About That Life Tech Ecosystem Conference

About That Life Tech Ecosystem Conference

  • Ages 18+

A free one-day conference for young adults (18-24) living in Wilmington, DE who want to connect to the tech industry and tech training.

By Tech Council of Delaware

Date and time

Tuesday, May 20 · 8am - 4pm EDT.

Location

Wilmington University

320 North Dupont Highway New Castle, DE 19720

Refund Policy

No Refunds

Agenda

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Check-in & Networking Breakfast

Tech Council of Delaware


Upon arrival guests should check-in at the Welcome Table to obtain their conference badge and goodie bag then proceed to enjoy a breakfast buffet consisting of scrambled eggs, home fried potatoes, tu...

8:30 AM - 8:35 AM

Welcome Remarks

Tech Council of Delaware

Zakiyyah Ali


The conference starts with insightful opening remarks from Tech Council of Delaware Executive Director, Zakiyyah Ali, who will explain the purpose of the conference, the current state of Delaware’s t...

8:35 AM - 8:40 AM

JPMorgan Chase Sponsor Remarks

Claudio Esposito

8:40 AM - 9:00 AM

Keynote Address

Christopher 'CJ' Gross


Christopher 'CJ' Gross is an accomplished TEDx presenter and a highly regarded consultant in the field of organizational development. With a background in engineering and specialization in leadership...

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Book Signing & Networking


Attendees can get a copy of the "What's Your Zip Code Story?" book signed by CJ Gross, visit Resource Booths, engage in Networking, and have a Professional Headshot Photo taken.

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Life Skills Workshop Sessions (Round 1)


Attendees choose from the following four workshops: Tech Connect: Step Your Tech Game Up!; Self-Advocacy: Speak Up For Yourself; Financial Literacy: Securing the Bag; and Self-Care & Well-Being: Put ...

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Life Skills Workshop Sessions (Round 2)


Attendees choose from the following four workshops: Tech Connect: Step Your Tech Game Up!; Financial Literacy: Securing the Bag; Decision-Making 101: Adulting Made Easy; and and Conflict Resolution: ...

11:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Networking & Resource Booths


Attendees visit Resource Booths, engage in Networking, and have a Professional Headshot Photo taken. Booth organizations include: Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, Community Education Building, ...

11:45 AM - 12:15 PM

Buffet Lunch


Attendees are treated to a tasty buffet lunch featuring garden salad, pasta salad, marinated chicken breast, beef meatballs, salmon with citrus butter, baked ziti with marinara sauce, fresh roasted v...

12:15 PM - 12:50 PM

Fireside Chat with Deon Gordon of TechBirmingham

Stephanie Eldridge

Deon Gordon


Curious about how the tech industry has changed over time, where you fit into the latest wave of innovation, and what is happening in other regions? Say less! This Fireside Chat moderated by Delaware...

12:50 PM - 1:20 PM

Tech It From Us…We’ve Been Where You Are (Panel Discussion)

Nahshon Little

Jacqueline Means

Jadyn Worthington

Whitney Akinola


In the spirit of paying it forward, this panel discussion features three young adults who are blazing trails in the tech industry with their bright ideas, industry credentials, and practical experien...

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM

Life Skills Workshop Sessions (Round 3)


Attendees choose from the following four workshops: Tech Connect: Step Your Tech Game Up!; Self-Care & Well-Being: Put ‘You’ First!; Decision-Making 101: Adulting Made Easy; and Conflict Resolution: ...

2:15 PM - 2:30 PM

Quick Break


Attendees take a brief break before heading to the employer panel discussion in the main conference room.

2:30 PM - 3:20 PM

Employers Talk Tech: The Inside Scoop (Panel Discussion)

JPMorgan Chase

WSFS Bank

M&T Bank

Akkodis Group


Get the inside scoop from top industry leaders at JPMorgan Chase, M&T Bank, WSFS Bank, and Akkodis Group on hiring trends, must-have skills, and how to break into tech as a young professional. This p...

3:20 PM - 3:25 PM

Post-Conference Career Planning Support Overview

Dr. Pat Smith


Dr. Pat Smith of Holmes Smith Consulting Services shares how she will assist attendees by providing group and individual career planning support and coaching. Information about how to sign up for thi...

3:25 PM - 3:30 PM

Spotlight Series: Tech Training Programs

Tech Talent & Workforce Committee

Vic Wang


This session features several premier tech training programs in Delaware including Wilmington University, Code Differently, University of Delaware Professional & Continuing Studies, Tech Impact, Dela...

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Raffles, Giveaways, & Special Meet & Greet


The day concludes with prizes, announcements, and a Meet & Greet with special invited guests.

About this event

  • Event lasts 8 hours
  • Ages 18+
  • Free venue parking

The About That Life Tech Conference is the Tech Council of Delaware's third annual Tech Ecosystem Conference, check out the video from the 2024 conference below. This year's conference is a free, full day event (8:00am - 4:00pm) for young adults ages 18-24 years old who currently live in Wilmington, Delaware and are seeking to build a better future for themselves. Registrants must be residents who are not currently employed, those working in low wage jobs or industries, not enrolled in college or a tech training program, and are not enlisted in the military. The goal of the conference is to develop a motivated group of Aspiring Tech Professionals and invest in them by ensuring they have the tools and access to training to succeed in Delaware’s tech ecosystem.


This one-day event, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, is much more than just a conference! It is an investment in Wilmington’s opportunity youth—empowering these high potential residents with life skills, valuable resources, professional connections in the tech industry, and ongoing support to prepare for a career in tech. Conference attendees experience inspiring speakers, panel discussions, informative life skills workshops, resource booths, and networking with industry leaders. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are provided.

The About That Life Tech Conference is about more than networking—it’s about supporting young adults with developing essential life skills, addressing and overcoming challenges effectively, and finding their place in society and in Delaware’s growing tech community. Young adults in Wilmington who are seeking a better life for themselves deserve to know they matter, belong, and have a future in tech!

But wait, there’s more! Select attendees are offered two months of post-conference career planning support (June—July) featuring individual and group coaching sessions to set career goals, explore tech career opportunities, enroll in a tech training program, and utilize resources from the conference to improve their quality of life.

This is one conference you won't want to miss! It's gonna be lit!


Read the following conference workshop descriptions prior to registering and Choose Three (3) Workshops of interest on the Order Form.

Conflict Resolution: Clap Back with Respect

😤Conflicts are going to happen, but how you handle them can make all the difference. Conflict Resolution: Clap Back with Respect is a dynamic workshop that teaches you how to navigate disagreements and misunderstanding with confidence, maturity, and respect. Whether you’re dealing with tension at work, in public, online, or in personal relationships, this workshop will provide you with the tools to turn conflicts into opportunities for personal growth and deeper understanding.

😀In this session, we’ll dive into effective communication strategies, emotional regulation, and problem-solving techniques to help you handle disputes calmly and constructively. You’ll learn how to express your point of view assertively without escalating the situation, avoid physical confrontations, and how to listen actively and empathize with others, even in challenging moments when you want to pop off or crash out.

👏🏽Join us for a life changing session where you’ll gain the skills to 'Clap Back' with respect, maintain your peace, and build stronger, more positive relationships no matter the situation!


Decision-Making 101: Adulting Made Easy

🫣Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices that come with being an adult? From paying bills and career moves to managing relationships, responsibilities, and personal commitments—making good decisions can be a challenge. In Decision-Making 101: Adulting Made Easy, you'll learn practical strategies to make confident, stress-free choices in everyday life.

This workshop will cover:

✅ The psychology behind decision-making

✅ How to balance logic, intuition, and emotions

✅ Simple frameworks for making tough choices

✅ Making decisions that are in your best interest

🗣️Through real-life scenarios and group discussions, you'll walk away with actionable tools to navigate adulthood with clarity and ease. Whether you're struggling with big life decisions, want to be more decisive in daily tasks, and make decisions that set you up for success, this workshop will give you the confidence to choose wisely and avoid setbacks.

Whether you're new to 'adulting' or just want to improve your ability to make smart, stress-free choices, this session is for you. Join us and learn how to make adulting way easier!


Financial Literacy: Securing the Bag

🙋🏽Are you ready to take control of your finances and set yourself up for success? Unlock the secrets to managing money confidently. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or looking to refine your knowledge, this workshop has something for you!

💰In Financial Literacy: Securing the Bag, we’ll cover essential topics such as budgeting, saving, understanding credit, debt prevention, and planning for the future. You’ll learn how to make smart financial decisions that align with your goals, avoid common money mistakes, and discover tools and strategies to help you grow your wealth over time.

Through engaging discussions, real-life examples, and practical tips, you'll leave with the confidence to manage your finances like a pro. Let’s turn your financial future into something you can feel proud of—getting the bag is one thing, making the bag work for you is entirely different.


Self-Advocacy: Speak Up for Yourself

🎙️Are you ready to find your voice and stand up for what you need, want, and deserve? Self-Advocacy: Speak Up for Yourself is an empowering workshop designed to enable you to build confidence and assertiveness in every area of your life. Whether you're navigating school, work, or personal relationships, learning to advocate for yourself is a crucial skill for success and well-being.

🧍🏼‍♀️In this interactive workshop, you’ll discover the tools and strategies you need to speak up at the right time, set boundaries, and communicate your needs effectively. Through videos and discussions, you'll learn how to handle tough conversations, make your voice heard, and stand your ground with confidence.

🙅🏿‍♀️No more second-guessing or letting opportunities pass you by. Learn to develop the skills to advocate for yourself in any situation and start taking charge of your life today!


Self-Care & Well-Being: Put ‘YOU’ First!

In the hustle of daily life combined with the ways we have been conditioned to act, it's easy to put yourself last. But self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential! Self-Care & Well-Being: Put ‘YOU’ First! is an empowering workshop designed to support you with prioritizing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being without guilt.

In this interactive session, you’ll explore:
✨ What self-care really means (beyond deep breathing exercises!)
✨ Simple, effective ways to manage stress and avoid burnout
✨ How to set boundaries and say “no” without guilt
✨ Personalized self-care strategies that fit your lifestyle and personality

Through group discussions and practical takeaways, you’ll create a self-care plan that works for you. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, stretched too thin or just looking to build better habits, this workshop will give you the tools to recharge, reset, and reclaim your well-being.

If you are ready to invest in yourself, reduce stress, and build a healthier, more balanced life, add this session to your agenda. Because when you take care of you, everything else falls into place! 💖


Tech Connect: Step Your Tech Game Up

⤴️Ready to level up your tech skills and stay ahead in today’s fast-paced digital world? Tech Connect is your opportunity to dive into the latest trends, tools, and technologies shaping the future! Whether you're looking to boost your career, enhance your personal projects, or simply stay connected with the digital age, this workshop has you covered.

👩🏾‍💻In Tech Connect, we’ll explore everything from mastering essential software and apps to diving into the world of artificial intelligence. You'll gain hands-on experience using ChatGPT and learn how to apply tech skills for personal and career advancement.

💻Join us for an exciting, interactive session where you’ll connect with fellow aspiring technologists, get practical tips from an expert, and walk away with the skills to Step Your Tech Game up. Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your current knowledge, Tech Connect is your gateway to mastering the digital landscape!


Frequently asked questions

What is the eligibility requirement to attend the conference?

The conference is for 18-24 year old young adults who currently live in Wilmington, DE and are under/unemployed (making less than $40K a year), not enrolled in college, not enrolled in a tech training program, not enlisted in the military, and are seeking a better life for themselves.

Is parking available at the event?

Yes, there is complimentary parking in the large parking lots outside of, and surrounding, Wilmington University.

Is the venue accessible by public transportation?

Yes, the venue is accessible by public transportation. For assistance with creating a custom travel plan, contact the Delaware DART Information Center at: (800) 652-3278, Option 1, or visit www.dartfirststate.com to identify bus routes within the New Castle County Zone 1.

Will pictures be taken at the conference?

Yes, the Council will capture great photos of attendees throughout the entire day. These photos may be used in social media posts and other Tech Council of Delaware publications. Attendees will also be able to have one (1) professional headshot photo taken and emailed afterward, upon request.

I see this conference is for a certain audience. How can Council members and partners participate?

Tech Council of Delaware members and partners can use the special Promo Code to access their reasonably-priced event ticket ($50). Conference sponsor, volunteers, workshop presenters, speakers, panelists, and vendors will receive separate access to collaborate at the conference at no cost. Email us!

Will there be food at this all day conference?

Yes, attendees will receive breakfast, lunch, beverages, and snacks. Limited vegan and gluten free options will be available. Guests may bring their own snacks but no outside food is permitted.

Which Wilmington University building is the conference taking place?

The conference takes place in Wilmington University's Audrey Kohl Doberstein Admissions Center. Look for signs on the campus directing you to the correct building.

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