News & Events

BC Tech Summit – What did we learn?

March 22, 2019
UBC MEL BC Tech Conference 2019

The BC Tech summit has come and gone for 2019.

The question is, what did we learn? The answer is both complicated and simple at the same time. From a simplistic perspective, we learned that British Columbia is investing in tech. From educational institutions and Government through to private industry and start-ups. Great!

Now here is where it gets complicated. How are we investing in tech? What the conference showed us was that it’s not just new gadgets and technology that the industry is craving, its new systems, processes and leadership. In particular, sessions were held on “How Women are taking a leadership role in the industry” and “Collaborative Innovation: Boost your Company’s Competitive Edge.”

As much as technology is about looking forward, it’s also about the people that design, build and use the technology. We need to have the right leaders in place to make sure that the good ideas are being shared and the ill-defined ideas are being reshaped into something greater than their original purpose.

That’s why we are seeing investment in the industry from the government, universities and the private sector. It’s not just about investing in technology, it’s about investing in people.

If you would like more information on how you can invest your time and become a leader in the tech industry, visit the UBC Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) and see how it can help you lead change.