Coffee & Concepts
Coffee and Concepts exists to disrupt barriers and stir up robust conversations at the intersection of tech and community!
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?
Engage.
Network.
Inspire.
Coffee & Concepts Spring 2026 Schedule
January 15 – Firestorm feat. Ryan Houghtalen, UAS Pilot and Instructor & Site Lead
February 5 – IonAegis Cybersecurity feat. Marcus Davis, Chief Executive Officer
February 19 – BAE Systems feat. Ryan Orilio, Senior Principal Engineer
March 5 – Archangel Response feat. Bradford Morse, Co-Founder
March 19 – IonQ feat. Featured Panel
April 2 – SecurIT360 feat. Spencer Alessi, Senior Penetration Tester
April 16 – NSF Engines feat. Fernando Gómez-Baquero, Director of Runway and Spinouts
Do you know someone who would be a great speaker for Coffee and Concepts? Fill out this form to recommend them and we will be in touch:
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