Batten Institute - Education - Tech Learning Series

WHO: Attention all Darden students! Are you interested in a career in the fast-growing tech sector? And/or realize that technology is fundamental to every modern enterprise? No matter where you fall on the interest continuum, from mere curiosity to tech-or-die, this *new* learning series is for you! An introduction to tech, brought to you by the Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology.

WHAT: Each week, we’ll get to know key roles, skills and trends in the tech sector, as well as (some of) the key faculty in this area before electives and in time for interview season.

WHEN: Select Tuesdays from 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. (most sessions will conclude by 2:30 p.m.)

Lunch will be provided for registrants (links below for each individual session)

WHERE:  iLab (CLA 180/190) and via Zoom // except for 11/14 session (CLA 130)
 

Sessions and Topics: Fall 2023
 

9/26: Design Thinking, a foundational and human-centered approach to building products that resonate REGISTER (led by Rachel Brozenske)
We will begin the Tech Learning Series with a practical introduction to design thinking, an approach to innovation focused on solving user problems through the application of empathy, invention, and iteration.

10/3: The rapidly changing world of infrastructure REGISTER (led by Prof. Tim Laseter)
This session will explore the economic trends of the underlying technologies for digital transformation ranging from Augmented Reality Headsets to Wearable Robotics to the AI Datacenters. Omar Garriott will also review common MBA roles in tech companies.

10/24: Product Management REGISTER (led by Prof. Alex Cowan)
This session will dive into what the Product Manager role is (and is not), how it differs from General Management, and how you can prepare yourself to be a competitive and ultimately successful PM.

10/31: Marketing Digital Products REGISTER (led by Prof. Raj Venkatesan)
This session will outline best practices for taking tech products to market, including major players in Big Tech and market positioning. Omar Garriott will also discuss a day in the life of a Product Marketing Manager.

11/14 (CLA 130): Sales and GTM Roles in Tech REGISTER (led by Doug Garland and Omar Garriott)
This session will scratch the surface on the other power center in tech companies (in addition to Product): Sales (and related support functions). Doug and Omar will also share stories from the front lines.

11/28: Strategy in a Digital World REGISTER (led by Mike Lenox)
This session will discuss the implications of tech-fueled transformations for savvy business leaders.

**CANCELED: 12/12: Storytelling with Data**