The Michigan Technology Community, or MTech — formerly Michigan IT — is ushering in a new era by expanding its reach to the entire technology community, offering broader opportunities for collaboration, professional development and digital innovation across the University of Michigan.

MTech is a community of more than 3,000 faculty and staff who code, manage systems or share an interest in technology. Members connect to learn, grow and collaborate by attending events, exchanging best practices and participating in mentorship opportunities.

Founded in 2012 through a collaborative effort to define a vision for mission-aligned IT services, MTech is sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer.

“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. 

“This evolution reflects our shared commitment to collaboration, innovation and to empowering every member of our Michigan community to learn, create and thrive.”

MTech’s broadened focus is in response to the increasing role technology plays in shaping teaching, research and operations.

“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 and Business and Finance senior project manager at Organizational Learning.

A highlight of this transformation is the upcoming 12th annual symposium, MTech Connect 2025, scheduled for Dec. 9 at the Central Campus Classroom Building. Registration begins Nov. 4. The event provides attendees with a unique opportunity to explore the latest developments in university technology in one setting.

“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 and business systems analyst in Information and Technology Services.

Charles Severance, clinical professor of information in the School of Information, will deliver the keynote address, titled “Massively Open Online Courses (MOOCs) — Past, Present, and Future.” 

Beyond the symposium, MTech supports the network through over 100 activities and events annually — both virtually and in person.

Hacks with Friends offers opportunities for creative collaboration on real-world tech challenges. Cross-functional teams spend two days rapidly developing tools, projects or proposals addressing issues such as campus apps, data integration, accessibility improvements and digital security, with prizes awarded for creativity, feasibility and impact.

The MTech Mentor Program remains a cornerstone of professional development. More than 500 participants from across campuses have shared knowledge, expanded networks and supported career growth since its inception.

MTech’s 28 Communities of Practice, such as Cloud, Digital Asset Collaborative and Constituent Relationship Management, allow members to connect with peers, tackle challenges and implement new solutions that elevate university operations and research.

To help the community stay informed, the monthly MTech Newsletter provides articles on events, professional development, safe computing, policies, projects and services, such as new data stewardship procedures and the introduction of AI tools like NotebookLM and Gemini. The MTech Slack workspace serves as a virtual hub for connection and real-time updates.