Hiking networking series launches for tech pros

NonprofitTech

Jun 18

West Michigan Works! and its West Michigan Tech Talent Council have launched West Michigan Tech Trails, a series of free monthly hiking events provide professionals with an opportunity to enjoy an alternative networking experience amidst the natural beauty of West Michigan's parks and trail systems.

West Michigan Tech Trails features a mix of lunchtime walks and longer afternoon hikes, offering participants a chance to network in a unique and relaxed setting. Each hike will include tech-related content shared before and after the event. Participants are encouraged to bring water and a snack. Following the hike, some locations, such as Cannonsburg Ski Area, will offer food and beverages for purchase.

"We saw this as a great opportunity to unplug, connect with nature and with fellow technology professionals," said John Rumery, West Michigan Tech Talent council lead, West Michigan Works!. "It’s an innovative approach to building the tech community and exploring West Michigan."

The event schedule is as follows:

June 18 from 12 - 1 p.m.: Huff Park, 2399 Ball Ave, NE, Grand Rapids.
July 16 from 4 - 5 p.m.: Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Rd, NE, Belmont. Cannonsburg's Taco Tuesday event will follow the hike.
August 13 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.: Peace Park, 8900 Grand River Ave. SE, Ada.
September 17 from 12 - 1 p.m.: Millennium Park (Green Trail), 1415 Maynard Ave, SW, Walker. This event is part of Tech Week GR.
October 15 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.: Seidman Park, 8155 Conservation St, NE, Ada.

The West Michigan Tech Talent Council is a collaborative group of technology employers, educators, workforce development and economic development organizations that work together to meet West Michigan's current and future technology talent needs.

For hike details and registration, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/west-michigan-tech-trails-tickets-907777947277.