January 20, 2025 • 24 mins
Chris Mowry, the Chief Information Technology Officer of the Virginia State Police and a Marine Corps veteran, joins us to explore an innovative approach to advancing AI literacy within the Richmond community. Through the veteran cohort initiative, Chris shares how peer-led groups are revolutionizing the way veterans and other community members engage with AI. This grassroots effort is part of a larger mission by AI Ready RVA to foster community connections, support career transitions, and provide mental health tools and accessibility for disabled veterans. Discover the untapped potential that veterans have in transitioning into AI roles, thanks to their strategic thinking and leadership skills, which position them as future innovators in the tech world.
Join us as we discuss AI Ready RVA's initiatives, such as sponsorships, mentorships, and workshops, all designed to position Richmond as a leader in AI and offer veterans expanded career opportunities. We're also excited about an upcoming presentation on January 21st that promises to introduce the foundations of AI to those interested, including veterans eager to expand their career options in the tech landscape. Hear about our personal motivation behind supporting this initiative and how it aligns with our vision of fostering AI literacy and growth within the community. This episode is packed with insights and opportunities for anyone looking to explore the intersection of AI and veteran expertise.
Want to join a community of AI learners and enthusiasts? AI Ready RVA is leading the conversation and is rapidly rising as a hub for AI in the Richmond Region. Become a member and support our AI literacy initiatives.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Welcome RVA to Inspire AI, where we spotlight
companies and individuals in theregion who are pioneering the
development and use ofartificial intelligence.
I'm Jason McGinty from AI ReadyRVA.
At AI Ready RVA, our mission isto cultivate AI literacy in the
greater Richmond region throughawareness, community engagement
(00:24):
, education and advocacy.
Today's episode is madepossible by Modern Ancients
driving innovation with purpose.
Modern Ancients uses AI andstrategic insight to help
businesses create lasting,positive change with their
unique journey consultingpractice.
(00:44):
Find out more about how yourbusiness can grow at
modernagentscom, and thanks toour listeners for tuning in
today.
If you or your company wouldlike to be featured in the
Inspire AI Richmond episode,please drop us a message.
Don't forget to like, share orfollow our content and stay up
(01:07):
to date on the latest events forAI Ready RVA.
In today's episode, I'm excitedto introduce our guest, chris
Mowry, who currently holds therole of CITO or Chief
Information Technology Officerwith the Virginia State Police.
He is a Marine Corps veteranand an AI-ready RVA board member
(01:29):
.
He's lived in Richmond,virginia, for 20 years and has
worked for companies likeCapital One and Raytheon
Technologies.
Chris is also passionate aboutdriving technology change with a
focus on user experience.
Please join me in welcomingChris to the show.
Hey, thanks for having me,jason.
Yeah, again, chris, thanks forjoining today.
(01:51):
I'd like to start the audienceoff with tell us a little bit
about yourself and what inspiredyou to join our show today.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
Sure, as you mentioned, I've spent four years
in the Marine Corps.
I probably have over twodecades of experience in tech.
Definitely I'm passionate aboutinnovation, ai, building out
community and just reallyprofessional and personal growth
(02:20):
, especially for my fellowveterans and for me, kind of
joining this show.
You know, as we've talked, Ithink this is an incredible
opportunity to share the visionand purpose behind the veteran
cohort that we're kicking off.
I believe it's a great way tobuild out community engagement
relative to the individualinterest because, you know, as
(02:45):
we talk, all the time, ai isfast moving and I think, by
creating the multipliers, liningour goals to be an AI-ready
city, which is part of our ownmission, it's yeah, I kind of
want to share how thisinitiative can take a meaningful
difference, encouraging othersto get involved in being
AI-ready.
Speaker 1 (03:04):
Yep All right.
Well, thank you for sharingthat story and for your service,
of course.
It's, of course, inspiring tosee how you've committed and
combined your experience in theMarine Corps with your passion
for technology and innovation.
The veteran cohort sounds likea truly impactful initiative, so
(03:26):
tell us what are cohorts andwhy is it a valuable approach to
fostering innovation and growth?
Speaker 2 (03:35):
Sure, yeah, this isn't the first cohort we set up
.
It's probably what number fouror five on the list, but the
idea is it's really, you knowpeer-led groups, you know that
fit various industries orsectors of society.
So it's, you know we have theveterans one, we have, you know,
women in AI, so multitude ofthem, with finance as well, and
(03:57):
it's essentially just allowinglike-minded people to gather and
discuss.
You know aspects you know of AI.
You know in relation to youknow the reason they're
connecting, ie veterans comingin to connect with like-minded
folks.
Speaker 1 (04:12):
Yeah, so cohorts are peer-led groups that create an
environment where individualscome together with shared
interests and collaborate.
I imagine they are learningfrom each other and solving
problems together, and I thinkby focusing on community
building and aligningdiscussions to AI, you're not
(04:32):
just creating a network, you'recreating a movement towards
shared goals.
Yes, it's exciting.
How does the cohort modelsupport the mission of AI Ready
RBA and how does the veterancohort align with that broader
mission?
Speaker 2 (05:02):
through the support of the education committee.
So really we don't want to bepart of I think manpower-wise we
can't be part of all thecohorts and things that'll stand
up over time.
But what we can do is reallysupport those led groups, again
through our education committee,to make sure they really align
(05:23):
to the agenda.
Lines relate to the mission ofAI ready RVA.
You know, cultivating the AIliteracy that we've.
You know we've talked aboutmultiple, multiple times and,
and I think the veteran cohortis exactly, could be one of
those two right, it's kind ofthat framework to bring strong
community and those that haveserved bring them together.
(05:45):
You know, and also, when youlook at not only the veterans
but you, you, you can see theallies of veterans and even
families, because families arereally, you know, you ask any
veteran, there's a backbone for,for those, for those veterans.
Speaker 1 (06:01):
Yeah.
So it sounds like it's wellaligned to AI Ready RVA's
mission and, being a framework,it also encourages both
self-organization andcollaboration with the support
of the committees to ensure thecommunity remains grounded in
the AI literacy.
Mission right, mission right.
(06:29):
So, yeah, I think the veterancohort in particular adds such a
powerful dimension to bringingtogether individuals who have
served and creating a spacewhere shared experiences and
unique perspectives amplify thebroader mission.
It's a true testament to thestrength of the cohort approach.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
Yes, I definitely agree.
It's, you know, I think it'sgoing to be one of many that
we're going to, you know, kickoff and, just like all the other
ones, hopefully it'll be justas well received Cool.
Speaker 1 (07:00):
All right, tell us what.
What kind of support, resourcesand training will participants
in the veteran cohort receive?
Speaker 2 (07:09):
So it's still early.
Exactly, how you know, theveteran cohort will fully
support its community, but whatI you know what I'm thinking I
feel it could do it can helpfacilitate career transitions,
tools that can assist withmental help, expand on
accessibility for those disabledveterans, really create
(07:31):
connections.
I think there's a lot ofveteran type of organizations
that are out there, but I thinkthis is another way to do that
and ultimately, those, I think,are a couple of the things that
could come out of it.
But ultimately, I'm hoping forus to come together and leverage
(07:52):
AI in a way that maybe you knowI'm not even covering here
today, and I think that'll be.
Speaker 1 (07:57):
That'll be a win is that the cohort participants
will receive guidance from thecommittee, which will, of course
, benefit from the tools thatfacilitate some of the most
important concerns for veteransthat you spoke of, and maybe, by
offering this holistic set ofresources, you're also
(08:19):
addressing their personal andprofessional growth.
Speaker 2 (08:23):
Yes, and I know we did some early marketing and
trying to get some folks andthere's, you know I've had, I
have, a handful of folks thathave reached out.
So you know it's reallyorganizing, you know, those
group, those folks, and anddiscuss.
You know, what do we want tooffer?
Because I think I said I'm justtouching on a few.
I think there's a lot more thatI'm not even covering.
(08:44):
I think could's a lot more thatI'm not even covering.
I think can come out of thisand then, as we talk to families
and allies, I can only imagineit'll grow pretty quickly.
Speaker 1 (08:54):
Yeah, yeah, I think you know.
Follow the model of AI ReadyRVA.
You start with a vision and youinspire a few willing
participants to invest andcommit their time into that
vision and you know, organically, you will figure out what to do
(09:14):
next.
I think it will work reallywell for you.
Speaker 2 (09:19):
Yeah, I'm excited about it, for sure.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
All right, cool.
So what outcomes do you hope tosee from the veteran cohort in
the short and long term?
Speaker 2 (09:29):
Sure, I think in the short term, I'm hopeful that a
lot of military families, alliesand vets that are interested
engage in how I can impact them.
So it's really getting thatmessage out.
So I'm hopefully, I'm hopefulthat some of the efforts that
we're going to do like this youknow I was talking today uh,
some of the marketing that we've, we've put out there that will
(09:52):
start to draw in those, thosegroups and from that foundation,
the long-term is really likeconnect with some others other
great veteran groups that areout there to then either a
foster stronger partnerships inthe veteran community, connect
vets and families to other toolswhile using AI, but also
(10:15):
finding those other vets andthose other groups and seeing
maybe could leverage AI help aswell.
So, ultimately, the long termis how can we really extend AI
as a tool to help those not onlythose groups, but vets and
families?
Speaker 1 (10:31):
Yeah it's a great vision, building a foundation in
the short term.
Of course, you know whateverstructure is needed to start to
unlock AI's potential for thelong term.
Right, yes, it's just clearthat the initiative has the
potential to create lastingchange.
Yeah, I hope so, not just forthe veteran community, but for
(10:53):
everyone.
Speaker 2 (10:54):
Yes, I really hope so .
I've talked to a couple ofveteran groups outside of our AI
Ready and there's some interestout there.
I think it's really getting itkicked off and going and I think
it'll grow pretty quickgrassroots efforts with, for
sure, real imagination behindthem, usually do.
Speaker 1 (11:15):
Yes, all right.
What role does the broader rbacommunity play in supporting the
, the cohort success?
Speaker 2 (11:24):
Sure, we have really successful cohort kickoffs and a
lot of that has been withpushing through our channels
like LinkedIn, instagram, wordof mouth.
That's been successful, so Ithink it's the same here is
leveraging the people that wealready have in AI Ready members
(11:46):
in our organization and thoseallies of vets as well and I
think it's just arming them withthe information and helping
with, like the other cohorts,getting that word out.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
Yeah, definitely involvement is key.
Yes, making the initiative likethis thrive through community
involvement.
There are so many opportunitiesto contribute.
So spreading the word, like yousaid, engaging families and
allies, yes, and it's agrassroots support effort that
takes a lot of people to standup.
(12:20):
Once it gets going, selfperpetuates.
Speaker 2 (12:23):
Yes, going self-perpetuates, yes, and we've
had, I think, really goodsuccess with the cohorts that
we've stood up by just doingthat grassroots effort.
So I would expect this will bethe same.
Speaker 1 (12:38):
Yeah, it definitely strengthens the network and
connections that members of thecohort can build upon.
You just kind of hand overcertain resources to the members
and makes it very easy to, onecontribute and, two, take
advantage of the personal andprofessional growth.
(12:59):
I agree, All right, Tell us whyis it important for veterans to
engage with AI and emergingtechnologies in today's job
market?
Speaker 2 (13:13):
I know you know this.
I mean the job market'scompetitive right, and I think
companies are facing challengesin finding talent.
You know equipped to takeAI-related roles.
Facing challenges and findingtalent you know equipped to take
you know AI related rolesbecause it's it's slowly
starting to change, or like theroles of yesterday are starting
(13:34):
to go away, but that doesn'tmean there won't be new roles
that that stand up you know fromthat.
So, and I think veterans bringyou know unique skills.
You know strategic thinking,you know solving problems under
pressure and just leadershipthat you learn just by being in
the military.
I think you pair those withsome AI expertise and bring
those two together.
I think it enhances theirability to innovate and lead
(13:57):
through those tech-drivenenvironments.
So, really, in a nutshell, it'syou know it's giving them an
opportunity to expand careeroptions in the new world as we
continue to advance AItechnology.
Speaker 1 (14:12):
Yeah, yeah.
Such an important point thatveterans bring incredible skills
to the community and when youpair that with the incredible
technologies, their doors openand they'll open for the
veterans who are leading thedrive through the technology
change.
Speaker 2 (14:31):
Yeah, yes, yeah, 100% .
I think it's.
That's a resilient.
You know if you you give them aproblem, I mean they're going
to, they'll figure it out.
You know if we can arm themwith ways with you know ways to
leverage these AI tools.
I imagine some don't know thecapabilities or even how to
scratch.
(14:51):
You know some of the basics andhopefully we'll be able to
bring that to them.
I think, once we start openingthose pathways and those doors,
though, it'll take off for them.
Speaker 1 (15:08):
Yeah, pathways in those doors, though it'll take
off for them.
Yeah well, we happen to have aprepared presentation on the
21st of january, which shouldprobably be the day after this
podcast goes live.
So get it, get out the thenotice to your organization.
They can see the value of thepresentation, where it's going
to introduce the foundations ofartificial intelligence to its
(15:32):
audience.
It should be live and hopefullyrecorded, so you can always
look back as well.
Yes, so how can veterans andother interested individuals
apply for this program?
Speaker 2 (15:45):
Sure, there's a few ways you can go through our
website AI, ready, rba.
You can reach out to myself orreally anybody on the board.
We have plenty of names thatare floating out there that you
can see, so just reach out toone of the members, go to the
(16:05):
website, you know.
Send.
Send a message to the, you know, to the group.
You know someone will get.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
we'll get back to you , for sure yeah, I think our
website developers have recentlyadded a space for cohorts as
well.
So if you go to a rba commboard, slash cohorts, I would
venture to.
If you go to AIRBAcom forward,slash cohorts, I would venture
to guess.
Yeah, I believe that's right,all the cohorts there and
hopefully be able to sync upwith the right members.
Speaker 2 (16:34):
Yes, and, like I said , we've been pretty busy out
there in the channels, so itwon't be hard to find one of us
out there making the call we aremaking our way around.
Speaker 1 (16:51):
Yes, we are.
So tell me, are thereopportunities for RVA businesses
or maybe community members toget involved in supporting the
cohort?
Sure?
Speaker 2 (17:02):
I mean it always helps.
You know, through sponsorshipand funding, offering mentorship
opportunities, workshops andtraining, employment
partnerships.
You know, as we talk abouttrying to skill, you know
veterans in these areas.
I think that's a potentialpathway networking events and
just helping us promote theinitiative.
(17:22):
You know through those, throughtheir channels.
You know through those, throughtheir channels, you know it's
again it goes back to thatgrassroots.
You know more people that canhelp us get the word out.
It'll reach.
It'll reach the right people.
Speaker 1 (17:33):
Yeah, I definitely personally witnessed the power
of sponsorship, mentorship,workshops and the promotion of
these initiatives.
These partnerships candefinitely play a huge role in
the cohort success.
Speaker 2 (17:49):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (17:50):
I agree, yeah, so what inspired you to become
involved in the AI Ready RBAinitiative and stand up the
veteran cohort?
Speaker 2 (18:01):
Yeah, I think it's with the year I had last year
and just having a lot ofdowntime, and I think it's
really got started digging intoAI and I really believe a
community that's knowledgeableabout AI benefits everyone.
It's going to change everyaspect or every aspect of our
(18:28):
lives at some point.
It's not going away.
So I think it's focusing onwhat we're doing on education.
You know, demystifying thetechnology and using it to make
you know lives better.
I mean that's exciting stuff.
You know it's.
You know when you're you'reinnovating and changing and you
know how to use it for good.
I mean that's it's when you'reinnovating and changing and you
know how to use it for good.
I mean that's short of amazing.
(18:49):
Probably, I can say, and Ireally believe, through our
community, right, with thingsthat we've talked about, I think
there's really a lot of smartand passionate people in
Richmond and I know one of thereasons we stood this up is to
be that that leader and to beconsidered, you know, continue
(19:09):
to be considered a beacon for.
For ai, I think, is.
Speaker 1 (19:11):
I mean it's exciting, right, I want, I want to be
part of that and I know you dotoo, jason, so it's that's why
we're doing these things rightyeah, yeah, I think, speaking
for myself and the rest of theAI Ready RBA community, our
passion for giving back to thecommunity, and yours to the
veteran community, is trulyremarkable.
I've seen some deeply investedbusiness leaders go way outside
(19:39):
of their normal means to standthings up and make this magic
happen.
So I'd say it's.
It's clear that our commitmentto fostering AI literacy and
creating opportunities forgrowth is is deeply rooted in
our belief in the power ofcommunity.
Speaker 2 (20:01):
Yes, and when you look at like veterans, you know
it's nice to mention.
You know we're resilient andit's it's family.
You know it's.
You know I want to give back toto my family.
I know it's.
You know the military was goodto me and I know many others and
it's it's a tight knit group.
And you know, if I can, if Ican throw in and help help
(20:25):
another vet, I would do thatanytime.
Lovely, yeah, All right, soyou've, you're going to be
(20:53):
plugged in.
Otherwise, keep close to the AIReady RBA site or just through
one of the numerous socialchannels that we're on LinkedIn,
instagram, facebook.
I feel like we're hitting allthose channels, but I think the
easiest thing is to join.
We want everybody to be part ofthis change and this
(21:17):
transformation.
That's probably the easiestpath.
Speaker 1 (21:22):
Yeah Well, there are multiple touch points offered
for engagement.
I think that definitely ensuresanyone interested can find
their way through theinformation.
They're seeking to get involvedin a meaningful way, which is
what it's all about.
Yes, for sure, outstanding Allright.
(21:46):
Last but not least, I'd love towrap this interview up with a
fun question for you, chris Sure.
If you could have anysuperpower, what would it be and
why?
Speaker 2 (21:59):
That's a hard question.
I think it would be the abilityto instantly understand and
share information and knowledgewith anyone, anywhere.
It's hard to learn stuff, andespecially how fast the
technology changes as soon asyou look, as soon as you learn
something, you're obsoletebecause it's already passed you
(22:22):
by.
So if I can pick that stuff uplike instantly and share it, I
think that'd be.
I think that'd be my superpowerI'm with you there.
Speaker 1 (22:30):
It's clear.
It's clear that your passionfor community building and
innovation shines through herethrough your superpower.
It reflects your dedication tofostering growth and creating
meaningful connectionsOutstanding on your new role,
(22:50):
Thank you.
Thank you for your service onceagain, as well as your passion
to help the community developand grow.
We are very fortunate to haveyou with the team and I very
much look forward to workingwith you in the future going
forward.
Speaker 2 (23:08):
Likewise, Jason, and thank you for you know, taking
the time to put this together.
This is, you know.
This is fun, you know.
Thank you for taking the timeto put this together.
This was fun.
I'm looking forward to seeingmore of what you're going to do
with this podcast and the otherwork we're going to do together.
Awesome stuff, man.
All right, Cheers.
Speaker 1 (23:27):
Cheers and thanks to our listeners for tuning in
today.
If you or your company wouldlike to be featured in the
Inspire AI Richmond episode,please drop us a message.
Don't forget to like, share orfollow our content and stay up
to date on the latest events forAI Ready RVA.
(23:47):
Thank you again and see younext time.
Welcome RVA to Inspire AI, where we spotlight
companies and individuals in theregion who are pioneering the
development and use ofartificial intelligence.
I'm Jason McGinty from AI ReadyRVA.
At AI Ready RVA, our mission isto cultivate AI literacy in the
greater Richmond region throughawareness, community engagement
(00:24):
, education and advocacy.
Today's episode is madepossible by Modern Ancients
driving innovation with purpose.
Modern Ancients uses AI andstrategic insight to help
businesses create lasting,positive change with their
unique journey consultingpractice.
(00:44):
Find out more about how yourbusiness can grow at
modernagentscom, and thanks toour listeners for tuning in
today.
If you or your company wouldlike to be featured in the
Inspire AI Richmond episode,please drop us a message.
Don't forget to like, share orfollow our content and stay up
(01:07):
to date on the latest events forAI Ready RVA.
In today's episode, I'm excitedto introduce our guest, chris
Mowry, who currently holds therole of CITO or Chief
Information Technology Officerwith the Virginia State Police.
He is a Marine Corps veteranand an AI-ready RVA board member
(01:29):
.
He's lived in Richmond,virginia, for 20 years and has
worked for companies likeCapital One and Raytheon
Technologies.
Chris is also passionate aboutdriving technology change with a
focus on user experience.
Please join me in welcomingChris to the show.
Hey, thanks for having me,jason.
Yeah, again, chris, thanks forjoining today.
(01:51):
I'd like to start the audienceoff with tell us a little bit
about yourself and what inspiredyou to join our show today.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
Sure, as you mentioned, I've spent four years
in the Marine Corps.
I probably have over twodecades of experience in tech.
Definitely I'm passionate aboutinnovation, ai, building out
community and just reallyprofessional and personal growth
(02:20):
, especially for my fellowveterans and for me, kind of
joining this show.
You know, as we've talked, Ithink this is an incredible
opportunity to share the visionand purpose behind the veteran
cohort that we're kicking off.
I believe it's a great way tobuild out community engagement
relative to the individualinterest because, you know, as
(02:45):
we talk, all the time, ai isfast moving and I think, by
creating the multipliers, liningour goals to be an AI-ready
city, which is part of our ownmission, it's yeah, I kind of
want to share how thisinitiative can take a meaningful
difference, encouraging othersto get involved in being
AI-ready.
Speaker 1 (03:04):
Yep All right.
Well, thank you for sharingthat story and for your service,
of course.
It's, of course, inspiring tosee how you've committed and
combined your experience in theMarine Corps with your passion
for technology and innovation.
The veteran cohort sounds likea truly impactful initiative, so
(03:26):
tell us what are cohorts andwhy is it a valuable approach to
fostering innovation and growth?
Speaker 2 (03:35):
Sure, yeah, this isn't the first cohort we set up
.
It's probably what number fouror five on the list, but the
idea is it's really, you knowpeer-led groups, you know that
fit various industries orsectors of society.
So it's, you know we have theveterans one, we have, you know,
women in AI, so multitude ofthem, with finance as well, and
(03:57):
it's essentially just allowinglike-minded people to gather and
discuss.
You know aspects you know of AI.
You know in relation to youknow the reason they're
connecting, ie veterans comingin to connect with like-minded
folks.
Speaker 1 (04:12):
Yeah, so cohorts are peer-led groups that create an
environment where individualscome together with shared
interests and collaborate.
I imagine they are learningfrom each other and solving
problems together, and I thinkby focusing on community
building and aligningdiscussions to AI, you're not
(04:32):
just creating a network, you'recreating a movement towards
shared goals.
Yes, it's exciting.
How does the cohort modelsupport the mission of AI Ready
RBA and how does the veterancohort align with that broader
mission?
Speaker 2 (05:02):
through the support of the education committee.
So really we don't want to bepart of I think manpower-wise we
can't be part of all thecohorts and things that'll stand
up over time.
But what we can do is reallysupport those led groups, again
through our education committee,to make sure they really align
(05:23):
to the agenda.
Lines relate to the mission ofAI ready RVA.
You know, cultivating the AIliteracy that we've.
You know we've talked aboutmultiple, multiple times and,
and I think the veteran cohortis exactly, could be one of
those two right, it's kind ofthat framework to bring strong
community and those that haveserved bring them together.
(05:45):
You know, and also, when youlook at not only the veterans
but you, you, you can see theallies of veterans and even
families, because families arereally, you know, you ask any
veteran, there's a backbone for,for those, for those veterans.
Speaker 1 (06:01):
Yeah.
So it sounds like it's wellaligned to AI Ready RVA's
mission and, being a framework,it also encourages both
self-organization andcollaboration with the support
of the committees to ensure thecommunity remains grounded in
the AI literacy.
Mission right, mission right.
(06:29):
So, yeah, I think the veterancohort in particular adds such a
powerful dimension to bringingtogether individuals who have
served and creating a spacewhere shared experiences and
unique perspectives amplify thebroader mission.
It's a true testament to thestrength of the cohort approach.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
Yes, I definitely agree.
It's, you know, I think it'sgoing to be one of many that
we're going to, you know, kickoff and, just like all the other
ones, hopefully it'll be justas well received Cool.
Speaker 1 (07:00):
All right, tell us what.
What kind of support, resourcesand training will participants
in the veteran cohort receive?
Speaker 2 (07:09):
So it's still early.
Exactly, how you know, theveteran cohort will fully
support its community, but whatI you know what I'm thinking I
feel it could do it can helpfacilitate career transitions,
tools that can assist withmental help, expand on
accessibility for those disabledveterans, really create
(07:31):
connections.
I think there's a lot ofveteran type of organizations
that are out there, but I thinkthis is another way to do that
and ultimately, those, I think,are a couple of the things that
could come out of it.
But ultimately, I'm hoping forus to come together and leverage
(07:52):
AI in a way that maybe you knowI'm not even covering here
today, and I think that'll be.
Speaker 1 (07:57):
That'll be a win is that the cohort participants
will receive guidance from thecommittee, which will, of course
, benefit from the tools thatfacilitate some of the most
important concerns for veteransthat you spoke of, and maybe, by
offering this holistic set ofresources, you're also
(08:19):
addressing their personal andprofessional growth.
Speaker 2 (08:23):
Yes, and I know we did some early marketing and
trying to get some folks andthere's, you know I've had, I
have, a handful of folks thathave reached out.
So you know it's reallyorganizing, you know, those
group, those folks, and anddiscuss.
You know, what do we want tooffer?
Because I think I said I'm justtouching on a few.
I think there's a lot more thatI'm not even covering.
(08:44):
I think could's a lot more thatI'm not even covering.
I think can come out of thisand then, as we talk to families
and allies, I can only imagineit'll grow pretty quickly.
Speaker 1 (08:54):
Yeah, yeah, I think you know.
Follow the model of AI ReadyRVA.
You start with a vision and youinspire a few willing
participants to invest andcommit their time into that
vision and you know, organically, you will figure out what to do
(09:14):
next.
I think it will work reallywell for you.
Speaker 2 (09:19):
Yeah, I'm excited about it, for sure.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
All right, cool.
So what outcomes do you hope tosee from the veteran cohort in
the short and long term?
Speaker 2 (09:29):
Sure, I think in the short term, I'm hopeful that a
lot of military families, alliesand vets that are interested
engage in how I can impact them.
So it's really getting thatmessage out.
So I'm hopefully, I'm hopefulthat some of the efforts that
we're going to do like this youknow I was talking today uh,
some of the marketing that we've, we've put out there that will
(09:52):
start to draw in those, thosegroups and from that foundation,
the long-term is really likeconnect with some others other
great veteran groups that areout there to then either a
foster stronger partnerships inthe veteran community, connect
vets and families to other toolswhile using AI, but also
(10:15):
finding those other vets andthose other groups and seeing
maybe could leverage AI help aswell.
So, ultimately, the long termis how can we really extend AI
as a tool to help those not onlythose groups, but vets and
families?
Speaker 1 (10:31):
Yeah it's a great vision, building a foundation in
the short term.
Of course, you know whateverstructure is needed to start to
unlock AI's potential for thelong term.
Right, yes, it's just clearthat the initiative has the
potential to create lastingchange.
Yeah, I hope so, not just forthe veteran community, but for
(10:53):
everyone.
Speaker 2 (10:54):
Yes, I really hope so .
I've talked to a couple ofveteran groups outside of our AI
Ready and there's some interestout there.
I think it's really getting itkicked off and going and I think
it'll grow pretty quickgrassroots efforts with, for
sure, real imagination behindthem, usually do.
Speaker 1 (11:15):
Yes, all right.
What role does the broader rbacommunity play in supporting the
, the cohort success?
Speaker 2 (11:24):
Sure, we have really successful cohort kickoffs and a
lot of that has been withpushing through our channels
like LinkedIn, instagram, wordof mouth.
That's been successful, so Ithink it's the same here is
leveraging the people that wealready have in AI Ready members
(11:46):
in our organization and thoseallies of vets as well and I
think it's just arming them withthe information and helping
with, like the other cohorts,getting that word out.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
Yeah, definitely involvement is key.
Yes, making the initiative likethis thrive through community
involvement.
There are so many opportunitiesto contribute.
So spreading the word, like yousaid, engaging families and
allies, yes, and it's agrassroots support effort that
takes a lot of people to standup.
(12:20):
Once it gets going, selfperpetuates.
Speaker 2 (12:23):
Yes, going self-perpetuates, yes, and we've
had, I think, really goodsuccess with the cohorts that
we've stood up by just doingthat grassroots effort.
So I would expect this will bethe same.
Speaker 1 (12:38):
Yeah, it definitely strengthens the network and
connections that members of thecohort can build upon.
You just kind of hand overcertain resources to the members
and makes it very easy to, onecontribute and, two, take
advantage of the personal andprofessional growth.
(12:59):
I agree, All right, Tell us whyis it important for veterans to
engage with AI and emergingtechnologies in today's job
market?
Speaker 2 (13:13):
I know you know this.
I mean the job market'scompetitive right, and I think
companies are facing challengesin finding talent.
You know equipped to takeAI-related roles.
Facing challenges and findingtalent you know equipped to take
you know AI related rolesbecause it's it's slowly
starting to change, or like theroles of yesterday are starting
(13:34):
to go away, but that doesn'tmean there won't be new roles
that that stand up you know fromthat.
So, and I think veterans bringyou know unique skills.
You know strategic thinking,you know solving problems under
pressure and just leadershipthat you learn just by being in
the military.
I think you pair those withsome AI expertise and bring
those two together.
I think it enhances theirability to innovate and lead
(13:57):
through those tech-drivenenvironments.
So, really, in a nutshell, it'syou know it's giving them an
opportunity to expand careeroptions in the new world as we
continue to advance AItechnology.
Speaker 1 (14:12):
Yeah, yeah.
Such an important point thatveterans bring incredible skills
to the community and when youpair that with the incredible
technologies, their doors openand they'll open for the
veterans who are leading thedrive through the technology
change.
Speaker 2 (14:31):
Yeah, yes, yeah, 100% .
I think it's.
That's a resilient.
You know if you you give them aproblem, I mean they're going
to, they'll figure it out.
You know if we can arm themwith ways with you know ways to
leverage these AI tools.
I imagine some don't know thecapabilities or even how to
scratch.
(14:51):
You know some of the basics andhopefully we'll be able to
bring that to them.
I think, once we start openingthose pathways and those doors,
though, it'll take off for them.
Speaker 1 (15:08):
Yeah, pathways in those doors, though it'll take
off for them.
Yeah well, we happen to have aprepared presentation on the
21st of january, which shouldprobably be the day after this
podcast goes live.
So get it, get out the thenotice to your organization.
They can see the value of thepresentation, where it's going
to introduce the foundations ofartificial intelligence to its
(15:32):
audience.
It should be live and hopefullyrecorded, so you can always
look back as well.
Yes, so how can veterans andother interested individuals
apply for this program?
Speaker 2 (15:45):
Sure, there's a few ways you can go through our
website AI, ready, rba.
You can reach out to myself orreally anybody on the board.
We have plenty of names thatare floating out there that you
can see, so just reach out toone of the members, go to the
(16:05):
website, you know.
Send.
Send a message to the, you know, to the group.
You know someone will get.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
we'll get back to you , for sure yeah, I think our
website developers have recentlyadded a space for cohorts as
well.
So if you go to a rba commboard, slash cohorts, I would
venture to.
If you go to AIRBAcom forward,slash cohorts, I would venture
to guess.
Yeah, I believe that's right,all the cohorts there and
hopefully be able to sync upwith the right members.
Speaker 2 (16:34):
Yes, and, like I said , we've been pretty busy out
there in the channels, so itwon't be hard to find one of us
out there making the call we aremaking our way around.
Speaker 1 (16:51):
Yes, we are.
So tell me, are thereopportunities for RVA businesses
or maybe community members toget involved in supporting the
cohort?
Sure?
Speaker 2 (17:02):
I mean it always helps.
You know, through sponsorshipand funding, offering mentorship
opportunities, workshops andtraining, employment
partnerships.
You know, as we talk abouttrying to skill, you know
veterans in these areas.
I think that's a potentialpathway networking events and
just helping us promote theinitiative.
(17:22):
You know through those, throughtheir channels.
You know through those, throughtheir channels, you know it's
again it goes back to thatgrassroots.
You know more people that canhelp us get the word out.
It'll reach.
It'll reach the right people.
Speaker 1 (17:33):
Yeah, I definitely personally witnessed the power
of sponsorship, mentorship,workshops and the promotion of
these initiatives.
These partnerships candefinitely play a huge role in
the cohort success.
Speaker 2 (17:49):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (17:50):
I agree, yeah, so what inspired you to become
involved in the AI Ready RBAinitiative and stand up the
veteran cohort?
Speaker 2 (18:01):
Yeah, I think it's with the year I had last year
and just having a lot ofdowntime, and I think it's
really got started digging intoAI and I really believe a
community that's knowledgeableabout AI benefits everyone.
It's going to change everyaspect or every aspect of our
(18:28):
lives at some point.
It's not going away.
So I think it's focusing onwhat we're doing on education.
You know, demystifying thetechnology and using it to make
you know lives better.
I mean that's exciting stuff.
You know it's.
You know when you're you'reinnovating and changing and you
know how to use it for good.
I mean that's it's when you'reinnovating and changing and you
know how to use it for good.
I mean that's short of amazing.
(18:49):
Probably, I can say, and Ireally believe, through our
community, right, with thingsthat we've talked about, I think
there's really a lot of smartand passionate people in
Richmond and I know one of thereasons we stood this up is to
be that that leader and to beconsidered, you know, continue
(19:09):
to be considered a beacon for.
For ai, I think, is.
Speaker 1 (19:11):
I mean it's exciting, right, I want, I want to be
part of that and I know you dotoo, jason, so it's that's why
we're doing these things rightyeah, yeah, I think, speaking
for myself and the rest of theAI Ready RBA community, our
passion for giving back to thecommunity, and yours to the
veteran community, is trulyremarkable.
I've seen some deeply investedbusiness leaders go way outside
(19:39):
of their normal means to standthings up and make this magic
happen.
So I'd say it's.
It's clear that our commitmentto fostering AI literacy and
creating opportunities forgrowth is is deeply rooted in
our belief in the power ofcommunity.
Speaker 2 (20:01):
Yes, and when you look at like veterans, you know
it's nice to mention.
You know we're resilient andit's it's family.
You know it's.
You know I want to give back toto my family.
I know it's.
You know the military was goodto me and I know many others and
it's it's a tight knit group.
And you know, if I can, if Ican throw in and help help
(20:25):
another vet, I would do thatanytime.
Lovely, yeah, All right, soyou've, you're going to be
(20:53):
plugged in.
Otherwise, keep close to the AIReady RBA site or just through
one of the numerous socialchannels that we're on LinkedIn,
instagram, facebook.
I feel like we're hitting allthose channels, but I think the
easiest thing is to join.
We want everybody to be part ofthis change and this
(21:17):
transformation.
That's probably the easiestpath.
Speaker 1 (21:22):
Yeah Well, there are multiple touch points offered
for engagement.
I think that definitely ensuresanyone interested can find
their way through theinformation.
They're seeking to get involvedin a meaningful way, which is
what it's all about.
Yes, for sure, outstanding Allright.
(21:46):
Last but not least, I'd love towrap this interview up with a
fun question for you, chris Sure.
If you could have anysuperpower, what would it be and
why?
Speaker 2 (21:59):
That's a hard question.
I think it would be the abilityto instantly understand and
share information and knowledgewith anyone, anywhere.
It's hard to learn stuff, andespecially how fast the
technology changes as soon asyou look, as soon as you learn
something, you're obsoletebecause it's already passed you
(22:22):
by.
So if I can pick that stuff uplike instantly and share it, I
think that'd be.
I think that'd be my superpowerI'm with you there.
Speaker 1 (22:30):
It's clear.
It's clear that your passionfor community building and
innovation shines through herethrough your superpower.
It reflects your dedication tofostering growth and creating
meaningful connectionsOutstanding on your new role,
(22:50):
Thank you.
Thank you for your service onceagain, as well as your passion
to help the community developand grow.
We are very fortunate to haveyou with the team and I very
much look forward to workingwith you in the future going
forward.
Speaker 2 (23:08):
Likewise, Jason, and thank you for you know, taking
the time to put this together.
This is, you know.
This is fun, you know.
Thank you for taking the timeto put this together.
This was fun.
I'm looking forward to seeingmore of what you're going to do
with this podcast and the otherwork we're going to do together.
Awesome stuff, man.
All right, Cheers.
Speaker 1 (23:27):
Cheers and thanks to our listeners for tuning in
today.
If you or your company wouldlike to be featured in the
Inspire AI Richmond episode,please drop us a message.
Don't forget to like, share orfollow our content and stay up
to date on the latest events forAI Ready RVA.
(23:47):
Thank you again and see younext time.
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