The Future of Careers in Tech: A Future Leaders Lecture

In partnership with the Detroit Regional Chamber’s TalentEd team, Wayne State University hosted the Future Leaders Lecture: The Future of Careers in Tech, bringing together higher education leaders and Detroit’s tech ecosystem to explore how students can prepare for careers shaped by technology, innovation, and emerging tools like AI.  

The panel discussion, moderated by Lauren Uddyback, Chief of Staff at Black Tech Saturdays, highlighted the importance of career-connected learning, early industry exposure, and Detroit’s role as a growing hub for technology, startups, and mobility innovation.

• Tech careers are non-linear and can be pursued across all majors, with curiosity, transferable skills, and hands-on learning often meaning more than a typical computer science background. 

• Detroit’s tech ecosystem offers real pathways through organizations like TechTown Detroit, Black Tech Saturdays, WebDroid, and the Apple Developer Academy, providing local opportunities for students to explore. 

• AI is a tool, not a replacement, and students who pair it with strong communication, follow-through, and mentorship will be best positioned for the future of work. 

A central theme throughout the discussion was that careers in tech are rarely linear, and students do not need traditional computer science backgrounds to succeed. Panelists emphasized that design, business, psychology, communications, and education all intersect with technology, especially as digital tools become embedded in every industry. 

Joshua Ashford, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of WebDroid, reflected on how curiosity and creativity shaped his journey: 

“I’ve always been someone who liked to open things up, see how they worked, and put them back together,” he said. “I didn’t start in tech — I followed my curiosity, and the skills came later.”

Christianne Malone, Chief Program Officer at TechTown Detroit and Assistant Vice President of Economic Development at Wayne State University, highlighted Detroit as an accessible and collaborative place to explore tech and entrepreneurship. 

She encouraged students to engage with Detroit’s startup ecosystem through TechTown programs, workshops, build nights, and student‑friendly entrepreneurship initiatives that support early experimentation and learning. 

“Every small business is a tech business,” she said. “No matter your major or background, there is a role for you in building and scaling solutions.” 

Anny Staten, Assistant Director of the Apple Developer Academy Detroit, shared how immersive, no‑cost programming can open doors for learners of all ages. She emphasized that the Academy’s focus on applied learning helps students build confidence, transferable skills, and real‑world experience—regardless of prior technical background. 

“There isn’t just one lane in tech,” she said. “We teach coding, design, business, collaboration, and leadership because the goal is not just to learn tech, but to create something meaningful.” 

The session concluded with an engaged student Q&A on work-life balance, entrepreneurship, AI literacy, and career decision-making. Panelists encouraged students to experiment, seek mentors, leverage Detroit’s resources, and remain values‑driven as they navigate evolving career paths.