Summerfest Tech 2025
Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. (MWF) is excited to announce the dates and content themes for the eighth annual Summerfest Tech, Milwaukee’s premiere tech event. The conference will take place in person Monday, June 23 - Thursday, June 26, 2025, and core programming will remain FREE of charge. To register, visit Summerfest Tech.
The 2024 edition recorded tremendous growth hosting over 2,000 people, including attendees from 37 states and 12 countries. Summerfest Tech, which began in 2018, provides a national platform for thousands of business and tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to convene, enhancing the region’s reputation as a tech hub.
The 2025 conference will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), along with the following content tracks:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Healthcare/Biohealth
- Fin/InsurTech
- Energy & Sustainability
Popular programs returning for next year include the Summerfest Tech Pitch Competition and programming for entrepreneurs. New for 2025 - onsite technical skilling opportunities will be available, in partnership with MKE Tech Hub.
More details on speakers and agenda information, pitch competition application timelines, and accreditation and certification offerings will be forthcoming.
All Summerfest Tech attendees will receive FREE entrance to a networking luncheon on-site at Summerfest on Thursday, June 26, plus FREE admission to the music festival’s second weekend June 26-28, 2025.
Registration is now open - visit Summerfest Tech for the latest information.
To learn more about how to sponsor or get involved in programming, please contact Lena DeLaet at summerfesttech@summerfest.com.
Create your own schedule!
Simply log in using just your email to create your personalized schedule. Log in here
Select the red arrows on the right to expand programming details.
Event Schedule
Jun
Golf Outing, sponsored by Mars Solutions Group & Harness.io
Location: Muskego Lakes Country Club, S100 W14020 Loomis Rd Muskego, WI 53150
The Summerfest Tech AI Invitational is the flagship tech golf experience that brings together technology leaders, innovators, and decision-makers for a day of competition, collaboration, and cutting-edge tech engagement. Hosted by MARS Solutions Group with Harness.io in partnership with Summerfest Tech, this charity golf scramble seamlessly blends tech-themed contests, interactive activities, and exclusive sponsorship opportunities, all in support of advancing innovation in the tech industry.
Date: Monday, June 23, 2025 / Rain Date: Monday, August 18, 2025
Time: Golf: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Reception: 4:00 PM at 3rd Street Market Hall
Why Attend?
- Experience Tech on the Green: Participate in tech-themed hole challenges and contests.
- Unparalleled Networking: Connect with industry leaders, tech innovators, and decision-makers.
- Make an Impact: Support initiatives that drive innovation and collaboration in the tech sector.
- Exclusive Opportunities: Enjoy unique sponsor-hosted experiences and creative brand activations.
Find more information and sign up HERE.
Opening Event: Registration & Badge Pickup Opens
Join us for the opening event at Summerfest Tech! This panel and networking event will take place at 3rd Street Market Hall and their event space "The Venue" (275 W Wisconsin Ave Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53203).
Check back for a discounted parking link!
Pre-register for this event through our website and your badge will be available to be printed and picked up onsite for ease and efficiency! You may also register onsite.
Opening Event: Beyond Legacy: How SE Wisconsin has Become the Hub for Intelligent Manufacturing
Location: 3rd Street Market Hall event space "The Venue" (275 W Wisconsin Ave Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53203)
Sponsored by Milwaukee 7 Regional Partnership (M7)
Discover how the M7 region has transformed from a traditional manufacturing hub into a nexus of intelligent manufacturing where hardware expertise meets cutting-edge software innovation. Join industry leaders who've recently expanded or relocated to the region as they discuss what attracted them to SE Wisconsin and how they're leveraging the area's unique blend of manufacturing heritage, technological advancement, and regional advantages to drive growth in the region’s new focus industries.
Attend this session for your chance to win 3rd Street Market Hall gift card, courtesy of Experience Milwaukee Podcast and Summerfest Tech.
Opening Event: Networking Reception
Location: 3rd Street Market Hall (275 W Wisconsin Ave Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53203)
Join your fellow attendees at this exciting space and network with other Summerfest Tech attendees and speakers!
Enjoy $1 off all beverages purchased at the 3rd Street Market Hall bar before 7pm, provided by M7, 3rd Street Market Hall, and Summerfest Tech
Jun
Registration Opens & Breakfast
Location: Potawatomi Hotel | Casino - North Concourse and Main Event Space
Breakfast sponsored by: TBD
Join us ahead of the keynote to explore our Exhibit Hall, networking with attendees, and snag a quick bite before the day!
Keynote: The AI Playbook: How to Capitalize on Machine Learning
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
The greatest tool is the hardest to use. Machine learning is the world’s most important general-purpose technology – but it’s notoriously difficult to launch. Outside Big Tech and a handful of other leading companies, machine learning initiatives – aka predictive AI projects – routinely fail to deploy, never realizing value. What’s missing? A specialized business practice suitable for wide adoption. In this keynote, Gooder AI CEO and bestselling author Eric Siegel presents the gold-standard, six-step practice for ushering predictive AI projects from conception to deployment.
Speaker: Eric Siegel, Cofounder & CEO, Gooder AI
Keynote: Healthcare & Biohealth Track Keynote
Details in development.
Breakout Session: Healthcare & Biohealth Track Executive Panel
Breakout Session: Healthcare & Biohealth Track Implementation Success Story: How to Make a (Biohealth) Success Story
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity
Sponsored by the Medical College of Wisconsin
Have you ever wondered…”now what?” How do you get started? Who do you talk to? What are the resources available? How can you take the next step with the resources provided?
Come to this session with questions and learn how to get started on your journey, while hearing founder success stories of those who have been there.
Breakout Session: Healthcare & Biohealth Track: From Lab to Launch: The Gig Economy Meets Biotech Spinouts
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Harmony
Sponsored by MARS Solutions Group
The Executives as a Service (EaaS) Revolution is transforming how biotech innovations turn into market-ready companies. Traditional leadership models can’t keep up with the pace of discovery, and organizations are turning to on-demand executive talent to fast-track spinouts, reduce risk, and drive commercialization.
Join MARS Solutions Group and industry leaders to explore:
- How biotech companies are using EaaS to scale faster and bring innovations to market
- Why fractional leadership is the key to bridging the gap between research and commercialization
- How MARS Solutions Group is redefining staffing innovation and the gig economy’s role in building biotech ventures and high-growth startups
Whether you're an investor, biotech leader, healthcare executive, or entrepreneur, this discussion will challenge how you think about leadership, growth, and the future of startup success.
Lunch
Join us for the many options for lunch!
- Potawatomi Casino | Hotel Rockin' Brews will be open for sit-down seating and grab-and-go options, located on their 3rd floor near the escalators.
- Potawatomi Casino | Hotel Marketplace Food Hall with many great options, located on their 1st floor.
- Explore offsite options nearby!
Oscar's Pub and Grill - great burgers - 1712 W Pierce St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Twisted Fisherman - great patio - 1200 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Sobleman's - historic burger location - 1900 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Motor Bar and Restaurant - taste of Harley's history - 400 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
J. Leinenkugel's Barrel Yard - stadium view with great food - Left Field Corner Field Level, 1 Brewers Way, Milwaukee, WI 53214
Keynote: Energy & Sustainability Track Keynote
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
Details in development.
Breakout Session: Energy & Sustainability Track: Transforming Energy and Sustainability with AI, Predictive Analytics, and Computing Power
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
Sponsored by Customer Times
AI is key to driving efficiency, reducing emissions, and optimizing energy use in manufacturing. This session will explore how predictive analytics, sustainable computing power, and energy-efficient data centers are transforming the energy transition in sustainable manufacturing.
Breakout Session: Energy & Sustainability Track: Balancing Sustainability and the Power of AI and Data Centers
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity
Sponsored by Potawatomi Ventures/Data Holdings
AI computing requires roughly 10x power compared to traditional computer power needs. Generating that power can have environmental impacts, making sustainability a critical challenge for data centers. But there are innovations and choices that data centers can make to offset the impact on the environment. Come learn more about how one local data center balances the importance of sustainability while powering the future.
Speaker: Ryan Brooks, CTO & GM, Data Holdings
Breakout Session: Energy & Sustainability Track: Breaking Barriers: How Generac Supports Nontraditional Talent
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Harmony
Sponsored by Generac Power Systems
At Generac, innovation extends beyond technology—it’s embedded in how we build our workforce. This panel explores how Generac partners with i.c.stars Milwaukee to create career pathways for nontraditional talent, demonstrating the impact of inclusive hiring and mentorship in the IT space.
Moderated by i.c.stars Milwaukee, the discussion will highlight the transformative journey of i.c.stars alum Luciano Salinas, who started on Generac’s help desk and, through dedication and opportunity, moved into the cybersecurity team. The panel will also take a deep dive into how a single virtual interview with an i.c.stars candidate led to a larger vision—reshaping Generac’s traditional intern program was enhanced with a cohort-based option that provides meaningful career development opportunities. This initiative, championed by ChaChi Gallo and supported by Generac’s CIO, Talal Butt, has created a new avenue for emerging talent to break into IT.
Panelists will share their perspectives on the value of diverse talent pipelines, the importance of mentorship, and how companies can challenge conventional hiring norms to drive real change in the tech industry. This conversation will illustrate how investing in nontraditional talent strengthens both individuals and organizations—one opportunity at a time.
Speaker(s):
ChaChi Gallo, VP IT Enterprise Architecture & Infrastructure Operations, Generac
William Cummings, VP Cyber Security, Generac
Amanda Tiegs, Director of Human Resources, Generac
Luciano Salinas, Cyber Security Infrastructure Analyst I, Generac
Keynote: Legislature Keynote
Networking Happy Hour
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity and Serenity Patio
Sponsored by TBD
Jun
Registration Opens & Breakfast
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Harmony
Breakfast sponsored by UScellular Business
Join us ahead of the keynote to explore our Exhibit Hall, networking with attendees, and snag a quick bite before the day!
The AI-Human Edge: How Strengthening Social Muscles with AI Creates High-Performance Teams
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
AI is changing everything—but are we ready for what it’s doing to our teams?
In the race for efficiency, automation, and AI-powered productivity, there’s a hidden risk no one is talking about enough—our social muscles are shrinking. As AI takes over more tasks, the very skills that make teams thrive—trust, collaboration, influence, and adaptability—are quietly deteriorating. The result? A workforce that’s hyper-efficient, but disconnected, robotic, and struggling to communicate at the human level.
But what if AI wasn’t the enemy of human connection—but the ultimate tool to strengthen it?
In this electrifying keynote, world-renowned speaker, author, and Workplace Performance Expert Henna Pryor reveals how to flip the script on AI’s impact—turning it from a relationship killer into a powerful catalyst for deeper collaboration and team performance. You’ll discover how to avoid the “social atrophy trap,” use AI to amplify—not replace—interpersonal effectiveness, and build a future-ready team that thrives at the intersection of high-tech and high-touch leadership.
Don’t just keep up with AI—learn how to make it work for your team’s greatest advantage.
You’ll learn how to:
- Expose the hidden ways AI is accelerating social muscle atrophy—and how to reverse it
- Leverage AI tools to spark stronger collaboration, not just faster communication
- Build a future-ready team that excels in both technology and human connection
Speaker: Henna Pryor, author of Good Awkard and Workplace Performance Expert, Pryority Group
Bridging the Gap: Unlocking Growth through Strategic Collaboration Among Founders, Investors, and Commercial Bank
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity
Sponsored by BMO
Join the Conversation: Bridging the Gap for Growth
Are you a founder or investor, looking to unlock new pathways for growth? Don’t miss this exclusive panel discussion, where leaders from every corner of the business ecosystem come together to share actionable insights and strategies for collaboration.
“Bridging the Gap: Unlocking Growth through Strategic Collaboration Among Founders, Investors, and Commercial Banks” is designed to connect diverse expertise and resources, fostering a dynamic and impactful conversation. Stay after the panel for a Founder / Investor Meetup – a unique opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and build meaningful partnerships.
Why Attend?
Gain a front-row seat to the strategies driving success across industries. You’ll learn:
- How founders can access the right mix of capital and banking solutions to scale their businesses.
- Why strategic partnerships between investors and commercial banks create sustainable growth and mitigate risks.
- Practical tools to optimizecash flow, enhance operational efficiency, and prepare for successful exits.
- Emerging trends and innovations transforming how startups and businesses thrive.
Come prepared to learn, connect and grow!
Keynote: Healthcare/Biohealth Keynote
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
Details in development.
Breakout Session: Manufacturing Track Executive Panel: Revolutionizing Manufacturing: The Impact of AI in The Midwest
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
Sponsored by Regal Rexnord
This panel will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the manufacturing industry. Experts will discuss the latest advancements in AI technologies, their applications in manufacturing processes, and the benefits they bring, such as increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved product quality. Attendees will gain insights into real-world case studies, best practices, and future trends in AI-driven manufacturing in the Midwest, and specifically the state of Wisconsin.
Breakout Session: Manufacturing Track: Implementation Success Story
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Harmony
Sponsored by Husco
Join experts from Husco, a Waukesha-based hydraulic and electro-mechanical control company, as they discuss key manufacturing success stories from the automotive and off-highway industries.
- Innovation: Discover how the Off-Highway team has enabled big digging machines to turn into precision robotic equipment, enabling the construction site of the future.
- Product Development: Follow the journey of our latest EV technology launch from concept to production, overcoming engineering and market challenges to create a next-gen automotive product solution.
- Automation: Hear how Husco's Advanced Manufacturing Group designs, programs, and deploys cutting-edge automated assembly and testing equipment, streamlining operational efficiency for Husco and other small to mid-sized manufacturers.
Breakout Session: Manufacturing Track: Talent, Culture, & Ecosystem
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Inspire
Sponsored by Waukesha County Technical College
Panel discussion of workforce development strategies that support AI initiatives in manufacturing.
Speaker Lunch
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity
Sponsored by Concurrency
Keynote: Finance/Insurance Tech Keynote
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Main Event Space
Details in development.
Breakout Session: Finance/Insurance Tech: Navigating AI Disruption: The Future of Financial Services in an Augmented Era
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity
Sponsored by 7Rivers
Join us for an expert-led panel on "Navigating AI Disruption: The Future of Financial Services in an Augmented Era," a thought-provoking discussion on the transformative impact of AI across banking, wealth management, insurance, and fintech. As AI capabilities—especially generative AI and large language models—rapidly evolve, financial institutions face both immense opportunities and complex challenges. From redefining risk management and regulatory compliance to enhancing fraud detection, customer experience, and operational efficiency, AI is reshaping the competitive landscape. This session will explore how financial services leaders can strategically embrace AI, mitigate risks, and build an agile, future-ready enterprise in an increasingly automated and data-driven world.
Speaker: Ben Kerford, President, 7Rivers
Breakout Session: Finance/Insurance Tech: Innovating Wisconsin’s Financial Future: Next-Gen Banking Solutions
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Harmony
Sponsored by Linker Finance
Linker Finance has partnered with a leading financial institution to provide Wisconsin residents with innovative banking solutions designed to enhance accessibility and convenience. This collaboration with Vault.Bank brings together next-generation technology with local expertise to serve the diverse needs of individuals and businesses across the state.
In this session, you’ll learn about the latest advancements in financial technology implementation, how these innovations improve banking accessibility, and the strategies driving secure and customer-centric banking experiences. We’ll also explore how these tools support Wisconsinites in achieving their financial goals while strengthening the state’s economic foundation.
Happy Hour
Location: Potawatomi Casino | Hotel - Serenity and Serenity Patio
Sponsored by Slalom
Jun
Networking at Summerfest
Sponsored by UW-Milwaukee, School of Information Sciences
Summerfest Headliners
Find the full lineup on the Summerfest website!
Organized by stage:
- Olive Vox, 6:30, Miller Lite Oasis Stage
- Willy Porter, 7:30, BMO Pavilion
- The English Beat, 6:00, Generac Power Stage
- Lille Venn, 6:00, Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
- The Producers, 7:30, Uline Warehouse Stage
- Allison Russell, 7:00, Aurora Pavilion
Summerfest Acts
Find the full lineup on the Summerfest website!
Organized by stage:
- The Maine, 8:30, Miller Lite Oasis Stage
- Mayday Parade, 10:15, Miller Lite Oasis Stage
- The Avett Brothers, 10:00, BMO Pavilion
- The Mission U.K., 7:45, Generac Power Stage
- The Psychedelic Furs, 9:30, Generac Power Stage
- Lecade, 8:30, UScellular Connection Stage
- Gavin Adcock, 10:00, UScellular Connection Stage
- Nessa Barrett, 10:00, Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
- Devo, 9:30, Uline Warehouse Stage
Jun
Summerfest Music Festival
Join us at the lakefront in downtown Milwaukee for Summerfest! Hundreds of performances on 12 stages, featuring all genres ranging from local artist to the world’s biggest headliners. Also enjoy local eats & drinks, shopping, day-time family-friendly activities and exciting brand activations that include product sampling and immersive installations.
Find the full range of activities on the Summerfest website!
Summerfest Headliners
Find the full lineup on the Summerfest website!
Organized by stage:
- The Killers, 7:30, American Family Insurance Ampitheater
- Plain White T's, 7:45, Generac Power Stage
- 1900Rugrat, 8:15, UScellular Connection Stage
- Phil Vassar, 7:30, Uline Warehouse Stage
- Julien Baker/Torres, 7:00, Aurora Pavilion
Summerfest Acts
Find the full lineup on the Summerfest website!
Organized by stage:
- Billy Corgan and The Machines of God, 10:15, Miller Lite Oasis Stage
- Cake, 9:30, BMO Pavilion
- Motion City Soundtrack, 9:30, Generac Power Stage
- Offset, 10:00, UScellular Connection Stage
- Jo Dee Mesina, 9:30, Uline Warehouse Stage
Jun
Summerfest Music Festival
Join us at the lakefront in downtown Milwaukee for Summerfest! Hundreds of performances on 12 stages, featuring all genres ranging from local artist to the world’s biggest headliners. Also enjoy local eats & drinks, shopping, day-time family-friendly activities and exciting brand activations that include product sampling and immersive installations.
Find the full range of activities on the Summerfest website!
Summerfest Headliners
Find the full lineup on the Summerfest website!
Organized by stage:
- Megan Thee Stallion, 7:30, American Family Ampitheater
- Flo Milli, 7:30pm, American Family Ampitheater
- Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, 6:30, Miller Lite Oasis Stage
- Preston Cooper, 7:30, BMO Pavilion
- YTB Fatt, 7:45, Generac Power Stage
- Haffway, 6:30, UScellular Connection Stage
- Smallpools, 8:15, UScellular Connection Stage
- The Cat Empire, 8:00, Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
- Zach Seabaugh, 7:30, Uline Warehouse Stage
- Grup Mania, 7:00, Aurora Pavilion
Summerfest Acts
Find the full lineup on the Summerfest website!
Organized by stage:
- Cassandra Lewis, 8:30, Miller Lite Oasis Stage
- Riley Green, 10:00, BMO Pavilion
- BossMan Dlow, 9:30, Generac Power Stage
- Young the Giant, 10:00, UScellular Connection Stage
- Here Come the Mummies, 10:00, Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
- The Fray, 9:30, Uline Warehouse Stage