth

Meet Jillana Finnegan

Meet Nathan Foss

ITC Hosts State of Technology Annual Event

ITC Hosts Annual Gathering for the State of Technology event.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Board Gathering and Special Guests

THE FOUNDATION: INFRASTRUCTURE CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER

FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE: WORKFORCE MEETS AI

BALANCING INNOVATION AND FOUNDATIONS

IDAHO CAN BUILD HIGH-GROWTH COMPANIES

INNOVATION ON STAGE: THE IDEA² PITCH COMPETITION

PRACTICAL FRAMEWORKS FOR REAL BUSINESSES

TECHNICAL DEPTH FOR PRACTITIONERS

THE ENERGY EXTENDED BEYOND THE STAGE

TECH POWERED. COMMUNITY LED.

WHAT COMES NEXT

Idaho Technology Council Celebrates “Uncharted Brilliance” at 2025 Hall of Fame Gala