KC Tech Council Announces Kara Lowe As Next CEO
The Council’s Current Chief Operating Officer to Replace Predecessor Ryan Weber Beginning May 27
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (April 12, 2022) – The KC Tech Council, a regional nonprofit industry association, is pleased to announce it has named Kara Lowe as its next chief executive officer. Lowe, who has served as chief operating officer since 2016, will succeed Ryan Weber as he steps away after more than a decade at the helm of the organization. The transition will become official on May 27, 2022.
Lowe has played a vital role in the KC Tech Council’s growth by cultivating and retaining relationships with member companies and organizational sponsors, who provide the necessary funding to the organization. She is also directly responsible for nearly doubling the number of member companies during her time as COO, which contributed to a 7x growth in revenue during the same time.
“I’m thrilled to lead an organization that is so meaningful to one of Kansas City’s most critical industries,” Lowe said. “Ryan has been a terrific leader and champion of Kansas City’s tech industry, and I’m thankful for his support as I step into my new role. The future of our tech industry has never been brighter, and together with our membership, we’re excited to tell that story.”
Lowe is taking the helm of the KC Tech Council as it focuses on the continued expansion of its Apprenti tech apprenticeship program, which was recently awarded a $550,000 grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce. She’ll continue the Council’s successful policy advocacy work while serving as the “chief connector” of tech leaders in the region.
“It has been my pleasure to have led the KC Tech Council for the last decade, and now it’s my honor to leave the organization in capable hands with a leader who continues to show the dedication necessary to support the future of the organization,” Weber said. “Together we have witnessed and celebrated incredible industry and organizational growth, and I am confident Kara will experience the same support from community and business leaders that I have.”
“On behalf of the KC Tech Council Board of Directors, we are thankful for Ryan’s service, and thrilled to announce Kara as the next CEO of the KC Tech Council,” said Karen Hornig, KCTC board chairperson and CEO of NIPR. “During her time as COO of the KC Tech Council, Kara has demonstrated the necessary experience, leadership and vision to lead the organization to a new level.”
ABOUT KC TECH COUNCIL
The KC Tech Council serves as the regional advocate for Kansas City's tech industry, focused on elevating Kansas City as the leading tech hub of the Midwest. Membership comprises companies ranging from early-stage to enterprise, covering all facets of the tech industry and an abundance of outside industries that bolster its growth. Learn more at www.kctechcouncil.com.