“We are in the midst of a new era, one that promises to redefine how we work, live, and grow,” Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said when opening the conference titled CONVERGE: Hudson Valley Digital Innovation Conference. “Artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and smart infrastructure are revolutionizing industries across the globe, and here in the Hudson Valley, we are preparing to seize that moment. This conference and our ongoing partnerships demonstrate what’s possible when we work together.”
The conference was hosted by the Westchester County Association (WCA), Westchester County, and The STEM Alliance. It took place at Mercy University in Dobbs Ferry. It brought together business, government, nonprofit, and education leaders.
The keynote speaker was John Kolb, vice president and head of the Future Computing Institute at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He underscored the importance of workforce readiness and equity in the growing digital and AI world.
Panel discussions followed on workforce readiness and inclusion, with strategies for preparing people for the new economy, infrastructure and innovation, and the ethical and regulatory implications of AI and broadband internet.
“Westchester is on a roll when it comes to digital innovation,” said Michael Romita, president and CEO of the WCA, who noted that the event helped connect people to develop strategies that could strengthen the economy and improve lives.
At the event, Angela Siefer, executive director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, presented Jenkins and the county’s Director of Economic Development Bridget Gibbons with the organization’s Trailblazer Award recognizing the county’s leadership in bridging the digital divide through initiatives like Connect Westchester. The program brings resources, education, and affordable internet access to low-income residents. It’s a collaborative effort involving the county, The STEM Alliance and the WCA.
