Celebrating Innovation and Collaboration at the 2025 IT² Conference

Last week, SWWC Technology Solutions proudly hosted the annual IT² Conference at the Willmar Conference Center, bringing together technology leaders, support professionals, and integrationists from nearly every school district in the SWWC region as well as every corner of the state and the Twin Cities metro. The two-day event was filled with thought leaders from across our region and the nation providing professional learning, networking, and inspiration. Thursday evening also featured our Exhibit Hall where 44 vendors from across the country and Canada featured the latest advancements and tools available in education technology.

Our 136 attendees explored topics ranging from cybersecurity and AI in education to digital equity, infrastructure planning, and instructional technology integration. Feedback from the conference highlights the level of interaction between session leaders and attendees. One breakout track featured a series of sessions that focused on succession planning, including the preparation required to pass on the torch as retirement approaches, to some of our newest education technology professionals sharing the things that they wish they had known or had for supports in their new roles, as well as a session focused on building a more diverse culture in EdTech that fosters equality among woman leaders. Attendees shared that they were struck by those who shared the stark differences between IT fields in the private and corporate sectors as staff shared the culture shock experienced moving from those long-term careers into a new career in supporting education.

One of the highlights of the day was the keynote address by Joe Beckman to launch our second day. Joe shared insights on the future as it is impacted by technology immersion, and a lack of human connections. By 8:30am Joe had all 136 in attendance breaking out in chorus singing John Denver’s “Country Roads, take me home” complete with cell phone lights among the audience. If you don’t believe me, watch the video on the SWWC Technology Solutions Facebook page!

The conference also served as a valuable opportunity for SWWC staff to connect with members from across our service area as well as with their co-workers that they only get to see in-person a couple of times per year. This experience is all about strengthening relationships and fostering collaboration in support of SWWC’s mission. The energy and engagement throughout the day reflected our shared commitment to innovation and excellence in service.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the IT² Conference a success—from the planning team and presenters to the attendees who brought their curiosity and enthusiasm. We look forward to continuing the conversation and building on the momentum as we support technology-driven solutions across our membership.

• David Berner
• Mike Carter
• Ashley Haken
• Meggan Hoffmann
• Kyle Krenz
• Becky Laleman
• Mykel Madera
• Josh Sumption