TechX Addresses Energy, Infrastructure

More than 30 people turned out Thursday morning for TechX, a talk-centric event about new technologies and products sponsored by the Valley Economic Alliance. Taking place in the Great Hall on the campus of Los Angeles Pierce College in Woodland Hills, the event featured speakers on alternative energy policies, homelessness and employee hiring. Alliance Chief Executive Kenn Phillips said what he hoped the attendees got from the event was the chance to meet with like-minded people on how to improve the technology infrastructure. “What we saw today was good examples of responsible green technology that when used wisely and locally can reduce our carbon footprint,” Phillips said. Speakers included Peter Said, chief executive of Tryden Energy, on a new solar thermal water heater that produces both hot water and electricity; Pierce student Scott Prewitt on how computer applications can help identify populations at risk for homelessness; Dianne Gubin, president of Amplify Professional Services, on how technology plays into how companies attract and retain the best talent; and Ken Chawkins, business and policy manager with Southern California Gas Co., on the benefits of natural gas to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.