University of Advancing Technology's Official Technology Blog

On November 12th, University of Advancing Technology (UAT) hosted its second annual Tech Respect Summit at The Study @ Perimeter83 in Tempe, Arizona. The event brought together technology professionals, industry leaders, educators, and community partners to explore cybersecurity, sustainability, quantum computing, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is known as Cybersecurity Awareness Month and the summit had a central throughline of embedded cybersecurity considerations across multiple areas. Featuring remarks from the FBI Phoenix Division, four expert panels, and a community computer refurbishment initiative, the summit examined both the opportunities created by emerging technologies and the responsibility that comes with their advancement. 

Cyber Respect Panel: FBI Phoenix Division Special Agent Nick Smith opened the summit with insights into criminal cyber matters, including computer intrusions, malware, and ransomware.

The first panel featured Ed Vasko and Ashley Palms, moderated by Dr. Briant Becote. The discussion explored digital identity, cybersecurity, and the importance of governance, risk management, and accountability in protecting people and organizations.

Green Tech Respect Panel:  Brianne Fisher, Angela Johnson, and Gabrielle Volsteen explored how technology can help businesses operate more sustainably. The panel examined opportunities to improve resource management, identify inefficiencies, and integrate environmental responsibility into business operations while maintaining efficiency and competitiveness.

Quantum and Robotics Panel: Greg Pitz, Dr. Matthew Prater, and Glen Pohle joined moderator Raymond Todd Blackwood to discuss the evolving capabilities of quantum computing, robotics, and AI.

The conversation explored how these technologies could complement one another, expand autonomous capabilities, and influence industries ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to transportation and scientific discovery. Panelists also considered the importance of understanding technological limitations and preserving human judgment as machines become more capable.

IT & AI Respect Panel: The final panel featured Merl Martin, JR Sloan, and Eric Miller, moderated by Minky Kernacs. 

The discussion focused on AI autonomy in IT and security, including the challenges of balancing automation with human oversight, transparency, and accountability. As organizations integrate AI into increasingly important operations, determining which decisions machines can make independently remains a critical consideration.

Putting Tech Respect Into Action

The summit concluded with a community-focused Refurbithon, with local non-profit, AZStrUt, during which 30 computers were refurbished for middle school students in need.

This initiative extended the day's conversations into meaningful community action, helping put technology into the hands of young learners. It also demonstrated how extending the useful life of existing equipment can support educational access and community needs.

Continuing the Conversation

The second annual Tech Respect Summit created space for Arizona's technology community to exchange perspectives, examine emerging challenges, and consider how technology can be used thoughtfully and effectively.

From expert discussions to refurbishing 30 computers for students, the event reinforced that technological progress is not just about what we can build, but how we use innovation to benefit the people and communities around us.

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Did you miss the summit? Watch in full on the live stream here: