Technology conference to create Chicago hospitality jobs

Posted on October 25, 2014

Microsoft Ignite, a new technology conference, will take place in Chicago, creating thousands of Chicago hospitality jobs and and generating more than $47 million in estimated spending.

Microsoft Ignite is a new, signature event for the company, focused on helping businesses succeed in the new era of mobile and cloud computing.

The conference combines five previously separate events and will cover a broad range of important topics for attending technology professionals, including cloud management, big data & analytics, productivity, unified communications, mobile devices and operating systems.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella will deliver the keynote address, joined by many of the company’s top executives and engineers.

“Microsoft’s decision to hold this new technology conference in Chicago reinforces Mayor Emanuel’s and the city’s commitment to technology and innovation,” said Choose Chicago President and CEO Don Welsh. “It also reinforces that the labor reforms and service improvements at McCormick Place are working.”

“Over the last couple of years, Labor and the City have come together to boost the tourism and trade show industry by attracting new shows, restoring partnerships with shows that have left, and focusing our attention on creating a one-of-a-kind visitor experience that will bring more conventioneers and tourists to our world-class city,” said Jorge Ramirez, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor. “We have the most skilled workforce in the country, so this is a tremendous opportunity for us to grow our economy and create additional jobs for the hardworking men and women of the Chicago area.”

“Microsoft’s decision to hold this new technology conference in Chicago reinforces Mayor Emanuel’s and the city’s commitment to technology and innovation,” said Choose Chicago President and CEO Don Welsh. “It also reinforces that the labor reforms and service improvements at McCormick Place are working.”