TAI Announces Don Whitt as Iowa Technology Leadership Institute Executive in Residence
DES MOINES, Iowa (December 20, 2023) – The Technology Association of Iowa (TAI) announces Don Whitt, veteran technology leader and former TAI board member, as serving as the Technology Executive in Residence for the 2024 Iowa Technology Leadership Institute.
Whitt’s extensive experience in the technology sector spans over two decades, where he has been instrumental in leading digital transformation projects for several Fortune 500 companies. Whitt will be responsible for mentoring emerging tech leaders, guiding technology strategy workshops, and spearheading collaborative projects with industry and academic partners.
“With Don leading ITLI, we are positioned to provide unparalleled insights and opportunities to this year’s dynamic cohort,” said Brian Waller, President of the Technology Association of Iowa. “His proven track record in leadership and innovation aligns perfectly with our mission to help develop tomorrow’s technology leaders and build a vibrant technology and innovation ecosystem here in Iowa.”
The Iowa Technology Leadership Institute is dedicated to shaping the next generation of tech leaders in Iowa. The professional development program, now in its third year, bridges the gap between technical education and the practical experiences often missed in traditional learning. Over a six-month period, participants engage in dynamic, interactive sessions and professional development activities. They gain the unique opportunity to collaborate with peers, learn from seasoned technology leaders and executives, and build lasting professional relationships.
Whitt expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I’m incredibly excited to be working with younger leaders and helping develop their skills, expand their perspectives and increase the likelihood of success in their careers. Developing business leaders has been a key focus in my career, and this is a wonderful opportunity to continue doing so while supporting TAI’s mission.”
About Don Whitt
Don began his high-tech career in Silicon Valley, working for start-ups like Macromind and Autodesk, where he developed shrink-wrap graphics and multimedia software (AutoCAD, Director, Macromind 3D). Prior to managing Workiva’s production infrastructure running on Google’s and AWS cloud technologies, Don developed and operated cloud data centers in the US and Brazil for Amazon.com/AWS.
Don previously held leadership roles at eBay and AOL as well as a handful of start-ups in Silicon Valley, including Innovative Data Design, Kana Software and Kana Online, E2Open, Navisoft and NetDialog. He has managed several aspects of engineering at companies ranging from 10 employees to over 100,000.
Don’s management approach incorporates a continuous improvement mindset, company stage appropriate behavior, radical candor, compassion and a focus on relationships, results and the development of great leaders and businesses.
About the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI)
Founded in 1997, The Technology Association of Iowa is a statewide, member-based organization focused on building and uniting Iowa’s technology community. TAI advances the tech industry through engaging programming, premier events, talent development, driving public policy, and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion to lead Iowa forward.
Get involved at www.technologyiowa.org and follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, and on LinkedIn.
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