Tech Talks to take center stage at Atomic 66 event in Albuquerque

Science is a part of New Mexico’s past, present and, some say, its future.

While the state’s history of scientific discovery, namely during the top-secret Manhattan Project that developed the atomic bomb, is well-known — many are unaware that New Mexico is emerging as a tech leader, industry professionals say.

That’s why founders Vicki Apodaca and Paul Zelizer united to create Tech Talks, a series of technology-focused lectures to attract thinkers from around the country and support homegrown innovators.

An abundance of state funding, as well as cutting-edge innovations coming out of the national labs, have combined to position New Mexico as a budding competitor in the world of tech, Zelizer said.

“We’re trying to make that available and accessible, as well as put people in the rooms with the folks who are actually building and funding the next generation of tech opportunities,” Zelizer said in a Wednesday interview.

Tech Talks is just one event of many at the first-ever Atomic 66 techfest: three days of technology, arts and culture programming all along Albuquerque’s stretch of Route 66. Atomic 66, taking place June 10-13, will feature tech and space-themed film screenings, presentations and lectures.

While Tech Talks hopes to attract New Mexicans from all walks of life, Apodaca is particularly hopeful that young people will turn out and get connected with professionals who are already established in the arena.

“How cool would it be to be a student and pitch your idea to an actual (venture capital) firm from California?” Apodaca said. “That doesn’t happen normally, and it doesn’t happen for free.”

All four of the week’s Tech Talks featuring topics like AI, entrepreneurship, climate and tech accessibility are free, ultimately bringing together 56 speakers and more than 50 organizations.

Many of the speakers themselves are young people who will define the industry’s future in the state, Apodaca said. The attendees, she hopes, will also go on to forge careers, found startups and strengthen the already blossoming tech sector.

“I really believe in that generation carrying us forward as a state, as an economic institution and as a powerhouse nationwide,” Apodaca said.