ABOUT UPWARD
UPWARD 2026 is a premier half-day leadership forum dedicated to the responsible deployment and supervision of intelligent systems. As AI, Quantum, Robotics, and Deep Tech redefine global industry, leadership is shifting from direct operation to high-level oversight - the “Human on the Loop” model. This forum brings together executives, investors, and policymakers
Reserve Your SpotConference Schedule
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM | Registration & Breakfast Networking
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Guest Arrival & Check-in
Coffee & Light Breakfast
Sponsor Visibility & Informal Networking
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9:20 AM – 9:30 AM | Opening Remarks
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Speaker: Ahmed ‘Flex’ Omar | Founder, UPWARD
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9:30 AM – 10:00 AM | Opening Keynote
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Speaker: Addison Merchut
Title: Hardware Is Hard: Building Stronger Products Through AI-Enhanced NPI
Core Thesis: Developing physical products will always be inherently difficult because physics, supply chains, and manufacturing do not bend to software timelines. AI doesn't shortcut that reality—instead, it acts as a force multiplier for rigor, tightening the gaps between engineering, documentation, quality, and procurement.
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10:00 AM – 10:40 AM | Panel Discussion
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Title: Workforce Development in the 5th Industrial Revolution
Speakers: April Welch, Candice Smith (Moderator), William Smith, Semhar Amdemichael
Overview: The next phase of industry will merge artificial intelligence, robotics, and human creativity. This panel explores how leaders, educators, and companies are preparing the workforce for this shift.
Discussion Topics:
Human-AI collaboration
Workforce reskilling and AI literacy
Robotics and automation in industry
Preparing students and workers for the next economy
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10:40 AM – 11:00 AM | Coffee Break
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11:00 AM – 11:40 AM | Panel Discussion
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Title: AI Safety & Cybersecurity: Defending the Intelligent Enterprise
Speakers: Simran Sakrany, Jeff Cohn, Payal Patel (Moderator)
Overview: As organizations deploy AI systems, new risks emerge around security, data integrity, and system vulnerabilities. This panel explores how companies can secure the next generation of digital infrastructure.
Discussion Topics:
AI security risks and model vulnerabilities
Protecting data pipelines and training datasets
Cybersecurity strategies for AI-enabled companies
Risk management for organizations adoption
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11:40 AM – 12:00 PM | Networking Break
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12:00 PM – 12:40 PM | Closing Keynote & Discussion
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Title: The Heartland Opportunity: AI, Quantum, Cybersecurity, and the Next Industrial System
Speakers: Jourdan Sorrell (Moderator), Nick Farina, Ahmed Flex Omar
Overview: This keynote connects the technological forces shaping the next decade—AI, cybersecurity, robotics, and quantum computing—and reflects on Chicago’s role in the future of innovation across AI, manufacturing, logistics, and hard technology. The conversation explores how leaders should prepare their organizations and how to best leverage the unique regional potential of Chicago and the Midwest.
Key Topics:
Convergence of emerging technologies
Strategic implications for business and government
Infrastructure for the intelligence economy
Mission/Vision Statement
UPWARD is dedicated to fostering a forward-thinking dialogue on the evolving relationship between human intelligence and artificial intelligence in the workforce. Our mission is to equip entrepreneurs, executives, and workforce development professionals with the insights, strategies, and connections necessary to navigate the future of work. By bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and innovators, we aim to drive meaningful discussions on AI’s ethical implications, economic potential, and transformative impact on workforce efficiency and development.
Conference Goal
The goal of UPWARD is to provide a dynamic platform where professionals can explore the intersection of AI, quantum computing, and workforce development. Through expert-led discussions, interactive workshops, and cutting-edge research presentations, attendees will gain actionable knowledge to integrate AI-driven solutions into their organizations. By fostering collaboration and innovation, UPWARD seeks to empower businesses and professionals to harness the potential of AI while maintaining a human-centered approach to the future of work.
FEATURED TOPICS
Human on the Loop: Supervising Intelligent Systems.
AI systems are making faster decisions across industries. The focus now is on how humans guide, audit, and take responsibility for those systems.
Funding the Intelligence Economy.
Capital is shifting toward AI, quantum, and deep tech infrastructure. Investors and institutions are redefining how value is measured and where long-term bets are placed.
Workforce Development in the 5th Industrial Revolution.
Technology is changing jobs faster than systems can adapt. The challenge is building pathways that connect people to real, stable opportunities.
The Intelligence Stack: AI, Quantum, Cybersecurity, and the Next Industrial System.
AI does not operate alone. It depends on secure systems, advanced computing, and resilient infrastructure.
2026 Speakers
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About the Venue
A state-of-the-art advanced sciences building, driven by the University of Chicago’s transformative science, engineering & quantum research. | 5207 S. Harper Avenue
Chicago, IL 60615
© 2026 UpwardContact
Hyde Park Labs
5207 S Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
United States
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