MicroK12, The Premier Education Technology Distributor in the Northwest came back hotter than ever at their 7th Annual TechFest Conference last October.

With over 40+ vendors participating in our exhibitor hall, 12 breakout sessions taking place from start to finish highlighting 1:1 device deployment, ITIL communication and teaming, E-Rate, 2018 National Teacher of the Year, and more!

Being a part of this event is what really makes your experience worthwhile.

From Superintendent’s to Technology Directors, and Principals from across the area, TechFest 2018 is the event to be for connecting with fellow educators.

For all those who came, been before, or have yet to attend, we are sure that last year’s highlights will influence your future decisions to come out in 2019!

What was the big draw for TechFest 2018?

Starting off the day with our Keynote Address from the Grandfather of VR, Thomas Furness. An amalgam of Professor, Inventor and Entrepreneur in a professional career that spans 52 years. Our audience learned about the miraculous transformation of virtual reality from where it originated in the United States Air Force for creating mounted display helmets, to virtual headsets used in classrooms around the nation today.

On top of learning about the timeline of virtual reality, our audience had the privilege to learn about Furness’s impact on the community of students pursuing science and education technology.

Another big draw was the incredible array of vendors within Tulalip Resorts award winning Orca Ballroom, where our attendees were able to speak with 40+ of Micro’s trusted vendors. Among them were Brenthaven (device cases), Lock N’ Charge (charging carts), Lenovo (computers), HP (devices), HoverCam (document cameras), SAM Labs (STEM Solutions), and much more!

Attendees love variety, and we do too. Each year we try our best to bring together all different types of hardware, software, STEM, and networking solutions under one roof to keep our customers informed of the latest and greatest gadgets and gizmos within the education market.

Did we mention our vendors offered prizes?

Well know you know.

As each attendee ventures throughout the Orca Ballroom our vendors are ready to stamp your booth map card. Obtain stamps from all our vendors and have a chance to win big!

What kind of sessions took place this year?

As the exhibit hall lasts all day, attendees are encouraged to sit in on as much “Breakout Sessions” as they can. We have them highlighting multiple facets of education technology. From 1:1 device deployment, supporting technology use, communication and teaming, E-Rate, technology standards, and much more!

A group of technology professionals from Mukilteo School District spoke on “Creative Way’s to Support Teacher’s Technology Use.” Their general plan is to help influence and provide school districts resources to develop concrete technology models for students and staff.

Our featured session this year was hearing from the 2018 National Teacher of the Year, Mandy Manning of Spokane School District. Manning spoke on the ongoing efforts to encourage educators to teach their students to overcome fears and seek new experiences.

Check out our TechFest webpage  to read more about other sessions that took place.

What kind of amenities does TechFest have to offer?

We had a good feeling this was the part our readers would get excited about.

Free food and drinks provided throughout the entirety of our event!

From complimentary coffee and pastries in the morning, to a full serviced award-winning buffet provided by Tulalip Resort’s Catering. This year we had a backyard BBQ offering, where attendees could choose from burgers, bratwursts, potato salad, baked beans, and more!