In partnership with the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance, the Pittsburgh Technology Council presented the "Dual Use Autonomy and Drone" panel discussion at CES 2025.

Mike Embrescia of Carnegie Robotics moderated a panel of experts in robotics and autonomy, focusing on the developments and impact within the Pittsburgh area.  Panelists included:

• Phil Hahn | Chief Strategy Officer, AFWERX
• Xiaoyu Kaess | COO, Aquatonomy
• Olga Pogoda | COO, KEF Robotics
• Sanjiv Singh | CEO & Co-Founder, Near Earth Autonomy

They shared their experiences and challenges related to drone technology, underwater inspections, GPS-denied navigation, and the transition from military to commercial applications.

The panel also addressed the evolving landscape of defense funding and the public's perception of drone technology. LIsten to the whole discussion!

00:00 Introduction to Mike Ambrasia and Carnegie Robotics

00:47 The Rise of Pittsburgh as a Robotics Hub

01:11 The Establishment of NREC and Its Impact

03:25 Introduction of Panel Members

04:25 Panel Discussion: Company Introductions

10:12 Focus on Defense and Military Applications

16:27 The Role of AFWERX and Government Innovation

23:05 Building the National Security Industrial Base

23:15 Leveraging Flexible Platforms for Business Growth

24:50 Balancing Commercial and Defense Revenues

27:25 Exploring Dual-Use Technologies

27:49 Challenges and Opportunities in Drone Technology

33:43 Future of Autonomous Systems and AI

35:26 Audience Q&A

44:08 Concluding Thoughts on Drone Safety and Privacy

Tune in to TechVibe this Sunday and kick off a new year as we welocome Deepak Nayyar, the Chief Information Officer of the Pittsburgh International Airport, to discuss the incredible Terminal Modernization Project (TMP) that's set to open by the end of 2025.

Deepak will discuss how the new terminal is going to be a game-changer for the region serving as a "welcome mat" for the city, showcasing Pittsburgh's thriving technology and innovation ecosystem to the world.

The amount of cutting-edge technology being implemented on the projects is truly astounding - from AI-powered cleaning robots to a state-of-the-art microgrid that will save the airport energy costs. What's even more impressive is the commitment to using local Pittsburgh companies and materials. 90% of the workforce and 16,000 tons of steel are coming from right here in our region. If you want to stay up-to-date on all the latest developments with the new airport terminal, be sure to check out the Blue Sky Pittsburgh website at blueskypit.com. You can subscribe to their weekly newsletter to get the inside scoop.

TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of synthetic reality and how it's transforming business communication and content creation?

In this episode we welcome Larry Gioia of PWC's Emerging Tech R&D | Technology & Innovation, and you'll discover how the convergence of AI, avatar technology, and multimodal media is ushering in a new era of authentic, scalable digital experiences that are poised to disrupt industries.

1. Understand the key differences between synthetic reality, augmented reality, and virtual reality, and how they're shaping the future of content and communication.

2. Explore the practical business applications of synthetic reality, from learning and development to security and beyond.

3. Gain insights into the ethical considerations and trust-building measures surrounding the use of synthetic reality technologies.

Press that massive PLAY button now to learn how you can leverage the power of synthetic reality to elevate your business and stay ahead of the curve.

TechVibe is produced by he Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

As the world races to address climate change, the role of industrial decarbonization has never been more crucial. TechVibe Pittsburgh sat down with Igor Stamenkovic, who leads Eaton's Electrical Systems and Services Division for North America, to discuss how Eaton is driving real solutions to this critical challenge.

In our conversation, Igor shared Eaton's innovative approach to building resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective electrical systems for businesses and communities. From their award-winning microgrid project in Puerto Rico to the hands-on demonstrations at their Pittsburgh-area facility, Eaton is proving that decarbonization is not just a lofty goal, but an achievable reality. Igor's insights on the five key tools for decarbonization - distributed energy resources, EV charging, behind-the-meter solutions, digitalization, and process optimization - provide a roadmap for any organization looking to take tangible steps towards a greener future. Most importantly, Igor emphasized Eaton's accessibility and willingness to partner with businesses of all sizes.

Whether you're just starting your decarbonization journey or looking to take it to the next level, Eaton is ready to help. Listen now!

TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

How can a woman entrepreneur build a thriving tech company and inspire others to do the same? As the tech industry continues to evolve, there is a growing need for more women to step up and start their own successful tech companies. This episode provides valuable insights and advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to turn their dreams into reality. In this episode of TechVibe Pittsburgh, you'll hear from Techstra Founder Jennifer Honig to discover:

1. How Jennifer built her company from the ground up and navigated the challenges of being a woman in tech.

2. Practical tips and strategies for defining your company's mission and positioning it for long-term success.

3. Inspiring advice on cultivating the mindset and support system needed to thrive as an entrepreneur.

Start listening now to learn how Jennifer's entrepreneurial journey can empower you to start your own tech company and make your mark on the industry.

TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

Are you struggling to find the right benefits package for your tech company that keeps your employees happy and your business costs in check?

As a tech leader, you know that offering competitive benefits is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. But with rising healthcare costs and complex compliance requirements, it can be a daunting task to navigate the benefits landscape. In this episode of TechVibe with Craig Pritts of My Benefit Advisor, you'll discover:

1. How to take a data-driven approach to designing a benefits package that fits your company's unique needs

2. Exclusive benefits options available only to Tech Council members that can save you thousands

3. Insider tips on staying compliant with ever-changing HR regulations across multiple states

Press play now to learn how the Tech Council's benefits program can help you provide exceptional employee benefits without the headache.

TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

How can tech companies build a strong pipeline of diverse, job-ready talent? As the tech industry faces a growing skills gap, employers are seeking effective ways to develop entry-level talent. This episode explores how apprenticeship programs can help companies build a skilled, adaptable workforce.

Hosts Lelia Broughton og FortyX80 and Sheena Carroll of the Pittsburgh Technology Council welcome John and Jean Lange of Academy Pittsburgh to discuss how they train tech apprentices for Apprenti Pittsburgh.

In this episode, you'll learn:

1. The essential skills tech apprentices need to succeed on the job

2. How hands-on, project-based training prepares apprentices for real-world challenges

3. Strategies for accommodating diverse learning styles and backgrounds in tech training

Listen now to discover how apprenticeship programs can help your company cultivate the talent you need to thrive.

TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council as your front row seat to Pittsburgh's Technology and Innovation Ecosystem.

Get up early and set your radio to TechVibe this Sunday morning as we welcome Admirra Co-Founder Wendy McSparren, a licensed clinical social worker who turned tech entrepreneur.

Wendy and her husband John co-founded Admirra as a specialized CRM software built to streamline operations for mental health practices. Wendy shares her inspiring story of identifying a problem in her own practice and leveraging her husband's technical expertise to build a solution.

Admirra is helping therapists save time on administrative tasks so they can focus on what matters most - providing quality care to their clients. This interview is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of healthcare, technology, and entrepreneurship.

TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

In this episode of the Tech Vibe podcast, we welcome Cary Hill from Digital Fix Consulting about the growing preference for Macs in the workplace and the benefits of employee choice. We discussed:

• Digital Fix's evolution from an Apple shop to a full-service IT provider offering lifecycle management for Macs

• The stats showing 72% of employees choose Macs when given the option

• The advantages Macs offer in terms of reliability, compatibility, and employee retention

• How Apple silicon has made Macs more cost-effective for businesses

• Digital Fix's campaign to give away a $2,500 MacBook Pro to a Pittsburgh Tech Council member.

If you're interested in learning more about embracing Macs in your organization and the power of employee choice, be sure to check out the full podcast episode. And don't forget to enter the MacBook Pro giveaway! Here's the criteria to enter:

1. Like the group post: https://lnkd.in/gQpKY4Fb 2. Follow Digital Fix Consulting on LinkedIn at: https://lnkd.in/gxSgFAKM 3. Enter your contact info on their website: https://lnkd.in/gmTmJ2E6 ⏰ The deadline to enter is December 31, 2024. One winner will be randomly selected and notified via email.

Techvibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

Join us on TechVibe this Sunday as we welcome lifelong entrepreneur Michael Vertolli, founder of ComTec Systems, to discuss the company's 35-year history and its evolution from a high school venture to a leading telecommunications and cost reduction consulting firm.

ComTec, headquartered in southern New Jersey, now serves over 1,000 clients globally. Vertolli will highlight the company's shift from telecommunications to cost reduction consulting for healthcare clients and its expansion into Pittsburgh. 

Vertolli sees amazing promise with his expansion into Pittsburgh. You have to listen to learn more! Tune in and geek out with us!

Techvibe is Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.