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Feb 28, 2026
University of North Texas | Union Circle, Jade Ballroom 333
(Room has been updated to this location)
Location: 1155 Union Cir, Denton, TX 76203
On the day of the conference, participants may park in the parking lot near Union Circle. Please note that the parking garages will not be available for free parking during the event.
The parking is free for Eagle spot.


CIEConnect 2026!
Computing Intelligence & Engineering Connect
Welcoming Innovators, Technologists, and Future Thinkers
CIEConnect is UNT Engineering’s regional forum for professionals to discuss advancements in the field, share insights, and build strategic connections. This series of in-person mini-conferences strengthens ties between local industry and the university by providing a dedicated networking platform for professionals, faculty, and students.
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Our first event, on Feb 28, 2026, will focus on The Future of AI & ML in Texas, featuring approximately six 20-minute talks, a set of 45-minute workshop discussions, and a panel session. By bringing together industry leaders, faculty, and innovators, CIEConnect fosters the exchange of ideas, exploration of collaborations, and the growth of a stronger professional network in our region.
Future of AI in Texas
Registrations has been closed for this event. contact our team if you have any questions.
Participants will receive an official Certificate of Participation, along with a verified digital badge issued by the UNT Professional Learning program.
ONE DAY TO LEARN, CONNECT, AND INSPIRE
Engage with leading voices in tech, education, and industry. Gain full access to sessions, panels, networking mixers, and sponsor showcases.
1 DAY | PANELS, TALKS & NETWORKING WITH EXPERTS
OUR SPEAKERS

David Evans
CTO - Sentiero Ventures
Talk: Future of AI ​

Bart Slowik
Managing Director at Dallas Regional Chamber
Talk: AI in DFW: trends, real uses, and responsible growth.​

Abraham Assi
Director - Business Information Security Officer of Advisory Services at CBRE
Talk: AI's impact on Cyber Attacks​

Kimberly KJ Haywood
Principal CEO Nomad Cyber Concepts
Talk: Future of AI

Venkata Nagarjun Devarapalli
Lead - Sustainable Technology Solutions - KBR
Talk: AI Innovation shaping the Future of Energy Industry​

Chris Collander
GNC Engineer at Perseus Defense
Talk: Real world AI applications outside language and generative models.​

Arjun M Gupta
Software Development Engineer IV at 1Finity
Talk: Future of AI ​
EVENT AGENDA
1:00 PM - 1:15 PM
Opening Remarks
Talk Session I
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
1:15 PM - 1:35 PM David Evans - Talk: Future of AI ​
1:35 PM - 1:55 PM Bart Slowik - Talk: AI in DFW: trends, real uses, and responsible growth.
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM Abraham Assi - Talk: AI's impact on Cyber Attacks​
Pause / Networking Break
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
Talk Session II
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
2:30 PM - 2:50 PM Kimberly KJ Haywood - Future of AI ​​
2:50 PM - 3:10 PM Venkata Nagarjun Devarapalli - Talk: AI Innovation shaping the Future of Energy Industry​
3:10 PM - 3:30 PM Chris Collander - Talk: Real world AI applications outside language and generative models.​
Student Expo
3:30 PM - 4:15 PM
Panel Discussion
4:15 PM - 4:50 PM
Closing Remarks
4:50 PM - 5:00 PM
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