Summerfest TechAI 2025 Recap and Looking Ahead to Milwaukee’s Biggest Tech Conference in 2026!
This year, Steve and Adam captured it all live from the Experience Milwaukee Podcast Lounge at Summerfest TechAI 2025—a buzzing hub of conversation, connection, and creativity inside the city’s biggest celebration of innovation. Across two packed days, they sat down with founders, artists, interns, and community leaders who are shaping the future of Milwaukee’s tech and creative ecosystem.
The energy was undeniable. From the moment the mics went on, it was clear: Milwaukee’s momentum is real—and deeply human.
The episode opened with Deepak Babu, CEO of Sabhya Technologies, who praised the region’s growing energy and its collaborative startup ecosystem. His optimism set the tone: Milwaukee isn’t just participating in tech’s evolution, it’s defining its local flavor.
Then came Emma and Bella, two Rockwell Automation interns who captured the hope of Milwaukee’s future workforce. Between laughter about LinkedIn selfies and talk of “networking hugs,” they revealed the massive UWM intern dorm program—500 students strong—proof that talent is flocking to the city.
The mood turned heartfelt with Michael Regione from Digital Bridge, whose company recycles and donates refurbished laptops across Wisconsin.
His reflections on e-waste, sustainability, and giving people second chances, literally and professionally, reminded everyone that the human side of tech matters most. “AI can’t replace hands,” he said, “and maybe that’s a good thing.”
The conversation evolved with Maggie Schmidt and Cullah, Milwaukee’s self-proclaimed “music power couple,” who blend art, technology, and blockchain advocacy.
Maggie’s impassioned defense of artists’ rights in an AI-driven world echoed through the lounge: “AI is the brain; blockchain is the nervous system.” Her partner Cullah, meanwhile, shared his myth-inspired album Cú Chulainn and a vision of creativity rooted in protection, authenticity, and independence.
Other standout voices included Robert Orozco, CEO of Afirmity, tackling deepfakes and digital trust; Hannah from “Good Awkward”, challenging leaders to embrace discomfort as growth; Slalom Consulting’s Paul and Jessica, emphasizing “fiercely human” consulting in the AI age; and Kelly Armstrong of the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, who closed the loop by reminding listeners that innovation thrives through community connection, not isolation.
Across every conversation, a common thread emerged: Milwaukee’s tech scene is thriving not because of flashy trends, but because of its people—builders, dreamers, and doers who mix Midwest humility with a global mindset.
As the hosts joked with CodeBaby’s AI avatar “Navi,” even the robots seemed to understand what makes this city special: “You’re in for a treat as cheesy and refreshing as a cold brew on a summer day.”
Indeed, Summerfest TechAI 2025 proved that in Milwaukee, technology may power the future—but heart powers everything else.
Looking Ahead: Summerfest TechAI 2026 Announcement at the Wantable Café
Already looking forward to Summerfest Tech 2026? Mark your calendar.
October 15, 2025, from 5–7 PM
Join Milwaukee’s innovators, creators, and community builders for an exclusive Summerfest Tech 2026 preview event featuring the official announcement of next year’s dates, lineup, venues, and more. Expect big reveals, local bites, and the unmistakable buzz of Milwaukee’s tech energy.
Summerfest TechAI started as a conference. It’s now a movement—and it’s only getting louder.