Theme

Each year, UC Tech gives us a moment to pause, connect, and take stock of where we are; not just as individual campuses, but as one University of California.

This year’s theme, To the Metal: Reflect, Reforge, Reimagine, represents the reality we are all navigating: constrained resources, heightened expectations, and a growing reliance on technology to support every part of our academic, research, and healthcare missions.

Reflect asks us to be honest about what is working, what is not, and what we have learned. Across the UC system, we have built remarkable capabilities — often independently, sometimes redundantly, and always with dedication. Reflection is how we acknowledge that experience and use it wisely.

Reforge recognizes that this moment calls for deliberate change. Being “lean” is no longer optional; it is our operating context. Reforging is not about rebuilding from failure, but about strengthening what already exists by simplifying where we can, standardizing where it helps, and investing collectively where it matters most.

Reimagine challenges us to look forward together. The diversity of perspectives, cultures, and expertise across the UC system is one of our greatest strengths. When we reach across our campuses and disciplines, we create opportunities and outcomes that no single institution could achieve alone.

“To the Metal” is both a mindset and a commitment: to get closer to the core of our systems, to focus on outcomes rather than ornamentation, and push down the pedal to move with purpose and speed. The conversations we have at UC Tech matter most when they lead to shared understanding, practical collaboration, and sustained impact beyond the conference itself.

I hope this year’s program encourages thoughtful dialogue, practical problem-solving, and renewed connection across our community. I’m excited to welcome you - many for the first time - to our growing and thriving campus here in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. Thank you for the work you do every day in service of the UC mission and for the ways you continue to support one another during times of change.

I look forward to learning with you.

Respectfully,
Nick Dugan
Vice Chancellor and Chief Information Officer