HAYS CALDWELL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP
The Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership is gearing up for its 11th Annual Innovation Summit, set for Wednesday, July 16, at the Embassy Suites in San Marcos.
The event will bring together industry leaders, tech innovators, and public utility experts to tackle some of the region’s most pressing issues — including power generation in a high-growth corridor, water scarcity in the age of data centers and the groundbreaking research shaping the future of technology.
Chris Stewart, Freeit Data Solutions Chief Technology Officer, will deliver the keynote address. Stewart is expected to emphasize that smart infrastructure is no longer a luxury but a necessity. His talk will cover regional energy usage, the growing presence of data centers and how emerging technologies — such as small modular nuclear reactors — could help meet future energy demands.
He will be joined by a distinguished panel of experts from the Lower Colorado River Authority, ZENNER USA, and Material Hybrid Manufacturing, each offering unique insights into challenges and innovations within their sectors: LCRA will examine the delicate balance between supporting regional growth and preserving the area’s most precious resource — water.
Ralph “Martin” Stillinger, ZENNER USA manager, will explore Smart City technologies and their impact on efficient resource management.
Dr. Christopher Reyes, representing a Star Parkbased company, will present cutting-edge advancements in 3D-printed battery technology — lighter, cleaner and produced locally in collaboration with Texas State University.
The event will begin at 11 a.m. with registration.
Tickets are available now at: eventbrite. com/e/innovation-summ it-2025-tickets-13842 59289799.
HCEDP sends its appreciation to the sponsors who make signature events like this possible: Title Sponsor – La Cima, Supporting Sponsor – Buda Economic Development Partnership, Kyle Economic Development Partnership, Southwest Engineers, Texas Disposal Systems and Spaw Glass.
