MKE Tech Podcast

S4:Ep. 5, "Techno-Functional Leadership" ft Julea Ferrara

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast, special Wisconsin Tech Month edition! In this episode, we sit down with Julia, founder of Techaria and solution designer at Molson Coors, to talk about her journey into Milwaukee’s tech ecosystem and her passion for bridging business and technology through a techno-functional approach. Julia shares how her family’s deep-rooted connection to technology and her diverse career experiences have shaped her unique perspective on the evolving tech landscape. We discuss her work in DEI and ESG initiatives, and the importance of addressing knowledge gaps in legacy industries. Julia also introduces us to Techaria, a Latinx tech talent initiative she co-founded to connect Milwaukee’s diverse talent with global opportunities, and her exciting role in launching Midwest Tech Week as part of Wisconsin Tech Month. Tune in as Julia dives into the importance of blending business and technology, her thoughts on using AI in the business realm, and why Midwest Tech Week is a critical step in expanding Milwaukee’s tech influence across the Midwest. Call to Action: Join us for Midwest Tech Week, taking place during the final week of Wisconsin Tech Month! Whether you're based in Milwaukee, Chicago, Detroit, or beyond, this event is a chance to connect with industry experts, explore the latest in AI and business tech, and engage with diverse tech talent across the Midwest. Follow us on social media for updates on Midwest Tech Week and other Wisconsin Tech Month events!

S4:Ep. 4, "Bridging Art and AI" ft Kenge Adams

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast! In this special Wisconsin Tech Month edition, we sit down with Kenji Adams, a project manager turned entrepreneur and founder of innovative community programs like STEAM & Dream. Kenji shares her inspiring journey from corporate tech at Northwestern Mutual to launching her own business, all while diving deeper into the tech world and embracing her role as a woman in tech. In this episode, Kenji takes us through her latest project—a unique blend of African art and artificial intelligence. As part of Wisconsin Tech Month, Kenji is hosting an incredible event that bridges the past and future by using AI to generate new artwork from historical African artifacts. We dive into how AI can help fill historical gaps, address cultural erasure, and spark thought-provoking conversations about identity and heritage. Kenji also shares how collaboration and self-awareness have been key to her success in navigating the tech space. Tune in for this enriching conversation about creativity, tech, and community building, and learn more about how Kenji's event will challenge perceptions of both art and AI. Call to Action: Join us on October 17th at the Uplifting Mansion for Kenji Adams’ AI and African Art exhibit during Wisconsin Tech Month! Explore the intersections of history and technology, engage in generative conversations using AI prompts, and witness real-time digital renderings of historical artifacts. Follow us on social media for event updates and more Wisconsin Tech Month highlights.

S4:Ep. 3, "Serial Creativity and the Future of AI" ft Benjamin Juarez

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast! In this special Wisconsin Tech Month edition, we’re excited to have Benjamin Juarez, founder of Latinos in Tech and a self-described "serial creative," join us. Benjamin shares insights into how his boundless creativity fuels his entrepreneurial journey, his innovative use of generative AI in video game design, and the balance between human artistry and AI-driven productivity. In this episode, Benjamin and I explore the impact of AI on the creative economy, discussing both the opportunities and ethical challenges it presents for artists and developers. We touch on the future of work, universal basic income, and the role of AI in bringing people together rather than dividing us. Additionally, we dive into intellectual property concerns in the US versus Europe and how AI regulations are evolving to protect creators. Plus, Benjamin gives us a sneak peek at the upcoming Somos Tech Summit hackathon, a key event during Wisconsin Tech Month that brings tech enthusiasts and newcomers together to brainstorm and engineer innovative solutions. Call to Action: Follow us on social media for more behind-the-scenes content and highlights from Wisconsin Tech Month! Let us know your thoughts on AI’s role in creativity, and don’t forget to join the Somos Tech Summit hackathon on October 26th for a chance to innovate and collaborate with the Milwaukee tech community.

S4:Ep. 2, "From Fashion to Tech" ft Briana Wilder

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast! In this special Wisconsin Tech Month edition, we’re excited to introduce Briana Wilder, a tech professional at Northwestern Mutual and alumna of i.c.stars. Briana’s non-traditional journey from fashion merchandising to UX design and content strategy offers valuable insights for anyone wondering how to break into tech without a four-year degree. In this episode, Briana shares how her love for creativity and entrepreneurship evolved into a career in tech, with milestones like running a successful eBay store and developing websites for brands. She also discusses her work at Northwestern Mutual in content strategy and her passion for ensuring inclusive, user-friendly digital experiences through AI and chatbot integration. Tune in to hear more about Briana's experience transitioning from fashion to fintech, how Wisconsin Tech Month played a key role in her tech journey, and the importance of diverse backgrounds in shaping the future of work in AI and technology. Plus, don’t miss details on Wisconsin Tech Month events, including Briana’s panel discussion on breaking into tech through non-traditional paths! Call to Action: Engage with us on social media! Share your thoughts on non-traditional career paths in tech, and let us know what inspires you about Briana's journey. And don’t forget to join Wisconsin Tech Month events to explore more opportunities in AI, education, and the future of work.

S4:Ep. 1, "Empowering Communities through Policy" ft Bianca Shaw

In this episode of the MKE Tech Podcast, we sit down with Bianca Shaw, a policy advocate with over 15 years of experience in both government and nonprofit sectors. Bianca shares her journey, from her time at the Wisconsin Women’s Network Policy Institute to her current work with the Milky Way Tech Hub, where she supports policy advocacy during Wisconsin Tech Month. We dive deep into the importance of policy advocacy, why it matters, and how everyday citizens can influence legislation that directly affects their lives. Bianca discusses key initiatives such as broadband expansion, internet privacy, and equitable allocation of federal funds across Wisconsin, especially for underserved communities. Tune in to learn more about the upcoming Wisconsin Tech Month Advocacy Day, happening on October 3, 2024, at the State Capitol. Whether you're a seasoned policy expert or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how you can make your voice heard in tech policy. Don't miss this conversation that bridges tech, policy, and community impact! Listen now and get ready to advocate for change!