TechVibe Pittsburgh

Time is flying fast! It's been nearly a year since Wavestone acquired Aspirant, one of Pittsburgh's most successful tech consultancies. We're welcoming Tim Nath, VP of Consulting at Aspirant, and Bapt Buchet, Head of Cybersecurity for North America at Wavestone, to discuss the acquisition's impact on serving local clients. Tune in to learn about Wavestone's extensive cybersecurity expertise with 1,000 cybersecurity professionals globally, and catch up on trends, including AI, cyber resilience and zero trust.  As Aspirant approached a year under Wavestone, the future for Pittsburgh looks very bright. TechVibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore the region's tech ecosysytem. It broadcasts every Sunday at 6 AM on 100.1 FM AM 1020 KDKA.

How can hyper-automation and AI transform the way your business operates, helping you stay ahead of the competition? In today's fast-changing tech landscape, efficiency is crucial. This episode explores how companies are using hyper-automation and AI-enabled apps to optimize operations, improve workflows, and scale their businesses without burning out their workforce. Learn how AI agents can automate complex business processes with minimal human input. Discover how industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and finance are utilizing these cutting-edge technologies. Understand the future of AI in business and how it can boost productivity and reduce operational costs. Listen to the insights from Birinder Singh of Auxiliobits and uncover how your business can harness the power of AI to achieve operational excellence​. Learn more about Auxiliobits here and connect with Singh here. Techvibe is produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council to explore Pittsburgh's technology ecosystem.

How does a local Pittsburgh communications company expand its footprint and grow beyond utility ownership while powering the region's tech infrastructure? In today's fast-paced, data-driven world, companies depend on fast and reliable internet connectivity to thrive. DQE Communications, under new leadership and ownership, is stepping into a new era of growth, offering businesses cutting-edge fiber optic networks to drive their success. If your business relies on connectivity, this conversation is packed with insights. Learn how DQE is expanding its 5,000-mile fiber network to new regions and markets, giving businesses broader, faster internet access. Understand the benefits of working with a smaller, agile competitor that challenges industry giants like Comcast and Verizon. Get a glimpse of how DQE's future-focused growth strategy will enhance connectivity for businesses in Pittsburgh and beyond. Press PLAY now to hear from DQE Communication's new CEO Mike Sicoli on how the company is powering the region's tech growth through high-speed, scalable network solutions! Curious about Pittsburgh's growing technology and innovation industry and the opportunities it has for you? This podcast gives you a front-row seat to the companies, people, and institutions that are making Pittsburgh's tech industry thrive.

What if the best way to level up your code wasn't another tutorial, but a place where real developers walk you through real problems, step by step? That's exactly what Mescius' Code Clinic is all about, and it's the focus of this conversation with Greg Lutz, a longtime product manager at the Pittsburgh-based software company that's spent decades helping developers build faster and smarter. Mescius creates the tools developers rely on every day, but the Code Clinic is where those tools come alive through hands-on learning, live demos, and practical guidance you can actually use. In this episode, Greg breaks down how the Code Clinic works, why it was created, and how it's become a go-to resource for developers who want to sharpen their skills without wading through jargon or starting from scratch. Why listen? What you'll learn: What the Mescius Code Clinic is and why it's designed for developers at every skill level How live, long-form sessions help you understand not just the "how," but the "why" behind modern development The kinds of real-world problems the Code Clinic tackles, from dashboards and reporting to web and .NET workflows How trends like Blazor and AI are shaping future Code Clinic sessions Why an approachable, community-driven learning model beats one-size-fits-all tutorials If you're a developer, entrepreneur, or technical leader looking for practical guidance you can apply immediately, this episode is a great introduction to the Code Clinic and the philosophy behind it. Think less lecture, more hands-on help, built by people who understand the pressure to ship code that actually works. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore the Pittsburgh region's technology and innovation ecosystem.

What if technology could give doctors superpowers and personalized care became the standard for everybody? On this episode, we  are joined by two leaders at Highmark who are just on the. Forefront of healthcare innovation. We're talking to Maria Baker, Vice President of Health Strategy and Delivery, and Mari Vandenburgh, vice President of Health Programs and Solutions. Together, they are transforming how healthcare reaches and supports nearly 7 million members. There are so many great reasons to keep on listening. First, discover how holistic care works in action as Maria and Mari explain how their teams collaborate to meet both targeted clinical needs and wide reaching population health goals, creating a seamless journey for patients. Plus you can learn how technology is empowering doctors and patients alike from real-time program referrals to data-driven insights that enhance decision making at the point of care. And also get insider tips to maximize your Highmark experience with advice for members, employers, and employees on accessing the benefits and solutions available through Highmark's innovative living health strategy. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on the future of personalized healthcare and how technology is shaping healthier communities today.  The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

TechVibe Radio goes global at CES 2026 and Pittsburgh tech is right at the center of the action. Grabbing interviews straight from the world's largest technology show, this episode features on-the-ground interviews with Bucket Robotics, Carnegie Robotics, Powercast, and more, proving that innovation made in Pittsburgh travels very, very far. From AI-powered quality inspection transforming modern manufacturing, to robotics enabling autonomous systems in environments as unexpected as luxury yachts, to wireless power technologies that feel like science fiction made real, these conversations capture how Pittsburgh companies are solving real-world problems on a global stage. CES isn't just about flashy gadgets. It's about who's building the technology that quietly powers the future, and Pittsburgh shows up strong. Why listen? Hear directly from the builders. Founders and leaders explain their technology in plain language, straight from the CES show floor. See Pittsburgh's fingerprints everywhere. These companies aren't just exhibiting. Their tech is embedded in global products, platforms, and industries. Get a front-row seat to what's next. Robotics, AI, autonomy, and wireless power are no longer "coming soon." They're here, and Pittsburgh companies are driving adoption. This episode is a reminder that while CES may be hosted in Las Vegas, some of the smartest tech in the room is proudly born in Pittsburgh.

Coming off CES, it feels like the future hit fast-forward. The noise, the scale, the ambition. It's a lot to process, especially when robotics and autonomy are no longer side attractions but center stage. To help make sense of it all, We are joined by Kevin Dowling of Innovation Works and the Robotics Factory, one of the architects of Pittsburgh's robotics ecosystem and someone who's seen this industry evolve from research labs to global markets. Kevin shares what stood out most at CES, from the rise of humanoids and autonomous systems to the critical components quietly powering the next generation of machines. We talk about why CES has become less about gadgets and more about serious business, investment, and global collaboration, and how Pittsburgh's fingerprints are showing up everywhere, even when people don't realize it. We also zoom back home to look at what's ahead for the Robotics Factory and Innovation Works in the coming year. New accelerator cohorts, expanded investment activity, major announcements on the horizon, and a growing pipeline of startups turning ideas into real, scalable companies. If you're curious about where robotics is headed, how Pittsburgh fits into that global story, and what opportunities are emerging right now, this conversation is a great place to start. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to Explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

What happens when AI's explosive growth collides with aging grids, rising energy demand, and the urgent push for sustainability? Live from CES 2026, TechVibe Radio brings you inside a standout Pittsburgh Technology Council panel exploring Sustainable and Reliable Data Centers, featuring voices from PwC, Exus Renewables, Westinghouse, Synopsys, and Amazon AWS. This conversation goes far beyond buzzwords, unpacking how power generation, grid modernization, nuclear innovation, renewables, and AI-driven design must align to support the next generation of digital infrastructure. You'll hear how Pittsburgh's deep roots in energy, engineering, and industrial reinvention are shaping global solutions, why data centers are becoming unlikely catalysts for community revitalization, and what it will take to deliver always-on, carbon-conscious power in an AI-first world. From small modular reactors and long-duration energy storage to digital twins and regulatory reform, this episode connects the dots between technology, policy, and people. If you care about where AI lives, how it's powered, and why Pittsburgh is helping lead the way, this CES conversation is required listening.

What if your next great business connection didn't get lost in a pocket full of business cards or a foggy post-event memory? In this TechVibe Radio interview, serial entrepreneur and Pittsburgh tech fixture David Radin of Confirmedapp.com is back in the studio to unveil Meet and Greet, a smart new product designed to fix one of networking's biggest frustrations: forgetting who you met, what you talked about, and never quite following up. Three fun reasons to listen: See the future of networking in action David walks through how Meet and Greet uses AI and optical character recognition to scan name badges, instantly exchange contact info, and eliminate awkward "remind me of your name again?" moments. Goodbye business cards, hello real connections Learn why traditional business cards and even e-business cards fall short, and how Meet and Greet keeps conversations from fading away by syncing notes, LinkedIn profiles, schedulers, and CRMs in just a few taps. A behind-the-scenes look at building smart tech that actually solves problems From early product pivots to real-world testing at major events, David shares candid insights on resilience, timing, and designing tech that makes people's work lives easier, not harder. If you love networking, attend events, or just enjoy hearing how thoughtful tech gets built, this episode is packed with energy, laughs, and practical ideas that might just change how you meet people in 2026 and beyond. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe Radio to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosysytem.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council and Audacy teamed up for a special live broadcast of TechVibe Radio, to explore the tech powering Pittsburgh's most iconic brands, including Comcast, Core Natural Resources, Huntington Bank and FedEx. With cohost Rob Pratte of KDKA, TechVibe dove into the core operations, technological advancements, and community engagements of these powerful companies. Comcast: Imagine That Comcast is more than just a cable or internet provider; it represents a comprehensive ecosystem with its various branches, including Xfinity, NBC Universal, Comcast Business, and Sky in Europe. Their latest campaign, "Imagine That," illuminates how interconnected their services are, providing seamless experiences across different platforms. With a strong focus on AI-driven innovations, Comcast prides itself on its robust network investments, ensuring reliable connectivity. A highlight in their initiatives is the RISE program, prioritizing support for small businesses by offering essential services like cybersecurity, voice, and mobile solutions. This commitment extends to helping business owners navigate daily challenges, demonstrating Comcast's dedication to community empowerment. Core Natural Resources: Harnessing Modern Mining Technology Contrary to the outdated image of manual coal mining, Core Natural Resources illustrates a sophisticated approach using AI and automation. Their use of remote-controlled machinery in mining operations not only enhances efficiency but significantly improves safety standards. The company also pushes the boundaries with innovative applications for coal, such as the development of Sea Foam—a revolutionary material used in the aerospace and defense industries due to its high heat tolerance. Furthermore, Core Natural Resources is looking towards sustainable energy solutions by exploring coal's role in battery production and energy storage. FedEx: Revolutionizing Supply Chains For FedEx, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is akin to their Super Bowl, where technology plays a crucial role in the seamless delivery of packages. The integration of advanced automation in their facilities ensures that packages are sorted and delivered efficiently. Highlighting the emergence of AI in supply chain management, FedEx emphasizes their Picture Proof of Delivery feature, which enhances customer experience by providing real-time visibility into package delivery. This technology demonstrates FedEx's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, continuing the visionary legacy of their founder, Fred Smith. Huntington National Bank: Balancing Innovation with Community Huntington National Bank seamlessly blends technological innovation with community engagement through its hybrid approach. Their mobile app serves as a full-feature digital hub, offering tools for personal financial management, like spending insights and savings trackers, all aimed at empowering users. The bank places a strong emphasis on community development, channeling efforts into local philanthropy and economic inclusion. By maintaining a balance between technological convenience and human interaction, Huntington ensures that financial services remain accessible and impactful in neighborhoods like Pittsburgh.

Is downtown Pittsburgh shrinking… or quietly reinventing itself? On this episode of TechVibe, we dig into the real story behind Pittsburgh real estate with three people who have a front-row seat to every shift, signal, and surprise: Ed Lawrence, Bryan McCann, and Pat Sentner of Colliers. This isn't a flyover of vacancy stats. It's a boots-on-the-ground conversation about where Pittsburgh is headed, what's actually working, and why the city's real estate story is far more optimistic and nuanced than the headlines suggest. Three great reasons to listen: The definition of "downtown" is changing. From the Strip District to the North Shore and beyond, you'll learn how Pittsburgh's central business district is expanding, evolving, and becoming more vibrant, walkable, and competitive. Class A vs. everything else—what really matters now. The Colliers team breaks down why some office buildings are thriving, others are struggling, and what amenities, design, and flexibility mean for attracting talent in a post-pandemic world. What's next for investors, tenants, and the city itself. Hear smart insights on residential growth, spec office space, permitting challenges, affordability, and why Pittsburgh is quietly positioning itself as a high-value, high-potential market. Whether you're a business leader, developer, investor, or just someone who cares about Pittsburgh's future, this episode delivers clarity, context, and a healthy dose of optimism about where the city is going next.

How can innovative technology save lives every single day? In this episode of TechVibe Radio, host Jonathan Kersting sits down with Alex Hilliker of ChemDAQ to explore how their groundbreaking technology is making workplaces safer by detecting harmful chemical exposures. Three reasons you don't want to miss this episode: Life-Saving Innovation: Discover how ChemDAQ is safeguarding lives and revolutionizing safety protocols in industries exposed to hazardous chemicals. Inspiring Case Studies: Alex shares real-world examples of ChemDAQ's technology in action—stories that hit home, especially over your Sunday morning coffee. Future of Safety Tech: Learn how ChemDAQ is poised to expand their impact in 2026, and why their vision for the future is so exciting. Hit PLAY to hear about cutting-edge solutions, important conversations, and how Pittsburgh-based innovation is shaping global safety standards. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe Radio to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

What does it take to revolutionize victim-centered policing and tackle online human trafficking globally? Let's find out! In this episode of TechVibe Radio, we're thrilled to welcome Cara Jones, co-founder of Marinus Analytics, for an in-depth conversation about how their cutting-edge technologies are saving lives and supporting public safety agencies across the world!  Here's why you can't miss this episode: 1. Expert Insights: Hear how Cara recently delivered testimony at a House subcommittee, solidifying Marinus as a leader in leveraging advanced tech to fight human trafficking. 2. Impactful Innovation: Learn how a thesis project turned into Traffic Jam—a groundbreaking tool helping agencies on three continents combat trafficking. 3. Pittsburgh Pride: Discover how this game-changing company, spun out of Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute, is proving that Pittsburgh is a powerhouse of technology and innovation. Hit PLAY to join us for a conversation that inspires, informs, and showcases the power of tech to change the world! The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

 Do you want to understand where AI is really heading and how to stay ahead of it? Not the hype, not the headlines. We're talking real world legal business and operational shifts already reshaping companies right now. In this episode of the TechVibe Emerging Tech Law Series with Babst Calland, we are joined by Justine Kasznica and Chris Farmakis of Babst Calland, two experts living at the intersection of emerging technology law and business strategy. Today's conversation goes deep. AI has officially crossed the line from interesting experiment to core business infrastructure. But with that shift comes risk regulation, workforce disruption, and major winners and losers. Justine and Chris break down what they're seeing on the front lines from the boardrooms and C-suites to even law firms racing to reinvent themselves. So whether you're a tech founder, executive investor, or operator trying to make sense of AI in 2026 and beyond, you have to keep on listening. Three key takeaways are AI is no longer optional, but reckless adoption is very dangerous. The real AI divide is not technology. It is execution. In entire industries, including the law are facing structural change. We are going to explore all of that and more, so let's just jump into it right now.

On this episode of TechVibe, we're thrilled to welcome back Jay Noschese of T-Mobile to our Huntington Bank Studios. Jay dives into the cutting-edge advancements of T-Mobile's 5G network, which now covers an incredible 99% of the population. From network slicing to 5G standalone capabilities, you'll learn how T-Mobile is leading the charge in reshaping connectivity and enabling innovation like never before. Hit PLAY to hear stories of how customers like  the PGA and Formula 1 are leveraging T-Mobile's 5G to push boundaries, innovate, and create tangible value. T-Mobile's 5G tech isn't just faster; it's smarter, more dynamic, and built for the future. Tune in to see why this is the most exciting time in connectivity—and why Jay couldn't imagine a more thrilling moment in his career. The Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe explores Pittsburgh's technology, innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

What if you could turn off the tap of single-use plastic while simultaneously building a thriving business that supports local communities? Today we're diving into the extraordinary journey of Terravive with founder and CEO Julianna Keeling and COO Joe Swider. In this episode, you'll discover three game-changing insights: 1. How to Build a Business-First Approach - Learn why Juliana, who started with zero business knowledge while in college, emphasizes building a strong business foundation before falling in love with your product idea, and how accelerator programs can be your secret weapon. 2. The Power of the Triple Threat - Discover how being a woman, minority, and veteran-owned company isn't just about checking boxes—it's about bringing unique perspectives that drive innovation in sustainable manufacturing. 3. Scaling With Purpose - Find out how Terravive grew from a college startup to operating across 16 contract manufacturing facilities and three warehouses while staying true to their environmental mission. Terravive's story is compelling because it proves that you don't need a business background to build something transformative. Julianna started as a chemistry student from a family of doctors, armed with knowledge of biomaterials but no business experience. Today, she's leading a company that's revolutionizing how we think about packaging and sustainability. This conversation, recorded in the Huntington Bank Studios, reveals the scars, the wins, and the wisdom gained from 11 years of building a business that matters. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh technology, innovation and entrepreneurial community.

What if a simple game could reshape how you lead, think, and navigate your life? In this episode of TechVibe Radio, Ashley Lynn Priore—founder, president, and CEO of Queens Gambit and Queenside Ventures—reveals how chess has become a transformative tool for thousands of young people, professional athletes, and top executives. Ashley shares the remarkable story of launching Queens Gambit at just 14 years old and building a national nonprofit that now empowers more than 2,000 youth each year with confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills. She opens up about the barriers for girls entering the chess world, the power of observation-based learning, and how she built a model where students grow into teachers. Then the conversation shifts to her second venture, Queenside—where she brings chess-based strategic clarity to adults, from CEOs to NFL players. You'll hear how she uses the "personal chessboard" exercise to help leaders understand their strengths, avoid snap decisions, see three moves ahead, and untangle the noise of a fast-moving, AI-driven world. Why listen? You'll discover: How chess teaches life and leadership skills far beyond the board The surprising way Ashley broke into the NFL to coach players on strategy and mindset Why thinking like a chess player helps leaders slow down, see options, and make smarter decisions How intergenerational leadership and inclusive empowerment shape her mission Practical insights you can apply today to improve your decision-making If you want a fresh perspective on leadership, problem-solving, and personal growth—from someone redefining what strategy looks like in the modern world—this interview is a must-listen. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology, innovation and entrepreneurial landscape.

AI is transforming every industry, but what does it look like when nonprofit leaders take the driver's seat? In this episode of TechVibe Radio, Emily Francis, Director of the Greater Pittsburgh Nonprofit Partnership, joins us to preview the 2025 GPNP Summit and to break down why now is the moment for nonprofits to embrace AI, not fear it. Emily reveals how AI is already reducing burnout, saving time, improving service delivery, and even strengthening collaboration among the 8,500 nonprofits across Southwestern Pennsylvania. And with 20 years of the GPNP Summit behind them, this year's theme of AI, Advocacy & Action couldn't be more timely. So many reason to listen: • Hear how nonprofits are using AI to save 8–12 hours per week and reclaim mission-focused work instead of drowning in administrative tasks.  • Learn how AI "agents" are connecting nonprofits in real time so organizations can make instant, zero-second referrals to get people the help they need—without waiting on emails or phone calls.  • Discover why nonprofits are uniquely positioned to shape the future of ethical, community-centered AI, and why they can't afford to be "the last considered" when new technologies are built.  From powerful keynote speakers to hands-on workshops to a rapidly growing AI-for-social-impact movement, this conversation previews a summit—and a moment—that could redefine what's possible for nonprofit leaders. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

This first episode of TechVibe's Workforce Advantage features an insightful conversation between Lelia Broughton of the Pittsburgh Technology Council and Brett Phillips of Hellbender as they delve into critical topics shaping today's workforce and discuss strategies for fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in the tech sector and beyond. The episode sheds light on unique approaches to building successful teams and leveraging community partnerships to drive workforce development. Key Takeaways: The Importance of Networking & Collaboration: Broughton highlights how cross-industry partnerships contribute to workforce success, emphasizing the power of networking within the Pittsburgh technology ecosystem. Entrepreneurship & Workforce Innovation: Phillips shares insights into Hellbender's approach to fostering team creativity, pushing boundaries in entrepreneurship, and adapting to market challenges. Building Diverse, Inclusive Talent Pipelines: The discussion includes practical strategies for attracting and retaining diverse talent, focusing on inclusion as a critical factor in workforce advantage. Leveraging Regional Resources: They explore how local organizations like the Pittsburgh Technology Council play a vital role in connecting talent, businesses, and opportunities to fuel regional growth. This episode offers valuable insights for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and workforce development professionals looking to stay ahead. Don't miss it!

Everyone's talking about AI—but how many companies are actually engineering it to deliver real business results? In this week's episode of TechVibe Radio, Jonathan Kersting and Audrey Russo sit down with Bill Elm, President of Resilient Cognitive Solutions, to explore what it really takes to make human-AI collaboration work in the real world. Bill cuts through the hype surrounding AI to explain why 92% of corporate AI projects fail to meet business objectives, and how AI engineering—not experimentation—can prevent costly failures. With nearly two decades at the forefront of decision-support systems, RCS has become a global leader in human-machine teaming, developing mission-critical AI systems for the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community right from its base in Pittsburgh. Listeners will learn: Why most AI initiatives fail before they start—and how to fix that. The difference between AI research and AI engineering. How RCS's "Brittle-lytics" process exposes hidden flaws that can cause costly or dangerous system breakdowns. A real-world case study showing how RCS turned a rejected AI system into a high-performance solution embraced by users. Why understanding human decision-making is key to making AI work in "a messy world." Bill also reminds us that true innovation isn't about "automating the stupid part"—it's about rethinking your workflow and making smarter, more informed decisions with imperfect data and evolving tools. If your business is serious about AI—and can't afford to fail—this is one conversation you can't miss. Hit PLAY to hear how RCS is building the future of AI right here in Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.