UC Tech Conference 2026 – Visual Recap – WATCH NOW

From July 8-10, more than 400 technology professionals gathered at UC Merced for the 2026 UC Tech Annual Conference. Together, they shared knowledge, built connections, and explored ways to advance higher education, research, technology, and patient care at the University of California (UC).

Take it “To the Metal”

This year’s theme, To the Metal: Reflect. Reforge. Reimagine., was more than a slogan; it was a call-to-action to think differently. As higher education navigates changing expectations, constrained resources, and rapid technological advancement, attendees were encouraged to ask meaningful questions: What’s working? What isn’t? And how can we move forward more effectively?

The theme reflected one idea: Our best work happens when we come together, strip away what’s unnecessary, and focus on what matters most.

That spirit carried throughout the conference in breakout sessions, hallway discussions, and shared meals. Attendees brought their expertise, curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to experiment, turning conversations into meaningful moments for collaboration and problem-solving.

To the Metal also extended to the conference swag, where concert-inspired artwork came to life on t-shirts, stickers, and metallic badge flair that attendees wore and took home as memorable souvenirs.

What happened at UC Tech 2026?

Day 0: A Merced Welcome

Wednesday began with Birds-of-a-Feather meetings, where attendees connected over shared interests before gathering for the Welcome Reception at UC Merced’s Social Justice Plaza. Beneath the shade of valley oaks and strings of cafe lights, colleagues reunited, new connections were made, and conversations flowed over appetizers and cocktails. It was a warm introduction to UC Merced’s vibrant campus in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley.

Day 1: Learning, Collaboration, and Community

On Thursday morning, attendees filled an auditorium for the Opening Keynote, “Keeping Humans in the Loop: Agtech, Agroecology, and a Resilient Food System,” delivered by Dr. Joshua Viers, Professor at UC Merced’s School of Engineering.

His keynote highlighted how UC Merced is using innovative farming and water solutions to address drought, groundwater loss, and climate challenges while helping build a more resilient future for California communities.

From there, the conference was in full swing.

Across seven program tracks, attendees participated in breakout sessions across campus on academic technology, artificial intelligence, enterprise operations, and more. Between sessions, the Vendor Showcase gathered 25 sponsoring organizations to converse with those interested in the latest technology solutions and products.

As the evening drew near, attendees came together once again – this time at the historic Merced Theatre in downtown Merced – for the UC Tech Awards Ceremony. The event celebrated 16 outstanding teams and individuals whose work continues to advance UC.

Attendees then spread throughout the downtown area for “Metal on Main,” an experience that encourages them to explore local restaurants, taprooms, shops, and sponsor events while collecting badge stickers for the conference raffle. Live classic rock from local band, Sound Remedy, filled the streets as the perfect soundtrack for the fun night out.

Day 2: Looking Ahead

Friday shifted the conversation toward the future.

Closing Keynote speaker Dr. Lisa Yeo, Assistant Professor at UC Merced’s School of Engineering, explored why collaboration is harder than it should be in an organization. Her message was clear: Successful partnerships can’t simply be asked for. Rather, organizations must intentionally design the structures and incentives that allow people to work together effectively.

The final day featured additional breakout sessions, conference and sponsor raffles, and lunch. Then it was time for the Closing Ceremony and time-honored UC Tech tradition: Passing the Buck.

With signatures from previous host campuses, the ceremonial dollar bill was passed from UC Merced to UC Irvine, symbolizing the transition to next year’s conference. Vice Provost of IT and Chief Information Officer Beth Clarke accepted the Buck and looked forward to welcoming attendees to UC Tech 2027.

While the conference officially concluded, many attendees continued the experience at nearby Lake Yosemite, enjoying food, music, and conversation in a relaxed setting. Others extended their stay with a conference-organized excursion to Yosemite National Park, taking in giant sequoias, granite cliffs, and waterfalls just a few hours from campus.

By the end of the week, UC Tech 2026 had accomplished what it set out to do: bring people together to learn, collaborate, and reimagine what’s possible. The conversations started in Merced will continue across campuses, strengthening partnerships and inspiring new ideas that will shape the future of the UC system.

About UC Tech

Since its beginning in 1982 as the University of California Computing Services Conference (UCCSC), UC Tech has grown into the University’s premier technology conference. Hosted by a different UC campus each year, it brings together hundreds of professionals to exchange ideas, celebrate achievements, and collaborate on improving education, research, and patient care. The event is open to UC staff and faculty interested in or associated with technology.