1st Annual Tech Summit Brings 250 Valley Leaders Together to Bridge the Technology Gap

The 1st Annual Tech Summit brought together 250 of the San Fernando Valley’s top leaders for a landmark event dedicated to closing the technology gap and driving regional innovation. Proudly supported by The Valley Economic Alliance and hosted by Alliance Board Member Elizabeth Cortez, Founder and CEO of My Telecomm, and Walter Njobke of Ricoh, the Summit united leaders from business, nonprofit, and technology sectors to address the urgent need to bridge the gap of the digital world across the Valley. Also joining in support was the West Valley Warner Center Chamber of Commerce.

The inaugural event featured an executive panel with Barry Nelson of Ricoh, Justin Lyle Purdy of Graphiant, and Eric Beller of Complex Solutions. The discussion was led by guest moderator Greg Martayan, Vice President of External Affairs for The Valley Economic Alliance. The fireside chat with Commander Randy Goddard, Acting Commanding Officer of the LAPD Information Technology Bureau, was one of the highlights of the afternoon.

Elizabeth Cortez, Founder and CEO of My Telecomm Consulting Group, added, “Hosting the 1st Annual Tech Summit in the Valley was a tremendous opportunity to connect leaders from across sectors, share knowledge, and foster meaningful dialogue around the critical challenges and opportunities facing our region’s technology landscape. The energy, collaboration, and engagement we witnessed demonstrate just how much potential exists when we come together to innovate and create solutions for our community.”

Sonya Kay Blake, President & CEO of The Alliance, shared, “We are proud to support initiatives like the Annual Tech Summit that bring together leaders across industries to advance innovation, collaboration, and opportunity in our region. This event provided a unique space for leaders to exchange ideas, build connections, and explore strategies that will help shape the future of technology in the San Fernando Valley.”

The Valley Economic Alliance continues to champion efforts that drive economic growth, promote technology adoption, and expand workforce development throughout the region. Through programs like Talent Connect, The Alliance serves as a vital connector, bringing together business leaders, educators, community organizations, and local government to share knowledge, foster innovation, and create tangible opportunities for residents and employers alike.

By providing job seeker resources, hosting hiring events, and facilitating strategic partnerships, The Alliance helps strengthen the regional workforce, empower individuals to reach their full potential, and support the sustainable growth and long-term prosperity of the Valley community. To learn more about The Alliance and to get involved, visit EconomicAlliance.org.