On May 1, 2025, we hosted our 4th Annual Wisconsin Digital Symposium at Union South on the UW–Madison campus. This highly anticipated event brought together technology and business leaders to explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence, digital ecosystems, and product-led growth strategies in the face of today’s rapidly changing digital landscape.
Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and growing cybersecurity concerns, this year’s symposium delivered timely, practical insights aimed at helping organizations thrive—not just survive—in the age of digital disruption. The program featured an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, executive panelists, lightning talks, and networking opportunities, all designed to empower attendees with actionable strategies for innovation and competitive advantage.
Dr. Michael Proksch, a global AI and data expert and Chief Scientist at AccelerEd, opened the day with a compelling keynote on “Overcoming the Challenges of AI Value Creation.” Drawing on his experience leading major AI transformations for Fortune 500 companies, Dr. Proksch offered strategic insights from his bestselling book The Secrets of AI Value Creation, highlighting how organizations can unlock real business value through thoughtful AI implementation.
Next, attendees heard from FarWell on “Accelerating into the Future,” a session focused on transforming business capabilities through AI and automation. The presentation emphasized how tailored transformation frameworks can help companies integrate digital tools while fostering a culture of adaptability and sustained value.
Another standout session was the keynote session “Digital Relativity,” delivered by Cortney Thompson Rowan of Delve with thoughtful Q&A led by Matt Seitz of UW–Madison’s AI Hub. Together, they explored the intersection of technology, hardware, and humanity, making the case for human-centered design in an increasingly connected world. Rowan, a veteran of Fortune 100 innovation projects, and Seitz, a former Google executive, challenged the audience to reimagine product innovation through empathy-driven AI and IoT applications.
A mid-morning panel of distinguished executives provided a wide-ranging discussion on designing and leading successful innovation. Panelists included Shane Achterberg (Schneider), Michele Kaiser (John Deere), Andrea McGill (GE HealthCare), and Paul Ryan (Kohler Co.). They shared real-world insights on navigating digital transformation, balancing risk, and cultivating innovation in large, complex organizations.
The event closed with quick 10-minute lightning talks from academic leaders at UW–Madison, including Jelena Diakonikolas from the School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences; David Dwight from the Erdman Center for Technology Strategy; and Arissa Sato from the People and Robots Lab. These short, powerful presentations highlighted cutting-edge research shaping the future of AI, robotics, and product strategy.
Adding a creative touch to the day, graphic recorder Lin Wilson visually captured the sessions in real time through large-scale illustrations. His artwork, which synthesized key messages and moments from each speaker, offered attendees a unique and memorable way to engage with the event’s content.
For those who missed the symposium, a digital pass is now available for purchase, offering access to full video recordings of the sessions.