HI-TEC 2025 banner (short)
collage (short)

Keynotes

OPENING SESSION

Wednesday, July 23, 8:30–9:45
(Continental Breakfast: 7:45–8:30)

ReDefining the Goal

Kevin Fleming

Dr. Kevin J. Fleming

Founder and CEO, Catapult

Dr. Kevin J Fleming is an acclaimed TEDx speaker, Founder & CEO of Catapult, the producer of multiple viral animation videos including Success in the New Economy, and author of the bestseller, (Re)Defining the Goal. He is a passionate advocate for ensuring all students enter the labor market with clarity, confidence, and a competitive advantage. Best yet, he is one of us: A former NSF ATE PI, technical education faculty member, community college Dean and Vice President. Technical skills are the new currency in the future of work, but how do we communicate, advocate, and gain broader support for our work? Dr. Fleming’s inspiring presentation discusses new paradigms and tangible action steps to help all of us not just meet our workplan, but change the trajectory of our institutions.

CLOSING SESSION LUNCHEON

Thursday, July 24, 12:15–1:30

Advanced Air Mobility and Its Link to Converging Technologies

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) represents a shift in transportation, integrating electric propulsion, automation, and emerging technologies to revolutionize how people and cargo move. At the two-year technical education level, understanding AAM systems and technologies is critical for preparing the next generation of skilled workers to meet industry demands to maintain and operate them. This presentation explores the convergence of AAM with electric vehicle (EV) technologies, highlighting shared advancements in battery systems, automation, and lightweight materials. By aligning technical education programs with industry needs, we can enhance workforce readiness and drive innovation at the best cost. This session will provide insights into how educational institutions and industry leaders can work together to shape the future of sustainable education and career pathways by leveraging cross-sector collaboration.

Rebecca Short

Dr. Rebecca Short

Moderator
Director, CA2VES

Zackary Nichlin

Co-PI, National Center for Autonomous Technologies

Jonathan Beck

Jonathan Beck

Executive Director, PI, National Center for Autonomous Technologies

Nicholas Wilson

Nicholas Wilson, PhD

Associate Professor, Aviation, John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, University of North Dakota