FlagshipKansas.Tech announced today that Salim Ismail, globally recognized innovation strategist and bestselling author, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Ad Astra Technology Summit. The award-winning one-day conference is set to return for its fourth year on June 4, 2026, and it will be hosted in Wichita with event partner Barton School of Business at Wichita State University’s iconic Woolsey Hall. 

Ismail is the Chairman of OpenExO, bestselling author of Exponential Organizations and ExO 2.0, Founding Executive Director of Singularity University, former Vice President at Yahoo, and a Board Member of the XPRIZE Foundation. He is widely regarded as a leading voice on exponential growth, emerging technologies, and the organizational models shaping the future of business.

“At a time when artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping every industry, Salim Ismail brings both a global perspective and a practical framework for action,” said Megan Harper, FlagshipKansas.Tech Board Chair. “His work helps leaders move beyond incremental change and build organizations designed for speed, scale and impact. We’re excited to bring that level of insight to the Kansas tech community.”

At the 2026 Ad Astra Technology Summit, Ismail will deliver a two‑session keynote experience, with each session featuring a 45‑minute keynote followed by a 30‑minute interactive workshop. The combined sessions will explore:

• Disruptive convergence, examining how advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, biotech and other emerging technologies are intersecting and accelerating change
• The principles of exponential organizations, and how leaders can apply those attributes within established companies and growing startups
• Practical strategies for building an AI‑ready culture that enables adaptability, innovation and long‑term growth

Unlike a traditional keynote, Ismail’s sessions are designed to equip attendees with actionable frameworks and tools they can apply immediately within their organizations. Select sponsors and VIP attendees will take part in an exclusive small group discussion with Ismail following the two keynote and workshop sessions. 

The Ad Astra Technology Summit is FlagshipKansas.Tech’s annual signature event, bringing together technology professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, executives, and policymakers to explore innovation, workforce development, and the future of technology in Kansas. Past keynote speakers have included Steve Wozniak and Bill Nye, reflecting the summit’s commitment to accessible, high‑impact thought leadership.

The 2026 summit will continue that tradition, offering a full day of programming focused on industry, education, startups, and workforce development, with Ismail’s keynote anchoring the event.

Tickets for the summit will go on sale April 10, 2026. Sign up at adastrasummit.tech to receive event alerts and updates. FlagshipKansas.Tech members receive discounted admission, and special rates are available for educators.