Welcome.

To me, the EmpowerTech Conference is about more than exploring what’s next in technology. It is about creating a space where students feel inspired, challenged, and supported as they navigate a constantly evolving future. Stepping into my role as VP of Conference for WITM, I wanted ETC to be an experience students could genuinely see themselves in. Throughout my university journey, I’ve learned the value of finding communities that encourage you to step outside your comfort zone, discover new opportunities, and grow. WITM has become one of those communities for me, making the opportunity to create that experience for others especially meaningful.

This year’s theme, Future Forward, reflects the future we are stepping into. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our everyday lives and careers, ETC 2026 explores how we can work alongside emerging technology while continuing to lead with creativity, adaptability, confidence, and purpose. Rather than simply asking what technology can do, we want to explore what we can do with it—and what will always remain uniquely human.

My hope is that every delegate leaves ETC with more than new knowledge. Whether through our case competition, conversations with industry leaders, or connections made throughout the conference, I hope students leave with a new perspective, greater confidence in themselves, and excitement for the opportunities ahead. Most importantly, I hope ETC empowers them to take an active role in shaping their own future.

I am incredibly grateful to our WITM team, partners, speakers, and delegates who have helped bring this vision to life, and I cannot wait to see the connections and experiences from these three days continue long after the conference ends.

With appreciation,
Ella Marie Cruz
VP Conference
WITM 2026–2027