Keynote Speakers Raymond James, Comcast, Gentex to Address Smart Home Innovations at CONNECTIONS™

Keynote Speakers Set for CONNECTIONS™ 2026

The exciting landscape of smart home technology will gather momentum at this year's CONNECTIONS™ conference, running from May 5-7, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency in Santa Clara. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this premier event serves as a pivotal platform for industry professionals to explore the latest trends, innovations, and business opportunities shaping the future of the connected home.

Parks Associates has revealed that a significant 49% of U.S. internet households are now equipped with at least one smart home device, highlighting the growing mainstream adoption of this technology. The conference will feature keynote addresses from three leading companies in the sector: Raymond James, Comcast, and Gentex. Each speaker is set to share their insights on the evolving smart home ecosystem and the integral role it plays in consumer safety, convenience, and energy management.

Who Will Speak?

1. John Mack, Managing Director and Sector Co-Head of Security and Safety at Raymond James, will emphasize how smart home devices enhance security and safety measures, drawing attention to the importance of consumer trust and technology integration.
2. David Puckett, Vice President II at Comcast, will focus on connected devices and their role in enhancing entertainment and customer experience within smart homes. His presentation will offer a glimpse into the future of connected living and the continued expansion of broadband services.
3. Robert Vance, Vice President of New Markets at Gentex, will discuss advancements in smart devices that enhance lifestyle convenience and user interaction, showcasing how innovation drives market growth.

Trends in Smart Home Technology

Parks Associates has conducted extensive research that highlights security, energy efficiency, and convenience as the top factors driving consumer adoption of smart home products. Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein, VP of Marketing at Parks Associates, noted that integrated use cases across various ecosystems are emerging, marking a pivotal shift in how smart technologies are utilized by everyday consumers.

The conference will cover a broad range of topics relevant to the smart home industry, including how leading companies like Amazon, Google, and Apple are competing for market share. Attendees can expect discussions on various product categories, strategies for increasing market penetration, and the implications of connecting home automation with everyday living.

As the conference approaches, interest is building among industry insiders, investors, and technology enthusiasts eager to learn about the innovations that will shape both the connected home landscape and consumer habits in the coming years.

In addition to keynote speakers, CONNECTIONS™ 2026 will feature numerous networking opportunities and breakout sessions with experts from diverse industries such as security, health, energy management, and home automation.

Participants can register for the event via the CONNECTIONS™ website. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the smart home industry, this conference promises valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.

Conclusion

As we look forward to CONNECTIONS™ 2026, it is clear that the convergence of technology, lifestyle, and consumer needs will continue to shape the future of the smart home. With keynotes from industry leaders at Raymond James, Comcast, and Gentex, this year's conference is set to be a landmark event in the evolution of connected living. For further inquiries about attendance or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein at Parks Associates.