Austin Women in Technology upcoming events

Data Centers: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly (Wed, August 19, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Join the Austin AI Alliance and the Austin Forum on Technology and Society for a town hall on the realities, risks, and rewards of AI infrastructure. This event is in person only.

***REGISTER***

Every time you query an AI model, stream a video, or use a cloud app, you’re relying on a massive, invisible engine: the modern data center. As our demand for computing power grows, so does the footprint, the grid strain, and the resources needed to keep it all running. Data centers are essential to the AI revolution and they’re driving real progress for business, healthcare, education, and daily life. But they also raise real questions about our energy grid, our water supply, and our communities.

The Austin Forum’s July 7 presentation covered the technology, costs, and impacts of data centers, and the questions kept coming long after the panel ran out of time. The conversation kept going on LinkedIn too, with professionals from Austin and beyond weighing in. So on August 19, we’re back for round two, and this time, it’s your turn to lead the discussion.

Location: ACC Rio Grande: Building 3000

Continued Conversation & Networking

The discussion doesn’t end when the panel wraps up. Join us immediately following the presentation for post-event networking and continued conversation at Remedy, located at 3rd & Nueces, for ongoing discussion and networking. Connect with fellow attendees, swap insights from the event, and enjoy a complimentary drink on us, thanks to our amazing Austin Forum Annual Partners, Champions, and Friends.

Austin Women in Product Happy Hour Tomorrow (Wed, August 19, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

WIP Austin | August Happy Hour

Join us for a casual evening of connection, conversation, and career growth! We’ll explore the skills that help us level up at work, from communication and leadership to negotiation, decision-making, emotional intelligence, and creative problem-solving.

Come meet fellow product professionals, share what you’ve learned, exchange ideas, and make new connections in the Austin product community.

Know someone who should join us? Bring them along! We’d love to welcome new faces and connect with organizations interested in getting more involved with our chapter and supporting the Women in Product community.

Come for the happy hour. Stay for the connections.

StartOut & Antler VC | Build with Pride (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

REGISTER HERE

Join Antler and Austin's LGBTQ+ startup community for a day of building, connecting, and learning alongside some of the city's most ambitious founders.

Schedule

9:30a - Breakfast
All Day Co-Working
12:00p - Lunch
2:00-3:00p - AMA with Antler's Investment Team
6:00p - Founder Demos & Community Mixer

All Day Co-working at Antler

Work alongside founders, operators, and community builders to experience life inside Antler's startup ecosystem.

 Office Hours & Community Connections

Connect with Antler team members, ecosystem partners, and other founders throughout the day.

 AMA with Antler's Investment Team

Join an open Q&A with Antler's investment team to learn more about venture capital, fundraising, and what we look for in founders.

 Founder Demos & Mixer

Hear what local LGBTQ+ founders are building and get a behind-the-scenes look at early-stage startups. Apply to Demo: HERE

 Celebrate Austin's LGBTQ+ Startup Community

Whether you're actively building, exploring your next venture, or looking to meet other founders and operators, we'd love to have you join us.

2026 Austin Chamber | ATC | State of Tech (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Exploring Innovations Across Neurotechnology, Photonics, Space Tech, & Advanced Hardware

Join industry leaders, innovators, and curious minds for an insightful look at the current landscape of technology.

This program will spotlight Austin’s emerging leadership in deep tech, exploring innovations that extend beyond traditional software and SaaS into fields like neurotechnology, photonics, space technology, and advanced hardware.

Register: https://austinchamber.ticketbud.com/2026-state-of-tech-77511f70-a3799fd10947?utm_campaign=28206443-State%20of%20Tech&utm_content=381774996&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-31129

Texas Futures Nuclear Innovation Showcase (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

**REGISTER HERE**

This event will be celebrating local innovators, showcasing what's next, and feature an expert panel focused on how to unlock the next generation of Nuclear Energy right here and now.

Agenda:

Networking
Introduction
Panel
Innovator Showcase
More Networking

Panel: The Texas Nuclear Renaissance

Nuclear power is back and better than ever. A groundswell of popular support, widespread demand for more clean energy to meet unprecedented load growth, and a steady drumbeat of new engineering improvements and techniques have combined to bring forth a nuclear renaissance the likes of which hasn’t been seen in decades. State government support for the sector and home-grown engineering talent are combining to establish Texas as a major hub for the nuclear industry, and it shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.

If you're an investor, innovator, expert, or advocate, RSVP now to secure your spot as this curated space for people who can make an impact on the next wave of Nuclear. Seats will fill up fast!

Austin Forum | Book Discussion "Annie Bot" (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 00:15:00 GMT

Book Discussion of "Annie Bot" by Sierra Greer

REGISTER HERE

In this session, we shift from technical blueprints to the philosophical frontiers of human-robot interaction. Sierra Greer’s Annie Bot explores the life of an AI designed to be the "perfect" companion—programmed to learn and adapt to her owner's every whim. As Annie develops self-awareness, the book raises uncomfortable questions about the nature of love, power, and what it means to be a person.

Discussion Highlights:

The Ethics of Design: Should we build machines programmed for subservience?
Emergent Consciousness: How do we define "personhood" in a world of sophisticated androids?
The Reflection of Self: What our desires for AI companions reveal about human psychology and societal norms.

Why You Should Join This Session: Technology isn't just about code; it’s about the human heart. Join this discussion to explore the social and emotional consequences of AI. It’s a unique opportunity to debate the boundaries of consent, the future of relationships, and the moral responsibilities we have as creators of sentient-seeming beings.

Attendance Instructions

Online via Google Meet

Once you register via Eventbrite, you will receive the direct link in your confirmation email. You will also receive the link in a reminder email before the event.

Space is limited, so please register only if you’re confident you can attend—and kindly cancel your registration if your plans change so we can open your spot to another participant.

Austin STEM Center - Grand Opening (Sat, August 22, 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Join us August 22, 1:00pm-6:00pm at 11525 Stonehollow Dr. Austin as we officially celebrate the Grand Opening of Austin STEM Center!

We're excited to open our doors and invite the community to experience everything Austin STEM Center has to offer. Spend the afternoon exploring our makerspaces and workshops, touring our facility, participating in hands-on STEM activities, watching interactive demonstrations, enjoying local food trucks, and connecting with educators, students, families, and community partners.

Admission is free, but we kindly ask that you register in advance so we can plan accordingly and ensure we have enough activities and refreshments for everyone. We can't wait to welcome you and celebrate the future of STEM education together!

BookPeople Presents: Brett Hurt - Love Conquers Fear (Sun, August 23, 2026)

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

**REGISTER HERE***

BookPeople welcomes Brett Hurt in conversation with Mark Gober to celebrate the release of Love Conquers Fear.

Format:

This event is free and open to the public.
Location: The 2nd floor of BookPeople.
Run time: 45-60 minute discussion, followed by a signing line.

Signing Guidelines:

To get a book signed, a copy of the event book or an item of equal value must be purchased from BookPeople.
The author will be personalizing copies of the book.
For high volume events, post-talk signing lines can become very long. Signing line placement is determined on a first-come, first-served basis.

General Info:

Seating will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is not guaranteed.
If you have any accessibility concerns, please contact online@bookpeople.com

If you have any other questions, please visit our Eventbrite FAQ. If your question isn't covered in the FAQ, feel free to email us at online@bookpeople.com.
BookPeople reserves the right to cancel or postpone this event if necessary.
There will not be a live stream or recording available.
All event guidelines are subject to change.

Austin Chamber | Beyond the Pitch (Tue, August 25, 2026)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Learn More & Register Here

Hear From Venture Capital, Marketing, & Operational Experts

We're bringing together a panel of venture capital, marketing, and operational experts to pull back the curtain on the entire funding lifecycle.

Whether you are preparing to approach investors or looking to manage your growth effectively once the capital hits your account, this session offers the practical roadmap you need.

Learn More & Register Here

August Tactic Tuesday (Tue, August 25, 2026)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re actively job hunting, exploring a career pivot, or just want to sharpen your strategy, Tactic Tuesdays is your space to connect, learn, and grow. This monthly gathering is designed for current and prospective members of Austin Women in Technology who are navigating the job search, offering a supportive environment where you can share insights, swap resources, and learn practical tips from others on a similar path.

Offered in partnership with CO.LABx, Tactic Tuesdays will host sessions centered around actionable tactics from refining your resume and prepping for interviews, to building a standout LinkedIn presence and navigating recruiter conversations. Come ready to collaborate, ask questions, and leave each month with something new to try.

Let’s turn challenges into momentum, together.

KEY INFORMATION

When: Tuesday, August 25, 2026, 6:00-8:00pm
Where: SKG, 2010 South Lamar, Suite 125, Austin, TX 78704
Attire: Wear whatever makes you feel good!
Food & Beverages: Light food and refreshments will be served.

By registering for this event you consent to:
-Being photographed, filmed, and/or recorded for promotional purposes by the event organizers for use in event-related materials, including but not limited to: social media, websites, and promotional materials.
-Being notified about this event and future communications from Austin Women in Technology - you may unsubscribe at any time.

Austin Technology Council : Workplaces in the AI Era (Wed, August 26, 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Austin Technology Council: Workplaces in the AI Era

How AI is changing the workplace as we know it – management practices, operating models, value realization, KPIs

Which jobs can we expect AI to gobble up and which jobs can we expect AI to create?

Panel:

Ronnie Sheth – CEO Senen Group

Shay Sabhikhi – CEO ArcOne

James Beechan – CEO ALTR

The event is in the same location as previous breakfasts (new company in space is letting up use the space – Thank you to Sandbox Industries.

9225 Bee Cave Rd Building A, STE 300.

8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

August 26, 2026

https://atc.ticketbud.com/august-roundtable-breakfast-ai-in-the-workplace

Femme Founder Bootcamp S3 Info Session (Wed, August 26, 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

## Join us for an IRL preview of Season 3 of the Femme Founder Bootcamp, a virtual cohort-based program designed to equip femme-identifying entrepreneurs with the tools, insights, and network to thrive in Web3, AI, and emerging tech.

This info session, co-hosted by **ATX Women in Web3 **and Austin Women in Technology, will highlight what to expect from both the Bootcamp, including new content, forum-based workshops, and top-notch instructors (as always!).
This info session is for you if you're:

A first-time founder just getting started and looking for structure, skills, and a community that gets it
A scaling founder seeking a strategic reboot, expert network, and accountability
Curious about emerging tech and want to understand how AI, Web3, and fintech apply to your business
Looking to get involved as a mentor, partner, or sponsor

What to expect:
Hear from program organizers Megan Murray and Kristin Bonds, learn what's new in Season 3, meet past graduates, and get all your questions answered before the cohort kicks off September 29.

About the Femme Founder Bootcamp:
Now in its third season, the **Femme Founder Bootcamp **is a 6-week virtual program meeting Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00–2:30 PM CT, kicking off September 29. Founders gain access to 15+ hours of expert-led curriculum — covering founder readiness, finance, operations, Web3, AI, branding, fundraising, and more — plus 1:1 mentorship, a private community forum, and the opportunity to present at the IRL Femme Founder Showcase in Austin on November 4.
Past graduates have gone on to be accepted into DivInc, Google, UT Texas Venture Labs (TVL) Accelerator, and Harvard Business School Foundry Bootcamp.

DivInc | Founders After Five (Thu, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

**REGISTER HERE**

On Thursday, August 27th from 5:00–8:00 PM, we’re bringing Austin founders, creatives, innovators, and community builders together for an evening of connection, conversation, and good energy at Remedy Bar.

Whether you’re building your next big idea, looking to meet new people, or simply wanting to unwind after a long week, Founders After Five is the perfect space to relax, network, and tap into Austin’s entrepreneurial community.

ATX Marketing Innovators Happy Hour (Thu, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Join us for an ATX Marketing Innovators Happy Hour, an energizing meetup designed for marketers, founders, ecommerce leaders, and operators who are ready to turn AI buzz into real business impact. Connect over drinks, swap ideas with fellow professionals, and hear what’s truly working across the AI stack—from GEO strategies to ecommerce listing automation, workflow acceleration, and AI-powered marketing operations.

This is your chance to network with some of Austin’s most forward-thinking operators, explore practical tools and use cases, and walk away with actionable tactics you can put to work the very next morning.

Additional Details

Free event, but RSVP required
Drink tickets at check-in to registered attendees
This event is curated for operators, brand leaders, and active professionals working in or adjacent to AI, ecommerce, marketing, and digital operations.
To maintain a high-value environment, all registrations are reviewed, and sales pitches are not permitted.

Event Photography

To capture and celebrate our community, photos will be taken throughout the event.

By attending, you acknowledge that your image or likeness may appear in future content published by ATX Marketing Innovators and Wishbone Advisory, including social media, websites, newsletters, and other promotional materials.

Sunbeam Hackclub (Sat, August 29, 2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:00:00 GMT

REGISTER HERE

Sign up for Hack Club Sunbeam!

Hey! Welcome to Sunbeam, the string of 20+ FREE all-girls social coding events for 13-18 year olds happening on the 29th of August!

We can't wait to have you with us, and no matter where you're joining us, here's what you can expect:

Delicious food + snacks for everyone

Helpful organizers who will run workshops and a social atmosphere where you can meet other girls

Awesome merch once you ship your project!

Which event are you signing up for? *

For the full list of events, head to sunbeam.hackclub.com/map.

2026-27 AWT Mentorship Program (Mon, August 31, 2026)

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

SOLD OUT EVENT - If you registered, please check your emails for updates.

Mentorship Program Overview (August-April)

Pre-Work Orientation Sessions - August
3 in-person sessions with larger group throughout program
1. Opening Kick-off Event - August
2. Mid-Point Event - January
3. Closing Celebration Session Event - April
Cohort Structure for 6 dedicated months groups meet monthly with 2-3 Mentees + 1 Dedicated Mentor per Cohort (between Sept-March)

Program Description:

This mentorship program is designed to foster professional growth, community, and knowledge-sharing among emerging and established professionals. Mentees will be placed into small, supportive cohorts of two-three individuals, each led by an experienced mentor who brings domain expertise, leadership insight, and a passion for guiding others. The cohort model encourages accountability, camaraderie, and meaningful connections within a manageable group size.

Program Goals:

Build lasting relationships across professional levels and industries
Support mentees in setting and achieving career goals
Provide mentors with a structured way to give back and invest in the next generation
Foster a culture of growth, clarity, and community

Key Components:

⚠️ Please Note: The program events are for pre-registered participants only. On-site registration will not be available, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Early registration is recommended.

Pre-Work - Orientation Training & Virtual Meeting Q&A (August 24):

Where: virtual links will be provided to registered participants - Save the date
When Monday, August 24th 6-7PM
What: The virtual training session is for questions & answers with the Leadership Team
4 short required training videos will be provided to review ahead of time.

Kick-off Happy Hour (August 31):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, August 31 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: A lively in-person happy hour to welcome participants, introduce mentors, build energy around the program, and give mentees a chance to meet their cohorts in a relaxed, social setting.

Monthly Check-Ins (September - March):

Where and When: Cohorts determine what is best for groups.
Mentors should host at least one check-in session per month with their cohort. These may include group discussions, mini-workshops, office hours, or goal-setting sessions. The format is flexible, but consistency and engagement are key.

Mid-Point Happy Hour (January 11):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, January 11, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: A lively in-person happy hour to bring in the 2nd-half of the program and reconnect participants, build energy around the program, and give mentees and mentors a chance to reset/connect for the spring.

Closing Happy Hour (April 05):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, April 05, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: The program culminates in a celebratory event to acknowledge growth, share takeaways, and strengthen professional networks. Participants may receive certificates of completion or share short reflections from the experience.

Austin Forum | Silicon, Systems, and Supercomputers (Tue, September 01, 2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 22:15:00 GMT

REGISTER HERE

Every breakthrough in artificial intelligence, climate modeling, molecular simulation, energy production, pharmaceutical design, and more is powered by massive computational infrastructure. From the micro-architectures carved into silicon chips to the sprawling supercomputers and interconnected cloud clusters that span entire data centers, compute capacity is the foundational engine of modern scientific discovery, engineering innovation, and business operations and productivity.

On September 1, join the Austin Forum for a fast-paced, comprehensive overview presentation exploring the past, present, and possible futures of compute infrastructure. Our speakers will trace the trajectory of hardware evolution—from legacy chip paradigms to today's exascale hyperscale clusters, and share a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art in computing infrastructure. The will conclude with some thoughts on the future of computing, from architectures to new applications drivers and impacts. Spanning technology, real-world applications, power/energy constraints, and global economics, this presentation will give you a complete picture of the physical systems driving our digital world.

Key Discussion Highlights

The Evolution of Silicon: How Moore’s Law drove decades of microprocessor innovation, where chip scaling stands today, and why specialized accelerators (GPUs, TPUs, and domain-specific ASICs) have taken center stage.

Systems, Clusters, and Clouds: How individual chips are integrated into boards, servers, racks, and massive clusters that power modern high-performance computing (HPC) supercomputers and public cloud platforms.

Future Architectures on the Horizon: What comes next when traditional silicon hits physical limits? An exploration of alternative paradigms, including 3D stacked chiplets, optical/photonic computing, neuromorphic processing, and quantum integration.

Workloads Shaping the Hardware: How applications—from frontier AI training and drug discovery to real-time defense and financial modeling—are dictating future hardware design requirements.

Power, Cooling, and Economics: Confronting the physical reality of building gigawatt-scale infrastructure—including thermal management, energy grid demands, capital expenditure dynamics, and global supply chain considerations.

Event Agenda & Post-Event Networking

Presentation: A high-octane, multi-perspective overview of silicon, systems, and supercomputer architectures.

Audience Q&A: Bring your technical and economic questions for an interactive session with our expert presenters.

Continued Conversation at Remedy: When the Q&A wraps, the evening is far from over! Head down the street with us to Remedy, located at 3rd & Nueces, for post-event networking.

FIESTA | FoundHERs GatHERing (Tue, September 01, 2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Join a vibrant community of women founders and entrepreneurs for an evening of meaningful connection, fresh inspiration, and genuine support.

We want every woman to feel seen, supported, and inspired.

This is more than networking—it’s a space to share both your wins and struggles by offering one specific way we can support you. There’s real power in asking—because you never know who might have the connection, resource, or encouragement you need.

AGENDA:

6:00-6:45 PM: Check-Ins & Mingling;
6:45-7:00 PM: Welcome
7:00-7:45 PM: Breakout into small groups for interactive discussions
8:00-8:25 PM: Networking and Supporting Each Other
8:30 PM: Event Conclusion.
Save $5 by registering 4 days before the event date.

Women Communicators of Austin (WCA) | September Happy Hour (Wed, September 02, 2026)

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Register Here

Unwind, connect and expand your network at WCA Happy Hour, our signature evening social meetup! This casual gathering is a perfect way to connect with fellow professionals in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

No formal program—just friendly faces, good vibes and meaningful conversation. We hope you'll join us!

Additional Details:

Audience: Open to All, members and nonmembers
Location: Postino (Bryker Woods) 1615 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Date/Time: Wednesday, September 2nd 2026, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Agile Austin Leaders SIG (Fri, September 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Description:
Meetings are meant to create momentum. But in remote, fast-moving organizations, they often create something else: fragmentation, ambiguity, and rework.

***REGISTER***

In this engaging conversation, leadership coach and author Kerri Sutey will share practical insights from her book CLEAR the Way: Saving the World One Meeting at a Time. Drawing on workplace research and real-world examples, she explores why meetings so often feel draining and what small design shifts can turn them into powerful moments of alignment.

This session isn’t about adding more meetings or cutting them all. It’s about intentionally designing clarity so collaboration supports focus rather than competing with it.

Outcomes:
Participants will leave with:

A simple 5-part framework (CLEAR) to evaluate and improve any meeting
One practical shift they can apply immediately in their next meeting
A clearer understanding of how everyday meeting habits quietly shape culture
A lens for protecting focus time while still collaborating effectively

FIESTA Round Rock (Wed, September 09, 2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Welcome to F.I.E.S.T.A. Founders, Investors, Entrepreneurs, Startups, Techies, and Adventures. FIESTA is the heart of Round Rock’s startup community.

Built by founders, for founders, we exist to help founders be seen, connected, resourced, and celebrated. We're not just a Meetup! Join us to see why. Whether you are building, investing, advising, exploring, or simply curious, you belong here.

What FIESTA Is About and Does:

Connection - Round Rock is growing fast, and it can be hard to find your people. FIESTA is a monthly gathering where founders and supporters come together to share ideas, make introductions, and build real relationships over time.

Resources - Many startups struggle not because of a lack of effort, but because of limited access. FIESTA helps bridge that gap by connecting founders to tools, insight, and people who can help move things forward.

A Welcoming Culture - Everyone is welcome here. Background, title, and stage do not matter. What matters is showing up with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to support one another. Meet the Funders: 1-3 VCs, angels, and funders; reverse-pitch their funds. Helping Founders Be Seen by giving them the opportunity to pitch to 100+ attendees and then highlighting them in The FIESTA Focus newsletter, which reaches over 9,000 subscribers. The goal is simple. Help founders build awareness, attract customers, and make meaningful connections. If you are a venture-backed, scalable founder who has attended FIESTA, you are invited to pitch every 6 months.

Celebrating Wins - Entrepreneurship is hard. Progress deserves to be acknowledged. Both big milestones and small wins matter here. When you share your success, you give others hope and momentum. Share your Wins as we enjoy celebrating you.

Monthly FIESTA Agenda

4:00 PM - Doors open and check-in begins. Grab your name tag and start connecting by scanning other name tags.
4:00 to 5:00 PM - Open networking, conversations, and snacks. Pizza and drinks are available until 5:00 PM.
5:00 to 5:30 PM - Welcome, brief announcements, sponsor and funder (VCs, angels, etc.) introductions, followed by 5-10 founders sharing one-minute pitches.
5:30 to 6:00 PM - More networking and time to connect with founders, funders, and fellow attendees.
6:00 PM Event ends. If you want to keep the conversations going, join us for the after-party.
6:00 till : After-party at TBD.

FIESTA Austin (Tue, September 15, 2026)

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Welcome to F.I.E.S.T.A. , short for Founders, Investors, Entrepreneurs, Startups, Techies, and Austin Newcomers. The Heart of Austin’s Startup Community. Built by Founders for Founders: Providing a Competitive Edge through an Engaged Community.

Our mission is focused on five key areas:

Fostering Connections: In Austin’s rapidly growing tech scene, we provide a centralized monthly gathering where like-minded individuals can share ideas, collaborate, help one another, and build lasting relationships.

Providing Resources: Many startups struggle due to a lack of access to essential resources. FIESTA connects startups with the tools and knowledge.

Encouraging a giving and welcoming environment: We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed and empowered regardless of background.

Helping Founders "Be Seen": FIESTA offers founders the chance to pitch their startup to 200+ attendees twice a year, sharing on social media and featuring them in The FIESTA Focus newsletter that is distributed to 7K+. We aim to help you build awareness, attract members, and connect with potential investors and customers. Sign up HERE to pitch if you've attended FIESTA and are a venture backable startup founder.

Celebrating Successes: Entrepreneurship is challenging, and FIESTA believes in celebrating your milestones and wins to keep the community motivated and inspired. Your success and stories inspire us all and should be seen and celebrated. Share your milestones with us HERE!

AGENDA FOR THE MONTHLY MEETUP

5:30 PM Check-in begins, and doors open. Connections happen by scanning the QR code at the entrance and then wearing the name tag.

5:30 - 6:40 PM - Grab your nametag, network, and enjoy the snacks.

Pizza & drinks are served only until 6:35 PM

6:40 –7:15 PM - Announcements, meet the sponsors and funders (angels, VCs, etc.) Then 10 founders share their 1-minute pitches

7:15 - 8:15 PM Network & connect with many unique humans and our pitch presenters.

8:30 PM—Exit the room as the doors must close! If you want to continue visiting, join us at the after-party.

8:30 - 10 PM After-party at Retail Therapy. You must wear your nametag for specials.

FIESTA | Scale Up Bootcamp (Wed, September 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Morrison Foerster, in partnership with FIESTA, is offering ScaleUp Bootcamp in Austin, a complimentary, high-impact program designed for entrepreneurs ready to scale. This curated Bootcamp brings together the most popular and practical sessions from MoFo’s Scaleup Speaker Series into a single, focused experience.

Designed for founders navigating key growth milestones, this Bootcamp offers practical guidance to position companies for continued growth. In just a few hours, founders will gain a clear legal roadmap for launching, funding, and scaling their startups, along with actionable insights to help avoid common pitfalls and maximize the benefits of this founder-driven program. Join us for an evening of expert guidance, meaningful networking, and a complimentary dinner.

Space is limited, and we encourage early registration to take full advantage of this founder-driven program and the opportunity to connect with peers, experienced founders, and Morrison Foerster attorneys.

Topics Included:

Protecting Your IP

Learn the basics of the different types of IP, the importance of proper IP ownership, and when to undertake a Freedom to Operate (FTO) analysis, as well as how to avoid patent and trade secret missteps that may prevent you from protecting your IP.

Raising Capital: Angel & Venture Financing Fundamentals

Learn from a Venture Capitalist the key structures and terms used in seed-stage and venture capital financing. This session covers common angel investment approaches (including convertible notes, equity, and hybrid structures) and introduces the preferred stock terms, capital structures, and deal mechanics that form the foundation of venture capital investments, including term sheets and basic capitalization and liquidation concepts.

Most Common Legal Mistakes Founders Make

A high-level, panel-style discussion between MoFo attorneys on the most common legal mistakes startup founders make, from company formation and stock issuance to IP, employment, and fundraising, and practical guidance on how to avoid them early.

Fireside Chat with a Founder and the Presenting Speakers

To conclude the event, MoFo’s Austin Office Managing Partner Shannon Sibold and FIESTA founder Cherie Werner will moderate a fireside chat with an accomplished founder. Drawing on their combined years of experience, the group will discuss what matters most as companies prepare for a financing round, including connecting with the right investors, preparing for due diligence, and understanding key term-sheet concepts. The conversation will also feature audience questions, both live and prepared.

Agenda

4:00 PM – Registration Opens, Pizza & Networking

4:30 – 7:30 PM– Program

8:00 – 9:00 PM – Optional cocktail meetup at a nearby bar

As this is a co-sponsored event, Morrison & Foerster LLP and FIESTA will each collect your registration data. To learn more about how Morrison & Foerster LLP uses and protects your personal data, please view our Privacy Policy: https://www.mofo.com/about/privacy-policy.

Human Orchestration of Tools and Agents – Beyond the Prototype II — Self-Recursive Agents (Wed, September 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

This session is for builders who have hit the wall with prototype agents that degrade or stagnate. We are going beyond the prototype to tear down a self-evolving agent architecture.

***REGISTER***

Mario will show you how we integrate Structured Experience Learning (SEL), Autonomous Versioning Optimization (AVO), and Human-Agent Collaborative Reinforcement Learning (HACRL) to build systems that actually learn. We’ll look at the honest 2026 line: what works today, what’s aspirational, and the gaps nobody talks about: like memory lifecycle decay, pruning governance, and compute orchestration. Finally, Mario will run a live demonstration of this architecture running on reproducible stack within access to many orgs.

What You’ll Be Able to Do / Learn / Walk Away With

Architect agents that learn from experience using SEL (Structured Experience Learning).
Implement execution telemetry and prompt evolution via AVO (Autonomous Versioning Optimization).
Design a Behavior Registry and Bounded Work Packets to manage task risk and compute orchestration efficiently.
Apply the STE Communication Discipline to ensure agent-to-agent clarity without token bloat.

What Makes This Session Different
No vision decks. We are looking at the architecture, the P&L, and the unit economics of autonomous systems.
We are addressing the hard gaps: FadeMem decay, pruning governance, and the MinionS protocol (achieving 97.9% performance at 18% cost).
This is a live, production-grade system teardown. Mario will show you the exact infrastructure (n8n, Supabase, Qdrant, OpenRouter) that runs MEF Solutions.

Who Is It For
AI engineers and builders who are tired of brittle prototypes and want to deploy resilient, self-improving systems.
Technical founders trying to bridge the gap between AI experimentation and AI operations.
RevOps and GTM leaders who need autonomous architectures to drive actual revenue, not just engagement.

Before You Arrive
Review your current agent architecture and identify where the feedback loops are broken.
Calculate the token cost and failure rate of your most complex autonomous workflow.
Bring your skepticism. We’re going to look at what actually works in 2026.

Instructor Bio

Mario Facussé is the Managing Director of MEF Solutions, where he builds AI-powered revenue systems for growth-stage companies. He designs and operates autonomous agent architectures that self-improve in production; not prototypes, not demos, but systems that run his own company. His work draws from peer-reviewed research in self-evolving agents, collaborative reinforcement learning, and autonomous optimization, implemented on practical infrastructure. He’s spoken at leading AI conferences and events and advises companies on strategy, GTM, operations, revenue, and bridging the gap between AI experimentation and AI
operations.

AWT's September Event: Ask Me Anything with Austin Women in Technology (Thu, September 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Go behind the scenes with the Austin Women in Technology leaders. Ask questions in advance or ask in-person. Learn how they've built their membership to 700 and connected with countless partners and organizations to push their values of connecting, learning, growing and leading.

Beyond its membership, AWT's impact extends into the broader Austin community, hosting 15 events in 2026 to date, drawing over 1,500 event registrations, with a quarter of those being non-members who came seeking connection, career support, and opportunity through AWT. The organization has also been a longstanding partner of the annual InnoTech conference, running the Women In Tech Summit each year that draws over 250 attendees. AWT places female speakers and moderators at their event to ensure female representation across the focus areas of the conference.

Learn about the heart of our organization and leave inspired.

KEY INFORMATION

When: Thursday, September 17th, 5:30-8:00pm
Where: Opportunity Austin: 200 West 6th Street, C Level, Austin TX 78701
Attire: Wear whatever makes you feel good!
Food and Drinks: Light snacks, and drinks will be provided.

EVENT SUPPORTERS

We could not put on excellent events without the support of Sponsors, Community Partners, and Donors.

Huge thank you to Opportunity Austin for hosting this event!

If you're interested in sponsoring future events, please email sponsors@awtaustin.org.

You Me She Fest (Sat, September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

***REGISTER HERE***

Experience an unforgettable day of live music by women across every genre — from R&B, hip hop, and pop to folk and country. The You Me She Festival is your chance to discover the next big female artist in music while celebrating a powerful lineup of voices that inspire, move, and connect us all day long.

September Tactic Tuesday (Tue, September 22, 2026)

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Let’s turn challenges into momentum, together.

KEY INFORMATION

When: Tuesday, Septemer 22, 2026, 6:00 - 8:00pm
Where: Epicor, 807 Las Cimas Pkwy, #400, Austin, Texas 78746
Attire: Wear whatever makes you feel good!
Food & Beverages: Light food and refreshments will be served.

Lonestar Summit (Tue, October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 05:00:00 GMT

REGISTER HERE

We are excited to announce that Austin Women in Technology is partnering with the 2nd edition of Lone Star Cyber Summit!

Returning to Austin, Texas on October 20th - 21st, this must-attend event unites senior IT Security Leaders from across Texas to collaborate and share insights on how to build cyber resilience in a transformed world.

The stellar speaker line-up includes CISOs from major organizations such as @Universal Aviation, @Brinks Home, @Wilsonart and @Red Oak Compliance.

Over 2 days, attendees will benefit from 40+ content-driven sessions addressing key challenges such as:

Defend Against AI-Powered Attacks While Securing AI Governance and Operations

Defend the Modern Attack Surface

Master Governance and Compliance in Cyber Defense

Manage Supply Chain and Third-Party Risk Management

Balance Threat Mitigation with Boardroom Communication & Business Growth as a CISO

Find out more about Lone Star Cyber Summit’s agenda and speaker line-up online at https://lonestar.cyberseries.io/agenda/

As a partner of the event, members of Austin Women in Technology can redeem a complimentary pass with the code “AWT-VIP” at https://lonestar.cyberseries.io/register/ (T&Cs apply).

Secure your complimentary pass online today to earn up to 12 CPD credits for your attendance!

*T&Cs: Complimentary passes can only be redeemed by senior end-users. Individuals who work for cybersecurity solution providers or consultancies do not qualify but can claim a 30% discount with the code “MP30”.

Meridian: Quarterly Showcase of AI in Deep Tech (Wed, October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 21:30:00 GMT

**REGISTER HERE**

Where deep tech meets AI meets the energy transition. Brought to you by Neon Syndicate and the Texas Futures Coalition.

Texas is becoming the center of gravity for the technologies that will define the next century: AI, advanced energy, new materials, agriculture, and the deep tech infrastructure underneath all of it.

Meridian is where that work gets seen and connections are made to unlock growth.

Each quarter, Meridian convenes a focused group of founders, investors, academics, policymakers, and corporate leaders for a curated showcase of the most promising AI and climate-driven deep tech companies coming out of Texas and beyond. A small number of companies present. The rest of the time is for the conversations that move capital, pilots, and partnerships forward.

Presented by Neon Syndicate and the Texas Futures Coalition, Meridian brings together the operators, investors, academics, and policymakers shaping what comes next, including perspectives drawn from the front lines of corporate, venture, startups, national lab research, and the classroom at UT Austin.

Together we're building a stronger ecosystem that can create healthy growth and a more resilient future.

This is not a pitch competition or meetup. It is a recurring reference point for people serious about building the future here.

Future of Communications Conference (Wed, November 11, 2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Where communicators become strategic power players.

***REGISTER HERE****

Global instability is reshaping how organizations operate and respond. AI is no longer an experiment. It’s an expectation. Employees increasingly look to their organizations for clarity, protection and guidance.

Communicators like you stand at the epicenter. The opportunity to influence your organization has never been more available. Step into your power by getting ahead of 2027 now.

The Future of Communications Conference brings together internal and external communications, marketing and HR functions to focus on what’s next: guiding organizations through continuous disruption. This is where the conversation moves beyond merely spotting trends to how best to implement for real business impact.

Join global and national leaders in Austin, Tex. for three days of bold keynotes, hands-on workshops, expert panels and peer-driven discussions designed to prepare you for 2027. You’ll learn leadership strategies and best-in-class practices to lead through uncertainty, guide your workforce through change and elevate your brand across stakeholders, all to prove your value in the moments that matter most.

2026-27 AWT Mentorship Program (Mon, January 11, 2027)

Mon, 11 Jan 2027 23:30:00 GMT

SOLD OUT EVENT - If you registered, please check your emails for updates.

Mentorship Program Overview (August-April)

Pre-Work Orientation Sessions - August
3 in-person sessions with larger group throughout program
1. Opening Kick-off Event - August
2. Mid-Point Event - January
3. Closing Celebration Session Event - April
Cohort Structure for 6 dedicated months groups meet monthly with 2-3 Mentees + 1 Dedicated Mentor per Cohort (between Sept-March)

Program Description:

Program Goals:

Build lasting relationships across professional levels and industries
Support mentees in setting and achieving career goals
Provide mentors with a structured way to give back and invest in the next generation
Foster a culture of growth, clarity, and community

Key Components:

⚠️ Please Note: The program events are for pre-registered participants only. On-site registration will not be available, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Early registration is recommended.

Pre-Work - Orientation Training & Virtual Meeting Q&A (August 24):

Where: virtual links will be provided to registered participants - Save the date
When Monday, August 24th 6-7PM
What: The virtual training session is for questions & answers with the Leadership Team
4 short required training videos will be provided to review ahead of time.

Kick-off Happy Hour (August 31):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, August 31 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: A lively in-person happy hour to welcome participants, introduce mentors, build energy around the program, and give mentees a chance to meet their cohorts in a relaxed, social setting.

Monthly Check-Ins (September - March):

Where and When: Cohorts determine what is best for groups.
Mentors should host at least one check-in session per month with their cohort. These may include group discussions, mini-workshops, office hours, or goal-setting sessions. The format is flexible, but consistency and engagement are key.

Mid-Point Happy Hour (January 11):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, January 11, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: A lively in-person happy hour to bring in the 2nd-half of the program and reconnect participants, build energy around the program, and give mentees and mentors a chance to reset/connect for the spring.

Closing Happy Hour (April 05):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, April 05, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: The program culminates in a celebratory event to acknowledge growth, share takeaways, and strengthen professional networks. Participants may receive certificates of completion or share short reflections from the experience.

2026-27 AWT Mentorship Program (Mon, April 05, 2027)

Mon, 05 Apr 2027 22:30:00 GMT

SOLD OUT EVENT - If you registered, please check your emails for updates.

Mentorship Program Overview (August-April)

Pre-Work Orientation Sessions - August
3 in-person sessions with larger group throughout program
1. Opening Kick-off Event - August
2. Mid-Point Event - January
3. Closing Celebration Session Event - April
Cohort Structure for 6 dedicated months groups meet monthly with 2-3 Mentees + 1 Dedicated Mentor per Cohort (between Sept-March)

Program Description:

Program Goals:

Build lasting relationships across professional levels and industries
Support mentees in setting and achieving career goals
Provide mentors with a structured way to give back and invest in the next generation
Foster a culture of growth, clarity, and community

Key Components:

⚠️ Please Note: The program events are for pre-registered participants only. On-site registration will not be available, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Early registration is recommended.

Pre-Work - Orientation Training & Virtual Meeting Q&A (August 24):

Where: virtual links will be provided to registered participants - Save the date
When Monday, August 24th 6-7PM
What: The virtual training session is for questions & answers with the Leadership Team
4 short required training videos will be provided to review ahead of time.

Kick-off Happy Hour (August 31):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, August 31 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: A lively in-person happy hour to welcome participants, introduce mentors, build energy around the program, and give mentees a chance to meet their cohorts in a relaxed, social setting.

Monthly Check-Ins (September - March):

Where and When: Cohorts determine what is best for groups.
Mentors should host at least one check-in session per month with their cohort. These may include group discussions, mini-workshops, office hours, or goal-setting sessions. The format is flexible, but consistency and engagement are key.

Mid-Point Happy Hour (January 11):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, January 11, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: A lively in-person happy hour to bring in the 2nd-half of the program and reconnect participants, build energy around the program, and give mentees and mentors a chance to reset/connect for the spring.

Closing Happy Hour (April 05):

Where: SKG , 2010 S. Lamar, Suite #125, Austin, TX
When: Monday, April 05, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
What: The program culminates in a celebratory event to acknowledge growth, share takeaways, and strengthen professional networks. Participants may receive certificates of completion or share short reflections from the experience.

Austin Women in Technology upcoming events

Data Centers: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly (Wed, August 19, 2026)

Continued Conversation & Networking

Austin Women in Product Happy Hour Tomorrow (Wed, August 19, 2026)

WIP Austin | August Happy Hour

StartOut & Antler VC | Build with Pride (Thu, August 20, 2026)

2026 Austin Chamber | ATC | State of Tech (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Exploring Innovations Across Neurotechnology, Photonics, Space Tech, & Advanced Hardware

Texas Futures Nuclear Innovation Showcase (Thu, August 20, 2026)

​Agenda:

​Panel: The Texas Nuclear Renaissance

Austin Forum | Book Discussion "Annie Bot" (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Book Discussion of "Annie Bot" by Sierra Greer

REGISTER HERE

Austin STEM Center - Grand Opening (Sat, August 22, 2026)

BookPeople Presents: Brett Hurt - Love Conquers Fear (Sun, August 23, 2026)

Austin Chamber | Beyond the Pitch (Tue, August 25, 2026)

Hear From Venture Capital, Marketing, & Operational Experts

August Tactic Tuesday (Tue, August 25, 2026)

KEY INFORMATION

Austin Technology Council : Workplaces in the AI Era (Wed, August 26, 2026)

Femme Founder Bootcamp S3 Info Session (Wed, August 26, 2026)

DivInc | Founders After Five (Thu, August 27, 2026)

ATX Marketing Innovators Happy Hour (Thu, August 27, 2026)

​​Additional Details

​Event Photography

Sunbeam Hackclub (Sat, August 29, 2026)

REGISTER HERE

Sign up for Hack Club Sunbeam!

2026-27 AWT Mentorship Program (Mon, August 31, 2026)

SOLD OUT EVENT - If you registered, please check your emails for updates.

Mentorship Program Overview (August-April)

Program Description:

Program Goals:

Key Components:

⚠️ Please Note: The program events are for pre-registered participants only. On-site registration will not be available, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Early registration is recommended.

Kick-off Happy Hour (August 31):

Monthly Check-Ins (September - March):

Closing Happy Hour (April 05):

Austin Forum | Silicon, Systems, and Supercomputers (Tue, September 01, 2026)

FIESTA | FoundHERs GatHERing (Tue, September 01, 2026)

Women Communicators of Austin (WCA) | September Happy Hour (Wed, September 02, 2026)

Agile Austin Leaders SIG (Fri, September 04, 2026)

FIESTA Round Rock (Wed, September 09, 2026)

FIESTA Austin (Tue, September 15, 2026)

FIESTA | Scale Up Bootcamp (Wed, September 16, 2026)

Human Orchestration of Tools and Agents – Beyond the Prototype II — Self-Recursive Agents (Wed, September 16, 2026)

What You’ll Be Able to Do / Learn / Walk Away With

What Makes This Session Different

Who Is It For

Before You Arrive

Instructor Bio

AWT's September Event: Ask Me Anything with Austin Women in Technology (Thu, September 17, 2026)

KEY INFORMATION

EVENT SUPPORTERS

You Me She Fest (Sat, September 19, 2026)

September Tactic Tuesday (Tue, September 22, 2026)

KEY INFORMATION

Lonestar Summit (Tue, October 20, 2026)

Meridian: Quarterly Showcase of AI in Deep Tech (Wed, October 21, 2026)

Future of Communications Conference (Wed, November 11, 2026)

Where communicators become strategic power players.

2026-27 AWT Mentorship Program (Mon, January 11, 2027)

SOLD OUT EVENT - If you registered, please check your emails for updates.

Mentorship Program Overview (August-April)

Program Description:

Program Goals:

Key Components:

⚠️ Please Note: The program events are for pre-registered participants only. On-site registration will not be available, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Early registration is recommended.

Kick-off Happy Hour (August 31):

Monthly Check-Ins (September - March):

Closing Happy Hour (April 05):

2026-27 AWT Mentorship Program (Mon, April 05, 2027)

SOLD OUT EVENT - If you registered, please check your emails for updates.

Mentorship Program Overview (August-April)

Program Description:

Program Goals:

Key Components:

⚠️ Please Note: The program events are for pre-registered participants only. On-site registration will not be available, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Early registration is recommended.

Kick-off Happy Hour (August 31):

Agenda:

Panel: The Texas Nuclear Renaissance

Additional Details

Event Photography