AWS Education Podcast

AWS
  • 5.0 (3)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Welcome to "AWS Education Podcast" a groundbreaking podcast series hosted by AWS. In this engaging show, we explore the intersection of technology and education, uncovering how innovative solutions are transforming learning experiences for students and educators alike. Each episode features in-depth discussions with industry experts, educators, and thought leaders who share their insights on the latest trends, tools, and technologies shaping the future of education. From cloud computing and artificial intelligence to data analytics and immersive learning environments, we delve into how these advancements are empowering educators and enhancing student outcomes. Join us as we tackle pressing challenges in the education sector, showcase successful case studies, and provide actionable strategies for integrating technology into classrooms. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or tech enthusiast, "AWS Education Podcast" offers valuable perspectives on harnessing the power of technology to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment. Tune in to discover how technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for change in education!

  1. 20: PowerSchool’s Power Buddy - AI-powered learning assistant

    3D AGO

    20: PowerSchool’s Power Buddy - AI-powered learning assistant

    Episode Details  Date: 2026-02-16 Duration: ~7 minutes Speakers: Leo Zhadanovsky (Host, Enterprise Technologist for Education at AWS), Gayathri Rengarajan (Guest, Associate Director of Data Science at PowerSchool)  Episode Summary  In this special re:Invent episode, Gayathri from PowerSchool shares the journey of building Power Buddy, an AI-powered learning assistant that evolved from a hackathon project to a full suite of products serving over 60 million K-12 students. The conversation focuses on implementing robust content filtering using fine-tuned models on AWS SageMaker, addressing student safety concerns while reducing false positives, and the future of agentic AI in education technology.  Key Discussion Points  Evolution of Power Buddy from hackathon project to production suite Implementation of strict content filtering for student safety in AI interactions Challenge of balancing safety with reducing false positive notifications for administrators Fine-tuning smaller models (Llama 8B) for domain-specific content filtering  Featured Technologies  Llama 8 billion parameter model AWS SageMaker AI  Key Takeaways  Fine-tuning smaller models for specific educational use cases reduced false positive rates to less than 3% Technology stack and models should remain flexible while keeping security, reliability, and scalability constant Close collaboration with cloud providers accelerates AI implementation and optimization The future of EdTech AI is moving toward agentic systems with improved observability and evaluation capabilities  Resources Mentioned  AWS SageMaker AI Llama model family AWS Agent Core AWS Bedrock Tags  #EdTech #K12Education #AWS #AI #MachineLearning #StudentSafety #ContentFiltering #PowerSchool #SageMaker #AgenticAI #reInvent

    8 min
  2. 19: University of Cincinnati: Going Digital

    FEB 2

    19: University of Cincinnati: Going Digital

    Episode Details:  Duration: ~29 minutes Host: Bret Pontillo Guests: Bharath Prabhakaran - VP and Chief Digital Officer, University of Cincinnati Josette Riep - AVP of Integrated Data Engineering and Application Services, University of Cincinnati  Episode Summary:  In this episode, Bret Pontillo sits down with two leaders from the University of Cincinnati to discuss their comprehensive digital transformation journey. Bharath Prabhakaran and Josette Riep share insights on modernizing a 200+ year old institution serving 54,000 students across three campuses. They discuss their four-pillar approach to digital transformation, including operational excellence, cybersecurity, modernization, and innovation through AI and data analytics. The conversation covers their implementation of modern data architecture using AWS, Snowflake, and Informatica, the launch of their AI enablement community of practice, and their vision for personalized learning experiences powered by agentic AI.  Key Discussion Points:  Four-pillar digital transformation framework: operational excellence, cybersecurity/resiliency, modernization, and innovation Centralization of distributed IT operations across colleges and units Implementation of Bearcat Insights platform using AWS, Snowflake, and Informatica Launch of AI enablement community of practice with 75+ use cases submitted Development of Bearcat Portal as unified student experience platform Transition from data silos to integrated enterprise data strategy Building CMMC compliant research enclave on AWS Addressing the demographic cliff and enrollment challenges in higher education Key Takeaways:  Digital transformation requires focus on people, process, and technology - in that order Building trust with data owners is critical for breaking down data silos Innovation must come from the edge, not the center - community-driven approach works Change leadership and relationship building are essential in higher education governance Workforce upskilling is critical to prepare teams for AI-enabled future Personalized learning at scale will be enabled through agentic AI workflows Resources Mentioned:  University of Cincinnati "Next Lives Here" strategic direction CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) Tags:  #HigherEducation #DigitalTransformation #AWS #DataStrategy #AI #EdTech #CyberSecurity #StudentExperience #Innovation #UniversityOfCincinnati #Bearcats #CloudComputing #ModernDataArchitecture

    30 min
  3. 18: Building the Future of Education with TrackIt

    JAN 26

    18: Building the Future of Education with TrackIt

    Episode Details: Duration: ~32 minutesDate: 2026-01-26Speakers: Bret Pontillo (Host), Ludo Francois (CEO & Founder, TrackIt), Brad Winett (President & Partner, TrackIt)Episode Summary: In this episode, Bret Pontillo sits down with TrackIt's leadership team to explore how system integrators are transforming education through AWS cloud solutions. Ludo Francois and Brad Winett share their journey from traditional infrastructure to cloud-native solutions, discussing how they're helping educational institutions leverage streaming media, AI, and custom applications. The conversation covers everything from virtual classroom technology to innovative partnerships with institutions like Epitech Paris, demonstrating how cloud technology is making education more accessible and engaging. Key Discussion Points: TrackIt's evolution from storage infrastructure to AWS-focused system integratorBuilding custom streaming solutions for educational content deliveryMonetization strategies for educational media (ad insertion, subscription models)Virtual classroom technology and student experience optimizationPartnership model with Epitech Paris for hands-on AWS trainingAI applications in education (curriculum building, virtual tutors, automated testing)Custom video platforms as alternatives to YouTube for educational contentFeatured Technologies: Amazon CloudFrontAWS IVS (Interactive Video Service)Amazon ECS and EKS (Kubernetes)Custom CDN solutionsAI/ML services for educationKey Takeaways: Cloud technology enables educational institutions to transition from in-person to virtual classrooms effectivelyCustom streaming platforms provide educators with full control over content monetization and user experienceHands-on, lab-based training programs accelerate cloud skills development for studentsAI is transforming education through personalized tutoring, automated assessment, and curriculum developmentStrategic partnerships between tech companies and educational institutions create symbiotic learning opportunitiesResources Mentioned: Trackflix (custom Netflix-like platform for education)Epitech Paris Graduate School of Digital InnovationAWS SkillBuilderTrackIt Medium articlesTrackIt YouTube channelTags: #EdTech #AWS #CloudComputing #StreamingMedia #VirtualClassroom #AIinEducation #HigherEducation #SystemIntegrator #DigitalTransformation #StudentExperience

    32 min
  4. 17: Move First, Align Fast - Building Trust in AI Implementation

    JAN 19

    17: Move First, Align Fast - Building Trust in AI Implementation

    Episode Details:  Date: 2026-01-19Duration: ~27 minutes Speakers: Host - Bret Pontillo, Guest - Deepika Chopra (CEO & Founder of Alpha U AI, Author)  Episode Summary:  In this episode, Deepika Chopra, CEO and founder of Alpha U AI and author of "Move First, Align Fast," shares her insights on organizational alignment and AI adoption. Drawing from 15+ years in financial services and digital transformation, Deepika discusses why technology implementations fail despite having the best tools, and introduces frameworks for building trust-native AI systems. The conversation explores the critical gap between AI strategy and execution, focusing on the human side of technological change.  Key Discussion Points:  The trust layer between AI strategy and execution Why pilots fail to reach production despite green dashboards Shadow AI and execution theater patterns in organizations The difference between ethical AI and aligned AI ACT framework: Align, Cultivate, Transform for measuring AI readiness Human AI Alignment Score (HAAS) for leadership decision-making Safe experimentation and execution advantage Education as the proving ground for responsible AI Featured Technologies:  Investment Intelligence Platforms AI Literacy Programs Human AI Alignment Score (HAAS) Key Takeaways:  Trust and adoption are more critical than technology accuracy for successful AI implementation The missing layer between strategy and execution is the trust layer built on clarity Organizations should measure behavioral signals, not just dashboard metrics Aligned AI focuses on "can we use this daily?" while ethical AI asks "should we use this?" Education institutions are uniquely positioned to build AI-ready infrastructure through skills and trust development Resources Mentioned:  Book: "Move First, Align Fast" by Deepika Chopra (Published by Wiley) Alpha U AI Platform ACT Framework (Align, Cultivate, Transform) Tags:  #AI #DigitalTransformation #AWS #Education #OrganizationalAlignment #TrustInAI #EdTech #Leadership #ChangeManagement #AIAdoption

    21 min
  5. 16: Building AI Apps with Amazon Q Business

    JAN 12

    16: Building AI Apps with Amazon Q Business

    Episode Details: Date: 2026-01-12Duration: ~20 minutesSpeakers: Pranusha Manchala, Bret Pontillo Episode Summary: In this episode, Pranusha and Bret dive deep into Amazon Q Business, AWS's most capable generative AI-powered assistant. They explore how educational institutions can quickly build custom AI applications using natural language, leverage Q Apps for personalized learning experiences, and integrate with 45+ data connectors. The discussion covers practical implementation strategies, security features, custom connector development, and flexible pricing models designed for education use cases. Key Discussion Points: Amazon Q Business capabilities and quick setup processQ Apps for creating custom Gen AI applications without coding45+ out-of-the-box data connectors including Gmail, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Google DriveCustom connector development using Q Developer and vibe codingBusiness actions for employee productivity and ticketing systemsConsumption-based and subscription pricing modelsFeatured Technologies: Amazon Q BusinessQ AppsAmazon BedrockQ DeveloperAWS QuicksightKey Takeaways: Q Business applications can be built in hours, not weeks, with point-and-click integrationQ Apps enable educators and administrators to create personalized learning tools using natural languageBuilt-in security features include role-based permissions and topic filtering for education complianceCustom connectors can be developed quickly using vibe coding with Q DeveloperFlexible pricing options support both user-based subscriptions and consumption-based models for embedded applicationsResources Mentioned: Q Business Pricing PageQ Business Getting Started Guide (6-step process)AWS Documentation for Q BusinessTags: #AWSEducation #EdTech #AmazonQBusiness #GenerativeAI #AIinEducation #HigherEducation #AWS #MachineLearning #DigitalTransformation #PersonalizedLearning

    20 min
  6. 15: Web3, Stablecoins & the Future of Education

    JAN 5

    15: Web3, Stablecoins & the Future of Education

    Episode Details: Date: 2026-01-05Duration: ~32 minutesSpeakers: Brett Pontillo (Host), Nico Menciere (Guest - Senior Startup Solution Architect at AWS) Episode Summary: In this episode, Brett Pontillo sits down with Nico Menciere, a Senior Startup Solution Architect at AWS specializing in Web3 and FinTech companies. Nico provides an in-depth exploration of stablecoins, decentralized finance (DeFi), and how blockchain technology is creating new opportunities in education. The conversation covers everything from the basics of Web3 to practical applications for educational institutions, including tuition payments, financial aid, scholarships, and content monetization in underserved markets. Key Discussion Points: Introduction to Web3 and decentralized systemsEvolution from Bitcoin to stablecoins and their role in reducing volatilityPublic vs. private stablecoins and their use casesPayment challenges in global education marketsDecentralized finance (DeFi) and peer-to-peer financial systemsPractical applications for educational institutions Featured Technologies: Bitcoin and EthereumUSDC (Circle)USDT (Tether)Amazon Web Services (AWS)Decentralized exchangesSmart contractsBlockchain infrastructure Key Takeaways: Stablecoins enable financial inclusion for unbanked populations, particularly in developing countriesCrypto payments can eliminate traditional banking barriers for international education accessAI agents and micropayments through HTTP 402 protocol represent the convergence of AI and blockchainEducational institutions can accept crypto for tuition, scholarships, and content monetizationDecentralized finance (DeFi) is maturing with new trading platforms and real-world asset tokenizationBlockchain technology removes intermediaries, reducing fees and increasing transaction speed Resources Mentioned: Circle (USDC issuer)Tether (USDT issuer)MCP serversGoogle A2P framework Tags: #Web3 #Blockchain #Stablecoins #EdTech #HigherEducation #AWS #DeFi #FinTech #AI #CryptoPayments #DigitalTransformation #Education #Innovation #DecentralizedFinance

    33 min
  7. 14: Leading Innovation in EdTech

    12/29/2025

    14: Leading Innovation in EdTech

    Episode Details Date: 2025-12-29Duration: ~20 minutesSpeakers: Pranusha Manchala (Host), Bret Pontillo (Co-host), Vanitha Sugumaran (AWS Solution Architect Leader) Episode Summary In this special episode recorded at the AWS DC Summit, Vanitha Sugumaran shares her inspiring journey from manufacturing at John Deere to leading AWS's Solutions Architect team. She discusses her leadership philosophy, the critical role of operational excellence, and how AWS supports EdTech companies through innovation and strategic partnerships. Vanitha emphasizes the importance of understanding customers deeply, building the right team culture, and preparing for the unique seasonality challenges in education technology. Key Discussion Points Vanitha's unexpected transition from manufacturing to EdTech leadershipThe pivotal moment during COVID-19 that solidified her commitment to education technologyBuilding and developing high-performing teams through hiring, knowledge sharing, and continuous learningThe Product Acceleration Team's role in helping customers innovate fasterHow generative AI is augmenting rather than replacing teachersStrategies for managing EdTech seasonality (back-to-school preparation and quiet time innovation)The importance of operational excellence in reducing developer burden Featured Technologies AWS Enterprise SupportWell-Architected FrameworkWell-Architected Lens for Gen AIGenerative AI solutions for educationData platforms and analytics Key Takeaways Deep Industry Knowledge: Successful EdTech leaders must understand both their customers and their customers' customersCulture of Innovation: Organizations thrive when teams have mechanisms for knowledge sharing, adequate automation tools, and focus on operational excellenceTeacher Empowerment: AI should save teachers 4-5 hours per week by automating undifferentiated work, allowing more one-on-one student timeProactive Partnership: EdTech companies should engage AWS teams early, especially before major rollouts during back-to-school seasonLeadership Development: Everyone is a leader - act like one, communicate aspirations clearly, and be open to feedback Tags #EdTech #AWS #Leadership #DigitalTransformation #GenerativeAI #HigherEducation #Innovation #OperationalExcellence #TeacherSupport #AWSEducation

    22 min
  8. 13: How AI is transforming education

    12/22/2025

    13: How AI is transforming education

    Episode Details Date: 2025-12-22Duration: ~25 minutesSpeakers: Pranusha Manchala (Host), Brett Pontillo (Host), James Kuhlke (Principal Solution Architect at AWS)Episode Summary In this special episode recorded at the AWS DC Summit, James Kuhlke, a Principal Solution Architect at AWS, shares his insights on how AI is transforming education. With 6 years of experience working with strategic EdTech companies, James discusses the revolutionary impact of generative AI on both educators and students, emphasizing that AI will enhance rather than replace the human element in education. Key Discussion Points AI's role in reducing administrative burden for educators while maintaining human connectionHow generative AI helps students understand career paths and skill mappingAssisted marking and standardized assessment grading for fairnessPersonalized learning through adaptive assessments and contentChain of thought prompting in mathematics educationThe importance of data quality in AI implementations Featured Technologies Generative AI modelsAmazon NovaRAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation)Knowledge bases Key Takeaways AI will not replace educators but will free up time for more meaningful student interactionsGenerative AI can help students explore career paths and understand skill requirements before making decisionsAssisted marking helps teachers maintain consistency and fairness across all student assessmentsPersonalized assessments can be generated at multiple difficulty levels to meet students where they areEducators should embrace AI with students and ask them to critique AI outputs rather than trying to detect plagiarismData quality is critical - poor data leads to worse hallucinations in AI systems Resources Mentioned Amazon NovaPrompting guides for Claude and NovaParty Rock playgroundModel Context Protocol (MCP) servers Tags #AWSEducation #EdTech #GenerativeAI #HigherEducation #AIinEducation #TeacherSupport #PersonalizedLearning #AWS #Innovation #EducationTechnology

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to "AWS Education Podcast" a groundbreaking podcast series hosted by AWS. In this engaging show, we explore the intersection of technology and education, uncovering how innovative solutions are transforming learning experiences for students and educators alike. Each episode features in-depth discussions with industry experts, educators, and thought leaders who share their insights on the latest trends, tools, and technologies shaping the future of education. From cloud computing and artificial intelligence to data analytics and immersive learning environments, we delve into how these advancements are empowering educators and enhancing student outcomes. Join us as we tackle pressing challenges in the education sector, showcase successful case studies, and provide actionable strategies for integrating technology into classrooms. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or tech enthusiast, "AWS Education Podcast" offers valuable perspectives on harnessing the power of technology to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment. Tune in to discover how technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for change in education!

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