Desert Tech Connect 2025 🏜️
Greater Phoenix Economic Council teamed up with
Crossover VC for the 3rd consecutive year for a pair of curated events around the
WM Phoenix Open that brought together prominent tech founders, investors, executives and athletes.
DAY 1: Cocktails & Conversation at
OTTO Car Club
🔹 Panel 1: Future Frontlines—The Convergence of Defense, Aerospace, and Technology |
Joy Angela Shanaberger,
Mike Dodd and
Jack Selby discussed the intersection of defense, aerospace, and cutting-edge technology. From AI-driven defense systems to next-gen aerospace advancements, the discussion unpacked how these innovations are reshaping national security, investment trends, and opportunities for startups in this high-stakes sector.
🔹 Panel 2: VC Perspectives – Navigating the Next Wave of Innovation |
Kevin Novak,
Jeff Morris Jr., and
Matthew Brezina shared their perspectives on the evolving venture capital landscape, diving into market and sector specific trends, and how emerging technologies are shaping the next generation of billion-dollar startups.
🔹 Panel 3: The Founder’s Journey – Scaling & Shaping the Future |
Ryan Johnson and
Jon Runyan offered insights into the realities of building and scaling companies, what it takes to thrive in today’s competitive landscape, and future tech they are excited about!
Day 2: Good Vibes on 16 ⛳ - networking, sunshine and unforgettable connections on golf's most iconic holes!
A special thank you to
Chris Camacho,
Kenneth Sawyer,
Noah Lichtenstein and
Miles Deamer for your vision and leadership in cultivating the
#DTC2025 and to our AMAZING SPONSORS that made it all possible:
Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Arizona,
Salt River Project,
Live Oak Bank,
Arizona Board of Regents,
Quarles & Brady LLP,
Avidbank,
Monsoon Venture Fund
Drew Trojanowski Emily Gold Angela Roman Aspito, MBA Jessica Sutton Karla Teixeira Moran Marc Valenzuela, MPA Shane Ballew Gatlin Thompson Evan Shaw Jessica Pacheco Gregg Brewster Sarah Gentry Harper Brad Vynalek Randy Churchill Michael Erickson Mike Randall
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