Drayton Wade: Unleashing AI Potential in Charleston's Thriving Tech Scene

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Discover the inspiring journey of Drayton Wade, COO of Cognitos, as he reveals how a top candidate influenced the decision to anchor this AI startup in Charleston. This vibrant city, with its youthful workforce and strategic location, became the perfect setting for Cognitos to thrive. Drayton shares his impressive background, from his academic roots at Clemson University to his involvement in tech startups. As we explore the unique opportunities and intentional planning that make Charleston an ideal hub, learn how Cognitos is redefining business processes with intuitive technology and fostering a culture of collaboration.Under the visionary leadership of founder Benny Gill, Cognitos launched during the COVID-19 pandemic with a mission to empower users. Their platform seamlessly integrates with systems like QuickBooks, enabling companies to scale efficiently. In a fascinating success story, even seasoned employees at a manufacturer in Indiana are effortlessly adopting this user-friendly technology. As the AI industry continues to evolve, discover how Cognitos emphasizes collaboration and integration to stay ahead, allowing employees to focus on problem-solving and enhancing customer interactions.The conversation broadens to explore the future of AI integration across several sectors, from finance and accounting to customer service and education. Delve into the transformative power of AI, offering human-like interactions and valuable data insights while preparing future generations for an AI-driven world. Drayton shares his personal initiatives with Clemson University to elevate its research status and address workforce challenges, particularly in rural health. Additionally, uncover how AI is making tasks more accessible and boosting productivity, with platforms like ChatGPT and Duolingo illustrating its potential to enhance job satisfaction.South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...