Download the programme here: Tech Industry Alliance TechFest 2026 Programme
Tech Industry Alliance TechFest
AI, Technology & The Future: Innovation, Intelligence, and Human Impact
09:00 – 10:00 | Registration & Networking
10:00 – 10:15 | Opening Remarks
10:15 – 11:05 | TechFest Keynote: AI and the Future of Crime
- Delivered by Jamie Bartlett, Award Winning Technology Writer and Broadcaster
11:05 – 12:00 | Panel Discussion – The Dark Side of Intelligence: AI, Crime and Control
- Dr Deirdre Leahy | Lecturer and Researcher | MTU
- Jamie Bartlett | TechFest Keynote | Award Winning Technology Writer and Broadcaster
- Robert McArdle | Director | TrendAI
- Facilitator: Jonathan McCrea |Founder | Get Started with AI
12:00 – 13:00 | Refreshments, Networking & Exhibition Stands
13:00 – 14:00 | Panel Discussion: AI in Action
- Adrian O’Flaherty | Director (AI & Data) | Accenture
- Catherine Drysdale | Partner (Projects, Transformation & Change) | Barden Ireland
- James Baldwin | Director (Architecture & Security) | PepsiCo Ireland
- Facilitator: Aryana Collins Jackson | Data Staff Engineer | Quest Software
14:00 – 14:30 | Fireside Chat: AI & the Future of Work
- Professor Barry O’Sullivan | School of Computer Science & IT | UCC
- John Lonsdale | Chief Executive Officer | CeADAR
- Facilitator: Jonathan McCrea | Founder | Get Started with AI
14:30 – 15:30 | Showcase: Ireland’s Tech Future
Speakers & Pitchers:
- Denis Ryan | Technology Sector Specialist | AIB
- Hrvoje Smolic | Founder and CEO | Graphite Note
- Paul Martin| Founder and CEO | SmartOffice
- Stephen Dooley | Founder | Roamr
- Stephen Stack | Founder and CTO | rConfig
- Sean McGrath | Head of Commercial | Skillnet Innovation Exchange
- Facilitator: Larry O’Donoghue | CEO | AxisBIC
- Facilitator: Yvonne Murphy | Regional Development Executive | Enterprise Ireland
Discover more about our speakers here: TechFest Speakers
Key Tracks
AI, Crime and Control
Led by keynote speaker Jamie Bartlett, this track explores the evolving intersection of artificial intelligence, crime and security. The keynote “AI and the Future of Crime” and panel “The Dark Side of Intelligence: AI, Crime and Control” examine AI-enabled threats, cybercrime, misinformation and the growing need for effective governance and regulation.
In his keynote Jamie Bartlett will show how ‘large language models’ and other generative AI is transforming crime – including how to ‘jailbreak’ chatbots, and how dark net forums are currently discussing the potential of new AI-powered criminality. He will explain what professional and companies might do to stay one step ahead.
AI and the Future of Work
This fireside chat focuses on how AI is transforming the workplace from automation and augmentation to shifting skills requirements. It offers practical insight into how organisations and individuals can adapt, enhance productivity and remain competitive in an AI-driven economy.
AI in Practice
The “AI in Action” panel showcases how organisations are deploying AI in real-world environments. Expect tangible use cases, lessons learned and a clear view of what it takes to successfully implement AI at scale.
Ireland’s Tech Future
This showcase highlights the innovation shaping Ireland’s technology ecosystem. Featuring emerging and established players, it provides a forward-looking perspective on Ireland’s role in driving global tech advancement.
What to Expect
TechFest 2026 delivers a high-impact, insight-led experience for professionals operating at the intersection of technology, business and policy. Attendees can expect:
- Strategic insights into how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping business, society and public trust
- Expert-led discussions featuring leading voices from technology, academia, cybersecurity, law enforcement and government
- Networking Opportunities connect with like-minded professionals, potential partners, and investors who share a passion for leveraging technology to drive positive change
- Real-world case studies showcasing how organisations are deploying AI in live environments
- Balanced perspectives addressing both the opportunities and risks associated with AI adoption
- Practical takeaways to support decision-making, innovation and risk management
- A strong focus on responsible AI, including governance, ethics and regulatory considerations