On Thursday, May 23rd, we celebrated the launch of our first official peer group: the Data Analytics Peer Group. The event was hosted by group leaders Krista Loid, Joe Laverty, and Kahlil Garmon as nearly 50 professionals attended on a rainy, blistery day. It was sunny and pleasant inside as the energetic attendees connected with each other in engaging conversation both before and after the event.
“This was the moment we have all been waiting for. I’ve found my tribe.” — This is the general sentiment that was echoed throughout the evening as data analysts, data scientists, tech leaders, and CEO’s alike expressed their excitement to associate with like-minded professionals on topics that are important to them. Both early career and experienced professionals filled the space to learn what the group was all about and provide feedback on topics they would like to cover in the future. The synergy in the room was off the charts from the time everyone walked in.
Rob Wilson (CEO of the Regional Tech Council) first greeted the group, sharing about the mission and vision of the tech council, introducing the board members and peer group leaders who have been working hard behind the scenes weeks and months to make the launch a success. Special recognition was given to Krista Loid who has gone above and beyond to launch the Data Analytics Peer Group as well as lay the foundation for the groups that follow.
Ron Bunch (CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce) and Buddy Steen (CEO of the WKU Innovation Campus) were recognized for their support and backing in launching the initiative. Ron spoke of the bright future our region has in tech because of all of the people who already live and work in the region such as those in attendance. “You’ve been here all along,” Ron said, “and so have others like you. Now that we are all coming together to learn an collaborate, we’ll advance our region much more intentionally.” Buddy Steen shared the role the Innovation Campus has played in incubating regional tech startups and explained why the tight relationship between the Chamber, Innovation Campus, and Regional Tech Council is necessary in tooling a workforce for a highly dynamic industry.
Finally, Rob introduced the guests of honor: Krista, Joe, and Kahlil for the main event of the evening. Krista shared about her successful career path at US Bank and how it prepared her for her role in leading the Data Analytics Peer Group. She expressed gratitude for finding professionals she can relate to and collaborate with in ways she was not able to elsewhere. Joe shared how his background in data science and statistics led him to this moment and shared his and Krista’s vision for the group. Kahlil spoke from the perspective of someone new to the field and expressed his gratitude for having a place to develop skills in data analytics and Artificial Intelligence.
Amanda Havard (Board Chair of the Regional Tech Council) provided some parting words of encouragement to remind everyone to memorialize the occasion and similar ones in the future by the stories they create. Stories of community, collaboration, and shared success. Rob Wilson dismissed the group at the end, thanking them for braving the fierce weather to support the event, and shared the plans for some upcoming events.
For information on future events, visit our events calendar. To suggest topics and presenters for future events, or to make general comments or inquiries, submit a contact form.
