Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs.
In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including RBTC and RAMP – that will continue to propel the Roanoke and Blacksburg regional innovation ecosystem forward. Her work will include helping to create a stronger technology funding pipeline, jobs and talent investment, enhanced visibility for partners, and lead conversations in the industry.
“Jackie brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and energy to everything she does,” said Erin Burcham, President of Verge and Executive Director of RBTC. “We’re thrilled to have her as part of the team.”
Lackey brings more than 12 years of experience working with and helping grow start-up tech businesses in the Roanoke region and has enjoyed participating in RBTC as an active member and contributor. In her previous roles, she helped organizations grow their strategy, and most importantly, their people and culture.
She values working in a region where her efforts directly impact her community and its citizens. She has a passion for people and loves any opportunity to learn something new.
“Technology and innovation are exploding in this region! I’m honored and excited to contribute to the community of innovators putting this region on the technology map.”
Lackey is a native of upstate New York and brings with her a wide array of experience in diverse industries from restaurants to retail, to teaching, coaching, to automotive, and even digging soil samples for analysis for the farmers of NY.
A lifelong learner, Jackie holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Roanoke College and an MBA from Radford University.
When she is not working, she can be found having adventures with her husband and two boys, raising money and awareness for CureSMA, or baking.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP.
Lisa Garcia is expanding her role with RAMP, beginning July 1, bringing a wealth of educational and entrepreneurial knowledge to the Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program. She’s a familiar face to the organization, which just celebrated its fifth anniversary in the region.
“She knows what it takes to help companies begin to commercialize technology and propel their ideas forward,” said Erin Burcham, President of Verge and Executive Director of the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council. “We can’t wait to see what the next phase of RAMP looks like with Lisa leading the charge.”
RAMP is a 12-week regional business accelerator for STEM startups located in Roanoke, VA. A non-profit, RAMP’s mission is to propel high-potential startups in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region to expand and create jobs in the STEM-H fields. RAMP is an affiliate of Verge, a collaborative strategic alliance established to grow the region’s innovation economy.
“Lisa has been deeply involved on the entrepreneur programming side of RAMP since our first cohort,” said Verge board member Kevin Bloomfield. “Lisa’s passion for entrepreneurs is obvious. She brings a deep understanding of the I-Corps and Lean Launch programs, she has important connections throughout our region, including Virginia Tech, and she has long-coached many start-up founders. The future of RAMP is bright, and we are excited to have Lisa lead us to even greater heights.”
Garcia is an educator, business and executive coach, and passionate technology advocate. She has served as the instructor for the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps program, where the mission is to commercialize technology developed inside universities. She is also an Instructor at Virginia Tech, where she works to empower the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem in its role as a partner of the Mid-Atlantic I-Corps Hubs program.
Additionally, she serves as an adjunct instructor in the Pamplin College of Business, teaching members of the Innovate LLC, where she also serves as a board member. She has also taught in the Mechanical Engineering Department of the College of Engineering for students focused on product development, leadership and research focus, and ideation.
Focused on the fuzzy front end of innovation and business and sometimes professional development, Garcia has worked with the founders of startups and small and medium-sized enterprises to expand client companies’ social and financial capital, business development, and business intelligence.
Current RAMP Director Mary Miller is set to retire at the end of June.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
The biggest night in tech celebrated the rapidly expanding technology ecosystem and the movers and shakers in the industry on Thursday night at Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council’s TechNite 2022 at the Taubman Museum of Art, attracting over 300 statewide and regional leaders.
Among the highlights of the evening was the induction of Victor Iannello into the RBTC Hall of Fame.
TechNite, presented by Woods Rogers Attorneys at Law, is an annual celebration for the best in innovation. The 2022 theme focused on biotechnology as the region prepares for major multi-regional, multi-organizational collaborations to unfold later this year.
“TechNite presents an amazing opportunity to bring together the technology community from those with an early-stage idea to nationally and globally established companies located in this region,” said Erin Burcham, President of Verge and Executive Director of RBTC. “This event celebrates all the accomplishments and work happening right here in Western Virginia.”
This region is making an impact across the state and beyond, noted keynote speakers John Newby, CEO of Virginia Bio, and Conaway Haskins, Vice President for Entrepreneurial Ecosystems at the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation.
“Virginia Bio is proud to support the greater Roanoke ecosystem, a growing and thriving entrepreneurial community,” Newby said. “Biotechnology is a vital element of this growth, and the Roanoke/Blacksburg/Lynchburg BioHub lead by Carilion Clinic and VT-Fralin Biomedical Research Institute will continue to transform the region into a major national life science hub.”
“TechNite is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and amplify the work that you and your partners have undertaken to build a vibrant innovation ecosystem across the region,” Haskins said.
The following entrepreneurs and companies were honored at the awards ceremony.
Named to the RBTC Hall of Fame, Iannello is CEO of Chorda Pharma, an early-stage pharmaceuticals company developing a pipeline of opioid-free drugs to manage pain. Previously, he was the CEO and founder of Radiant Physics, a company that develops and commercializes revolutionary products in the energy, industrial technology, and healthcare sectors to improve performance and deliver value.
Iannello, a serial entrepreneur and innovator, also founded Synchrony Inc., which was acquired by Dresser-Rand in 2013 and is now part of Johnson Controls. He has been active in the community, as Past Chairman of the Carilion Medical Center Board of Directors, Past Co-Chairman of Valleys Innovation Council (now Verge), and Past President of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. Iannello attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and holds the SB, SM, and ScD degrees in Nuclear Engineering.
Additional award winners include:
Kathleen O’Dell, STEM-H Educator Award, which recognizes an educator in the Roanoke–Blacksburg region that promotes math, science, and/or use of technology in creative ways to transfer knowledge and help develop future technology leaders. O’Dell became a math teacher at Christiansburg Middle School 15 years ago through a non-traditional route, incorporating real-world experiences into her curriculum, and realized it was the dream job she was looking for all along. O’Dell is the recipient of the 2022 Montgomery County Public School Teacher of the Year award, serves as Department Chair of the CMS Math Department, and worked as tutor and a curriculum specialist for the Boys and Girls Club from 2016 to 2021.
Ticket Spicket, Rising Star Award, which recognizes an early-stage technology company. This award emphasizes the importance of small firms to our region’s technology economy. Ticket Spicket is a no-cost digital ticketing platform for schools, districts and associations. In just two years the tool has grown to 1.4 million unique users, conducting 2.7 million transactions.
Dr. Robert Gourdie, Innovator Award, which recognizes an individual, a team, or organization that has blazed new trails in the areas of research and innovation. Gourdie is an entrepreneur with a wealth of startup experience. He has founded or co-founded three start-ups based on his cutting-edge research. First String Research has three active ongoing clinical trials. Tiny Cargo Company and Acomhal Research are on their way to revolutionizing drug delivery and glioblastoma treatment. Tiny Cargo Co. is among five companies to receive a Washington, DC Health Innovation QuickFire Challenge award. The $50,000 in grant funding will help the biotech startup continue to develop its novel drug delivery method using hardy nano-sized capsules derived from cow’s milk.
Wendi Pannell, Regional Leadership Award, which recognizes a member who succeeds in the workplace, but also leads by example by contributing significantly to the RBTC community. Pannell, Vice President of Content Production at Ozmo, is a connector of people and ideas. She has shown dedication to growing the WoTech (RBTC women in technology) community and drives the future and promise of WoTech regionally.
Martin Angst, Entrepreneur Award, which recognizes a leader exemplifying what it means to be a risk-taker in technology. Angst is the co-founder of Rendyr, an emerging desktop robotics company developing a first of its kind portable laser cutter that dramatically improves access to rapid prototyping and digital fabrication. Rendyr has raised over $730k from 444 backers through a Kickstarter campaign for their Optic portable laser cutter. (You can back the project now at https://launch.rendyr.com/.)
P1 Technologies, Leading Tech Company, which recognizes a Roanoke or New River Valley company committed to advancing the region’s technology community and demonstrating excellence in people, programs, and projects within its industry. P1 Technologies delivers cabling and injection molding products as well as custom specialty designs. They focus on three main service lines: medical, audio, and in vivo preclinical research from their facility in Roanoke County. P1 Technologies is a highly regarded specialty manufacturer in one of the most regulated, demanding, fast-paced industry sectors in the marketplace. They combine high quality standards with R&D capabilities, resulting in consistency and new solutions, building trust and longevity with their customers.
Kathy Claytor, Ruby Award, which recognizes an outstanding member who has proven to be a brilliant and valuable asset to the Roanoke-Blacksburg region. Claytor has contributed to the local technology industry, working to attract, grow and retain technology talent for the Roanoke Region. She has spent numerous years benchmarking best practices in human resources, developing best practices for employee engagement strategies, while serving on state and national boards. Claytor continues to build the brand of the region as a destination for top talent, a true necessity for a long lasting and sustainable workforce.
Heywood Fralin, 2022 Guest of Honor, received recognition for supporting health science and biotechnology in the region. From his major commitment to research and education at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute to advocating on the region’s behalf in Richmond for a $15.7 million commercialized biotech project, Heywood was recognized for his vision and dedication to growing an emerging sector in the region. Fralin’s vision for success will continue to grow the region for decades to come through multi-organizational collaboration.
Thanks to all the sponsors and companies that helped make the 2022 event a success: Woods Rogers, Carilion Clinic, Virginia Tech, Franklin County, Roanoke County Economic Development, City of Roanoke, Montgomery County, Cox Business, Exelaration, Torc Robotics, Member One, Botetourt County, Virginia Bio, GO Virginia, Truist, Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, Delta Dental, Cardinal Press, PowerSchool, and VTC Ventures.
RBTC, part of the Verge Alliance, exists to promote the growth of the Roanoke-Blacksburg technology community with a vision for the region to be globally recognized for its innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent assets. The Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council is a member-driven association working to promote the growth of the regional technology community. The organization is the essential business resource for technology entrepreneurs and companies seeking to achieve greater success with members that range from emerging technology firms to the largest employers in the region. Learn more at rbtc.tech.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
The energy surrounding technology and innovation in the region is electric. TechNite 2022 will be a night to remember as we recognize the region’s best companies, innovators, and projects that continue to put Virginia’s Region 2 on the global map. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, libations, entertainment, and brief programming will kick off the evening followed by an exciting awards ceremony lifting up the entrepreneurs, founders, and companies fueling the region’s thriving ecosystem.
With awards for all areas of technology and innovation, these honors are designed to help celebrate the leaders shaping our community. We’re very excited to announce the nominees for the TechNite 2022 awards!
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
There’s an electric energy surrounding technology and innovation in our region because the work in this sector is putting Virginia’s Region 2 on the global map. TechNite 2022 will be a night to remember as we recognize the region’s best companies, innovators, and projects. Join us in toasting to an exciting future for our region at the beautiful Taubman Museum of Art on May 19.
The Event
Plan to enjoy a social, cocktail celebration beginning at 5:30 p.m. inside downtown Roanoke’s iconic museum. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and libations will fill you up while you connect with some of the most creative innovators and technology leaders in the region. Tables are available for purchase (get yours before they sell out!) or mingle if you prefer. Entertainment and brief programming will kick off the evening followed by an inspiring awards ceremony honoring the entrepreneurs, founders, and companies fueling the region’s thriving ecosystem. Attendees can explore the Taubman galleries while RBTC transforms the atrium into an after-party beneath the neon light of the Roanoke Star.
The Speakers
John Newby (Virginia Bio) and Conaway Haskins (Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation)
Keynote speakers John Newby and Conaway Haskins will discuss the successful regional and statewide collaboration to support tech and biotech growth.
“We could not be more thrilled to host our statewide partners, Conaway Haskins, Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation and John Newby, Virginia Bio as we celebrate the growth of technology and biotechnology in our region,” said RBTC Executive Director Erin Burcham.
Newby is CEO of Virginia Bio. Newby has been in his role at Virginia Bio since 2019 and is tasked with fostering partnerships with and between the Commonwealth’s greater biotechnology and healthcare industries to find innovative solutions to improve lives. He helps the association’s 270+ members by facilitating access to capital, connecting industry to academia, and providing educational and professional development event programming and collaborates with federal, state and local partners to grow Virginia’s $8 billion life science industry.
Haskins is Vice President for Entrepreneurial Ecosystems at the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC). In this role, he provides strategic vision and generates operational results for the Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Division that was launched in July 2020. As VP, he advises, funds, promotes, and supports technology-focused entrepreneurial ecosystems and innovation-led economic development throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Vibe
TechNite is a casual cocktail-style event so bring your team, coworkers, peers, and friends for a fun, social evening. Enjoy an enriching keynote presentation, inspiring awards ceremony and plenty of time for socializing. Don’t forget to explore the galleries before sticking around for the after party!
The Details
Date & Time: Thursday, May 19 @ 5:30 p.m.
Location: Event & After Party are all in one location this year at the Taubman Museum
Parking: Downtown Roanoke Street Parking and Parking Garages within walking distance are available
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
As a member of RBTC, you have over 7 different forums to connect and re-connect with thoughtful, passionate peers in your field.
“The RBTC supports and connects the technology industry. The Forums are like a built-in community that professionals within this sector can tap into,” says RBTC program director Ashleigh Beasley. “All of our forums are organized around a specific focus, and maintain a ‘friends and family’ feeling that provides an organic way to connect with people, build your career, and find support.”
Choose a topic (or three!) that interests you and jump in. RBTC staff and members will be there to make sure you feel welcome.
Business Development Meetup
If you have questions about PR, business development strategy, developing new channels, lead management and other related topics–this is the perfect meetup for you. Join the experts and the curious as they share lessons learned and best practices.
Cyber Security Meetup
Cyber-security professionals are the experts in their company, so it’s important they have a space to explore new ideas or get new perspectives on solutions. This forum is focused on examining best practices and sharing insights in the always-evolving landscape of organizational IT.
Beer + Biotech
Bringing together the area’s top biotech movers and shakers through weekly programming paired with good company and local craft beer. In 2022, this event will take place in Roanoke, a city booming with biotech momentum!
Tech on Tap
If you enjoy a relaxed, social hour after work, this forum is for you. Connect with the RBTC community over local craft beer for this strictly social event, which will be held in Blacksburg quarterly in 2022.
Agile Meetup
Join other project management professionals to sharpen your agile framework skills. We partner with Project Management Institute Southwest Virginia (PMI SWVA) to provide premier programming surrounding project management knowledge, skills, and resources.
WoTech (Women in Technology)
This active peer group helps women build a network and support system in tech. Here, you’ll connect with and support career-oriented women to build each other up and strengthen the skills needed to grow and thrive in today’s tech world. There are lots of opportunities to participate because WoTech hosts regular morning, afternoon and evening “power hour” events. You don’t have to be a woman to attend; there’s truly something for everyone in this group.
Tech and Toast
There’s a reason this event has always been a favorite: it offers relevant technology topics that resonate with any level member and professional. Tech & Toast events are held quarterly and typically alternate between Blacksburg and Roanoke locations for a truly regional experience. You’ll begin with an hour of socializing before diving into the program which could feature roundtable “talks with a purpose,” panel discussions, or key speakers. We’ll keep you fueled with lots of coffee, a light breakfast, and plenty of opportunities for conversation.
As an RBTC member, you can attend as many forums as you like and figure out what the best fit is for you. “It’s so gratifying to see people connect at our forums,” says Ashleigh Beasely. “You can show up as yourself, learn new things, and meet great people.”
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
Virginia Western Community College is launching a new degree program in response to a fast-growing industry in the region. Beginning with the fall 2023 semester, students will be able to complete a two-year degree in biotechnology and begin to build a pipeline of qualified workers.
“We’re really building a spectrum of opportunities for our STEM students,” said Amy White, Dean of the College’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. “Adding this program creates another pathway to a solid, lucrative industry that keeps our students here locally and gives them the skills to be successful wherever they land.”
Biotechnology classes and a career studies certificate are currently available at Virginia Western. With an associate degree in biotechnology, students can either transfer to a four-year school or they will be job-ready for entry-level laboratory positions, which typically pay $24 an hour.
Biotechnology jobs are available across many industries including pharmaceutical, environmental, breweries, agriculture and research and development. The biotechnology field is growing so rapidly, more industries will likely be job feeders in the next decade.
“As commercialized biotech and life sciences grow in the region, Virginia Western Community College has been committed to developing new programs to meet the demand for additional employees in this emerging sector,” said Erin Burcham, Executive Director of RBTC and President of Verge.
“From their labs to their faculty, Virginia Western Community College is a true asset in our region. Amy White and her team are focused on preparing students to be ready for our ever-changing economy.”
“Our goal with this program is to prepare students with the right skillset so that they can be successful and fill the jobs that don’t even exist today,” White said. “We’re essentially putting together the ecosystem by supporting innovation and entrepreneurship and growing the industry as a whole.”
The goal is to have 12 students in the program the first year. Maintaining smaller class sizes for biotechnology is ideal due to the hands-on laboratory work required. Biology professor Heather Lindberg is the new head of the biotechnology degree program.
Virginia Western is currently reaching out to local K-12 teachers to make them aware of biotechnology learning opportunities at the College in order to build interest in the upcoming degree program.
“We are committed to creating a pathway for students and making sure they are getting an early exposure to the educational programs and the career opportunities right here in our area,” Lindberg said.
This summer, teachers are invited to STAT 22, a program on campus designed to advance their knowledge of biotechnology so they can then incorporate biotechnology into their STEM curriculum and introduce elementary and secondary students to biotechnology learning and career opportunities. The event is free to teachers, and they can earn professional development credits. Contact Heather Lindberg at hlindberg@virginiawestern.edu for more information.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
RBTC members are making a difference for students who are the future of the technology industry.
Members of the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council (RBTC) donated $1,600 to support a talent initiative to keep female engineering students in the region and added another $2,500 in swag donations.
The drive for members of the Hypatia Community at Virginia Tech was facilitated by RBTC’s WoTech (Women in Technology), who helped plan the fundraiser, stuff care packages, and deliver 250 bags.
Hypatia is a residential learning community for women engineering students.
Delivery day was more than just a drop-off. WoTech members also brought hot pizza and snacks as they were able to interact – in person – with about 100 students the last week of March.
It seems like the message to students was well-received: There is a village in the Roanoke and New River Valleys who care about the future of students and want to work to keep them in our region after graduation through internships and eventually long, successful careers.
“We were so excited to directly interact with these awesome engineering students as they picked up goody bags, study gear, and sweet swag from our technology partners through the RBTC,” said Lea Hamblin, Employee Development Manager for Ozmo. “Through meaningful conversation, we learned that this is a gap that we need to continue to close in creating strong hiring pipelines in our region. Our hope is to continue to spread awareness and build relationships with our student community along with the RBTC’s continued support.”
WoTech exists to champion and celebrate women and diversity in our region’s growing tech community. The RBTC supports the WoTech Committee by assisting with yearly mentoring, and educational and network programming including Morning Jolts, Lunch & Learn, and the Power Hour series.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
As a hard-working technology professional, you know how beneficial networking can be to growing your relationships and knowledge base. Networking forums are a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and share information about your favorite topics, but it can be hard to know where to look or how to choose the right event for you.
At RBTC, we’ve got you covered. It’s our mission to connect the Roanoke-Blacksburg region’s stellar technology talent through inspiring and informative gatherings. Our intentional programming helps foster meaningful relationships and facilitate growth for both our members and Southwest Virginia’s technology sector.
“The technology and innovation community is on fire in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region,” says RBTC Associate Director, Taylor Spellman, “ There is so much opportunity on the horizon for our partners and businesses in the region as well as those who would like to get more involved in tech.”
What is Tech & Toast?
One great way to network with other technology and business professionals in the region is RBTC’s signature event, Tech & Toast.
“Tech and Toast is a fantastic way to meet great connections, have relevant conversations and learn about what’s on the horizon for the RBTC, our members and our community,” said Taylor Spellman, RBTC Associate Director.
There’s a reason this event has always been a favorite: it offers relevant technology topics that resonate with any level member and professional. Tech & Toast events are held quarterly and typically alternate between Blacksburg and Roanoke locations for a truly regional experience. You’ll begin with an hour of socializing before diving into the program which could feature roundtable “talks with a purpose,” panel discussions, or key speakers. We’ll keep you fueled with lots of coffee, a light breakfast, and plenty of opportunities for conversation.
What Expect from Tech & Toast 2022
The RBTC is building more than ever, and you can expect to be part of that growth when you participate in Tech & Toast. Now is the perfect time to jump in! By participating in Tech & Toast, you’ll join conversations that are shaping the technology sector in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region. You can even join a committee that deals with topics you care about: Women in Technology, Agile Meetups, Cyber Security, Business Development, and Beer & Biotech.
Tech & Toast kicks off at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30 at the VTCRC Training & Events Center in Blacksburg. We’ll take the time to hear from each committee within the RBTC on what 2022 holds. You won’t want to miss it!
How to Get Involved
All RBTC members are invited to participate in Tech & Toast events. If you aren’t a member or want more information about how to get involved, reach out to us or connect on LinkedIn.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
The Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council, a Verge affiliate, has hired Taylor Spellman as Associate Director of RBTC.
Spellman comes to the RBTC with a rich background in marketing, public relations and brand management for a variety of small businesses, startups and non-profit organizations. Her portfolio showcases a successful track record of launching and scaling new programs for success.
In her new role, she’ll work with members, help grow RBTC programs and events, and facilitate marketing initiatives.
“The addition of Taylor to our team will help strengthen RBTC’s connection to the community and provide an additional resource for members,” said Erin Burcham, President of Verge and Executive Director of RBTC. “She will help us further promote the growth of the regional technology community as we grow to earn national recognition as a leader in innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent.”
“There is an incredible momentum surrounding the innovation and technology communities in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region,” Spellman said. “I look forward to working alongside so many impressive entrepreneurs and businesses, further supporting their efforts, through my role at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council.”
As the former Director of Public Relations for Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Spellman worked with hundreds of media and news publications around the globe promoting placemaking for the regional tourism organization.
Early in her career, she helped lead the development and marketing efforts to launch Roanoke’s first coworking space, CoLab. She has held many volunteer roles for local organizations and is a co-founder for Experience, dedicated to attracting and retaining talent in the Roanoke Region.
Spellman serves on the Virginia Recreational Facilities Authority Board for Virginia’s Explore Park, originally appointed by former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe.
She is a graduate of Radford University and enjoys exploring new places and supporting local with her husband Tommy, their two young children and German Shorthaired Pointer Bo.
The RBTC is a member-driven association working to promote the growth of the Roanoke-Blacksburg technology community. RBTC is the essential business resource for technology entrepreneurs and companies seeking to achieve greater success. Membership ranges from emerging technology firms to the largest employers in the region.
The RBTC is building a community that is a catalyst for innovation, inspiration, success, and leadership within the Roanoke-Blacksburg region.
Verge is pleased to add Jackie Lackey to the team as Vice President of Programs. In her role, Lackey will help develop programming opportunities through the Verge alliance – including […]
P1 Technologies earned the 2022 Leading Tech Company Award at TechNite in May. Through their 375 employee-owners, P1 Technologies in Roanoke County has been partnering directly with OEMs worldwide since […]
Verge, the parent organization of RAMP and RBTC, is thrilled to announce the hiring of a new Vice President of Entrepreneurial Development and Director of RAMP. Lisa Garcia is expanding […]
