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Announcing Our Keynote Speaker: Michael Shepherd
We are thrilled to welcome Michael Shepherd, Senior Distinguished Engineer and Services CTO at Dell, as the keynote speaker at the 2026 UT Innovative Technology Symposium. With over 25 years at Dell and a global reputation as a technical evangelist, he brings unparalleled expertise in the evolution and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Mr. Shepard has been at the forefront of AI innovation for more than a decade, co-establishing Dell’s first AI Center of Excellence in 2016 and founding the Services AI Research team. His visionary leadership focuses on unlocking human productivity and exploring how Digital Humans—personalized, intelligent assistants—will revolutionize user experiences in the next five years.
For the higher education technology community, Shepherd’s insights into Amplified Intelligence—the seamless collaboration between humans and machines—are invaluable. He offers a forward-thinking perspective on how generative AI can make knowledge accessible to everyone, driving transformation across industries and institutions.
With over 20 hardware and software patents spanning multiple continents, Shepherd combines deep technical expertise with a passion for innovation. His work on cutting-edge AI solutions provides practical strategies for leveraging technology to enhance productivity, creativity, and collaboration in higher education settings.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the leading voices in AI as he shares his vision for the future of technology and its role in empowering individuals and institutions alike.
About the 2026 Symposium
The Office of Innovative Technologies invites all higher education institutions across the state of Tennessee. This three-day symposium will focus on our everyday IT challenges, shared interests, honed skills, and newfound passions. We aim to foster innovative IT solutions and promote opportunities for interaction, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among Tennessee higher education IT professionals. If you are driven and passionate about applying technology in higher education, this symposium is for you!
Stay tuned for more information on proposal submission, registration, the agenda, travel, lodging, and other details on the Symposium Website.