Cisco Champion Radio

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of industrial operations — driving efficiency, precision, and safety like never before. In this episode of Cisco Champion Radio, we explore how AI-powered innovations such as data processing, machine vision, and robotics are revolutionizing industrial environments.

Our experts discuss what it takes to support this transformation — from robust, low-latency networking to stronger cybersecurity and seamless collaboration between IT and OT teams. Discover how Cisco solutions like Cyber Vision enhance visibility and security across production networks, why compliance with frameworks like NIST and IEC 62443 is critical, and how targeted use cases are driving real success in modern industrial systems.

Tune in for a practical look at how AI, automation, and security are converging to power the next generation of industrial operations.

Resources
https://www.cisco.com/c/dam/en/us/td/docs/solutions/Verticals/Industrial_Automation/Manufacturing_AI/AI_ready_industrial_networks.pdf

Cisco guest
Paul Didier, Internet of Things Solution Architect

Champion hosts
Len Ledford, Architect II, Advisor Services, Insight
Ibrahim Ramku, Network & Security CTO, TD-K A/S
Jonathan Mahady, Principal Network Engineer, BHP


Moderator
Danielle Carter, Customer Voices and Cisco Champion Program

What does it take to make Wi-Fi truly predictable? In this episode of Cisco Champion Radio, we explore the world of wireless determinism and how Wi-Fi 7 is setting a new standard for reliability and performance. Our experts break down key advancements like Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and intelligent channel usage—technologies that are transforming interference management and latency control.
Tune in for an inside look at the current and upcoming deterministic features in Wi-Fi 7, the impact of evolving regulations, and how these innovations are shaping the future of wireless connectivity.

Cisco guest
Matthew MacPherson, CTO Wireless, Cisco
Jerome Henry,  Lead Researcher, Office of the Wireless CTO, Cisco

Cisco guest
Jonathan Mahady, Principal Network Engineer, BHP
Len Ledford, Arcitect II, Advisory Services, Insight
Kjetil Teigen Hansen, Wirless Whisperer, Conscia Norge AS

Join host Melissa Barr for an in-depth conversation with Fletcher Previn, CIO of Cisco, as he reveals how AI is fundamentally reshaping IT and the future of work. Discover Cisco IT’s mission to enable 10x employee productivity and learn about our “customer zero” philosophy—acting as the proving ground for products designed to help large enterprises build, deploy, and manage their infrastructure. Get ready for a fascinating, inside look at how Cisco is building, securing, and making AI work every single day for our employees, customers, and partners.

Speakers
Melissa Barr - Senior Manager, Cisco Proof Points
Fletcher Previn, CIO, CIsco

AI is reshaping the world of networking and security—and Cisco Champions are diving in. In this episode, our experts explore how artificial intelligence is transforming network management, efficiency, and security operations. From SD-WAN optimization and bandwidth considerations to digital twins and secure routers, the conversation unpacks the real-world opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into modern networks. Plus, we tackle the balance between automation and the ongoing need to develop engineering skills in the AI era.

Resources
Visit our webpage to learn more about our SD-WAN and Security solutions: https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/solutions/networking/sdwan/index.html

Cisco guest
VP of Product Management, Cisco SD-WAN

Champion guests
Gert-Jan de Boer, Networking Archeologist, aaZoo Network Solutions
Donald Robb, Principal Network Architect, Walt Disney Company
Marco Krauss, IT Senior Consultant Network Automation, Computacenta
Dan Kelcher, Sr. Network Engineer, Hollstadt Consulting

Join host Luke Paddington as IT leaders from Northern Kentucky University, Innovation Federal Credit Union, and Winslow Technology Group reveal their secrets to building future-proof workplaces. They unpack strategies for mastering high-density Wi-Fi and wireless-first networks, alongside deploying cutting-edge security with ZTNA and Cisco Secure Access. Learn how to foster crucial IT-security collaboration, ensure network resiliency, and make smart investments that deliver lasting value in today's "anywhere, anytime" world.

Moderator: 
Luke Paddington, Creative Director, Cisco



Participants:  
Greg Thompson, Director of IT Infrastructure and Operations, Northern Kentucky University
Shawn Spurko, VP of Information and Cybersecurity, Innovation Federal Credit Union
Ryan Deppe, Pre-Sales Architect, Winslow Technology Group