may, 2025
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Event Details
Location: McAllen Convention Center Grand Ballroom
Event Time: 9am-1:30pm
9:00 AM – 9:05 AM
Welcome Remarks
Speaker: Elizabeth Suarez, President & CEO of the McAllen Economic Development
Corporation
Topic: Elizabeth will open the summit by emphasizing the role of artificial intelligence
and emerging technologies in advancing economic development and regional
growth.
9:05 AM – 9:25 AM
Sponsor Highlight: Strengthening Business Connectivity Through Travel
Speaker: Kanye Harris, Regional Sales Manager- Tx | Oil & Energy Global Sales
Delta Air Lines and Aeroméxico, our summit’s premier sponsors, will discuss how
their strategic partnership is helping connect McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley
to key business markets across North America. Their presentation will highlight
the value of expanded flight routes, enhanced cross-border connectivity, cargo
services, and corporate travel programs that strengthen the region’s
competitiveness and accessibility for global business and investment.
9:25 AM – 9:45 AM
Texas Leads: AI & the Workforce of Tomorrow
Speaker: Commissioner Bryan Daniel, Texas Workforce Commission
Topic: Commissioner Daniel will share how the State of Texas is preparing its workforce
for the future of AI. His remarks will focus on statewide investments in education,
training, and workforce pipeline development aimed at equipping Texans with the
skills needed to succeed in an AI-integrated economy.
9:45 AM – 10:05 AM
Shaping the Future: The State of Texas & the AI Economy
Speaker: Aaron Demerson, President & CEO, Texas Economic Development Council
Topic: Aaron Demerson will provide insight into Texas’ strategic approach to artificial
intelligence, digital infrastructure, and innovation. He will also touch on the
important role local and regional economic development organizations play in
helping communities prepare for and adopt emerging technologies.
10:05 AM – 10:45 AM
Panel Discussion – AI Transforming Manufacturing and Supply Chains
Topic: This panel will examine how AI is reshaping manufacturing operations and supply
chains through increased efficiency, predictive maintenance, and the adoption of
smart technologies. Panelists will also explore workforce needs and implications
for future growth.
Panelists:
Bob Anderson, VP of Supply Chain, Alps Alpine
Erika Guerra, Program Chair for Advanced Manufacturing Technology, South
Texas College
Dr. Ahmed Bendaouia, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
10:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Presentation – Safeguarding Data and Compliance in an AI-Driven World
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Topic: This session will focus on how AI is transforming cybersecurity, including
advancements in real-time threat detection, data protection, risk mitigation, and
regulatory compliance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
11:15 AM – 11:25 AM
Break and Networking
A short break and opportunity for attendees to network and connect.
11:25 AM – 12:30 PM
Panel Discussion – Reskilling and Upskilling for AI-Driven Industries
Topic: This panel will address how educational institutions, industry leaders, and
policymakers are working together to build a future-ready workforce. Key focus
areas will include credentialing, apprenticeships, and strategies to prepare
workers for careers in AI-related fields.
Panelists:
Dr. Lisa Masciantonio, Chief Workforce Officer, ARM Institute
Dr. Maya Yiadom, Professor of AI & Medicine, Stanford University
Dr. Jerald Hughs, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies/Associate
Professor, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Chad Wootton, Associate Vice President of Community Partnerships, Texas
A&M University
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Closing Keynote – “To AI or Not to AI: Are You Future Ready?”
Jesús Cochegrús, International Speaker & Creative Technologist
Topic: Jesús will close out the summit with a forward-looking keynote exploring how AI
is redefining the way we live, work, and lead. His talk will challenge attendees to
consider what it means to be truly future-ready in a rapidly evolving digital world,
and what role the Rio Grande Valley can play in shaping that future.
