Tech Together

In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann sit down with Dean Andrew Alleyne of the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering.

They discuss the importance of engaging young people in STEM fields to ensure future innovation and economic growth. Dean Alene shares his insights on overcoming barriers to STEM education, including making technology more accessible and inclusive.

The conversation also goes deeper into how organizations and educational institutions can collaborate to better prepare students for the evolving job market, the potential impacts of AI, and the significance of representation in STEM.

Dean Alleyne reiterates the importance of curiosity, problem-solving, and real-world applications in education, and offers practical advice for young people entering the field.00:00 Welcome to Tech Together00:18 The Importance of STEM Education02:29 Breaking Down Problems Like an Engineer04:08 Making STEM Accessible for All07:18 Personal Journeys into STEM12:10 Leading the College of Science and Engineering18:34 Adapting to Changes in Education and Workforce23:12 The Impact of the Printing Press on Society23:47 Integrating AI into College Curricula24:38 Evaluating Learning and Adapting Curriculum24:59 Job Prospects and Market Shifts29:29 Making STEM More Accessible and Inclusive34:40 The Importance of Financial Accessibility in Education36:08 Collaboration Between Education and Industry38:19 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann sit down with Tony Peleska, CIO at Kraus Anderson, and Dr. Manjeet Rege, Director for the Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence at the University of St. Thomas.

The conversation focuses on the integration of technology in the classroom and workforce, the importance of mentoring, the evolving roles of AI and data in professional environments, and strategies for adapting to rapid technological advancements.

Tony and Manjeet provide insights on the critical need for STEM education, upskilling, and the ethical considerations of AI. They also offer practical advice for students and professionals navigating the ever-changing tech landscape.

Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast00:30 Meet the Guests: Tony Eska and Manje Reggae00:51 Manje Reggae's Journey in AI and Data Science02:20 The Evolution of AI and Sci-Fi Realities05:53 Tony Eska's Path to CIO10:22 The Importance of Talent and Mentorship23:26 The Importance of Mentorship25:44 AI's Impact on the Workforce27:26 AI Education and Ethics31:25 Adapting to the AI Era34:33 The Role of Data in AI36:06 The Future of AI in Organizations40:31 Encouraging Youth in STEM41:58 Rapid Fire Questions

In this episode of Tech Together, host Allison Barman interviews her co-host Shannon Seaver about her impactful work with Create Minneapolis and Full STEM.

Shannon discusses the founding and mission of Create Minneapolis, highlighting its dedication to bringing STEM education to underrepresented urban communities. The conversation dives into the various innovative programs such as Lego robotics, drone leagues, and computer science curricula.

Additionally, Shannon introduces Full STEM, a for-profit venture aimed at making STEM accessible through personalized, AI-powered learning platforms. The episode explores Shannon's journey from engineering and teaching to her current leadership roles, addressing the challenges and successes she has experienced along the way.

Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:37 Spotlight on Create Minneapolis04:06 The Importance of STEM Education07:11 Introducing Full Stem07:56 The Technology Behind Full Stem13:18 The Need for Funding and Support18:11 Shannon's Personal Journey18:56 Finding Confidence Through Volleyball19:29 Navigating High School and College20:35 First Engineering Job Experiences24:05 Transition to Teaching25:11 Embracing Computer Science Education26:49 Leadership and Networking29:25 Challenges of Running a Nonprofit30:45 Call for Support and Volunteers33:02 Rapid Fire Questions

In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and guest host James Nagbe are joined by summer interns Alisa Ebrahim and Liban Shueb Abdi from Genesys Works.

The conversation explores their experiences during the summer tech training program, where they learned valuable skills in Microsoft Office and AI integration.

They discuss the recruitment process, the significance of their cohort groups, and their preparations for upcoming internships.

The interns also share insights on overcoming challenges, the support system in place through program coordinators, and the unique aspects of the Genesys Works program, including the highly anticipated 'Draft Day' event.

This podcast highlights the importance of how Genesys Works equips young professionals with the necessary skills and confidence to thrive in corporate environments.

Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast00:42 Meet the Genesys Works Interns01:20 Overview of Genesys Works Program02:49 Internship Application and Selection Process05:09 Corporate Partners and Internship Opportunities11:41 Draft Day Excitement16:02 Summer Training Experiences20:24 Reflecting on Engineering School and Cohort Bonds20:46 Building Confidence Through Training21:30 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome22:27 Support Systems for Interns23:44 Preparing for the Corporate Environment26:11 Onboarding and First Day Experiences28:24 Role of Program Coordinators33:05 Anticipations and Daily Life of Interns35:45 Advice to Future Selves38:22 Rapid Fire Questions41:34 Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead

In this episode of Tech Together, Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman delve into a rich conversation with Hillary Spreizer, President of the Latitude Group.

Hillary shares her serendipitous journey into the tech industry, starting in IT recruiting during the 2007 recession and rising to leadership at the Latitude Group.

She highlights the significant shifts in tech employment, noting the decreased average tenure from 5-7 years to 2-3 years and how this impacts employer strategies. Hillary also discusses the Latitude Group’s focused approach on mid-market IT staffing and the importance of understanding client needs to place the right talent.

The conversation touches upon the challenges and strategies of diversity in hiring, the impact of AI and automation on the workforce, and the crucial need for building a robust talent pipeline in Minnesota.

Spreizer also advises newcomers to the tech industry to remain adaptable and to leverage every learning opportunity, emphasizing that diversified skills and experiences are valuable assets in the dynamic tech landscape.

Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:21 Hillary's Journey into Technology01:19 Changes in the Tech Industry03:08 About the Latitude Group04:08 Current Trends in Tech Recruiting10:20 The Importance of Data and Integration11:34 Preparing for Tech Roles16:47 Diversity and Inclusion in Tech20:35 The Influence of Background on Professional Perspective21:12 Educating Candidates on Market Value21:39 Addressing Diversity and Inclusion in Hiring23:39 Challenges in Hiring Early Stage Talent26:29 Building a Strong Talent Pipeline in Minnesota29:59 The Importance of Retaining and Promoting Talent34:27 The Future of the Tech Workforce39:13 Rapid Fire Questions

In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman interview Mike Jackson, founder and CEO of Black Tech Talent and Rocket Growth Academy.

Mike shares his early passion for technology and entrepreneurship, detailing his journey from creating a nightlife-based tech startup to launching two impactful organizations aimed at enhancing diversity in the tech industry.

He explains the goals and impact of Black Tech Talent, discusses the unique approach of Rocket Growth Academy, and offers valuable insights on improving the tech talent pipeline.

The discussion also covers the importance of diversity in tech, challenges in the hiring process, and the need for cultural relevance in creating inclusive work environments.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast

00:24 Mike Jackson's Journey into Technology

01:09 The Premium App: Revolutionizing Event Marketing

04:48 Founding Black Tech Talent During the Pandemic

06:42 Rocket Growth Academy: Empowering Entrepreneurs

16:33 The Importance of Diversity in Tech

21:30 The Importance of Representation in Tech Education

22:11 Strategies for Recruiting Black Talent in Tech

23:02 Overcoming Financial Barriers in Tech Education

23:27 Career Pathways and Teaching Opportunities

24:19 New Avenues for Teacher Licensing in Minnesota

25:18 Building Community Partnerships

27:29 Challenges in the Hiring Process

29:58 Implementing a Bias-Resistant Hiring System

33:32 Hope for the Future of the Tech Talent Pipeline

39:03 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

In this episode of Tech Together, Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman chat with Dave Swenson, VP of Technology Services at US Bank.

Swenson shares his experiences and insights from over 30 years in the tech industry, focusing on talent development and community engagement.

He discusses his career path, starting from a developer role to leading early career initiatives, from the importance of company culture, ethical work practices, to sustainable community support.

Swenson offers valuable guidance for both young tech talent and companies on navigating the rapidly evolving tech landscape, emphasizing the impact of AI and how to manage it.

The conversation doubles down on the significance of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for future technologists.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:26 Dave Swenson's Career Journey

00:48 Company Culture and Ethical Values

03:46 Early Career Programs and Community Involvement

07:31 Mentorship and Support Systems

11:31 Encouraging Careers in Technology

18:42 Advice for Young Professionals

20:36 Success Story: From Bank Teller to New Job

20:55 The Value of Cross-Silo Experience

21:31 Highlighting Transferable Skills

22:45 The Importance of Extracurriculars and Leadership

25:21 Building an Equitable Tech Workforce

26:03 The Challenge of Long-Term Thinking in Business

29:29 Continuous Learning in Technology

34:10 The Impact of AI on the Future of Work

35:58 Rapid Fire Questions

In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman explore the intersection of technology and baseball with Shelly Andrew, Senior Manager of Business Systems, and John Evenson, Chief Technology Officer at the Minnesota Twins.

In this show, we discuss how technology plays a critical role in the operations of the Twins, from business systems to baseball analytics.

Shelly and John share their unique career journeys, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, data skills, and hands-on experience for anyone entering the tech field.

The conversation also covers the organization's commitment to nurturing tech talent through internships and mentorship, and the transformative potential of AI in sports and business operations.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast

00:22 Meet the Minnesota Twins Technology Team

01:18 Shelly Andrew's Journey into Technology

03:29 John Evenson's Path from Marine Corps to CTO

07:35 The Role of Technology in the Minnesota Twins

10:58 Investing in Tech Talent and Internships

18:08 Encouraging Women in Technology

23:14 Skills for Future Tech Leaders

27:45 Exploring the Role of Technology

28:00 AI Fatigue and Innovation

28:46 Agentic AI and Human Understanding

30:24 Data Analytics in Education

32:54 AI's Impact on Business Culture

35:18 The Future of AI and Critical Thinking

40:32 Technology in Baseball

47:38 Rapid Fire Questions

In this episode of Tech Together, Shannon & Allison chat with Juliet Fox, a seasoned recruiter in the tech space.

Juliet shares her unique journey from a reluctant technologist to an executive recruiter at Avid Edge.

The discussion goes deep into the changing dynamics of tech leadership, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the evolving role of tech leaders in understanding business concepts.

Juliet anchors the significance of a strong foundation in math and science for students aspiring to enter the tech industry. The conversation also explores the need for flexible, critical thinking-focused education and the value of networking in building a successful career in technology.

Additionally, Juliet highlights the challenges and opportunities in today’s tech industry, including the essential role of tech in societal transformation and mental health.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:29 Juliet's Journey into Tech Recruitment

03:26 Challenges and Changes in Tech Leadership

08:48 The Importance of Math and Science for Future Tech Careers

18:09 The Role of Educators in Shaping Future Tech Leaders

21:37 Diversity in Tech: Progress and Barriers

23:12 Understanding the Need for Diverse Voices

23:43 Addressing Discrimination Concerns

24:22 The Value of Diverse Perspectives

24:55 The Importance of DEI in the Workplace

27:48 Building and Leveraging Networks

30:13 The Role of Networking in Career Success

34:58 The Impact of Science Olympiad and STEM

38:06 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Nola Slagter-Johnson, Eric Aamoth, and Sarah Loftis Garbus from Hennepin County to discuss their roles and initiatives in workforce and youth development.

The conversation spans their career journeys, the importance of technology skills in a variety of fields, the evolving dynamics of workforce development, and the innovative programs aimed at reducing disparities and aligning community needs with job opportunities.

The episode offers a deep dive into how Hennepin County is fostering career exploration and creating pathways for youth in technology.

Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions00:47 Personal Journeys into Workforce Development04:42 The Role and Importance of the Workforce Board06:18 Technology and Youth Development11:30 Hennepin County's Externship Program16:50 Workforce Development Innovations and Goals24:07 Inclusive Hiring Practices at Ajax24:33 Veterans and Disability Hiring Initiatives26:32 Rethinking the Four-Year Degree Requirement28:22 Internships and Remote Work Opportunities30:42 Community-Based Organizations and Employer Partnerships33:16 Educators and Workforce Development37:56 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks