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DesignCon Taps NASA, Purdue, and Agentrys for Keynote Slate
The annual three-day event will feature leading experts discussing quantum networking, AI-enabled chip design, and technology innovations driving NASA's exploration goals.
Published on Feb. 19, 2026
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DesignCon, the premiere event for the latest in high-speed design tools, technologies, and developments, has announced the keynote speakers for the 2026 edition. The event will feature presentations from Joseph Lukens of Purdue University on quantum networking, Mark Ren of Agentrys on agentic AI for chip design, and Bhanu Sood of NASA Goddard Space Flight Center on technology innovations enabling NASA's science and exploration objectives.
Why it matters
DesignCon is a leading industry event that brings together top experts to discuss the latest advancements in electronics design. The diverse keynote lineup covers critical topics shaping the future of engineering, from the quantum internet to AI-powered hardware design to cutting-edge space technology. These insights will help drive innovation and collaboration across the high-speed communications and semiconductor communities.
The details
On day 1, Lukens will discuss the evolution of quantum networking, tracing its progress from quantum theory to commercial applications like quantum key distribution, and outlining the vision for a 'quantum information superhighway.' On day 2, Ren's keynote will explore how agentic AI is transforming hardware design, from autonomous repair of RTL syntax errors to full RTL design generation. Closing out the event on day 3, Sood will provide an in-depth look at the electronics innovations enabling NASA's exploration and science goals, including autonomous navigation, high-performance onboard computing, and miniaturized sensing.
- The DesignCon 2026 event will take place over three days.
- Joseph Lukens will present on day 1.
- Mark Ren will present on day 2.
- Bhanu Sood will present on day 3.
The players
Joseph Lukens
Associate Professor at Purdue University School of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Mark Ren
Founder at Agentrys.
Bhanu Sood
Chief Technologist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.
Suzanne Deffree
VP and Group Portfolio Lead, Manufacturing by Informa.
What they’re saying
“DesignCon has always been a hub for innovation, and this year's keynote lineup is a testament to the incredible advancements shaping the future of engineering and technology.”
— Suzanne Deffree, VP and Group Portfolio Lead, Manufacturing by Informa (DesignCon)
The takeaway
DesignCon's diverse keynote speakers will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the latest breakthroughs in quantum networking, agentic AI for chip design, and technology innovations driving NASA's exploration goals. These insights will inspire new ideas and collaborations to advance the future of electronics design.
