At NExT – Network for Excellence in TechLaw, we believe the future of law, technology, and business will be shaped by the leaders who are developing their skills, perspectives, and networks today. The NExT Generation Initiative, launching in 2025, is designed to create meaningful pathways between academic institutions, emerging professionals, and the industries transforming the legal and technology landscape.

This initiative was founded on a simple but powerful principle: talent exists everywhere, but access to opportunity does not always follow. Many students and early professionals interested in fields such as legal technology, policy, cybersecurity, data governance, privacy, legal operations, and compliance often struggle to understand how to navigate the professional ecosystem or connect with mentors and organizations that can accelerate their careers. NExT Generation seeks to close that gap by creating a structured community where mentorship, knowledge sharing, and professional exposure happen intentionally.

The Purpose of the NExT Generation Initiative

The purpose of the NExT Generation Initiative is to build a sustainable pipeline of talent into the legal technology ecosystem by connecting three key stages of professional development: university students, law school students, and early to mid level professionals. Each stage represents a critical point in the journey toward leadership, and by bringing these perspectives together, NExT fosters a community where experience, insight, and opportunity are shared across generations.

Through this initiative, NExT aims to:

• Provide students and emerging professionals with access to mentorship and career guidance

• Create opportunities for direct engagement with industry leaders and practitioners

• Support professional development and leadership growth

• Strengthen connections between academic institutions and the professional community

• Build a national network committed to excellence, innovation, and opportunity in TechLaw

The initiative reflects NExT’s broader belief that preparing the next generation of professionals requires more than academic training. It requires exposure to real-world challenges, access to experienced mentors, and a community that encourages ambition, curiosity, and leadership.

Programming and Engagement

The NExT Generation Initiative brings this vision to life through programming that connects emerging talent with leaders across the legal and technology sectors.

Mentorship and Professional Guidance
Participants will have opportunities to engage with professionals across the TechLaw ecosystem, including attorneys, technologists, consultants, compliance professionals, and corporate leaders. These relationships help provide guidance on career navigation, skill development, and professional decision-making.

Educational Conversations and Industry Programming
Through fireside chats, panel discussions, and educational events, participants will gain exposure to the issues shaping the future of law and technology. Topics may include artificial intelligence, data governance, privacy, cybersecurity, regulatory policy, and the evolving role of technology in legal practice.

Networking and Relationship Building
NExT Generation also creates opportunities for students and professionals to connect with peers and leaders from across institutions and industries. These interactions help cultivate a collaborative community where members support one another’s growth and advancement.

Leadership Development Opportunities
Participants will have opportunities to contribute ideas, collaborate on initiatives, and take part in programs that develop leadership skills and professional confidence. By encouraging active participation, NExT Generation empowers emerging professionals to help shape the future of the TechLaw community.

Looking Forward

The legal industry is evolving rapidly as technology continues to reshape how legal services are delivered, regulated, and experienced. Preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate this transformation requires thoughtful collaboration between academia, industry, and professional communities.

Through the NExT Generation Initiative, NExT is investing in the people who will drive that change. By connecting students, emerging professionals, and experienced leaders, the initiative aims to ensure that the future of TechLaw is guided by talent, innovation, and a commitment to expanding opportunity.

The next generation of leadership is already emerging. NExT Generation exists to help ensure that they have the access, support, and community needed to thrive.

Meet A Few Of The NExT Generation Members: Nadjia, Kristen, and Serah