Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council (RBTC) recently announced their list of honorees for this year’s TechNite awards, and it’s a great lineup. This article will explore the various honorees and what their accomplishments mean for the technology industry in Roanoke-Blacksburg.
Eddie Amos Inducted Into RBTC Hall of Fame
Eddie Amos, the former chief transformation officer of TORC, was inducted into RBTC’s Hall of Fame this year. Amos is known for his impressive career in various top tech companies, including Microsoft and GE Digital. This award recognizes his significant leadership and vision in Roanoke and Blacksburg.
In his keynote speech, Amos talked about the need to constantly push the envelope with regard to technology, saying that while Roanoke-Blacksburg has a great foundation, there are still challenges in areas like workforce development. According to Amos, the region must remain hungry and thirsty for innovation, and not “get too comfortable”.
Johnson & Johnson’s Oncology Innovation Program
Another exciting honoree of the night was Johnson & Johnson’s oncology innovation program, which is launching an initiative in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region. The Advancing Oncology InnoVAtion QuickFire Challenge seeks potential solutions aiming to transform patient outcomes in oncology, with an emphasis on pediatric oncology. Winners could potentially receive up to $300,000 and a year’s residency at Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, access to the JLABS network, and mentorship from experts.
Rendyr’s Laser Cutter Technology
Rendyr, a Blacksburg-based startup, was honored with the Hart of the Entrepreneur Award for their work in creating a portable laser cutter. Their first-of-its-kind laser cutter improves access to rapid prototyping and digital fabrication. The award was given in memory of Bonz Hart, the founder and CEO of software developer Meridium, and a true unsung hero in the technology industry.
Other Honorees
Lastly, Amy White, the Dean of Virginia Western Community College’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics department, was awarded the STEM-H Educator Award for her creative ways of transferring knowledge and developing future technology leaders. Meanwhile, Geoff Boyer, who teaches math and computer science at Craig County High School, received the K-12 STEM-H Educator Award, which recognizes creative promotion of math, science, and technology in K-12 education. The Rising Star Award, which recognizes an early-stage technology company, went to Dr. Jessica Gilbertie, Founder of Qentoros, a company that treats orthopedic injuries in horses.
Related Facts
The RBTC TechNite event aims to honor the region’s best innovators and forward-thinkers in the technology industry. This year’s event was the 21st anniversary of the TechNite Awards.
Key Takeaway
RBTC’s TechNite awards honor the brightest stars in the technology industry in Roanoke-Blacksburg. From individuals who have devoted their careers to top tech companies, to startups creating innovative technologies, this event shows the vitality of the technology industry in the region.
Conclusion
Roanoke-Blacksburg is a thriving hub for the technology industry, and the RBTC TechNite awards show the incredible people and companies that are working hard to make sure it stays that way. The diverse group of honorees only signifies a promising future for the region’s technology industry.
