360 Pulse ROC Vox Podcast Network

Anna Vulaj Fitzsimmons brings 30 years of experience in government contracting and business development. As the Program Director for Monroe County Finger Lakes APEX Accelerator since 2015, she has facilitated over $629 million in government contract awards for small businesses. Anna is an active member of several prominent councils and boards, including the Department of Defense East Regional Council and the National APEX Accelerator Alliance.

In this episode, we explore the forefront of immersive technology with Marc Viggiano, CEO and Founder of Niteopark. With over 35 years of experience, Marc develops advanced sensor and communication systems, holds multiple patents, and leads transformative growth in his career, including a significant 40X exit with Sensis. We dive into his leadership philosophy, strategies for building successful businesses, and insights on the future of technology.

Dan Schneiderman is the Eclipse Partnership Coordinator at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, and co-chair of the Rochester Eclipse Task Force. Over the past five years, he’s been at the forefront of regional efforts, collaborating with major organizations like NASA and I LOVE NY to gear up for the April 8th, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. Dan’s impressive track record includes delivering over 100 presentations, spearheading more than 40 events, enhancing NOAA’s Science on a Sphere datasets, and providing expert guidance on eclipse coordination for various organizations through Science Sandbox. Here in Rochester, he initiated the RMSC Community Eclipse Ambassador program, empowering local organizations in astronomy and setting up over 60 telescopes across the region.

With a distinguished career spanning over 28 years in the U.S. Air Force and as the visionary CEO & Founder of P3 Tech Consulting, Dawn M.K. Zoldi brings her deep insights and vast expertise to our platform. We discuss the forefront of legal and ethical challenges in the integration of eVTOLs and autonomous systems, the intricate balance of innovation with safety, and the future of urban air mobility. Zoldi shares her unique perspective on the global landscape of uncrewed systems, discussing potential environmental and societal impacts, and the role of leadership and character in shaping the future of technology.

Yael Swerdlow, CEO and Founder of Maestro Games is a steadfast champion of women's empowerment. Swedlow shares insights from her diverse career—from the frontlines of photojournalism to pioneering roles in game development and advocacy for social change. This 360° Pulse episode explores how immersive technologies can not only enhance gaming experiences but also serve as powerful tools for education, emergency response, and promoting gender equality. Swedlow's unique perspective sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for innovators eager to make a meaningful impact.

This episode features an interview between 360° Pulse podcast host Jennifer Sertl and Mike Pomerantz, a full-time faculty member at Monroe Community College’s nationally recognized Optics Systems Technology Program. This program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that the next generation of optical technicians are job ready.