Sponsored: There’s an effort underway to recruit and retain tech talent in West Michigan. – WZZM13.com
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Tech Trends is an event featuring the companies and careers and people who are shaping the future of technology, right here in our own backyard. Rob Geer is Chair of the West Michigan Tech Talent Council. Keith Brophy is CEO of Mentavi Health and a technology futurist and they stopped by to talk about the Tech Trends event.
Q: “Rob, Tech Trends has become a signature event for West Michigan Tech Talent. What led the council to create it, and how does it support WMTT’s broader mission to grow, develop, recruit, and retain tech talent across the region?”
A (Rob): Tech Trends actually started all the way back in 1998—Keith Brophy would gather folks to share his top 10 tech predictions for the future. This was before social media, before the constant stream of information we have now, so it was a really unique opportunity to spark curiosity and connect around where tech was heading. Fast forward to today, and through West Michigan Tech Talent, we’ve been able to bring that original spirit back—but with a broader purpose. As a council, we saw an opportunity to create something that wasn’t just informative, but energizing—a platform that aligned with our mission to support the full tech talent lifecycle in West Michigan. As chair of the WMTT council, I see firsthand how important it is to create space for connection, visibility, and energy around our region’s tech community. Tech Trends has become one of our key tools to do that. This event directly supports our mission to recruit and retain tech talent in West Michigan. It’s about shining a light on the exciting careers that exist here, the companies doing meaningful work, and the people who are shaping the future of tech—right here in our own backyard. It also reflects what WMTT is all about: a community of employers coming together to share best practices, resources, and opportunities to grow and strengthen the local talent pool. When we host events like this, we’re not just talking about workforce development— we’re living it. At the end of the day, Tech Trends is about more than predictions—it’s about possibility.
Supporting the Next Generation Through STEM Greenhouse
Q: “This year, proceeds from Tech Trends will support STEM Greenhouse, an organization focused on creating STEM opportunities for underrepresented youth. Why was this partnership important, and how does it align with WMTT’s values?”
A (Rob): Partnering with STEM Greenhouse for this year’s Tech Trends was a natural fit. At West Michigan Tech Talent, one of our core pillars is to grow the next generation of tech talent, and that starts with early exposure and equitable access to STEM opportunities. Dr. Keli Christopher and her team at STEM Greenhouse have been doing incredible work breaking down barriers for underrepresented youth. They create environments where kids can see themselves in these careers, build confidence, and stay engaged in their learning journey. That kind of investment changes futures—and it aligns beautifully with our long term goal of expanding the tech talent pipeline in West Michigan. Through our “Grow” workgroup, WMTT has always prioritized early engagement and partnerships that support youth in discovering what’s possible in tech. That’s why this year, we’ve introduced a $10 ticket price, with optional ways to give more during the event. By contributing proceeds from Tech Trends to STEM Greenhouse, we’re not just spotlighting their impact—we’re helping sustain it. At the end of the day, this is about building a stronger, more inclusive tech ecosystem. And that starts with making sure every young person, no matter their background, can see a place for themselves in the future of tech. Transition to Keith Brophy Thanks, Rob. That context really highlights why events like Tech Trends matter not just to employers, but to the future of the entire tech ecosystem here. And speaking of the future—Keith, you’ve been mapping out where technology is heading for quite some time…
Reflecting on Nearly 20 Years of Tech Trends
Q: “Keith, you’ve been delivering Tech Trends for nearly two decades. How have the trends evolved over time—and what major shifts have you seen in the way we talk about and engage with technology?”
A (Keith): When I started doing Tech Trends back in the late ’90s, it was just a fun way to spark imagination—an informal gathering where we’d talk about the “what ifs” of technology. There weren’t many spaces back then where people were publicly discussing AI, virtual reality, or brain-computer interfaces, let alone imagining them becoming everyday realities. What’s changed most is how seriously people engage with these ideas. What used to be speculative is now strategic. Topics like AI in the workplace or digital twins have moved into real boardroom and classroom conversations. The predictions have also become more layered. In the early days, it was often one big innovation. Now it’s about how technologies converge—AI, biotech, automation—and how together, they’re reshaping life and work. Teaming up with West Michigan Tech Talent has added even more purpose. Tech Trends isn’t just about ideas anymore—it’s about building an inclusive, thriving tech future. I always say these aren’t predictions—they’re provocations. They’re meant to start conversations, not end them.
What to Expect in 2025
Q: Can you give us a sneak peek at one of the trends you’ll be spotlighting this year?”
A (Keith): One of the trends I’ll spotlight this year is what I call “Living Intelligence”—the blending of AI, sensors, and biotech to create responsive, adaptive systems. It’s not just about smarter machines—it’s about intelligence that interacts more organically with the world. This could affect everything from healthcare to learning to ethics. It’s one of the most fascinating frontiers we’re approaching.
The Human Impact of Emerging Tech
Q: “Your trends always go beyond tools and platforms—you explore how tech is reshaping the way we work, live, and connect. What kinds of shifts are you seeing this year in terms of personal or societal impact?”
A (Keith): One big shift is around emotional and social connection. As tech evolves, we’re seeing tools developed to reduce loneliness, enhance mental health, and support inclusion. We’re also being asked deeper questions about identity, privacy, and choice—especially as technologies like digital twins and neural interfaces come into play. The most powerful technologies are the ones that uplift people. The best innovations don’t just disrupt—they connect and empower.
Collaborating with Dre Wallace
Q: “This year you’re joined by Dre Wallace, a tech founder and CEO. How will her voice complement the themes you’re exploring at Tech Trends?” A (Keith): I couldn’t be more excited to have Dre Wallace joining me this year at Tech Trends. Dre is a dynamic leader who lives at the crossroads of tech, entrepreneurship, and creativity. As the CEO and founder of Opnr, she’s built a data-powered entertainment platform that’s changing how talent is discovered and booked—and she brings that same bold, future-forward thinking to every conversation. What makes her voice so valuable for Tech Trends isn’t just her experience building a tech company—it’s her perspective on equity, innovation, and human-centered design. She’s a musician, a founder, and a strategist who’s worked in analytics, startup growth, and investment. That kind of cross-disciplinary lens adds a fresh dimension to the event, especially as we explore how emerging tech shapes identity, access, and opportunity. Our goal with Tech Trends is to spark big ideas—and Dre brings a clarity and insight that connects those ideas to real-world people and challenges. She understands how tech impacts lives, not just markets. And having her on stage ensures we’re not just exploring where the future is going—but who it’s for, and how we build it together.
Why Tech + Talent Still Matters
Q: “In a time when tech evolves rapidly, what’s your message to business leaders, developers, or students thinking about where they fit into the future of tech?”
A (Keith): In a world where technology moves faster than ever, it’s easy to feel like you’re either racing to keep up—or being left behind. New tools, platforms, and innovations seem to pop up overnight. But the truth is, tech isn’t just about the tools—it’s about the people who shape, apply, and give them meaning. And that’s exactly why Tech + Talent still matters. Whether you’re a student just stepping into this world, a developer deep in the weeds of your code, or a business leader navigating digital transformation—you have a role in shaping the future. No matter your experience level or background, the future of tech needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership. Events like Tech Trends are important because they remind us we’re not navigating this journey alone. They create space for people across sectors and career stages to come together, to learn from each other, to ask big questions, and to imagine what’s next—as a community. The future of technology isn’t being built in silos—it’s being built in relationships, in mentorships, in collaborative problem-solving. When we align talent with purpose and innovation with inclusion, we do more than keep up—we shape where things are headed, in ways that benefit more people
Tech Trends is happening Wednesday, June 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology. You can register on Eventbrite under “Tech Trends 2025” or visit
www.WestMichiganTechTalent.com. The evening will include networking, drinks, appetizers and, most importantly, an inspiring keynote from futurist Keith Brophy, with a special guest feature from tech founder Dre Wallace. All ticket proceeds benefit STEM Greenhouse, helping to expand STEM opportunities for underrepresented youth in West Michigan.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
If you would like more information about advertising with 13 ON YOUR SIDE, please contact Jeff Olsen at jolsen@wzzm13.com.
source
This article was autogenerated from a news feed from CDO TIMES selected high quality news and research sources. There was no editorial review conducted beyond that by CDO TIMES staff. Need help with any of the topics in our articles? Schedule your free CDO TIMES Tech Navigator call today to stay ahead of the curve and gain insider advantages to propel your business!
Next up in 5
Example video title will go here for this video
Next up in 5
Example video title will go here for this video
Tech Trends is an event featuring the companies and careers and people who are shaping the future of technology, right here in our own backyard. Rob Geer is Chair of the West Michigan Tech Talent Council. Keith Brophy is CEO of Mentavi Health and a technology futurist and they stopped by to talk about the Tech Trends event.
Q: “Rob, Tech Trends has become a signature event for West Michigan Tech Talent. What led the council to create it, and how does it support WMTT’s broader mission to grow, develop, recruit, and retain tech talent across the region?”
A (Rob): Tech Trends actually started all the way back in 1998—Keith Brophy would gather folks to share his top 10 tech predictions for the future. This was before social media, before the constant stream of information we have now, so it was a really unique opportunity to spark curiosity and connect around where tech was heading. Fast forward to today, and through West Michigan Tech Talent, we’ve been able to bring that original spirit back—but with a broader purpose. As a council, we saw an opportunity to create something that wasn’t just informative, but energizing—a platform that aligned with our mission to support the full tech talent lifecycle in West Michigan. As chair of the WMTT council, I see firsthand how important it is to create space for connection, visibility, and energy around our region’s tech community. Tech Trends has become one of our key tools to do that. This event directly supports our mission to recruit and retain tech talent in West Michigan. It’s about shining a light on the exciting careers that exist here, the companies doing meaningful work, and the people who are shaping the future of tech—right here in our own backyard. It also reflects what WMTT is all about: a community of employers coming together to share best practices, resources, and opportunities to grow and strengthen the local talent pool. When we host events like this, we’re not just talking about workforce development— we’re living it. At the end of the day, Tech Trends is about more than predictions—it’s about possibility.
Supporting the Next Generation Through STEM Greenhouse
Q: “This year, proceeds from Tech Trends will support STEM Greenhouse, an organization focused on creating STEM opportunities for underrepresented youth. Why was this partnership important, and how does it align with WMTT’s values?”
A (Rob): Partnering with STEM Greenhouse for this year’s Tech Trends was a natural fit. At West Michigan Tech Talent, one of our core pillars is to grow the next generation of tech talent, and that starts with early exposure and equitable access to STEM opportunities. Dr. Keli Christopher and her team at STEM Greenhouse have been doing incredible work breaking down barriers for underrepresented youth. They create environments where kids can see themselves in these careers, build confidence, and stay engaged in their learning journey. That kind of investment changes futures—and it aligns beautifully with our long term goal of expanding the tech talent pipeline in West Michigan. Through our “Grow” workgroup, WMTT has always prioritized early engagement and partnerships that support youth in discovering what’s possible in tech. That’s why this year, we’ve introduced a $10 ticket price, with optional ways to give more during the event. By contributing proceeds from Tech Trends to STEM Greenhouse, we’re not just spotlighting their impact—we’re helping sustain it. At the end of the day, this is about building a stronger, more inclusive tech ecosystem. And that starts with making sure every young person, no matter their background, can see a place for themselves in the future of tech. Transition to Keith Brophy Thanks, Rob. That context really highlights why events like Tech Trends matter not just to employers, but to the future of the entire tech ecosystem here. And speaking of the future—Keith, you’ve been mapping out where technology is heading for quite some time…
Reflecting on Nearly 20 Years of Tech Trends
Q: “Keith, you’ve been delivering Tech Trends for nearly two decades. How have the trends evolved over time—and what major shifts have you seen in the way we talk about and engage with technology?”
A (Keith): When I started doing Tech Trends back in the late ’90s, it was just a fun way to spark imagination—an informal gathering where we’d talk about the “what ifs” of technology. There weren’t many spaces back then where people were publicly discussing AI, virtual reality, or brain-computer interfaces, let alone imagining them becoming everyday realities. What’s changed most is how seriously people engage with these ideas. What used to be speculative is now strategic. Topics like AI in the workplace or digital twins have moved into real boardroom and classroom conversations. The predictions have also become more layered. In the early days, it was often one big innovation. Now it’s about how technologies converge—AI, biotech, automation—and how together, they’re reshaping life and work. Teaming up with West Michigan Tech Talent has added even more purpose. Tech Trends isn’t just about ideas anymore—it’s about building an inclusive, thriving tech future. I always say these aren’t predictions—they’re provocations. They’re meant to start conversations, not end them.
What to Expect in 2025
Q: Can you give us a sneak peek at one of the trends you’ll be spotlighting this year?”
A (Keith): One of the trends I’ll spotlight this year is what I call “Living Intelligence”—the blending of AI, sensors, and biotech to create responsive, adaptive systems. It’s not just about smarter machines—it’s about intelligence that interacts more organically with the world. This could affect everything from healthcare to learning to ethics. It’s one of the most fascinating frontiers we’re approaching.
The Human Impact of Emerging Tech
Q: “Your trends always go beyond tools and platforms—you explore how tech is reshaping the way we work, live, and connect. What kinds of shifts are you seeing this year in terms of personal or societal impact?”
A (Keith): One big shift is around emotional and social connection. As tech evolves, we’re seeing tools developed to reduce loneliness, enhance mental health, and support inclusion. We’re also being asked deeper questions about identity, privacy, and choice—especially as technologies like digital twins and neural interfaces come into play. The most powerful technologies are the ones that uplift people. The best innovations don’t just disrupt—they connect and empower.
Collaborating with Dre Wallace
Q: “This year you’re joined by Dre Wallace, a tech founder and CEO. How will her voice complement the themes you’re exploring at Tech Trends?” A (Keith): I couldn’t be more excited to have Dre Wallace joining me this year at Tech Trends. Dre is a dynamic leader who lives at the crossroads of tech, entrepreneurship, and creativity. As the CEO and founder of Opnr, she’s built a data-powered entertainment platform that’s changing how talent is discovered and booked—and she brings that same bold, future-forward thinking to every conversation. What makes her voice so valuable for Tech Trends isn’t just her experience building a tech company—it’s her perspective on equity, innovation, and human-centered design. She’s a musician, a founder, and a strategist who’s worked in analytics, startup growth, and investment. That kind of cross-disciplinary lens adds a fresh dimension to the event, especially as we explore how emerging tech shapes identity, access, and opportunity. Our goal with Tech Trends is to spark big ideas—and Dre brings a clarity and insight that connects those ideas to real-world people and challenges. She understands how tech impacts lives, not just markets. And having her on stage ensures we’re not just exploring where the future is going—but who it’s for, and how we build it together.
Why Tech + Talent Still Matters
Q: “In a time when tech evolves rapidly, what’s your message to business leaders, developers, or students thinking about where they fit into the future of tech?”
A (Keith): In a world where technology moves faster than ever, it’s easy to feel like you’re either racing to keep up—or being left behind. New tools, platforms, and innovations seem to pop up overnight. But the truth is, tech isn’t just about the tools—it’s about the people who shape, apply, and give them meaning. And that’s exactly why Tech + Talent still matters. Whether you’re a student just stepping into this world, a developer deep in the weeds of your code, or a business leader navigating digital transformation—you have a role in shaping the future. No matter your experience level or background, the future of tech needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership. Events like Tech Trends are important because they remind us we’re not navigating this journey alone. They create space for people across sectors and career stages to come together, to learn from each other, to ask big questions, and to imagine what’s next—as a community. The future of technology isn’t being built in silos—it’s being built in relationships, in mentorships, in collaborative problem-solving. When we align talent with purpose and innovation with inclusion, we do more than keep up—we shape where things are headed, in ways that benefit more people
Tech Trends is happening Wednesday, June 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology. You can register on Eventbrite under “Tech Trends 2025” or visit
www.WestMichiganTechTalent.com. The evening will include networking, drinks, appetizers and, most importantly, an inspiring keynote from futurist Keith Brophy, with a special guest feature from tech founder Dre Wallace. All ticket proceeds benefit STEM Greenhouse, helping to expand STEM opportunities for underrepresented youth in West Michigan.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
If you would like more information about advertising with 13 ON YOUR SIDE, please contact Jeff Olsen at jolsen@wzzm13.com.
source
This article was autogenerated from a news feed from CDO TIMES selected high quality news and research sources. There was no editorial review conducted beyond that by CDO TIMES staff. Need help with any of the topics in our articles? Schedule your free CDO TIMES Tech Navigator call today to stay ahead of the curve and gain insider advantages to propel your business!
