By Brandon Cortés
Features Editor
The Innovation Hub is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the semester: the Emerging Technologies Forum, set for Nov. 14 at 101 College St. in New Haven. Ahead of the main event, the office hosted an informational session on campus to help students understand what the forum will offer and why they should attend.
The purpose, Nina Musco, an adjunct faculty member for the Innovation Hub, said, is to bridge the gap between students, educators and industry professionals by focusing on how fast-evolving fields like quantum computing and artificial intelligence are reshaping education and employment.
“Our theme for this event is unlocking future pathways in quantum, AI and education,” Musco said. “We want to show students what emerging technologies are available and how this can play into their career after they leave the university.”
Musco said the Innovation Hub’s primary goal is to foster engagement between students and the industries driving Connecticut’s future economy.
The event will feature several state and local organizations including QuantumCT, BioCT and Gateway Community College, all focused on preparing the next generation for the demands of a technology-driven workforce.
“Our office focuses on workforce development opportunities, especially in STEM,” Musco said. “We want students to know what opportunities are out there, as well as give them a chance to meet professionals who are already in those industries, so they can be prepared when they graduate.”
Musco said that many of the companies connected through the Innovation Hub are looking for young talent with openings that range from research and data analysis to business operations. She emphasized that the tech sector is not limited to engineers or scientists.
“A lot of our partner companies are looking for talent, whether that’s in HR, accounting, data science or research,” Musco said. “Depending on the company, the needs vary, but there’s room for almost every major if students are willing to explore.”
The Emerging Technologies Forum will include a keynote address, a discussion panel, breakout sessions and a networking luncheon.
The panel will feature experts discussing how AI and quantum computing are transforming their industries, while breakout sessions will tailor the experience for students and professionals alike.
“For students, it’s going to be about networking tips and best practices,” Musco said. “For educators and industry professionals, the focus will be on how we can prepare students for AI, quantum and other emerging technologies.”
After the sessions, participants will gather for a networking lunch — an opportunity Musco said is often the highlight of the day.
Musco said that while the November forum focuses heavily on technology, its broader goal is accessibility and ensuring that students from all majors can engage in conversations about motivation.
Musco emphasized that technology touches nearly every field, from business and healthcare to education and communication, and that the forum aims to show students how their skills can fit into these growing industries.
Students will be able to connect directly with potential employers and mentors.
“To me, the biggest part is the networking aspect and learning from some of the leaders in the field,” Musco said. “This isn’t just about learning what AI or quantum computing are — it’s about understanding how to apply these technologies like generative AI and how to meet the people who are making it happen.”
