AUSTIN, TX — The Austin Technology Council (ATC) has selected acclaimed speaker, author and consultant Thom Singer as its next Chief Executive Officer, ushering in a new era for the local business council as it reemerges in a post-covid era and prepares for its 30th anniversary.
Established first as the Austin Software Council in 1992 by the Austin Technology Incubator and IC2 Institute, ATC currently represents more than 200 companies, providing a platform for communication and value-based programming to lead, support, and connect those working within the tech industry, which represents nearly a third of the local workforce.
Thom Singer, CEO, Austin Technology Council
“Austin is known as a leader in the world of technology, and we cannot take that for granted,” Singer said. “I want to see ATC continue to be a catalyst for future growth and am seeking engagement from leaders who want to embrace the best parts of our tech community. We need expanded dialogue and collaboration to continue to lead.”
Singer assumes the executive role as ATC finds its footing again post pandemic, resuming full event operations, including its upcoming 30th anniversary celebration, Battle for Austin Tech, and introducing first-ever Austin Tech Awards, a series dedicated to honoring those who are shaping the future through technology and innovation. Companies with a local presence are encouraged to apply by July 1.
Singer will also lead the organization in planning its annual CEO Summit, a single-day conference designed to prepare c-suite executives for the year ahead. This year’s keynote will be Sarah Jones Simmer, CEO of Found and former Bumble executive, preceded by a day of panel presentations on relevant industry and business topics.
“Thom has made a career of helping technology companies and associations throughout and will be an inspiring leader for our community as technology continues to drive the Austin economy,” said Scott Francis, CEO and Founder of BP3 Global and chair of the ATC board. “Who better to connect, network, and community-build than someone who has made a career out of helping other people make transformative connections in their professional careers?”
Singer comes to the non-profit after more than a decade of work as a speaker and trainer on topics such as business relationships, networking, and leadership. He’s delivered more than 1,000 presentations, written 12 books, and hosts several podcasts. His background includes sales, marketing, and business development for Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurial ventures, as well as executive search consultancy.
“Continuing to expand the sense of community that has done so much to define Austin’s tech industry will be challenging but crucial as companies face a more distributed and decentralized workforce, and I expect ATC to play a key role in that transition,” said Lawrence Waugh, CEO of Calavista Software and ATC board member. “I’m excited to work with Thom on that, I think he’s the perfect person to advance the amazing work that Amber Gunst (former CEO) has done over the past 4 years.”
The Austin Technology Council is a unifying voice and collaborative platform for innovation and technology, supporting the growth goals of its member businesses by providing knowledge and access in the areas of capital, talent, business mentoring, and networking. For more information, visit austintechnologycouncil.org.