Doors open 9:45 AM
Presenter: Guillermo Diaz, Founder and CEO, Conectado
What could become possible for you—and for the people you help—when STEM, technology, and AI meet with purpose? Join Guillermo Diaz, Jr. as he shares his journey from Pueblo, Colorado, through the U.S. Navy to technology leadership at Cisco and the corporate boardroom. Discover how learning, perseverance, and people who opened doors shaped his career—and why he believes expanding opportunity matters so deeply in this moment of AI. You’ll leave with a human perspective on AI, renewed confidence to pursue your own next chapter, and concrete ways to help others move forward. Come ready to see new possibilities and ask yourself: “Why not me?”
About Guillermo Diaz
Guillermo is a transformative global business leader and the Founder and CEO of Conectado Inc., an innovative Immersive AI digital education platform. Conectado's mission is to accelerate access for all—especially historically underrepresented communities—to opportunities and increased representation in AI and STEAM fields.
Previously, he was a transformational innovator across Cisco Systems, serving as Global Chief Information Officer responsible for the global IT organization, strategy, and services. Never forgetting where he came from, Guillermo also championed equity and connection as an active leader and sponsor for Cisco's Hispanic and Veteran Employee Resource Groups. His technology career began with a U.S. Navy scholarship leading to a B.S. in Business Administration from Regis University in Denver, Colorado, followed by leadership roles at respected Silicon Valley companies including Silicon Graphics, Ingram Micro, and Alza Corporation.
Deeply committed to fostering a community of inclusion and growth, Guillermo is the immediate past Chairman of the Hispanic Technology Executive Council (HITEC). In the boardroom, he currently serves on the boards of Blue Shield of California, Stellarus, Jack in the Box, and the University of California, Santa Cruz. Furthermore, he continues to drive innovation as an active advisor and investor to fast-growing tech startups and small businesses.
🕐 10:00 – 11:00 AM👤 All📍 West Building - Upper Level, Kiva Auditorium