Technology exchange
FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES

Start your TechEX journey with confidence:

• Pre-Conference Orientation
  Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Internet2 TechEX25 First-Time Attendee Virtual Huddle! The webinar has wrapped, but you can still catch everything you missed. The session PDF resource is now available, covering event navigation, scheduling details, and expert networking tips.

• Attire is business-casual, and there’s lots to see and do at TechEX. So, pack comfortable shoes to take full advantage of your time there.


• Consider dressing in layers, as some rooms may be cooler than others.


• Be sure to pack a water bottle. Denver is the Mile-High City and hydration is especially important for those not acclimated to the elevation. Avoid the altitude headaches by drinking extra water!


• Be sure to download the Internet2 app to help you keep track of the schedule and locations.


• Don’t forget your chargers! In case you run out of juice, there will be charging stations to keep the learning and communication going.


• Display your badge visibly while attending the conference to be easily identifiable by your peers and conference staff, and remember to put it in a safe place when outside of the hotel so it can be easily found the next day.


• Share your learning and experiences by posting on social media using #TechEX25.


• Use your laptop or smart phone as trusted assistants during sessions to take notes but please be sure to silence them to be respectful of the presenter(s).


• Ask questions, introduce yourself, exchange socials and networking materials. Also, be sure to follow up after the event.


• Visit and engage the Exhibitors for unique insight and conversation related to your needs.


• There will be lots to process, so take breaks when you need them.

These events are open to everyone, but we think first-time attendees will find them especially valuable:

Monday, Dec. 8

• 7:00 AM - 4:30PM: Registration Open
  Arriving in Denver on Monday? Skip the Tuesday morning rush—check in early at the registration desk!


• 8 - 11:30 AM: Tutorials


• 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: TechEX101 Luncheon (REGISTRATION HAS NOW CLOSED)
  Join Internet2 staff over lunch for a deeper dive into the conference tracks. This slightly more technical session will give you an overview of each focus area, highlight the sessions and topics covered in each track, and help you plan your week strategically. Whether you’re here to learn, collaborate, or explore, TechEX101 is your launchpad into the Internet2 community.


• 1 - 4:30pm (can run to 5pm): Tutorials


• 4:35 – 5:05 PM: Event Space Tour
  Join Internet2 staff for a walking tour to get an exclusive first look at the event space and conference rooms. If you’re attending a tutorial that ends at 4:30 p.m., you’re welcome to leave your belongings in the Internet2 staff office, where they’ll be safely monitored for pickup after the tour. We’ll meet at the registration desk to begin. After the tour concludes, participants may retrieve their belongings and get ready to join their selected dine-around or other evening plans.


• 5:00 – 7:00 PM: Small Group Dinners (SIGN UP HAS NOW CLOSED)
  Join fellow attendees for dinner at nearby restaurants. Dinner will take place after the tutorials and before Game Night. Participants should meet in the hotel lobby at 5:00 p.m., with groups departing for nearby restaurants at 5:10 p.m. Anyone planning to join Game Night should return to the hotel event area by 7:00 p.m.


• 7:00 – 9:30 PM: Game Night @ the Hotel
  Kick off the week with some fun and friendly competition! Sponsored by XKL, this event will include a variety of board games, card games, and other interactive activities. Drink tickets will be provided and snacks are available. You’re welcome to join the mailing list and take part in the pre-event discussion, visit the Game Night page to learn how.

Tuesday, Dec. 9

• 7:00 - 8:30 AM: Internet2 Welcome and Overview: First-Timer Breakfast
  Start your day with a broad introduction to Internet2 and practical tips for navigating TechEX. This session is slightly less technical and perfect for first-time attendees—or anyone who missed the TechEX101 luncheon the day before. Grab your breakfast and join us for a welcoming space where you’ll learn, get insider advice on making the most of the week, and connect with fellow attendees. The presentation begins at 7:30 am. First-Timers and all others are welcome!


• 12:10 – 1:40 PM: First-Timers’ Lunch
  Connect with others who share your interests and goals. Look for the tables marked for first-timers.


• 6:30 – 8:30 PM: Small Group Dinners (SIGN UP HAS NOW CLOSED)
  Another chance to dine and connect. Dinner will take place after the Welcome Reception. Participants should meet in the hotel lobby at 6:15 p.m., with groups departing for nearby restaurants at 6:25 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 10

• 6:30 – 8:00 AM: Fun Run / Walk
  Get moving and meet fellow attendees in a relaxed setting. Information where to meet the group will be added to the program by December 1.


• 7:00 – 8:30 AM: First-Timer Breakfast Tables
  Check the front area of the Food & Beverage room for topic-specific tables designed for first-timers and folks attending on their own.

Be sure to explore the full program to catch all the social events and expert-led sessions across four tracks, along with tutorials, working meetings, and co-located events.