Registration open for Bryant University World Trade Day May 23

SMITHFIELD – Technology in Global Trade is the theme of World Trade Day 2018 at Bryant University’s Chafee Center for International Business in Smithfield, according to the event website. Roughly 500 attendees are expected to take part in the day of speakers, discussions and networking.

“Participants will hear from keynote speakers who will provide educational insight as well as thought-proving discussions on topics ranging from blockchain technology to mega data,” Ray Fogarty, director of the Chafee Center, said in a statement. Advanced manufacturing and marketing – and technology’s impacts on both – are other topics of discussion, he said.

The day also includes technology showcases and exhibitors.

Information at the World Trade Day is designed to appeal to importers, exporters, businesses, manufacturers and service providers, and sponsors are still sought, according to the website.

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“Companies must strive to keep pace with rapid technological developments, which provide a plethora of opportunities as well as challenges,” said Fogarty. “From self-driving cars to robots, there is much to learn and embrace.”

Keynote speakers are Joe Brusuelas, a former Bloomberg senior economist now chief economist at RSM, an international network of accounting and advisory firms; and Sudhir Jha, global head of product management and strategy with Infosys. Based in India, the tech services and consulting company has committed to build a design and innovation hub in Providence.

Brusuelas and Jha both also hold breakout sessions, along with speakers such as Christian Cowan of Polaris MEP of Providence; Chris Demchak of the Center for Cyber Conflict Studies at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport; Anthony Baro of PowerDocks in Newport; Marc Ranaldi of SecurityRI in North Providence; and many more.

Breakout session topics include cryptocurrency, cybersecurity and tech impacts on global supply chains, among other subjects.

The all-day event is the 33rd annual World Trade Day at Bryant.

Susan Shalhoub is a PBN contributing writer.