Guest: Kevin Hughes, Head of Sales & Marketing at Ascentient
Host: Steve Morey
Episode Overview
In this episode, we dive deep into the fast-evolving world of IT managed services and explore how AI is reshaping the landscape. Kevin Hughes from Ascentient shares his 11-year journey in the IT industry, from sales admin to leading sales and marketing, and how his team is embracing automation and AI to transform operations, elevate customer experience, and future-proof their business.
What You’ll Learn
- Laying the Foundation with Automation: Why Ascentient prioritized automation before diving into AI, and how it set the stage for scalable innovation.
- Identifying AI Opportunities: How internal surveys revealed tedious, repetitive tasks that could be automated or enhanced with AI.
- Human-First AI Approach: Kevin’s perspective on using AI to amplify human connection—not replace people—by freeing staff to build relationships and support business growth.
- Real-World AI Use Cases:
- Leveraging Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft's emerging AI agents to boost productivity and provide 24/7 “digital co-pilots” for clients.
- AI-driven improvements in aviation security, facial recognition, and optimized flight routing.
- Overcoming MSP Hesitation: Why some MSPs are hesitant to adopt AI, and Kevin’s advice for overcoming fear and experimenting boldly.
- Partnerships Driving Innovation: How Pax8 is helping Ascentient build a practical AI roadmap alongside Microsoft.
- Vertical-Focused Strategy: Kevin’s plan to roll out AI solutions industry by industry, starting with logistics and expanding to healthcare, aviation, and manufacturing.
Key Takeaways
- Start small with automation to create a solid foundation for AI.
- Use employee and client feedback to find high-impact use cases.
- AI is a tool to enhance, not replace, human work.
- Early adoption gives MSPs a competitive edge—hesitation risks falling behind.
- Collaborating with technology partners can accelerate your AI journey.
Episode Highlights
- [02:00] Kevin’s career journey and Ascentient’s automation-first approach
- [05:30] Identifying opportunities for AI from employee feedback
- [07:30] Why some MSPs fear AI—and why that’s dangerous
- [09:30] Insights from the Pax8 AI conference
- [12:00] AI breakthroughs in aviation and security
- [15:20] A vertical-based strategy for implementing AI
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