Why Dropping AI Into a Broken Process Makes Everything Worse ft. Mike Toguchi

Most technology leaders start by looking at the tool. Mike Toguchi, Chief Strategy Officer at Tectonic, argues that is the wrong beginning. If you drop AI into a broken process, you don't fix the problem, you only accelerate the failure. Mike joins the conversation to discuss why the most critical technology decisions often happen outside the engineering team and how to build systems that scale without drowning in technical debt.Mike brings a unique perspective as a strategist who studied government and politics rather than computer science. Having spent 23 years evolving with the same company, he has seen the transition from simple web digitization to the current age of AI. We talk about the "bad cop" role a partner must play in forcing standardization across departments and why the biggest hurdle to digital transformation is rarely the code, but the legacy silos and people who protect them.We also dive into the reality of AI governance and policy. Mike shares how his team navigates the tension between rapid innovation and protected data in high-stakes environments like university disability services. It is a discussion about judgment, critical thinking, and why the next two years will separate the leaders who aggressively pursue change from those who simply try to limp along.About MikeMichael "Mike" Toguchi is the Chief Strategy Officer at Tectonic, formerly eResources, where he leads platform direction for application management systems that streamline complex processes like scholarships, grants, admissions, and accessibility services. With over 25 years of experience driving digital transformation for universities, non-profits, foundations, and associations, Michael specializes in simplifying internal workflows to help mission-driven teams reduce manual work, scale sustainably, and strengthen compliance. His work powers organizations including Stanford, UC Davis, PG&E, the Roddenberry Foundation, and Google’s Certified Innovator Program. At the core of his mission is a commitment to building technology that enables teams to focus less on managing systems—and more on delivering meaningful impact.Chapters00:00 Politics to Technology?!??!06:08 What is Tectonic?11:55 Ad12:27 23 Years of Growth and Change15:41 The Value of People19:51 Customization Accommodation26:44 Ad26:55 Who Makes Technology Decisions?28:25 AI Implementation and AI Policy Issues36:36 The Future of TechWhere to find MikeWebsite: https://www.teamtectonic.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miketoguchi/