Steven J. DiMeo Speaker Series

We were honored to host the inaugural Steven DiMeo Speaker Series in partnership with SUNY Polytechnic Institute — a huge thank you to our generous sponsor, NYSTEC, for making it all possible.
The evening was filled with dynamic conversations and inspiring insights, highlighting the innovation and momentum happening right here in the Mohawk Valley.

A special shoutout to our incredible panelists — true trailblazers shaping the future of our region:
Heather Hage – Griffiss Institute
Mike Hayduk – Air Force Research Lab
Maria Kontaridis – Masonic Medical Research Institute – MMRI
Bill Thistleton – SUNY Polytechnic Institute

The Steve DiMeo Speaker Series was born from a shared vision between Mohawk Valley EDGE and SUNY Polytechnic Institute during a strategic meeting held nearly a year ago. That conversation centered around how best to honor the legacy of Steve DiMeo—a visionary leader whose decades of service helped shape the Mohawk Valley into a thriving hub of innovation, research, and economic development.

Together, EDGE and SUNY Poly recognized the need for a platform that would not only celebrate Steve’s contributions, but also continue his work by convening industry leaders, educators, and community stakeholders. The goal: to re-emphasize the importance of strategic partnerships and to leverage the success of innovation happening right here in Oneida County. From semiconductor breakthroughs at Wolfspeed, to biomedical research at MMRI, to defense innovation at AFRL and entrepreneurial development at Griffiss Institute, our region is home to a powerful ecosystem of opportunity. This Speaker Series is designed to spotlight those efforts, foster collaboration, and inspire continued progress.

The program is a reflection of Steve’s enduring belief in the power of people, partnerships, and place. We are proud to show you this inaugural event and invite you to help us carry forward his legacy—by building the future together.