TechGuide

TechGuide
TechGuide

TechGuide was created with a simple mission in mind: Develop up-to-date, comprehensive, and easy-to-use informational resources for our readers. This podcast is an extension of the TechGuide website, which contains degree and career overviews, career profiles, and other guides.

  1. 3 HR. AGO

    76. Building Creative AI Tools and Career Tips for Aspiring Innovators with Dr. Maya Ackerman

    Curious about the intersection of AI and creativity? In this episode of the Tech Guide podcast, host Ryan Atkinson welcomes Dr. Maya Ackerman, CEO of Wave AI and associate professor of computer science at Santa Clara University. Maya shares her journey of blending music and technology to create AI tools that support songwriters and musicians. From the founding story of Wave AI to advice for undergraduates and aspiring entrepreneurs, Dr. Ackerman discusses the evolution of AI, the importance of trusting your intuition, and the ethical considerations shaping the industry. Whether you're curious about generative AI or looking to break into the tech world, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The founding story behind Wave AI and its mission to help creators write music How generative AI has evolved over the past decade Career advice for undergraduates looking to break into AI and tech The future of AI in creative industries like music Ethical considerations and how to approach AI development responsibly Key Highlights: [00:02:00] Maya's background and the origin of Wave AI [01:41:00] Struggles with songwriting and the creation of Lyric Studio and Melody Studio [03:31:00] The evolution of AI from the 1950s to today's generative models [05:28:00] Opportunities in AI over the next 5-10 years [07:25:00] Top industries benefiting from AI and creative applications [11:11:00] Ethical considerations for AI and the importance of responsible development [15:15:00] How undergraduates can start projects and gain hands-on AI experience [19:24:00] Lessons learned from entrepreneurship and trusting your intuition [27:13:00] One piece of advice for undergraduates pursuing AI careers Resources Mentioned: Wave AI: wave-ai.com Lyric Studio and Melody Studio Upcoming Book: Creative Machines by Dr. Maya Ackerman (Fall Release) Connect with Dr. Maya Ackerman: LinkedIn: Dr. Maya Ackerman Website: wave-ai.com

    30 min
  2. NOV 13

    72. Build Your Dream Tech Career with Douglas Comer’s Expert Advice, Professor at Purdue University

    Welcome back to another enlightening episode of TechGuide! I’m your host, Ryan Atkinson, and today we have an extraordinary guest with us—Douglas Comer, a distinguished professor at Purdue University, prolific author, and a true pioneer in the field of computer science. With over 48 years of teaching experience, Douglas Comer has made significant contributions to operating systems and Internet protocols, including the renowned TCP/IP suite used by engineers globally. In this episode, we dive deep into Douglas’s fascinating journey, from his pivotal role in DARPA's Internet project to his influential work in global Internet connectivity. We’ll explore his insights on education, emphasizing the importance of building careers over just earning degrees and engaging deeply with foundational concepts like mathematics. Douglas will share invaluable advice for students, including the importance of independent projects, internships, and having a broad, adaptable skill set. Tune in as Douglas recounts personal anecdotes, discusses the evolution of the Internet and computer science at Purdue, and offers key industry advice for aspiring tech professionals. Whether you’re a student, an early career professional, or simply curious about the roots of the Internet, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Timestamps: 00:00 Cerf and Kahn pioneered Internet by interconnecting networks. 05:07 Connected universities via phone network using IP. 08:10 Teach systems-oriented courses; focus on building skills. 11:13 Distributed databases emerged, then ended due to overheating. 15:44 Problem-solving skills are essential in tech. 18:00 School is for career-building, not just degrees. 21:34 Problem-solving builds skills, not just answers. 24:22 Students should independently build useful projects. 27:30 Get any internship early, regardless of preference. 30:34 Insightful advice, contact Professor Comer, thanks.

    31 min
  3. OCT 30

    71. THIS is The One Thing Non-Stem Students Should Know about Breaking into Tech with Barry Smith, Professor at University of Buffalo

    Find all the insights for your career here: https://techguide.org/ This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of ontology with our special guest, Barry Smith. Barry is a professor of biomedical informatics, computer science, and philosophy at the University of Buffalo and a pioneering figure in the application of ontological principles across various fields. In today's episode, we'll explore how ontology can bridge gaps in data communication over time, its significant role during the Human Genome Project, and its growing importance in the tech industry and government agencies. Barry also shares insights into career opportunities for non-STEM students, the skills needed to succeed as an ontologist, and the essential tools and resources to get started. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about ontology, you won't want to miss this enlightening conversation. Tune in to discover how ontology is shaping the future of data and technology! Time stamps: 00:00 Ontology aligns database headers for integration. 05:00 Biologists and IT merged for genomic advances. 07:39 Ontologists and semantic technologists in demand, USA. 10:48 Government needs ontology knowledge for reliable AI. 14:07 Investigating fentanyl smuggling financing and funding sources. 17:19 Car industry ontology bridges long-term development. 21:39 Book on ISO standard Basic Formal Ontology.

    23 min
  4. OCT 16

    70. Joe Fiore on Building Career Skills and Businesses as a Student

    Welcome to TechGuide, your go-to podcast for insights on entering the tech industry and navigating the world of entrepreneurship. I'm your host, Ryan Atkinson, and in today's episode, we're thrilled to have Joe Fiore join us. Joe's story is one of bold transitions and valuable lessons, having left a thriving sales career tied to his family business to carve out his own path. He brings an abundance of wisdom on the importance of gaining external experience before diving into family businesses, the value of service-based startups for budding entrepreneurs, and the integral role of solid business planning. Joe's diverse background in real estate, maintenance, and most recently, AI commercialization, offers a unique perspective for anyone looking to innovate and grow. We delve into his exceptional track record of selling five companies, his approach to seizing unexpected opportunities, and his practical advice on utilizing AI tools effectively. Whether you're a student exploring business ideas or a professional considering a career pivot, this episode is packed with crucial takeaways to inspire and guide you on your entrepreneurial journey. Stay tuned as we unpack these topics and more with Joe Fiore right here on TechGuide. Time stamps: 00:00 Successful entrepreneur pivoted to nonprofit real estate. 06:07 Knowing your limits helps manage ambition effectively. 09:40 Understand AI's role: model-building or business-support. 13:21 "Act as" prompt guides tool effectively. 15:36 Building business needs detailed planning for success. 19:51 Service businesses are cost-effective startup opportunities. 22:29 Acquire skills externally, set expectations, strengthen business. 26:17 Started company at 24 after corporate experience. 28:01 Hard work creates readiness for seizing opportunities.

    29 min
  5. OCT 2

    69. What to Look for in a Computer Science Undergrad with Jami Cotler, Professor at Siena College

    Today we have a special guest, Jamie Cotler, an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Siena College. Jamie brings a wealth of knowledge on career readiness, emotional intelligence, and breaking into the ever-evolving tech landscape. In this episode, Jamie shares invaluable insights into the importance of emotional and social intelligence in technical roles, her work at Siena College, and innovative programs like the trauma-informed UX design travel course to Poland. She also delves into practical steps for career readiness, from freshman to senior year, with an emphasis on networking, internships, and professional development. Whether you're a current student or a seasoned professional, Jamie's advice on building empathy, teamwork, and self-awareness will resonate with you. Stay tuned as we explore how these "superpower skills" can elevate your technical abilities and make you stand out in your career. Let's dive in! Time Stamps: 00:00 Teaching capstone and career readiness courses at Siena. 03:43 Psychology, computer science collaboration for trauma-informed UX design. 06:29 Freshmen: resumes, LinkedIn, GitHub, network; Sophomores: internships. 10:56 High schools lack qualified computer science teachers. 13:52 Career readiness: courses offering resume and teamwork skills. 17:07 Build psychological safety, self-awareness, and team synergy. 21:37 Understanding emotions enhances empathy and self-awareness. 24:23 Networking and alumni connections are key. 26:01 Phenomenal episode on emotional intelligence; connect Jamie.

    27 min
5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

TechGuide was created with a simple mission in mind: Develop up-to-date, comprehensive, and easy-to-use informational resources for our readers. This podcast is an extension of the TechGuide website, which contains degree and career overviews, career profiles, and other guides.

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