Our CEO, Caroline Sanchez Crozier, Participated in Illinois Innovation Day Panel
Innovation Day event shows future footprint of AI and STEAM in Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) co-hosted the first annual Innovation Day event at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, conducting a statewide policy discussion around emerging technology and strengthening the STEAM pipeline, as well as recognizing llinois innovators from across the state
Innovation Day developed after Governor JB Pritzker proclaimed the month of April as Innovation and Technology Month. DoIT partnered with the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition (ISTC), the Illinois Innovation Network (IIN), the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for the event.
“From our economy to our infrastructure and healthcare, and so much more, innovation and technology can shape what comes next,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Our state universities ensure that Illinois stands out and plays a critical role in health research by focusing on being ahead of the curve and leaning on the power of collaborations to break new ground.
Cynthia Faullin, Chair of the Illinois Innovation Network Committee on Entrepreneurship, kicked off the event recognizing 13 innovators across the state that have made advancements in research, technology commercialization and education.
“This was a fantastic day celebrating innovation in Illinois,” said Acting Secretary and State CIO Brandon Ragle. “The event was a testament to the importance of coming together and bringing stakeholders to the table to make sure we are having conversations about some of the most advanced technology of our time. I can’t wait to see how this event evolves and grows in the coming years.”
The event featured two policy discussions around the challenges and potential of artificial intelligence as well as strengthening the STEAM pipeline and fostering equitable innovation. These panels addressed how artificial intelligence is already altering the world and raised important questions for society, the economy, and governance throughout the discussion. The panelists also encouraged participants to take action and start building up our youth so that they are prepared for the emerging technology around us
Visit Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology for a livestream recording of the program.