Get up and geek out early this Sunday morning (5/19) as TechVibe Radio brings you a front row seat to Automate 2024 in Chicago. Automate is the world's leading robotics and automation trade show featuring companies and innovation from around the world. Pittsburgh's robotics industry made a big splash this year with the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN), Pittsburgh Regional Alliance and ARM Institue banding together to showcase our region and companies. TechVibe CoHost Jonathan Kersting was on the scene talking to the PRN and local robotics/automation companies, including Titan Robotics, Voaige, Lucas Systems, GrayMatter Systems and Advanced Construction Robotics! Tune in and get your inner robotic geek on! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Manoj Mishra of CGI's Pittsburgh office steps up to the One Mic Stand to talk about some of the big picture trends around the business impact of artificial intelligence. Manoj is a nationally recognized expert and thought leader on the business adoption of AI and discusses: AI adoption and its impact on jobs. (2:49) AI's impact on content creation, including legal challenges. (7:52) AI-generated content, its potential impact on society, and the future of customer service. (10:47) AI ethics and responsible use in Pittsburgh. (16:23) Listen, learn and have a little fun riding the wave of AI transformation in business! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Listen to Tech Vibe Radio this Sunday (5/12) as the Neighborhood Tour continues at the Huntington Bank Branch in Sewickley. We're featuring Sewickley Academy, Pittsburgh's longest-standing independent coeducational school. Learn how the school is distinguished by not only its rigorous academics and outstanding faculty, but also by its student-centered approach to teaching and learning. Discover how its new Computer Science curriculum reaches every child and allows for a rich and meaningful exploration of computational thinking and STEM in robust and unique ways. Sewickley Academy is dedicated to connecting its students to the Computer Science and STEM ecosystem in the greater Pittsburgh region. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Dipan Pal of Voaige talks to TechVibe Radio's Jonathan Kersting about his company's advanced vision systems to automate quality inspection and robotic pick pack challenges, that were previously impossible to address. Voaige works with system integrators to deploy robotic automation (pick, pack, sort from a pile), and with end users directly to deploy visual quality inspection & data analytic solutions. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Thaddeus Magyar and Alex Klinger of Titan Robotics talk to TechVibe Radio's Jonathan Kersting at Automate 2024 about pushing the boundaries of state-of-the-art technologies to deliver flexible intelligent robotic solutions. Its core software technology can be used to dynamically plan and control multi-axis robotic systems with unique hardware configurations for any surface process application. Fielded applications include painting, sanding, cold spray, laser depaint, taping, drilling, defastening, and various NDI technologies. Website www.titanrobots.com   This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

John Vescio of Lucas Systems talks to Jonathan Kersting of TechVibe Radio about influx of automation in the warehouse and manufacturing floor. Lucas Systems helps companies transform their distribution center operations and continuously adapt to changing market dynamics. It dramatically increases worker productivity, operational agility, and customer satisfaction. Its solutions are built on 23-plus years of deep process expertise and smart software using AI and voice technologies. Its solutions feature Jennifer™, the brain, voice, and orchestration engine that drives performance improvement gains. Website http://www.lucasware.com   This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Listen to Alan Hinchman of GrayMatter Systems detail how the company provides critical infrastructure environments with data driven, process automation solutions to both optimize operations, and ensure safe, reliable performance. Through a combination of industry-leading technologies, coupled with our deep subject matter expertise and proven track record of delivering solutions, we help you improve on your mission by reducing costs, improving monitoring and intelligence, and securing your systems from both environmental and intentional threats. Website https://graymattersystems.com/   This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Stephen Muck of Advanced Construction Robotics talked with TechVibe Radio's Jonathan Kersting at Automate 2024 to tell hime more about the company and why they were at the conference this year. Advanced Construction Robotics is a world-leading innovator of autonomous robotic equipment. Our robots are transforming the construction industry by filling the skilled labor gap and increasing overall productivity of the construction industry. Our products give construction firms the ability to meet a rapidly growing demand. Website: https://www.constructionrobots.com   This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Listen to Jenn Apicella of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) at Automate 2024 for a low down on the Pittsburgh robotics industry's presence at the worlld's leading robotics and automation conference. The PRN spearheaded a unified presence and booth at the conference for the world to meet and learn more about industry. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Advancing standards and technology products since 2004, Johnstown-based Problem Solutions' deep experience shows us that the place where the physical and digital intersect has the largest ability to impact the world in positive ways. With Mike Hruska at the helm, Problem Solutions has stayed committed to accelerating technology and strategies that drive real results. Mike steps up to the One Mic Stand with Brooks Canavesi to talk about its first product SaleSage. SaleSage was orginally developed as an inhouse tool bring the power of AI to make Problem Solutions' sales proceses streamlined and more robust. As SalesSage was demoed to a few current customers/partners they witnessed firsthand the power of the technology and became customers of the product. It didn't take long for Mike and the team turn it into its first product available to every business. Listen and learn how SaleSage is empowering sales efforts and effectiveness. Learn more at https://salesage.ai/. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

CoSage Founder Patrick Colletti is one of the Pittsburgh region's most notable tech entrepreneurs having led Net Health to significant growth over more than 20 years. Tune in to TechVibe Radio's Neighborhood Tour at the Huntington Bank Branch in Sewickley to learn about Patrick's newest venture CoSage. He details how real change requires team members with new eyes, fresh ears and a dose of associative thinking! Organizations deploy CoSage, as a force multiplier to align, grow and scale. Tune in and get all Sewickley geeky with us! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Donald Racey founded ENGAGE Energy & Industrial Consulting in 2015 and brings the unique ability to guide organizations through large-scale transformation and operational excellence initiatives. Don is the primary architect behind ENGAGE’s innovative project implementation approach, and he is a passionate advocate for socially conscious and sustainable business processes. ENGAGE Energy & Industrial Consulting delivers and implements proven practical solutions to improve the financial and operational efficiency of energy and industrial organizations. We are seasoned professionals dedicated to helping energy and industrial companies re-imagine ways to drive value and profitability. By providing deep industry perspective, insightful advice, and continuous support, Don and his team create value out of risk, and show you how to reduce costs, improve productivity and increase profits through our process. In this episode Doin steps up to the One Mic Stand for a primer and resources on ESG. Key takeaways include: Sustainability and environmental practices in the tech industry. (0:01) ESG reporting requirements for companies, with focus on small and mid-sized businesses. (7:31) ESG compliance and federal funding for Appalachian manufacturers. (11:45) ESG practices in business, including the importance of documenting and reporting progress. (16:46) Learn more at https://engageeic.com/. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Small business owners know better than anyone the importance of being flexible to meet the needs of their customers. Whether meeting with clients in the office or out in the field, working remotely, or-on-the go, constant connectivity and collaboration is more important than ever before. So, what does this mean for small businesses?     Connections matter, but it’s not just about networking with the right people. Success depends on having the right technology that lets businesses seamlessly connect with customers, suppliers, and employees.     To offer guidance to our local small businesses here in Pittsburgh this National Small Business Week (April 28 - May 4, 2024), Vedran Ruzic, Director, Comcast Business, Keystone, steps up to the One Mic Stand to detail  steps every small business owner should follow to ensure they are creating the right connections – and giving their business the best chance to succeed.   Want to learn more? Keep reading below!      Step 1: Get Online  The first step for most small businesses is to simply to set up an Internet connection. The specific connectivity needs—such as the amount of bandwidth or mobile solutions—will vary from business to business. For instance, a small office with a handful of employees likely has very different bandwidth and connection needs than a 100-seat restaurant with a state-of-the-art point-of-sale (POS) system and a robust Wi-Fi network for its patrons to peruse while dining.    Step 2: Add More Layers of Technology  A speedy and reliable Internet connection can help support a broad range of powerful, business-grade technology tools that can give companies insights into how to run their business more efficiently.    For example, a retailer might use Wi-Fi-enabled data analytics tools to understand customer foot traffic patterns in brick-and-mortar store locations. This can provide insights into peak traffic periods and areas of interest to consumers within the store while also enabling the retailer to make smarter decisions around everything from staffing to inventory management.    Step 3: Lock up Critical Data  Data security should always be a top focus. After all, it’s not just big companies fraudsters are targeting. According to the 2023 Comcast Business Small Business Cybersecurity Report, the company blocked more than 390 million phishing attacks targeting small businesses in the second quarter of 2023.      As a first line of defense, small businesses should make sure their Internet provider offers security solutions that help protect devices on the network from threats like malware, phishing scams, ransomware, and botnet attacks. And don’t forget about mobile devices and smartphones both of which can present a security risk that should be factored into the overall cybersecurity plan.    Step 4: Leave Room for Growth  As small businesses grow, expand, and enter new markets, they need a technology infrastructure that can keep pace. That’s why businesses need to ensure the technology they choose is flexible and compatible across multiple locations and can be monitored centrally. The right connectivity partner can help manage that growth, whether for a restaurant with multiple locations or a company with a broadly distributed workforce.    Step 5: Select a Strong Mobile Phone Provider   Choosing the best business mobile partner is different than selecting a personal mobile provider. The top factors small businesses should consider include:  ·       Flexibility: A good mobile provider offers flexibility in their plans, allowing small businesses to customize based on their business requirements. That flexibility should extend beyond the original purchase and scale and flex to toggle, mix, and match between unlimited or by-the-gig data options. Importantly, find providers that give more savings as the company grows, with discounts that increase as more lines are added. ·       Device compatibility and availability: A mobile partner should offer a wide range of devices to meet specific technology needs since no two small businesses are the same. Whether the company needs tablets, phones, smart watches, hot spots, or a combination of them all, a good partner can work to select the specific devices that meet individual businesses requirements.     While National Small Business Week is a time to recognize the impactful work of small businesses in the Pittsburgh region, it is also a great time to share resources and knowledge to better support these organizations. By following these steps, small businesses can build the foundation for success now and into the future.   Interested in learning more about how Comcast Business can help businesses across the Pittsburgh area stay connected? Visit Comcast Business - Official Site to learn more. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

The TechVibe Neighborhood Tour (TNT) kicks off this Sunday (4/28) at the Huntington Bank in Sewickley! Our first guest is Sewickley-based CUSTOS IQ, an Offensive Cybersecurity organization, providing MSSP Services, Security Assessments, Large-Scale Data-Center Consulting and Market leading API Security Tools. Tune in to learn how CUSTOS IQ's organization wide, forward defense philosophy is aimed at managing customer risk, proactively preventing intrusion, maximizing productivity and decreasing downtime. Plus learn how Huntington Bank has become a pillar in the Sewickley Valley. The Sewickley TNT will feature CoSage on 5/5 and Sewickley Academy on 5/12, so keep tuning in!​ This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

S&B USA boasts a 75-year history of successfully delivered heavy civil development and construction projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. In the past decade, Its growth has allowed it to tackle bigger projects than ever before, and it is currently spearheading two Mega P3 projects: the largest bundled bridge project delivered under a P3 agreement (PennDOT Major Bridges) and the first green-financed, split delivery, large-scale flood protection resiliency P3 (Fargo-Moorhead Flood Diversion Channel). S&B currently operates as the United States entity of its multi-domestic parent company, Shikun & Binui Ltd. With its Pittsburgh presence growing, Haggai Dror and Grant Irvine stepped up to the One Mic Stand to tell us more about S&B's growth and detail some of the amazing construction projects here in Pittsburgh and beyond. Hear Haggai and Grant discuss: Shikun & Binui's history, from infrastructure development in Israel to international expansion. (3:40) Infrastructure growth and projects in Pittsburgh. (11:43) Infrastructure upgrade, sustainability and technology adoption. (14:55) Infrastructure investment and safety upgrades for bridges and ports. (18:19) A significant flood diversion channel project in Fargo, North Dakota. (21:45) This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

PeopleOne Health aims to set a new standard in healthcare delivery that removes administrative waste and safeguards highly personalized doctor-patient relationships. It combines enhanced primary care, lifestyle coaching, pharmacy consultation and additional support to meet the majority of Americans' typical healthcare needs all for a single monthly fee and no out-of-pocket cost. PeopleOne CEO and CoFounder Jordan Taradash steps up to the One Mic Stand to detail: Disrupting healthcare with a direct pay model. (0:05) Revolutionizing healthcare with personalized, tech-enabled primary care. (5:08) Healthcare economics and self-insurance for employers. (8:36) Primary care health centers offering comprehensive care teams and proactive engagement. (11:53) Healthcare system, data analysis, and preventive care. (16:19) Jordan holds a BS in finance from The Pennsylvania State University, and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Pittsburgh. His primary role is to drive a positively disruptive vision that meets the needs and goals of all of PeopleOne's stakeholders. "There is a deep and rapidly transforming relationship between organizations and the people who power those organizations. We are here to maximize the value both parties realize in that relationship." This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Cyburgh is set for May 1, convening top cybersecurity thought leaders and practitioners for a full day of mindsharing and know how. Ethical Intruder Founder David Kane stops by TechVibe Radio this Sunday to preview Cyburgh and what's on tap for Pittsburgh's biggest cybersecurity event. David is one of the nation's recognized cybersecurity experts and provides key insights into local hiring trends across the the cybersecurity industry. David says companies need to look at a candidate's passion and ethusiasm for problem solving and lifelong learning more than just being a perfect technical and experience fit. So much to learn, so get your cyber geek on with us! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

When Broadcom finalized it acquisition of VMware late in 2023, industry experts raised concerns about innovation and customer choice. VMware's software stack has served as one of the most trusted foundations of private and hybrid clouds. Expedient's AJ Kuftic stops by TechVibe Radio this Sunday (4/14) to shed more light on what the acquisition means for current VWware users or those looking to spin up new cloud solutions. There are a lot of options and AJ has plenty of insight to guide you. So tune in get all VMware geeky with us! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

John Santore steps up to the One Mic Stand to tell us Kratos' approach to guide customers through the compliance process every step of the way. Kratos is a seasoned provider of cybersecurity services encompassing compliance and certification, risk management, operations, and engineering. An authorized Third Party Assessment Organization for CMMC (C3PAO) and FedRAMP (3PAO), Kratos provides comprehensive services to facilitate a broad spectrum of compliance requirements. Kratos cybersecurity services support the development and operation of proactive cybersecurity programs, the development of enterprise cloud security strategies, and the establishment of sound and practical information security architectures. With deep roots in Pittsburgh's tech ecosystem going back to the 1990s, John is an industry expert and knows a thing or two about scoring a boxing match. You gotta listen to learn! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

SKA Robotics and Hellbender, Inc. are excited to announce that SKA Robotics has opened a new office inside Hellbender’s Harmarville, Penn., headquarters as part of a larger strategic partnership. The close collaboration means that customers can now go from idea to working prototype to production-volume manufacturing, all under one roof, with teams that routinely and deeply partner to solve the most complex robotics challenges. The companies aren’t new to each other; Hellbender holds a seat on SKA Robotics’ advisory board, which is filled by their CEO, Brian Beyer. “Brian is a great human being and an asset to the robotics community. The opportunity to embed and partner more deeply with Hellbender is wonderful,” said SKA Robotics CEO Spencer Krause. “We strive to work with the best. Hellbender is unmatched in computer vision and has a great culture. Their commitment to high-quality robotic manufacturing in the U.S. is closely aligned with our company values.” “Finding strong expertise in mechatronics and field robotics, and the know-how to architect, design, and build robots for harsh and unpredictable environments is a challenge,” said Brian Beyer, Hellbender’s CEO. “Having SKA virtually in our back pocket will enable us to more readily serve our customers’ need for robotic contract engineering that falls outside of Hellbender’s strategic focus.” Customers of both firms will now have access to a wider range of expertise, accelerating innovation and decreasing time to market, all without having to search out yet another team, work to build trust, and learn to collaborate effectively. SKA brings expertise in field robotics from the idea-to-light-manufacturing phases, while Hellbender offers world-class computer vision expertise, an impressive electronics IP portfolio, and high-volume manufacturing capabilities. Colocation fosters even greater cross-pollination between two elite engineering teams.  In other news, SKA also announced today it has changed its name from SKA Custom Robots & Machines to SKA Robotics. This new name firmly codifies the company’s focus on robotics rooted in deep expertise and a long history of providing engineering services to the robotics market. “We’re drawing a line in the sand,” says Krause. “We’re a robotics company first and an engineering services firm second.” About SKA Robotics SKA Robotics is a company based in Pittsburgh with a history of solving difficult robotics engineering problems. The SKA team has worked on robotic construction and mining vehicles, industrial maintenance robots, utility inspection robots, and more. Learn more at www.skarobotics.com. About Hellbender Hellbender is a robotics benefit corporation based in Pittsburgh that creates computer vision solutions for industrial and commercial applications. Hellbender offers products and computer vision as a service (CVaaS) systems for applications in inventory management, street mapping, electric utilities, food service, pharmacies, mobile robotics, and athletics, among others. Learn more at www.hellbender.com. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Zscaler’s Chris Louie steps up to the One Mic Stand to talk about a veritable buffet of cybersecurity trends. From what's driving the boom in cyber fraud, the latest on ransomware, AI to create new hacks and crazy instances of cars being hacked, press the play button. Zscaler accelerates digital transformation so that customers can be more agile, efficient, resilient, and secure. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange protects thousands of customers from cyberattacks and data loss by securely connecting users, devices, and applications in any location. Zscaler Customer Success Resources: https://customer.zscaler.com/ Fun links to topics Chris discusses on the One Mic Stand: FCC reports $10 billion in US Consumer losses for 2023: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/02/nationwide-fraud-losses-top-10-billion-2023-ftc-steps-efforts-protect-public US FBI reports $12.5 Billion in losses: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/fbi-us-lost-record-125-billion-to-online-crime-in-2023/ What is a pig butchering scam? https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-pig-butchering-scam/ How to spot and avoid online scams: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scam Ransomware gangs agree not to attack healthcare during the global pandemic: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/ransomware-gangs-to-stop-attacking-health-orgs-during-pandemic/ Ransowmare cripples Chicago children’s hospital: https://apnews.com/article/lurie-childrens-chicago-hospital-cyberattack-47faaf1c3bc93f88776c5017864dcb6e Jeff Bezos phone hack: https://www.wired.com/story/bezos-phone-hack-mbs-saudi-arabia/ https://apnews.com/article/jeff-bezos-hacking-ap-top-news-politics-united-nations-2a3bf37ac45d9c8693a84ead9cb95ac3 Apple Lockdown Mode: https://support.apple.com/en-us/105120 Wired reporter drives a Jeep and gets hacked: https://www.wired.com/2015/07/hackers-remotely-kill-jeep-highway/ RF Repeater attacks against cars: https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/04/crooks-are-stealing-cars-using-previously-unknown-keyless-can-injection-attacks/ Tesla phishing attack: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/mitm-phishing-attack-can-let-attackers-unlock-and-steal-a-tesla/ This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

We all know Pittsburgh is home to a lot of firsts, but did you know that The Motherhood was one of the world's first influencer marketing agencies? Cooper Munroe, CEO of The Motherhood Inc., founded the agency nearly 20 years ago, after discovering the power of blogging to help victims of Hurricane Katrina! Needless to say, Cooper is an award-winning influencer marketing expert with 30 years experience working in public relations and marketing for the world’s leading agencies, consumer brands and non-profits. Tune in to TechVibe Radio this Sunday and learn how she founded and grew the Motherhood. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

The Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Institute Pathways Fellowship is an immersive program crafted to empower entrepreneurs within the domains of robotics, manufacturing, and automation. Scheduled to run from August 19, 2024, to May 15, 2025, The Pathways Fellowship blends essential components- including financial support, academic opportunities from Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), mentorship, and off campus supplemental opportunities- to ensure aspiring founders have the skills and supports needed to succeed. This program was created to elevate marginalized entrepreneurs within robotics, and it encourages BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals and women to apply. Pathways Fellowship Director Corey Turner gives us an overview of the program and a behind-the-scenes look at the first group of fellows. Learn more at: https://roboticsfellowship.com/. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

The Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) represents the companies and leaders who make up the Pittsburgh robotics ecosystem, which is anchored by Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and driven by 100+ robotics organizations, including the worldwide leaders in autonomous vehicle development.  Jenn Apicella details the PRN's mission to accelerate the adoption of robotic solutions by bridging this large and dynamic community to the world. It does this by making connections, expanding our collective knowledge, and positively influencing the development and adoption of robotic and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.  The PRN brings enhanced visibility to southwestern Pennsylvania’s robotics community, distinguishing it as the Robotics Capital of the World and a recognized leader in equal opportunity and economic development. Pittsburgh is one of the few cities where robotics leaders can meet face-to-face to influence the direction of the industry. The PRN facilitates connections between members and stakeholders, further accelerating opportunities for business growth and development. Learn more at: https://robopgh.org/.

The Robotics Manufacturing Hub helps small and medium-sized manufacturers in the Southwestern Pennsylvania region: Evaluate their operations Explore if robotics will improve productivity Prototype solutions without a commitment to installation Select solutions that offer the highest return on investment Understand how robotics can augment workforce gaps Manage the impact of robotics on their workforce The Robotics Manufacturing Hub leverages the ARM Institute’s Mill 19 facility in Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood to prototype solutions and demonstrate proofs-of-concept at no-cost for small and medium sized manufacturers. ARM's Tasha Miller gives us more details on how the hub is a robotics "petting zoo" for manufacturers to get to know more about robotics and how they can help their operations, growth and bottom line. Also through the Southwestern Pennsylvania Region’s Build Back Better Challenge grant, the ARM Institute is managing and has awarded $6M in funding to four regional Innovation Accelerators, formerly called Makerspaces. These are: Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) – CCAC’s Entrepreneurial Labs and Makerspace The Digital Foundry at New Kensington (DFNK) – Penn State New Kensington IUP STEAMSHOP – Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) MAKERSPACE District – Westmoreland County Community College This funding helps to build upon existing capabilities within the Innovation Accelerators, enhance their equipment and offerings, and make their services more readily available. The services offered through each Accelerator are unique. Through the grant, the ARM Institute will advise the Innovation Accelerators and help to expand the scope of their services to benefit small and medium-sized manufacturers and manufacturing entrepreneurs. Learn more at: https://arminstitute.org/our-work/swpa-bbb/. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Despite national fundraising declining nearly 30% year-over-year in 2023, Pittsburgh bucked the trend and saw the second-highest year on record for investment in its tech economy, according to a new report released by Ernst & Young and Innovation Works. Tune in to TechVibe Radio this Sunday (3/31) to learn more about Pittsburgh's investment numbers from EY's Darrell Smalley and IW's Ven Raju. The 12th annual report found nearly every indicator related to local fundraising increased in Pittsburgh in 2023, resulting in $3.12 billion in aggregate funding, a 203.3% jump over 2022. Plus, hear from Comcast's Aaron Mimran ​about key tech trends impacting businesses in 2024. Tune in and get super geeky with us! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re talking with two members of the Keystone Region’s Comcast Business team about their careers. Ann Masland, Senior Manager and Angi Mullenax, Manager have a combined 20 years with Comcast and hold critically important roles supporting small, medium, and enterprise businesses. With a culture centered on entrepreneurialism, acting with integrity, respect, and giving back, we’ll uncover what makes Comcast a great place to work, walk through Ann and Angi’s career journeys, and hear what keeps them engaged every day. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Established in 1995, GDC IT Solutions (GDC) is a Premier IT Service Provider. With offices in the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest Regions of the United States, GDC empowers businesses to increase employee productivity, maximize investments and improve operational efficiencies. GDC's Keith Faulkner steps up to the One Mic Stand to detail the essentials of an effective service desk to ensure clients' IT is always up and running. With experienced and certified professionals, GDC delivers services in the areas of application development, data center, 24/7 multilingual service desk, managed IT services, desktop lifecycle management, project management, and business process consulting. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Vet Jobs partners with employers interested in hiring, retaining and upskilling qualified military affiliated talent in order to strengthen and diversify their workforce and our community. Crystal McFadden steps up to the One Mic Stand to talk about ways tech employers can access this important and often-forgotten talent pool. Over the past 19 years, Vet Jobs has placed over 97,000 veterans, transitioning military members, National Guard and Reserves, and military spouses, into industry leading & high-earning careers.  Its hiring numbers are verified by a third-party review by Deloitte, via the Call of Duty Endowment.  63,000+ of Vet Jobs candidates have taken and completed our training courses.  This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence (AI) and leveraging it for their business. But where do you start? How can make it operational? How can you ensure success? Tune in to TechVibe Radio this Sunday as we welcome Rob Boros and James Mitchell of Itero Group to provide their insights on effective steps to implement AI into your operations. Itero Group empowers its clients to become more optimized, digitally enabled and data-driven. Itero's collective experience across industries helps its private sector clients adopt a mission-focused approach, and helps its Federal partners operate with the efficiency of a private company. Tune in and geek out on making AI operational! This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

In 2024, it’s crucial for businesses to utilize technology as a key to success in the face of uncertainty. From tech advancements to shifts in consumer and employee demand, businesses will continue to be tested in 2024. Aaron Mimran, Vice President of Comcast Business in the Keystone Region, steps up to the One Mic Stand to tell us more about essential technology trends in the year ahead including: · The benefits businesses can experience – such as efficient operations, seamless communication, and scalable expansion – with the right technology infrastructure · The pivotal role technology plays in delivering digital customer experiences · The vital tech solutions to support business growth · And more! To learn more about how Comcast Business can provide businesses with the robust network needed to reinforce their critical technological investments, visit comcastbusiness.com. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence (AI) and leveraging it for their business. But where do you start? How can make it operational? How can you ensure success? Rob Boros and James Mitchell of Itero Group step up to the One Mic Stand to provide their insights on effective steps to implement AI into your operations. Itero Group empowers its clients to become more optimized, digitally enabled and data-driven. Itero's collective experience across industries helps its private sector clients adopt a mission-focused approach, and helps its Federal partners operate with the efficiency of a private company. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

The name may be new, but the company has long been a Pittsburgh staple – as of 2023, GrapeCity is now MESCIUS! The Tech Council’s Jonathan Kersting recently spoke with Joe Lininger, Head of Global Marketing at MESCIUS, about the story behind the new name, keeping up with product trends, and potential changes in the Pittsburgh tech industry. Joe says MESIUS is basically the same company; the name change is because of a capital investment that happened in early 2023. Because of that, it's looking forward to some big growth. He expalins that MESCIUS decided to reboot and through that, also rename itself. MESCIUS comes from two Latin words – one meaning harvest and the other meaning social – basically, getting the most out of a social connection. MESCIUS builds components for developers, and we’re hoping to build that network and grow our community. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Geek out this Sunday morning with TechVibe Radio as we explore the University of Pittsburgh’s Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business Super Analytics Challenge Started in the heart of the COVID pandemic, the Super Analytics Challenge was a novel way to connect graduate school students and the corporate community to solve society's biggest issues with data analytics. Over the last three years, the challenge has addressed homelessness, food insecurity and access to mental health.  This year, the Challenge expanded to include more schools with 10 teams of five students looking to address the workforce shortage in southwestern Pennsylvania’s advanced manufacturing industry.  This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Solutionist SWAG  helps businesses GET NOTICED and STAY REMEMBERED with ad specialties that work. A responsive and consistent resource businesses and marketers trust for products and apparel to get their brand NOTICED and keep their brand REMEMBERED. Dan "The SWAG Man" Galbraith steps up to the One Mic Stand to give you top tips on building an effective and memorable tradeshow booth. Chewck out www.DanTheSwagMan.com / [email protected] For more insights. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Jay Noschese, Sr. Sales Manager, Enterprise Connectivity Sales at T-Mobile, stops by TechVibe Radio to talk about the power of 5G to take businesses to new levels of productivity. Jay will discuss how T-Mobile built its 5G network for coverage and speed. As a leader in 5G coverage T-Mobile's network uses dedicated 5G frequencies coupled with its Ultra Capacity. Tune in and geek out on how 5G is creating a canvas for the next generation of transformative businesses. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Method Automation provides full, turnkey solutions for all of your manual business processes. With a staff of qualified professionals and years of experience automating process for commercial and federal customers, Method Automation is ready and able to help your business avoid the pitfalls that will cost you both time and money. Methos Automation Founder Paul Konieczny steps up to the One Mic Stand to talk about what's driving growth for the New Kensington-based company and how it is  driven to understand your business so that it can pinpoint problems and customize solutions that will positively impact your bottom-line. Method Automation delivers tech solutions that will adapt to your ever changing business and you won't have to understand how it works to make it work for you. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Storm season doesn’t always have a finite end date in Western PA. Whether it’s snowfall, heavy rains, or high winds, business owners must be prepared to minimize impact to operations, the customer experience, and ultimately the bottom line. Angela Churchill, Senior Director, Comcast Business in the Keystone Region, steps up to the One Mic Stand to tell us about how businesses can prepare and protect themselves from inclement weather to maintain speed, reliability, and connectivity – while also avoiding disruptions in productivity. To learn more about how Comcast Business can provide businesses with the necessary tools to stay connected during inclement weather, visit comcastbusiness.com. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Get ready for a double dose of TechVibe Radio this Sunday (3/3) as we explore stories from Logix Guru and Highmark. Singh Ajmani stops by the Huntington Bank Studios to detail what is driving growth behind Logix Guru as it enters its 25 year in business. Plus get an inside look at how Highmark partnered with Cedar to streamline its billing process top create a better patient experience. Get up and geek out with TechVibe Radio!  This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Looking to start your Sunday off with a blast of energy and awesome vibes? Tune in to TechVibe Radio at 6 AM to learn how STEM Coding Lab Executive Director Casey Mindlin and his team are on a mission to bring computer science and coding education to K-8 students who would not otherwise have access to it.  His energy and enthusiasm for bridging the digital divide is unparalleled! Working in both in-school and after-school settings, discover how STEM Coding Lab teachers equip more than 2,000 youth with 21st Century computer skills every year. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.  

Colliers International is one of the world's premier commercial real estate brokerage firms with 485 offices in 63 countries. In Pittsburgh, Colliers is committed to providing best in class services around the corner or around the world.  Its acclaimed brokerage team stands ready to assist clients in every sector of commercial real estate, including:  corporate services; sales and leasing brokerage services for office, industrial, investment, and retail properties; property management; valuation services; consulting; real estate auction services. Colliers' Ed Lawrence, Patrick Sentner, and Mark Anderson all stepped up to the One Mic Stand for an update on the latest trends in Pittsburgh's commercial and retail real estate scene. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

With over 45 years of combined experience, Totum Realty Advisors provides businesses of all sizes and industries creative and innovative solutions to commercial real estate challenges throughout the country.   Totum Founder Kevin Riley steps up to the One Mic Stand to talk about Totum's  passionate about a truly transparent and conflict-free experience. Its sole focus is helping clients achieve their goals. With its expertise, a service-forward platform and superior negotiation intelligence, Totum wants to exceed client expectations. Learn more at https://www.totumrealtyadvisors.com/. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Started in the heart of the COVID pandemic, the University of Pittsburgh’s Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business Super Analytics Challenge was a novel way to connect graduate school students and the corporate community to solve society's biggest issues with data analytics. Over the last three years, the challenge has addressed homelessness, food insecurity and access to mental health. This year, the Challenge expanded to include more schools with 10 teams of five students looking to address the workforce shortage in southwestern Pennsylvania’s advanced manufacturing industry. “The big step we took this year was to invite other universities to partner with us, including Carnegie Mellon University, West Virginia University, Penn State University and Duquesne University. So we've doubled the number of students involved in the challenge. And that's really exciting,” said Christopher Barlow, Director of Career Management and Corporate Engagement at Katz. “Because we're commingling students together, we have students not competing from CMU or WVU. Rather, these graduate students have to learn to operate as a team with really varied backgrounds.” Barlow explained why the Challenge took on the workforce development for manufacturing: “Workforce is both a micro- and macro-level issue. So at a micro level, it's about giving people opportunities, right, giving people purpose in life. That's what a career is. It's about giving people an opportunity to have a meaningful place in our society. At a macro level, we also know that workforce and jobs brings prosperity, it brings wealth to families, it supports education, it supports our tax base. So you know, having good career opportunities for people and our communities lifts all boats. And unfortunately, right now, we have a critical shortage of enough skilled or reskilled people to meet the need.” The student teams harnessed their skills and experiences in tandem with expert partners (corporate, government and NGOs) to apply data analytics to generate implementable ideas on how to address the workforce issue over a three-week time frame. Students participated in professional development opportunities on topics such as team building, storytelling, analytics tools and the consulting process.  “To be honest, I'm not much of a actual data analytics guy. And so I wanted to kind of push myself a little bit and I'm happy I signed up,” said Challenge Participant Thomas Leech. “I've just really enjoyed working with other universities. The engagement from all of the local partners and just them being willing to teach us is eye opening. You can get stuck in your silos and you're kind of afraid to ask questions. Whereas this challenge, there were no stupid questions!” Challenge Participant Carlos Salazar was equally thrilled with his experience at the Challenge: “Sometimes when you educate yourself for life, you're thinking about skills, and you're thinking about maybe knowledge and hard knowledge. But there's another dimension. And that is a cultural dimension. For me, it has been a really amazing way to learn a whole different way on how we can harmonize. And we can overcome differences in order to work together and to have a great product. And, a great outcome at the end.” The judging panels had some tough choices to make this year. Judges all agreed that each team came up with some pretty amazing and implementable solutions. “I sat through five of the 10 teams. And every one of them, these students are just unbelievable. They're bringing their talents, experience, world-class analytics, and some really innovative solutions to the table,” said Challenge Judge Albrecht Powell of Accenture. “And I love the fact that this year, we brought all the universities together. These ideas are just amazing. It's like I'm trying to figure out where I want to go take my own money, and sponsor some of these.” Challenge Judge Bob Schukai of MasterCard had similar thoughts: “Getting to be a judge is amazing, because I honestly don't know what to expect. And I say this every every year because it's similar to this program UK Apps for Good that I support. These kids across the UK are coming up with ideas to solve local challenges. You have to just park any preconceived notions of how you would solve the problem. Because what we're going to see in the room in the rooms today collectively, is probably going to be something that none of us had ever thought of before.” A winner had to emerge and this year Team 10 took home the honors. Their plan leverages remote training applications. And they hope to work with manufacturers to bring needed training right to schools where students will be able to train on actual simulators. And once certified, they could be hired. “First of all, big credit to my team! This was not a single solution, single source idea here. But I mentioned in my presentation, I had some friends that have done a project similar to this in remote training applications,” said James Cole. “I decided to fold it into advanced manufacturing. The technology is out there to be able to train people from wherever. And if we can deploy that to as many companies as possible to do as much good as possible, that’s the game right?” The dust has settled in this year’s Super Analytics Challenge and minds are already spinning to build on the success and make a bigger impact next year. “We  have phenomenal industry partners and community partners. So we're all coming together to address very complex societal issues, of course, this year is workforce development,” said Rebecca Badawy, Associate Dean at Katz. “And so what I think is wonderful about this challenge is that I think we're trying to address things that people don't historically associated with business schools. We're trying to address the societal problems, which, you know, we're often sort of looked at as business professionals or educators as folks that are just trying to drive profit. But this is showing that no, we're using our knowledge to try and address really important problems.” Job Fair: Win-Win for Companies and Students New for 2024, the Katz Graduate School hosted the Graduate Technology & Analytics Job Fair in collaboration with the Pittsburgh Technology Council, for all regional graduate students.  “What better way to stimulate workforce connections than to hold a jobs fair specifically focused on solving innovative problems in technology, data, and analytics,” says Christopher Barlow, Director of Career Management and Corporate Engagement at Katz. Using business as a force for social good is a guiding principle at Pitt Business. Barlow continues, “This year’s Challenge was a win-win for both students and the community. The students learned how to use data and analytics to solve a pressing business problem, and both businesses and job seekers benefit from this research and possible solutions.” This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

John O'Connell is Vice President at SoftLedger, one of Pittsburgh's fastest-growing fintech companies that provides an enterprise accounting platform to customers in nearly 50 countries. John Leads SoftLedger's Direct, Alliance and Embedded business groups. With a wealth of experience in the digital assets and tech industry, John is dedicated to helping companies, accountants, and developers efficiently manage multiple entities and streamline their financial processes. John's commitment to forging strategic partnerships and delivering outstanding client experiences makes him a vital asset to the SoftLedger team. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Aspirant CEO Mike McClaine steps up to the One Mic Stand to tell us all about Wavestone's acquisition of Aspirant! This acquisition reinforces the presence of Wavestone in the US, which is a priority market in the firm’s international development strategy. It will help Wavestone to develop a competitive edge and continue to offer its clients best-in-class services.  For Aspirant, the merger with Wavestone offers the opportunity to pursue their solid development journey in the long term while focusing more on higher value consulting services. “From 2018-2023, Aspirant Consulting has more than doubled in size, driven by our terrific consultants and outstanding commitment to our clients," according to Mike. “Joining forces with Wavestone gives us the opportunity to take advantage of synergies and deliver even more value for our clients on a much larger scale.”  This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

The Safety Innovation Summit on February 29 will explore Pittsburgh's long history of safety accomplishments and the current leadership driving safety innovations to prevent injury/harm in industrial manufacturing, transportation, energy and medicine. Tune in to TechVibe Radio Sunday (2/18) to learn how the one-day conference will examine interventions that have proved successful in multiple industries, while exploring newer safety solutions made possible by AI/ML, robotics and other frontier technologies. This presents a novel opportunity to share learnings across industries, explore opportunities for new ventures, and shape Pittsburgh’s future.  Get more details and register here: https://www.prhi.org/safetysummit This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Lt. Gray Chynoweth, Deputy Director for Strategy & Engagement at NavalX stopped by the Pittsburgh Technology Council's offices to address a standing room-only crowd as part of its effort to identify relevant solutions from small business, start-ups and academia to address some of the Navy’s most pressing challenges and operational needs. Gray stepped up to the One Mic Stand to give us more detail on NavalX and what has him stoked about Pittsburgh. NavalX is similar to other DOD organizations such as AFWERX, SPACEWERX and the Army Applications Lab.  Established in 2019, Naval X engages the small business community through several key programs and initiatives. As one example, the team at Naval X manages the Navy’s Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) program, which plays a key role in advancing dual-use and other critical technologies. Consisting of nearly $300 million in annual awards, the SBIR program helps to address major challenges facing major Navy commands such as: NAVSEA, NAVAIR and the Marine Corps Systems Command.  This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Get up early and tune in TechVibe Radio this Sunday (2/11) as we welcome Mike Wagner Chief Executive Officer of Edge Case Research. Edge Case is the trusted risk-management partner for companies building self-driving trucks, autonomous robotaxis, and smarter passenger cars. It helps developers and operators measure, manage, and insure the risks posed by software driving in the real world. At the forefront of the autonomy industry for over 20 years, Wagner will detail Edge Case's mission to deliver the promise of safe autonomous mobility. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.