Technological and digital transformation stands as a defining feature of this era. Innovation and research drive a revolution that stirs thought, changes habits, and compels a rethink of everything once taken for granted: how people relate, how information is consumed, how goods are produced, how learning occurs, and even how investments are made.
The rise of new technologies has earned a pivotal place in society, acting as a powerful motor for progress. This momentum pushes governments, businesses, and citizens to strive for better and more capable systems.
Under the hood, research and digital innovation represent commitments by the Community of Madrid and national media in collaboration with major sponsors. The initiative, hosted in the capital, Futures Madrid, forms part of an editorial group’s event cycle this year. It travels across twelve Spanish cities in different autonomous communities, analyzing the opportunities opened up by new technologies.
Teresa Riesgo, general secretary for innovation at the Ministry of Science and Innovation, affirmed that innovation is essential for growth and warned that there is no viable alternative at present. Society must evolve, she emphasized, becoming not only users but developers of technology.
While Spain has progressed from a construction- and hospitality-heavy economy to one where value is created through advanced products and services, leaders acknowledge that the journey remains ongoing. The focus is on driving value, updating how business is done, and expanding opportunities for skilled work.
Risk highlighted the importance of talent creation and the necessity of collaboration and communication. She noted that workers’ understanding of their roles has shifted, and there is a need to empower youth with purpose to encourage study and lifelong learning.
The ministry representative stressed the importance of bridging the gap between talent and demand, working across scientific fields and the business world to create synergistic opportunities. Participation in this transition was described as crucial for progress toward new technological horizons.
Ángel Niño Quesada, council member for innovation and entrepreneurship in Madrid, underscored that technological innovation and scientific development are widely accepted today, yet the digital divide persists for those not yet part of the digital mainstream. Addressing this gap remains a priority for the city council as it seeks to ensure that digital resources are accessible to everyone.
The conversation highlighted the reality that competition is global, not just between countries, and that Spain must continue advancing to remain a reference point in innovation on the world stage.
During the discussion, a representative from Telefónica noted that technology enhances the ability to attract and retain talent. He warned that many countries face vacancies in specialized roles and that a significant portion of companies encounter challenges when filling certain profiles. Motivation and alignment between company needs and employee development were identified as key factors for success, with a call to balance technology as a tool rather than an end in itself.
Auren Consulting emphasized that people should not fear technology but must learn to manage their emotions at the outset. The concern that older generations may perceive technology as a threat to their way of being was acknowledged, along with the need to integrate technology as a core element of life. The conversation also noted that information ages quickly, demanding continuous learning and adaptation.
Before the discussion closed, it was noted that most Spanish firms are small or medium-sized, with a business model that differs from many neighboring countries. The challenge remains to make innovation accessible and practical for these enterprises, while ensuring there are adequate funds to guide the next generation toward technological capabilities.
Authorities stated that the public sector has a responsibility to help businesses join the digitalization journey. They recognized there is a long road ahead to transform not just interactions with citizens but also internal organizational cultures, with ongoing efforts required to meet new digital realities.
Airbus Helicopters Spain shared that innovation is embedded in the company’s DNA, detailing advancements that have made their helicopters more agile and efficient. The discussion highlighted fierce competition across the Atlantic and stressed a commitment to sustainability, signaling a future where aviation aims to be more ecological and responsible.
Other participants discussed the need to understand how technology is changing the work landscape. The time and space for work have shifted, prompting proposals for new employment models that prioritize well-being while embracing flexibility, development, and training. The ongoing challenge is to find a balance between technological tools and human needs.
Conrado Castillo, head of Rooter, reminded the audience that technology is a tool, and effective use depends on understanding its purpose. He urged efforts to make growth, education, and personal development more agile and to create new education models that prepare people for a fast-changing economy.
Belén Espejo argued for ongoing education on technology use within employment, emphasizing that workers should gain autonomy in decision making about when to use certain tools. Francisco Javier Cantera introduced the concept of digital well-being and urged learning how to manage time spent with technology, noting that work life now intertwines with personal life and that disconnection is essential.
A representative from Auren Consulting cautioned against fearing technology while recognizing the need to manage emotions initially. The concern about older generations seeing technology as a distortion of identity was raised, with a call to weave technology into daily life as a core element. Cantera also noted that information ages quickly, making continual learning a necessity for all workers.
Photographs captured a moment where journalists gathered to reflect on the evolving tech landscape and its implications for talent and policy. The conversation also covered data protection as a major challenge facing both companies and individuals, reinforcing the need for awareness of digital security and responsible management of information. The panel stressed that technology should be used ethically, with attention to safeguarding privacy and ensuring safe, responsible use of data across all sectors.
Cantera summarized the shift in how work is perceived: there is no longer a fixed space or time for work, and that rupture calls for new employment models that respect employee well-being while embracing change. Castillo added that teaching people to use technology is not enough; it is essential to teach the purposes behind it and how to apply it effectively. The group agreed that practical, human-centered growth and education models are crucial for unlocking broader innovation.
As the discussion progressed, Espejo highlighted the importance of data protection and digital security awareness. Experts argued for teaching people to work with technology, handle data responsibly, and protect critical business information so that artificial intelligence and other tools can operate safely and productively. The conversation concluded with a shared view: technology is a powerful ally when used thoughtfully, with safeguards that preserve human-centric values. Researchers and industry leaders agreed that continuous learning, informed use, and ethical governance are essential to realizing the benefits of digital transformation for society as a whole, especially within the vibrant context of Spain’s innovation ecosystem.