Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft Corporation, to Headline NCTA Conference in Charlotte

Conference to Focus on Utilizing Technology to Drive Change and Innovation
RALEIGH, N.C. & CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(Business Wire)--
The North Carolina Technology Association (NCTA), the primary voice of the
technology industry in North Carolina, today announced that Steve Ballmer, CEO
of Microsoft Corporation, will headline its 2009 Charlotte Conference titled
"Leaders Driving Change Through Technology: What`s Next?". The event, presented
in partnership with the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, will be held Friday, June
19 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hilton Charlotte Center City.

The conference will feature technology and business leaders who will share
insights into the future of IT, the importance of innovation in maintaining a
competitive market position as well as the tools needed to effectively thrive
and lead through times of change. In addition, a panel discussion will focus on
the impact and opportunities that the stimulus plan presents for technology.

"We are pleased to partner with NCTA to bring together some of the most talented
and influential leaders in technology and business," said Keva Walton, senior
vice president, Member Value Strategic Partnerships and Diversity at the
Charlotte Chamber of Commerce. "This event will offer attendees the opportunity
to share knowledge and discuss strategies for thriving during times of change."

Confirmed event speakers include:

* Steve Ballmer, CEO, Microsoft Corporation
* Dr. Mirsad Hadzikadic, Director, North Carolina Complex Systems Institute (in
formation), University of North Carolina at Charlotte
* Stimulus Panel featuring Dempsey Benton, Director, Office of Economic Recovery
& Investment, State of North Carolina, Ron Kimble, Deputy City Manager, City of
Charlotte and Kevin Beasley, Partner, Grant Thornton LLP

"Technology is driving change and with that, businesses must maintain a
competitive edge by leveraging innovative technology and effective leadership,"
said David Jones, NCTA`s chairman of the board. "This event will provide an
excellent way to exchange ideas on how to best handle these changes and further
demonstrate North Carolina`s commitment to technology, education and
leadership."

About NCTA

The North Carolina Technology Association`s mission is "Making North Carolina #1
in Technology and Technology #1 in North Carolina."The organization does this
through three main focus areas: executive engagement, public affairs, and
knowledge workforce.For more information, visit our website at
www.nctechnology.org.

DPR Group
Megan Johnson, 919-678-9200
mjohnson@dprgroup.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009