Growing Future-Ready Tech Teams: A Conversation on Technology Partners joining forces with Ouellette & Associates

1) Can you give us a glimpse into who Technology Partners is as an organization, based on
your core values and priorities, especially those that have served as the foundation for the
company in recent years?

At Technology Partners, everything we do comes back to people. For the past 30 years, we’ve
built our business on trust, relationships, and a belief that technology should make the world
better. This means showing up, listening, and partnering with our clients to help them grow.
We’re always asking, “How can we make a real difference for our clients and our community?”
That’s been our foundation from day one, and it still drives us today.

2) How has the organization evolved over the past 3-4 years, following the pandemic and
introduction of ChatGPT, in ways that laid the groundwork for the merger with Ouellette &
Associates?

These last few years have been a wake-up call for the whole industry. The pandemic showed us
just how important it is to be agile, and tools like ChatGPT pushed us into a new era of AI and
automation almost overnight. We saw it as an opportunity to lean in—to invest in technologies
like AI and data analytics that help our clients stay ahead.

At the same time, we realized that technology alone doesn’t solve problems—people do.
Companies need strong leaders to navigate all this change. That’s why teaming up with
Ouellette & Associates made so much sense. They bring decades of experience in developing IT
leaders, and together, we’re helping organizations build both the technology and the talent
they need to succeed.

3) Tell us about the decision to partner with Ouellette & Associates. Why is this a strategic
decision for Technology Partners and how will the St. Louis community benefit from the
opportunity?

We’ve always believed that the most successful organizations are the ones with the best
leaders and the best tools. Ouellette & Associates has spent 40 years helping IT professionals
become strategic, influential leaders. By bringing their leadership development expertise
together with our technology solutions, we’re able to offer clients a complete package.
For St. Louis, this means more opportunities to grow strong, future-ready tech teams. When
local businesses thrive, it creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone.

4) How do you see the technology industry changing right now, and what advice would you
offer to other small to mid-size tech companies who are considering their options in staying
competitive in the marketplace?

The tech industry is changing fast—there’s no getting around that. AI, automation, and data-
driven tools are transforming how businesses operate, and companies have to adapt. But here’s
the thing: It’s not just about the technology. It’s about having the right people in place to lead
through all this change.

If I could give one piece of advice, it’s this: Focus on your people. Invest in their development,
build strong leaders, and make sure they have the tools and skills to stay ahead. Also, don’t be
afraid to collaborate. Sometimes, partnering with the right organization can help you scale
faster and fill in gaps where you need it most. The companies that strike the balance between
great technology and great leadership are the ones that will thrive.

5) What is your vision for the St. Louis tech ecosystem in 2025 and how is Technology
Partners actively supporting those efforts?

I believe St. Louis is on the brink of something really special. We have the talent, the leadership,
and the resources to become a tech hub that’s recognized nationally. My vision is for St. Louis
to be known as a place where tech innovation and leadership development go hand in hand.
At Technology Partners, we’re all in on supporting that vision. We’re helping local companies
access the talent and solutions they need to grow while also building up the next generation of
leaders. Programs like TechLX are already helping IT professionals here level up their leadership
skills, and now, with Ouellette & Associates, we’re taking that even further. When St. Louis
companies thrive, the whole community benefits, and we’re proud to be part of that.