Coffee & Concepts

Coffee and Concepts exists to disrupt barriers and stir up robust conversations at the intersection of tech and community!
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The Innovare Elevation Series is proud to present COFFEE & CONCEPTS!

Join us every 1st and 3rd Thursday* from 10-11 AM at the 2nd Floor Hive of the Innovare Advancement Center for this exciting networking opportunity.

Walk in, grab a cup of Utica Coffee, and let’s chat—whether you’re sitting down or standing, the conversation is what matters.

“About what?”
Anything tech-related! From understanding how something works, discussing the new quantum lab at the Innovare Advancement Center, exploring cybersecurity trends, and delving into SBIR/STTR opportunities, to sharing your latest idea or discussing happenings in the Mohawk Valley.

Each session features thought-provoking discussions, a guest speaker sharing insights on cutting-edge topics, and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals in a casual, welcoming environment.

Stay for the full hour or just a few minutes—either way, let’s connect, collaborate, and share ideas over coffee!

*The Coffee and Concepts schedule does change slightly in the summer months (May-August) to accommodate the influx of interns and fellows who work out of the Innovare Advancement Center. These summer sessions happen offsite as a TO GO series. For these months, see the schedule below for changes and/or stay tuned for official announcements on our social media channels and emails. 

Do you know someone who would be a great featured speaker for this series? 

Click here to Nominate a Future Speaker

Engage.

Network.

Inspire.

Coffee & Concepts Fall 2025 Schedule

*Speakers are subject to change due to shifting schedules. This list will be updated accordingly. 

Speaker: JP Skilling, Operations Superintendent of Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Project, New York Power Authority


Topic: Navigating Energy Systems: A Career from Navy Nuclear to Blenheim-Gilboa

Talk Description: Energy innovation and reliability rely on the expertise of professionals who bridge advanced technology with real-world operations. In this session, JP Skilling, Operations Superintendent at the Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Project and retired Navy Nuclear specialist, will share insights from his career spanning naval nuclear operations and power generation at FitzPatrick. He’ll explore the connections between nuclear technology, energy storage, and system reliability, offering a unique perspective on how technical excellence drives mission success across both military and civilian energy sectors.
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Coffee & Concepts Continues 10/2!

Coffee & Concepts returns 10/2 with a special panel discussion featuring experts from New York State Technology Enterprise Corporation (NYSTEC), moderated by Amitabha Bhaumik, Practice Leader for the Data Services and Management Team. The panel will address:

“Small Business, Big Risks: Navigating AI Pitfalls in Lean Organizations.”

Join us to connect with peers, enjoy fresh coffee, and gain a deeper understanding of how AI is influencing industries and shaping the future of business operations.

Let Us Know You Will Be There!