The inaugural Defining the Future Conference brought together leaders from industry, government and higher education to examine how emerging technologies are transforming the workforce and expanding opportunity for students. At the same time, CSUSB students showcased their own research, engaged with new technologies, and connected directly with industry professionals.
CSUSB’s Defining the Future Conference brings emerging technology, workforce leaders and student innovation together in one place, offering the CSUSB community a firsthand look at what’s ahead. With employers on campus and the April 15-16 Meeting of the Minds Student Research Symposium happening alongside the conference, it’s a unique opportunity to connect ideas, talent and real-world possibilities.
The weeklong series of events highlights the research and scholarly achievements of CSUSB faculty, students and alumni across all disciplines.
Harding, who will be the opening keynote speaker at the April 15-16 conference, has more than 30 years of experience in cybersecurity, digital identity and emerging technologies. He currently serves as chairman and CEO of Entrokey Labs, a company developing advanced encryption technologies designed to protect digital systems from emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
The inaugural Defining the Future conference on April 15-16 will connect students with career opportunities in emerging technology fields. Taking place alongside the annual Meeting of the Minds student research symposium, it will bring together students, researchers and industry leaders to explore how innovation at CSUSB can translate into real-world workforce pathways.
Registration is open for Defining the Future, the nation’s first conference dedicated to accelerated workforce development in emerging technologies, set for April 15-16 at Cal State San Bernardino. The conference is open to students, professionals, researchers, innovators and anyone interested in technology, business innovation, sustainability and future trends shaping industries and society.
Marlena Brown, a first-generation college student, earned her bachelor’s degree in communication studies this fall while working full-time at CSUSB and raising her young son. A passionate mentor and aspiring professor, she’s using her own journey to uplift others — through research, storytelling and her community-based initiative, Mentoring with Marley.
“The Defining the Future conference is designed to introduce students to the wide array of jobs in a variety of fields where they can leverage their interests and their experiences to move from campus to careers,” said Ryan Keating, co-organizer of the conference, which will take place April 15-16.
Returning to Cal State San Bernardino seven years after earning his bachelor’s degree, alumnus Alberto Rendon found new purpose in blending creativity and research — combining Pokémon and Dungeons & Dragons for his master’s thesis. His journey proves that at CSUSB, it’s never too late to redefine your path.
Cal State San Bernardino celebrated the scholarly and creative achievements of its students and their faculty mentors at the Meeting of the Minds Student Research Symposium, an event that underscores the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and discovery.
Yan Zhang, associate professor in the School of Computer Science and Engineering, is the recipient of Cal State San Bernardino’s 2024-25 Outstanding Service Award for her extensive, sustained service to students, the university and the broader academic and professional community.
CSUSB’s annual Research Week will celebrate the research and scholarly accomplishments of faculty and students across all disciplines. A highlight of the week is the 14th annual Meeting of the Minds Student Research Symposium, showcasing more than 250 oral and poster presentations, as well as art exhibits.