News Summary
Ben Johnson has been appointed as the new chair of the Lafayette Regional Technology Council, effective May 19, 2025. As the Founder and CEO of Techneaux Technology Solutions, Johnson will lead the effort to enhance the technology ecosystem in South Louisiana. The LRTC aims to strengthen the local tech sector and replicate the success of tech councils in other regions. A critical event is planned for April 24, 2025, to unveil new initiatives and foster collaboration within the tech community, emphasizing the importance of retaining talent in a competitive market.
Lafayette, Louisiana – Ben Johnson has been appointed as the new chair of the Lafayette Regional Technology Council (LRTC), a pivotal role announced on May 19, 2025. As the Founder and CEO of Techneaux Technology Solutions, Johnson brings significant local experience to spearhead the council’s mission to elevate the technology ecosystem in South Louisiana.
The Lafayette Regional Technology Council was established with the goal of strengthening and expanding the area’s technology sector. The council’s primary objectives include developing and retaining talent within the tech industry, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among local technology professionals, promoting Lafayette’s tech capabilities to encourage business growth beyond the region, and advocating for supportive policies that benefit the local tech community.
To achieve these goals, LRTC will be guided by a 15-member Steering Committee comprising technology executives, community influencers, and representatives from educational institutions and economic development organizations. Esteemed members of this committee include Will Labar, Vice Chairman from CGI Federal; Marcus Lyle Brown, a Partner at Digital Twin Studios; John Collier, CTO at VieMed; and Bruce Greenstein, Chief Innovation & Technology Officer at LHC Group, among others. This diverse representation reflects a strong coalition aimed at advancing Lafayette’s tech scene.
Johnson’s appointment is part of a broader initiative to replicate the tech hub success seen in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The inspiration for this movement came during a Leadership Exchange trip to Grand Rapids, during which Louisiana leaders noted the significant role played by a similar technology council in stimulating job growth and innovation in that region.
A critical milestone for the LRTC will be the unveiling of its initiatives during an upcoming event at Innovate South scheduled for April 24, 2025. This event will provide a platform for networking opportunities and feature a panel discussion with members of the LRTC Steering Committee and a guest speaker from the Technology Council of West Michigan.
Johnson expressed confidence in Lafayette’s potential to evolve into a leading tech region comparable to Silicon Valley. He attributes this potential to the area’s talent pool, innovative spirit, and creative workforce. The timing for this growth initiative is particularly relevant given upcoming large business projects, such as the Meta project in Richland Parish, which are set to create numerous IT job opportunities.
In the face of these developments, Johnson emphasized the importance of collaboration and talent preservation within the local tech community, especially as remote work creates a competitive job market. Local companies must demonstrate their value to retain talented employees in an ever-evolving work environment.
Techneaux, Johnson’s company, has witnessed considerable growth starting from a modest garage operation and expanding to nearly 200 employees. The firm has also opened an additional office in Midland, Texas, underscoring the potential for local tech companies to thrive and contribute significantly to the region’s economy.
As Lafayette moves forward with its plans to bolster its technology ecosystem, Johnson’s leadership at the LRTC will be instrumental in fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration that can position South Louisiana as a burgeoning tech hub over the coming years.
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