Author: Peggy Smedley

Peggy Smedley and Pamela Evette, lieutenant governor of South Carolina, talk about how we can improve the employment record in South Carolina. She says we are under the national average for unemployment in South Carolina, so they are reaching out in rural communities and helping them find opportunities. They also discuss: Cultivating the workforce and creating a welcoming environment. Why South Carolina is so committed to EVs (electric vehicles). On-the-job training and the importance of learning all throughout our lives. Watch the Interview on YouTube dew.sc.gov (11/14/23 – 847) IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big…

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Peggy Smedley and Ally Armeson, executive director of programs, Cybercrime Support Network, talk about some of the cybersecurity challenges when managing our hybrid workforces. She says there are a lot of challenges associated with a remote and hybrid environment including physical equipment, personal device usage, proper use of employer devices, and slower incident response, just to name a few. They also discuss: The importance of updates and always having discussions with remote employees about cyber hygiene. How to mitigate risk on a very tight budget. The role of generative AI in cybersecurity. fightcybercrime.org (11/14/23 – 847) IoT, Internet of Things,…

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I have long talked about the importance of funding and building infrastructure that is sustainable and safe for everyone. In November 2021, we saw a big move from the Biden administration, with the passing of the IIJA (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act). The hope here was it would lead to more jobs, more projects, and safer infrastructure. But now we need to take a closer look at what has really transpired in the past two years to see if we are truly making any progress with our infrastructure. As one example, the NUCA (National Utility Contractors Assn.) is concerned the…

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We are seeing many states invest in rural development—and we are certainly seeing it right here in South Carolina. In early November, USDA Rural Development South Carolina State Director, Dr. Saundra Glover announced more than $171 million in investments across South Carolina. It’s interesting to look at the projected impact this will make in rural communities. Perhaps the biggest impact it will make is upgrading the infrastructure in these communities including clean water and fuel and reliable electricity, but along with that it will also bring new jobs. USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities,…

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Generative AI (artificial intelligence) brings great benefits to society and industry. We are seeing the rise of such technology in aviation and airlines, power and utilities, and even places like at the dentist. Data is the new oil, and if companies can capture and capitalize on it, then they have a leg up in today’s competitive, labor-constrained market. Still, there are challenges that remain. Perhaps the biggest challenge is the safety of it all. Cybersecurity is a huge concern for many businesses, as they leverage new, emerging technologies, but digging a bit deeper there are other safety concerns to consider…

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Peggy talks about the shortage of skilled cybersecurity experts and how AI (artificial intelligence) can help. She focuses on the opportunities AI brings and the responsibility we have when we use technologies. She also discusses: How many CEOs believe cybersecurity requires episodic intervention rather than ongoing attention. An example of how generative AI can give security teams the data they need to fight the nefarious characters. Five actions CEOs can take today to be more resilient in the face of cyber threats. peggysmedleyshow.com (11/7/23 – 846) IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, digital transformation,…

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Peggy Smedley and Ed Amoroso, CEO, TAG Infosphere, talk about the challenges cybersecurity presents and the role the board of directors plays. He explains his experience on both sides—on a board of directors for a Fortune 500 bank and as a chief information security officer. They also discuss: That board of directors don’t typically have experience in cyber. What companies should do if there is a cyberattack. How ESG is strategic and about optimizing your business. tag-cyber.com (11/7/23 – 846) IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, digital transformation, cybersecurity, blockchain, 5G, cloud, sustainability, future…

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Peggy and Ally Armeson, executive director of programs, Cybercrime Support Network, talk about cybercrime and why the human element still plays such a huge role in cyberattacks. She says as long as humans are interacting with devices, we are a part of cybersecurity. They also discuss: The importance of cyber in small businesses and how to be vigilant. Tips and tricks for password management and training workers. Steps we can take to improve our cyber hygiene. fightcybercrime.org (11/7/23 – 846) IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, digital transformation, cybersecurity, blockchain, 5G, cloud, sustainability, future…

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I recently had the extreme pleasure of joining Don Bent, chief operating officer, Oshkosh Defense, on a tour of a manufacturing facility right here in South Carolina where they are building the future postal truck. “Delivery vehicles are actually the perfect opportunity for battery electrics and the reason is because they drive relatively short distances,” he says. “They start and stop a lot and then they come home every night to the same location so they can recharge them. It is the perfect opportunity for that.” Oshkosh Defense has been in the 900,000-sq.ft. space, which is 20 acres under roof,…

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Rapid urbanization worldwide means every five days, the world adds buildings equivalent to the size of Paris. Every five days. Many companies know cutting emissions can provide significant benefits to business and the environment, but that is often easier said than done. Now, the United Nations is providing a blueprint, of sorts, for the construction industry to cut emissions. The built environment is already responsible for 37% of global emissions. A report published by the UNEP (UN Environment Programme) and the Yale CEA (Center for Ecosystems + Architecture), under the GlobalABC (Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction), offers a plan…

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