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Rob McClinton, Board president of Innovate Pasadena and an experienced figure in Southern California’s tech scene, will lead a discussion on emerging technologies and their business applications at a free online webinar this week.

The event is part of the “Renewal and Resilience” series aimed at navigating the future of business.

It is scheduled for Thursday, July 18 at noon.

McClinton is founder and CEO of Designing Nation Holdings, a hosting and online marketing company focused on small and local businesses. He will explore topics including artificial intelligence and its practical applications for businesses.

He will also address technology as a tool for business leaders and considerations when implementing new technologies in organizational settings.

“McClinton is a dynamic speaker with a thorough grasp of emerging technologies, the upside and the down,” said Paul Little, president and CEO of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association.

Little added, “I am excited to learn about emerging technologies and their application for businesses and today’s business leader.”

The webinar, organized by the Valley Area Chamber Executives (VACE), is open to the public but requires preregistration due to limited attendance. Interested participants can register at this link. It will be held as part of VACE’s online Lunch and Learn series, focusing on technology and digital transformation in the current business landscape.

McClinton’s background includes significant experience with several Idealab startups, including GoTo.com and X1 Technologies. His career began in developing and leading sales organizations before transitioning to executive management and management coaching. McClinton studied economics at Loyola University Chicago.

In addition to his role at Designing Nation Holdings, McClinton provides leadership mentoring through his consulting practice, Artistic Leader. He also serves as the Executive Director of the Idealab Alumni Association, an organization dedicated to developing the network of professionals who have worked at Idealab over the years.

What is Innovate Pasadena?

Innovate Pasadena, a nonprofit organization founded in 2012, aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the Pasadena area. The organization serves as a platform to connect entrepreneurs, cutting-edge organizations, and innovators across various industries.

As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, Innovate Pasadena is primarily volunteer-driven. Its Board of directors comprises local business leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists, designers, and educators, reflecting the diverse innovation ecosystem of the region.

The webinar series aligns with Innovate Pasadena’s mission to advance greater Pasadena as a center for technology and design innovation. The organization collaborates with local institutions such as Caltech, ArtCenter College of Design, and Pasadena City College to strengthen the innovation ecosystem. One of its notable events is Connect Week, an annual innovation series featuring talks, workshops, tours, and networking mixers.

Who are the Valley Area Chamber Executives (VACE)?

VACE, an informal group of Chamber of Commerce staff leadership from throughout the San Gabriel Valley, meets monthly to discuss issues of mutual concern. The group collaborates on regional mixers and showcase events, supporting each other with ideas and assistance. Their meetings are often focused on brainstorming ideas to enhance the Chamber experience for members.

The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1888 as the Board of Trade, has played a major role in the development of the internationally renowned city. Currently serving more than 1250 members, its primary purpose has been to enhance the economy, business climate, and quality of life in Pasadena.

Little anticipates a lively Q&A session following McClinton’s presentation, providing attendees with an opportunity to engage directly with the speaker on pressing technological issues facing businesses today.

The webinar is part of a broader series titled “Renewal and Resilience: Navigating the Future of Business in 2024.” This series aims to provide business leaders with insights and strategies to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape and economic conditions.



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