Tech360 attendees encouraged to share

One-day technology conference examines technology issues facing business, individuals

EAST WHITELAND >> Tech360 continues to grow in its appeal. The annual event, held Nov. 6 at Penn State Great Valley, attracted more than 175 business professionals — the most since the event’s inception in 2013.

The one-day conference puts the emphasis on technology education, leadership and networking about technology issues facing companies and individuals. The theme for this year’s event was Transformation360 - Evolving Business in a Digital World.

Attendees participated in panel discussions on a variety of topics including the implementation of new technologies, autism in the workplace, how customers benefit from digital transformation and staying ahead of security vulnerabilities.

Marianne Stack, project manager for the Chester County Economic Development Council and the council’s lead for Tech360, said there was a “tremendous buzz” surrounding this year’s event.

“The day has exceeded their expectations and there have been great questions. That has been the feedback from all of the speakers, as well — that the audience has been very engaged,” Stack said Wednesday.

She added that as the event has evolved, it is reaching a broader audience.

Two keynote speakers this year left the audience entertained and informed about artificial intelligence and the use of information warfare. And in the case of the event’s final speaker — Jessica “Zhanna” Malekos Smith, who’s topic was information warfare — the audience was left with a call to action.

In her presentation, “The Cyberlous Mrs. Maisel: A Comedic (and slightly terrifying) Introduction to Information Warfare,”

Malekos Smith spoke about maskirovka, reflexive control and disinformation, including Russia’s approach to information warfare. She was Reuben Everett Cyber Scholar at Duke University Law School and specializes in cybersecurity, international law and international security and defense.

“You may wonder, how will I benefit from hearing this pre

DONNA ROVINS - MEDIANEWS GROUP Jessica ‘Zhanna’ Malekos Smith speaks about information warfare during the Nov. 6 Tech360 Conference held at Penn State Great Valley.