Shannon Seaver, flying solo today, welcomes Lori Ryan, diving deeply into Lori's diverse career from TV news to tech.
They discuss the transformative power of AI, Lori's ventures in change management, AI-driven relocation services, and creating personalized education platforms.
Lori shares her experiences with ChatGPT, and how AI has enhanced creativity and productivity in her life and work.
They also touch on the potential and challenges of integrating AI into everyday life and education.
The episode is a "listen in to two good friends at a fireside chat", talking about the importance of embracing technology and thinking outside the box to solve problems and improve the human experience.00:00 Welcome to Tech Together00:18 Meet Lori Ryan: From TV News to Tech Networking00:40 Lori's Journey Through Various Careers04:47 Relocation Tech: Disrupting an Industry07:19 The Birth of Lori Ignite and AI Adventures12:02 She Leads AI: Women in Tech Conference22:21 The Future of AI in Education and Workforce25:21 The Importance of AI in Education26:52 Creative Uses of AI in Everyday Life29:36 Custom GPTs and Their Impact33:30 Vibe Coding and Lovable Experiences39:26 The Human Side of AI46:28 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann sit down with Erica Hanna, founder of Puke Rainbow, to discuss her journey from television to creating her own company.
Erica shares how working with Prince helped her overcome imposter syndrome and inspired her to start Puke Rainbow.
The conversation also explores her experience with AI in video marketing, her passion for storytelling, and the importance of self-care and neurodiversity.
Erica provides insightful advice on how technology can be leveraged for good, the significance of authentic storytelling, and how to boost confidence both in oneself and others.00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast00:11 Meet Erica Hannah and Puke Rainbow00:23 The Prince Story: Puke Rainbow's Origin00:53 From Emmys to Imposter Syndrome01:24 A Night at Paisley Park02:36 Creating Art with Prince05:27 Founding Puke Rainbow05:59 Puke Rainbow's Mission and Impact06:42 Tech Together: The Tech Talent Pipeline06:58 Diving into AI and Video Marketing07:45 The AI Startup Journey09:10 Embracing AI and Educating Others09:59 Using AI as a Bullshit Detector13:42 Authentic Storytelling in the Age of AI14:49 The Power of Vulnerability in Storytelling19:16 Data Tells a Story Too21:12 Tech for Good: Empowering Through Education22:37 The Power of Storytelling in Business22:52 Engaging Non-Marketing Teams in Storytelling24:54 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome26:01 The Neuroscience of Storytelling29:29 Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace33:25 Challenges for Women in Tech37:32 Rapid Fire Questions
In this episode of Tech Together, host Shannon Seaver welcomes Allison Barman, Executive Director of Genesys Works Twin Cities, to discuss her journey from mechanical engineer to non-profit executive.
Allison shares her experiences working at a tech startup, pursuing business school, and how her role at McKinsey & Company with the Itasca Project helped shape her career towards community and economic development.
The conversation highlights the impactful work of Genesys Works in providing internships to high school students, the importance of mentoring and networking, and the challenges facing non-profits in today's economic landscape.
Allison also emphasizes the critical need for diversity and inclusion in tech and shares inspirational success stories of students who have transformed their futures through internships. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions exploring Allison's personal interests and advice for those entering the tech field.
Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:31 Allison's Career Journey01:43 Genesys Works and Its Impact05:07 The Value of Internships07:33 Challenges and Support for Interns14:42 Importance of Mentoring21:24 The Importance of Mentorship23:22 Transitioning from Engineering to Non-Profit25:43 Inspiring Outcomes from Genesys Works27:59 Challenges and Future Goals for Genesys Works31:17 The Role of Diversity and Inclusion in Tech34:57 Reflections and Rapid Fire Questions
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann talk with Alyssa Boswell, the CEO of Upper Story and a former educator turned toy inventor.
Alyssa shares her journey from working in education and raising three boys to founding Upper Story and creating educational toys that make STEM learning fun.
The conversation explores her challenges, successes, and the thought process behind innovative products like Turing Tumble and Spintronics.
The episode dives into the importance of hands-on learning, the impact of STEM tools in classrooms, the value of guidance for new generations entering the workforce, and the necessity for lifelong learning.
You'll also get insights into the intersection of personal passion and professional growth, effective strategies for scaling STEM education, and the transformative potential of integrating play into learning.
This episode is a treasure trove for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, education, and play.
Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast00:18 Meet Alyssa Boswell: Founder of Upper Story01:07 The Inspiration Behind Upper Story03:06 Creating Turing Tumble: The First Game05:29 Spintronics: A New Way to Learn Electronics07:17 Bridge Building Toy: The Latest Innovation10:02 Challenges and Success in STEM Education12:31 Integrating STEM in Classrooms14:53 Staying Updated with Technology18:56 Advice for the Next Generation20:30 Choosing Between Sports: A Fifth Grader's Dilemma21:08 Teaching Technology: Transferable Skills Over Expertise22:16 Employers and the New Generation: Bridging the Gap24:24 Policy Makers and STEM Education: A Collaborative Approach28:02 Business Challenges and Growth: Lessons Learned32:58 The Value of Interns: Fresh Perspectives and Innovation35:54 Rapid Fire Questions: Personal Insights and Fun Facts
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Richard Walker, former board member of Genesys Works and CEO of York Solutions.
Richard shares his journey from a small farming town in England to leading a major IT consulting firm. The discussion covers the importance of critical thinking, seizing opportunities, and the role of curiosity in personal growth. Richard emphasizes the impact of networking and continuous learning, providing valuable advice for young professionals entering the technology field.
The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of technology careers and how initiatives like Genesys Works and York Solutions' emerging talent program are helping to cultivate new talent. Richard's personal anecdotes and practical advice make this episode a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to advance in their career.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome02:00 Discussing Critical Thinking Skills07:21 York Solutions and Leadership10:24 Challenges and Market Conditions12:47 Emerging Talent Program21:56 Personal Journey and Bridges32:08 The Delta Bus Pass Adventure32:53 Gaining Confidence Through Travel33:19 Struggles and Success in a New Country34:40 A Career in IT Staffing35:26 The Importance of Asking Questions36:55 Opening New Offices and Taking Risks38:22 Overcoming Fear of Failure42:58 Encouraging Young People in Tech49:31 Networking and Differentiation55:15 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions
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
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome Michelle Ament, co-president of the Human Intelligence Movement and Chief Academic Officer of Prosolve.
Michelle shares her extensive background in education and discusses the Human Intelligence Movement's mission to ensure students develop the necessary human skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.
She emphasizes the need for education reform to better prepare students for the rapidly evolving workforce. The conversation touches on the challenges of systemic change, the role of employers, and the importance of fostering human potential and adaptability in an AI-centric future.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:27 Michelle Amen's Background and Career Journey
01:57 Introduction to the Human Intelligence Movement
04:22 Challenges in Education and AI Integration
07:01 The Role of Employers in Education Reform
19:04 Future Vision and Positive Outlook
27:39 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Cihan Behlivan, the Executive Director of Beta and a tech entrepreneur.
Cihan shares his journey from an investment banker in Turkey to a tech entrepreneur in the United States, highlighting the importance of understanding client needs and picking the right investors.
He discusses Beta’s role in fostering a community of founders and builders and the lessons learned from his early startups.
The conversation digs into the critical importance of technology in solving real-world problems, the evolving landscape of tech talent, and the value of intentional inclusivity.
Cihan also shares his excitement about upcoming Beta events, including the showcase and Twin City Startup Week, emphasizing the need for focus, humility, and an obsession with solving problems in the entrepreneurial world.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast
00:20 Meet Gian Bevan: Tech Entrepreneur and Executive Director
00:54 Gian's Journey: From Investment Banking to Tech Startups
03:07 Lessons Learned from Early Startups
08:36 The Birth and Growth of Beta
11:06 The Importance of Community and Mentorship
16:51 Upcoming Events and Initiatives
20:32 Entrepreneurship as a Muscle
22:23 The Importance of Technology in Modern Life
23:28 Curiosity and the AI Explorer Job Post
25:11 The Shift in Technology Talent Needs
26:16 The Importance of Focus for Founders
31:14 Preparing the Next Generation of Technologists
37:40 Intentional Inclusivity in the Workplace
40:28 Rapid Fire Questions
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome tech recruiter Dave Elliston to discuss his journey into the tech field and his approach to recruiting. Dave shares insights from nearly 20 years in tech recruiting, including the evolving technologies and methodologies he's witnessed.
The conversation expands into the importance of networking, community building, and early engagement in STEM education for future tech talent.
Dave emphasizes the significance of soft skills alongside technical expertise and highlights the need for policy support in boosting computer science education. The episode also touches on the role of diverse talent in advancing the tech ecosystem, showcasing successful collaborations, and offering practical advice to recruiters, job seekers, and tech enthusiasts alike.
Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast00:10 Meet Dave Allison: Tech Recruiter Extraordinaire00:58 Dave's Journey to Minnesota02:27 The Role of Tech Recruiting04:16 Changes in Tech Recruiting Over the Years08:03 The Importance of Soft Skills in Tech11:35 Remote Work and Communication13:15 Encouraging Young People in Tech17:49 Diversity in Tech: Progress and Challenges20:56 Community and Collaboration in Tech22:30 Engaging Companies with Educational Institutions23:03 Inspiring the Next Generation with Tech Demos24:29 The Importance of Early Tech Exposure24:46 Challenges in School-Employer Partnerships27:39 The Rewarding Aspects of Talent Acquisition29:00 Networking and Career Growth31:24 Encouraging Passion and Entrepreneurial Mindsets33:20 Advice for Job Seekers and the Role of Networking35:58 Rapid Fire Questions
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome guests Jeff Tollefson and Joel Crandall.
Jeff, former venture capital investor and founder of Genesis Works Twin Cities, and Joel, now president and CEO of the Minnesota Tech Association, discuss their journeys in the tech industry.
They highlight the importance of cross-sector collaboration, the evolving needs of the tech workforce, and the significant role of AI and leadership development in driving business success.
The conversation also touches on advocating for diverse talent and the impact of educational policy on the future tech workforce.
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome to Tech Together
00:12 Introducing Our Esteemed Guests
00:24 Genesis Works and Minnesota Tech Association
01:24 The ACE Leadership Program
02:44 Jeff's Journey into Technology
06:01 Joel's Path to Technology Leadership
08:48 The Future of Minntech
13:57 The Changing Landscape of Tech Jobs
17:47 Adapting to AI in the Tech Industry
21:23 The Human Side of Technology
22:16 Defining Our Audience and Diversity Goals
23:06 The Human Intelligence Movement
23:38 AI's Impact on Early Talent Roles
25:16 Flexible Talent and Training Methodologies
26:26 Cross-Sector Collaboration in Tech
30:40 Engaging Lawmakers and Business Leaders
34:09 Diversity and Inclusion in Tech
38:24 Minnesota's Tech Ecosystem and Future
39:41 Rapid Fire Tech Questions
42:30 Final Thoughts
In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome Jen Rosato and Alexandra Holter to discuss the importance of integrating computer science education into the K-12 curriculum.
The conversation goes into their journeys into the field, the challenges, and triumphs they have faced, and the crucial role of policy and collaboration in advancing computer science education.
They also discuss the state of computer science education in Minnesota, the need for early exposure, and actionable ways to support this essential subject.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:51 Alexander Holter's Journey into Tech Education
03:40 Bloomington's Progressive Approach to Computer Science
06:56 Jen Rosado's Path to Computer Science
10:07 The Importance of Tech Education for Youth
15:01 Challenges and Opportunities in Minnesota's Tech Education
21:11 Introduction to the Plan
21:52 Key Recommendations and Goals
22:46 Challenges and Setbacks
25:53 Call to Action
30:46 Collaboration and Community Efforts
37:52 Rapid Fire Questions
41:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts