IWCA Networking Breakfast at NCA 2027
Friday, March 5, 2027 | 8:00–9:00 AM
NCA Convention | Austin, Texas
Join the International Women's Coffee Alliance for our annual Networking Breakfast at the 2027 National Coffee Association Convention.
Connect with colleagues, industry leaders, and members of the global coffee community for a morning of conversation, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections.
Featured Keynote Presentation
From Crop to Cup: What AI Means for the Coffee Industry
Dr. Balaji Padmanabhan
Associate Dean of Strategic Initiatives
University of Maryland, Robert H. Smith School of Business
From unpredictable weather and shifting global markets to evolving consumer expectations, the coffee supply chain faces a complex set of challenges. How can artificial intelligence help the industry navigate that complexity while delivering the quality, consistency, and variety consumers expect?
Join Dr. Balaji Padmanabhan as he explores the capabilities and opportunities of modern AI across the coffee supply chain, from production to the final cup.
Drawing on 25 years of experience in AI, machine learning, data science, and business analytics, Dr. Padmanabhan will also offer practical considerations for industry leaders navigating AI investment, governance, and workforce management.
Whether you're a producer, importer, roaster, or industry partner, this conversation offers an opportunity to explore how emerging technologies may shape the future of coffee.
About Our Speaker
Dr. Balaji Padmanabhan serves as Associate Dean of Strategic Initiatives, Dean's Professor of Decisions, Operations & Information Technologies, and Director of the Center for Artificial Intelligence in Business at the University of Maryland.
His research focuses on artificial and augmented intelligence solutions that combine data, machine learning, and complex systems modeling to address real-world challenges across business, policy, media, and healthcare.
Register to Attend
Breakfast tickets are available when you register for the NCA 2027 Convention.
We look forward to connecting with you in Austin!
With Appreciation
This event is proudly hosted by the IWCA US Chapter (US Women in Coffee Association). We extend our sincere thanks to the USWIC Event Planning Taskforce for their time, dedication, and thoughtful work in bringing this event together.