Vision Northwest North Carolina: AI & Technology Solutions Recap

Vision Northwest North Carolina was established to unite our region around relevant economic development topics that will shape our business landscape for years to come. On behalf of our partner organizations and sponsors, we sincerely thank you for your attendance and hope the summit inspired you to further examine these emerging topics.

Our panels and discussions further illustrated the strength of what is already happening in our region around AI and technology strategy. For those that didn’t know exactly where to begin, Zach and Cyrus laid out key terms and relevant uses for AI that can get even the novice “humanbot” started! If you found the conversations around cybersecurity and business protection dominating your thoughts on the drive home, you should rest easy knowing companies in our own backyard can help you implement your next level of defense.

Since our event, we continue to see new data and best practices shaping the AI and technology conversation. As a region, we must continue to improve our understanding and use of this technology to better position our businesses, local governments, and emerging workforce for what’s ahead.

Our partner organizations will continue to engage in these important topics and bring information to you at the local and regional levels. Stay tuned to your local Chambers, workforce development, and education partners for future opportunities to expand our knowledge of AI, and show how Northwest North Carolina can further benefit from the advancements we can make together in these areas.

Mark your calendars for May 22, 2025, and we’ll look forward to seeing you once again for Vision Northwest North Carolina!

All the best,

David Jackson
President/CEO
Boone Area Chamber of Commerce

Digital Booklet Breakout Session Panelists Biographies

Morning Keynote Session:

Crafting an AI-Native Business: Essential Skills for the New Frontier with Zach Giglio, GCM

Sponsored by Carolina West Wireless

We'll identify the skills that are becoming increasingly important across all roles due to the influence of AI and how businesses can adjust their hiring practices to incorporate these essential skills. We'll then guide professionals on how to enhance their own skill sets to become more effective and attractive to employers in this new work environment. Finally, we'll demonstrate how taking these steps enables small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to reap the benefits of implementing AI, such as increased innovation and better performance.

AI Workshop Information and Testimonials - We don't just tell you how to leverage AI; we show you.

Weekly AI in Business Newsletter - Stay up-to-date on the latest AI trends and tools for small and medium-sized businesses.

GCM's AI in Marketing Resource Guide - A helpful tool that combines expert insights, practical advice, and real-life examples to make it easy for you to understand and work with AI.

GCM Blog for Ongoing Insights - Find more case studies and ideas to help you with AI on our blog.

Afternoon Keynote Session:

The Impact of AI: From Resumes to Revolutions with Cyrus Hurley, Chief Executive Officer, Zuryc

Sponsored by SkyLine/SkyBest

There are many practical uses for AI that can positively impact businesses, but the bad guys have AI too. We'll dive into some of the everyday processes and tools that can make businesses more efficient and free employees for expanded tasks. We'll also discuss cybersecurity and other threats, and how to make sure your policies and practices are limiting your risk for business disruption. 

Morning Breakout Sessions

Sponsored by First Horizon

The Impact of AI & Technology on Workforce Readiness

As we consider the impact of AI and technology on the modern workplace, how do we ensure staff are trained to fully harness these new tools? Hear from local education and workforce leaders about how technical adaptation and skill development is being prioritized in the classroom and on the job site.

Panelists
- Lane Freeman, Director of Online Learning, NC Community College System 
- Rick Shew, Associate Dean Business & Career Services, Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute
- Lucas Underwood, Owner, L&N Performance Automotive Repair 

Leveraging AI in the Workforce - Resource from Lane Freeman

Is it Time for a CTO?

Who knows how this stuff works? It's often the last question asked by managers who order new gear without thinking about who maintains the new investment. As your business adapts to today's trends, are you building a culture of technical knowledge and compliance within your operation? 

Panelists
- Gary Daemer, President, Infusion Points
- Tanner Greer, Sr. Vice President/Chief Technical Officer, Blue Ridge Energy 

Technology Wins in Northwest North Carolina

Many businesses and agencies are already winning with AI and other technology advancements. Hear success stories from within our region and learn about how your next project can gain motivation from the work of peer businesses in Northwest North Carolina.  

Panelists
- Caroline Catoe, President, ECRS 
- Greg Copen, Director of Information Technology, Catawba Valley Health System 

ProFound AI® Breast Health Suite - Resource from Greg Copen

Afternoon Breakout Sessions

Sponsored by First Horizon

Ethical Concerns of AI

We know that AI and technology can provide many positive benefits, but how do we avoid crossing the line? Learn how businesses and leaders can remain authentic as you strive for improvement. 

Panelists 
- Kelli Burgin, Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity, Montreat College
- Meghan Wills, Assistant General Counsel, Appalachian State University 

Today's Tools for Tomorrow's Workforce

You don't have to leave Northwest North Carolina to find companies that are developing the next round of revolutionary tools. See examples of technical innovation from our own backyard, and learn how businesses are solving for tomorrow's challenges.

Panelists
- Mike Gaddy, Sales Manager, Technology Division, WJ Office 
- Dianna Hudson, National Technology Consultant, Automated Systems Designs, Inc 

Automated Systems Designs, Inc. - Resource from Dianna Hudson

Improving Business & Empowering Employees with AI

While AI and technology have their benefits, many businesses are still trying to understand the potential impact on their bottom line. Hear how local businesses are enhancing profit and retaining talent by implementing these new strategies.

Panelist
- Chris Beckwith-Taylor, Founder/Chief Strategist, GREENstick
- Caitlin Pitkin, Community Manager, GREENstick

The event was organized by a regional partnership that includes the Boone Area, Blowing Rock, Alleghany, and Ashe County Chambers of Commerce, Watauga County Economic Development Commission, Appalachian State University Career Development Center, High Country Council of Governments, High Country Workforce Development Board, and Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

Additional event support comes from Beech Mountain Resort, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC, DMJPS, First Horizon, WJ Office, and Lifestore Bank.