The Michigan Technology Community, or MTech, is expanding its reach across the University of Michigan, offering broader collaboration, professional development, and digital innovation opportunities. Formerly known as Michigan IT, MTech encompasses a community of over 3,000 faculty and staff involved in coding, system management, or technology interests. Members engage through events, best practice exchanges, and mentorship opportunities.
Founded in 2012, MTech’s vision was crafted to align IT services with the university’s mission. Sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, MTech is evolving to embrace the growing impact of technology on teaching, research, and operations.
“By coming together as one community and welcoming new voices, we strengthen the technology environment that supports our university’s teaching, research and service missions,” said Ravi Pendse, vice president for information technology and chief information officer.
The transformation within MTech aims to involve more faculty, researchers, and administrators. “This change within MTech enables us to reach out to more faculty, researchers, clinicians and administrators — anyone whose work is connected to or interested in tech initiatives — and invite them into the community,” said Aubrey Morse, chair of the MTech Steering Committee.
The upcoming 12th annual symposium, MTech Connect 2025, highlights this transformation, taking place on Dec. 9 at the Central Campus Classroom Building. Registration opens Nov. 4. This event offers a unique opportunity to explore university technology advancements.
“As we endeavor to empower career growth at this year’s event, it’s inspiring to watch our community converge — sharing insights, building new skills and uplifting one another throughout their professional journeys,” said Jennifer Herron, chair of the Connect 2025 Planning Committee.
Charles Severance, clinical professor of information, will deliver the keynote, titled “Massively Open Online Courses (MOOCs) — Past, Present, and Future.”
MTech supports the network with over 100 annual activities, both virtually and in-person. Hacks with Friends fosters creative collaboration on tech challenges, focusing on campus apps, data integration, accessibility, and digital security.
The MTech Mentor Program is crucial for professional development, with over 500 participants enhancing knowledge and networks. MTech’s 28 Communities of Practice, such as Cloud and Digital Asset Collaborative, facilitate peer connections and solution implementations.
The MTech Newsletter keeps the community informed about events, professional development, safe computing, and AI tools like NotebookLM and Gemini. The MTech Slack workspace serves as a virtual hub for connection and real-time updates.
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