Reflections on RECESS24: Building Connections, Creating Opportunities

Reflections on RECESS24: Building Connections, Creating Opportunities

At Arke, we believe that access to mobility is access to opportunity. This belief was at the heart of our experience at RECESS24, a transformative conference that united thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers across the clean energy and mobility sectors.

This wasn’t just an event; it was a powerful reminder of the impact that comes from shared vision and community support. Thanks to the incredible Black Tech Saturdays, led by Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, Arke had the chance to connect deeply with the Detroit community. Their dedication to uplifting innovators and providing visibility for companies like ours is truly inspiring.

A pivotal moment for us was the personal invitation from Carla Walker-Miller, founder of Walker-Miller Energy Solutions and host of the event. Her unwavering commitment to inclusion and equity resonated throughout RECESS24. From the panels to the personal interactions, her vision inspired everyone in attendance. Carla’s belief in the power of diverse voices gave us the platform to share Arke’s mission and connect with leaders who are helping us turn ideas into action.

Special recognition goes to Tim Slusser, the City of Detroit’s Chief of Mobility Innovation; Justine Johnson, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer; and Komal Doshi, VP of Beneficial Electrification and Mobility at Walker-Miller Energy Solutions. These incredible leaders helped foster discussions that have already begun to transform into actionable plans. We’re excited to build on these connections and work toward solutions that expand access to mobility for communities that need it most.

As a company rooted in Chicago, we are deeply humbled by the acceptance and support we’ve received from Detroit’s ecosystem. This kind of regional collaboration is a powerful reminder that when we work together, we can create real, lasting change.

RECESS24 gave us more than just connections—it gave us hope. It reaffirmed our belief that mobility solutions can drive equity, opportunity, and a brighter future. We’re grateful for this experience and excited to continue pushing forward toward our mission with the support of this amazing community.

Thank you to everyone who made RECESS24 a success. Together, we’re driving change—one connection at a time.

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