Author: Peggy Smedley

Innovation is key to achieving a more sustainable world and to reach the decarbonization goals that many have set as a target for the years ahead. To limit warming to 1.5° Celsius above pre-industrial levels—as outlined in the Paris Agreement—global greenhouse gas emissions will need to peak before 2025. Then they must decline by 43% by 2030 and to net zero by 2050, according to the United Nations. We continue to see many organizations come together to come up with unique ideas that will lead to more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. Consider the example of Holcim, which has a purpose…

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As we move forward into a new era of work, with technology in the office, at the jobsite, and everywhere in between, we must continue to determine how to best train workers on the task at hand and the systems, tools, and equipment being used. This is vital for everyone’s safety and for the overall success of the project. Across the world, we continue to see new programs and initiatives aimed at training construction workers. Africa Case Study Let’s start in Gabon, in West Central Africa, where XCMG Machinery is partnering with AVIC Intl. Holdings Corp., to support local technical…

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With the rise of generative AI (artificial intelligence), many businesses are looking to generate a better understanding of how this specific technology could fit within a business context. Case studies are always a great way to better understand how a technology may fit within a certain industry or business. We know roughly 90% of CIOs have already integrated generative AI into their processes and 99% are planning to ramp up investment in the next 3-6 months. Today, let’s explore one specific case study for generative AI that is already underway. Lumen Technologies works in the telecommunications industry, providing metro connectivity…

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Peggy shares the details of a recent major data breach, giving her thoughts on what needs to happen next with cybersecurity. She says we need to train and mentor the next generation to be excited about securing our businesses. She also discusses: How often a company falls victim to a ransomware attack. A closer look at what exactly cybersecurity professionals are facing today. The need for both cybersecurity talent and good guidance that workers adhere to. peggysmedleyshow.com (9/12/23 – 838) 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 Pamela Evette, lieutenant governor of South Carolina, talk about if we need to train our workers differently. She says we have been doing that little by little with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) and now we know we have to get our kids more engaged with technology. They also discuss: The importance of looking at what each individual employee wants and needs. If we need to leverage technology—and the impact it is having on mentoring. ChatGPT and generative AI (artificial intelligence), remote work, and the impact on the workforce.…

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Peggy embarks on a fun journey talking all about artificial intelligence through the generations. She is joined by Laura Black, editor-at-large, Specialty Publishing Media, who shares how she came of age as technology came of age. They also discuss: If generative AI is all hype or if there are real opportunities. The importance of looking for the opportunities with artificial intelligence, while also being aware of the challenges. The importance of education when addressing the expertise gap. connectedworld.com (9/12/23 – 838) IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, digital transformation, cybersecurity, blockchain, 5G, cloud, sustainability,…

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In the past year, there has been a lot of discussion about the benefits ChatGPT offers many consumers. But now the question remains is it a good option for businesses? Now OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Enterprise. Let’s unpack the details of the announcement and how it might impact the construction enterprise in general. ChatGPT is a term that is used widely these days, but to sum it up a bit more briefly it is an AI (artificial intelligence) model trained by OpenAI, which is a startup funded by Microsoft. OpenAI says it can “generate, edit, and iterate with users on…

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Is the EV (electric vehicle) market growing or stalling? What about the electric bus market? There have been some big shakeups in the market in the past month. And with all the discussion surrounding this market, I thought it might be worth a look, especially if this could put the future of EV buses on hold here in South Carolina. At the beginning of August, Proterra announced its intent to voluntarily file for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the District of Delaware in an effort to strengthen its financial position through recapitalization. For those who…

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Sustainability is becoming a big trend to watch with data centers. The reality is there is currently a lot of space that isn’t being used. Instead of building new buildings, it is more efficient and there are a lot of ways to use what is already here. I recently had an opportunity to have a conversation about this very topic with Emilia Coverdale, marketing project manager, Asperitas. She says, “With immersion, you can save up to one-fifth of the floor space. That is only aspect one. But linked to that, with air cooling, you have to have a specific type…

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Peggy talks all about AI (artificial intelligence)—focusing specifically on the impact and concerns for small businesses. She says we know generative AI offers big opportunities, but is every business ready? She also discusses: What we need to do to prepare and what concerns or cautions we should heed. How many small businesses are experimenting with AI—and how many are investing in it. What steps should be taken next. peggysmedleyshow.com (9/5/23 – 837) IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, digital transformation, cybersecurity, blockchain, 5G, cloud, sustainability, future of work, podcast, worker of tomorrow This episode…

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