Sarah Johns
Northern Nevada’s technology and entrepreneurial ecosystem is thriving, and no event captures its energy and momentum quite like the NCET Tech Awards. Now in its 18th year, the NCET Tech Awards return May 20 at the Grand Sierra Resort’s Tahoe Ballroom, where some of the region’s most innovative companies, visionary leaders, and impactful organizations will be recognized for their contributions to our economic growth and community vitality.
Each year, the NCET Tech Awards spotlight the changemakers who are building the future of Northern Nevada through bold ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and commitment to excellence. This year, NCET is especially proud to honor Sierra Nevada Corp., a national defense contractor headquartered in Sparks, for its extraordinary work in national security. SNC is currently playing a pivotal role in equipping and maintaining the U.S. Air Force’s Nightwatch fleet, also known as the “Doomsday planes,” which serve as flying command centers in the event of national emergencies. The company also is leading work on the Survivable Airborne Operations Center aircraft program, a next-generation initiative designed to safeguard U.S. command and control capabilities in high-threat scenarios. SNC’s efforts not only enhance national preparedness but also underscore the high-level defense innovation taking place right here in Northern Nevada.
Innovation isn’t limited to the skies. Right on the ground — and more specifically, in a Northern Nevada facility — a remarkable advancement in robotics is taking shape. Cartwheel Robotics, a local technology company, is being recognized for its development and production of a humanoid robot that represents a leap forward in applied robotics. NCET is thrilled to celebrate Cartwheel’s progress in building this sophisticated machine, which blends artificial intelligence, mobility, and design to create a robot capable of functioning in human environments. The fact that such a breakthrough is being manufactured in our own region speaks volumes about the talent and potential flourishing in our tech community.
Another highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Lithium Loop Award to the University Center for Economic Development. This award recognizes the center’s vital work in helping position the Reno and Carson City Metropolitan Statistical Areas as federally designated Tech Hubs. Through extensive research, strategic coordination, and advocacy, the center played a major role in securing this designation — an achievement that brings national visibility, funding opportunities, and long-term investment to Northern Nevada’s innovation economy. Their success demonstrates how academic institutions can serve as powerful engines for regional development.
But beyond the awards themselves, what makes the NCET Tech Awards so special is the spirit of connection it fosters. The event brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, educators, investors, and public officials for an evening that is both a celebration and a catalyst. Attendees don’t just applaud accomplishments — they engage with the people behind them. The event offers a rare opportunity to meet the minds shaping our region’s future and to discover new partnerships, clients, mentors or even friends.
Whether you’re deeply embedded in Northern Nevada’s tech sector or simply curious about where it’s headed, the NCET Tech Awards is an evening not to be missed. It’s an inspiring glimpse into what’s possible when innovation, community, and commitment intersect – and it’s an invitation to be part of that journey.
Tickets for the event are available now. To join the celebration and connect with some of the brightest minds in Nevada, go to ncet.org/ncet-event-calendar/18th-annual-ncet-tech-awards.
Let’s come together May 20 to recognize the dreamers, doers, and disruptors who are making Northern Nevada a force to be reckoned with.
Sarah Johns is the exiting president and chief executive officer of NCET.