Talking AI With Local Experts
Wichita, Kan. — (May 15, 2025) — Still think AI is something out of a sci-fi movie? It’s moved from big-screen fiction to our real-life computers, phones, and TVs, showing up in the tools you use every day, whether you realize it or not.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape how we live and work, conversations around its responsible use are more important than ever. For businesses, it’s no longer just about exploring what’s possible—it’s about understanding what’s useful, what’s risky, and what’s next.
Recently, our very own Jason Fenoglio, Director of Information Security at High Touch Technologies, joined a panel hosted by the Wichita Business Journal to dig into some of the big questions surrounding AI. The event brought together a powerhouse group of local AI and technology experts, each with a different perspective on what AI looks like right now and where it’s heading.
Introducing Wichita’s AI Innovators
The panel conversation covered a little bit of everything, from fun ways AI is already at work in the world to the serious responsibility of using it safely inside a business, especially when it comes to data and cybersecurity.
In addition to Jason, the panel included:
- Andrea Amara (Founder – Lucille Group)
- Preston Mossman (Founder – Galaxy Square)
- Jason Toevs (Head of AI – UP and Co-Founder – The Orka AI Framework)
Advocating for Cybersecurity and Responsible AI Use
At High Touch, Jason leads our cybersecurity efforts, so when it comes to safe AI practices and protecting company data, he’s always on the front lines.
During the panel, Jason shared insights from a security and regulatory perspective, emphasizing that AI doesn’t just raise new questions—it also shines a spotlight on old ones that many businesses still overlook, including data protection, employee cybersecurity training, and maintaining visibility into where information goes once new tools are involved.
“It’s not just about avoiding the obvious mistakes like plugging confidential company data into a public chatbot,” Jason shares. “The real challenge is understanding the gray areas where the risks are less obvious, but the consequences are just as real.”
Starting the AI Conversation
Many organizations are curious about AI, but don’t quite know how to start talking about or implementing it. Jason’s advice? Don’t wait for the perfect policy or the perfect tool—get the conversation started instead.
“When it comes to AI and especially cybersecurity, educating employees is a critical step,” Jason explains. “Put up guardrails, ensure everyone knows how important it is to stay within the lines, and help them feel confident about when it’s OK to use AI and when not to.”
Another key point is that even if employees know not to upload confidential files into public versions of ChatGPT, there are still risks in using cloud tools that collect user input. It’s not always about bad intentions; it’s about raising awareness.
AI Strategy, Policy, and Planning for What’s Next
As the conversation unfolded, one theme became clear: it’s not just about using AI, it’s about using it wisely. The panel dove into what that means for businesses, government, and education alike.
They explored the concept of AI frameworks—custom strategies that help companies evaluate readiness, prioritize initiatives, and build a roadmap for safe, strategic AI adoption. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, frameworks allow businesses to define their own goals, risks, and success metrics. Cybersecurity, of course, plays a critical role in that equation, and companies were encouraged to involve security teams from the beginning, not as an afterthought. You can learn more about AI and cybersecurity best practices here, on our website.
The panel also zoomed out to look at AI’s broader impact on society, including how local and federal governments are (or aren’t) keeping pace with the technology. Regulation, ethical standards, and compliance requirements are evolving quickly, and businesses should be paying attention.
In the same vein, education was another hot topic. From grade school classrooms to college lecture halls, schools are starting to recognize the need for AI literacy, but there’s still a long way to go. The panel emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and making sure today’s workforce is equipped to adapt alongside the technology.
Bringing the Human Touch to Technology.
We were proud to have Jason represent High Touch Technologies on this panel, not just as a cybersecurity expert but also as a trusted voice helping businesses make sense of emerging AI technologies.
At High Touch, we believe that technology, including AI, can be a powerful business asset when used safely, ethically, and strategically. Whether you’re exploring automation, building internal policies, or rethinking how you manage sensitive data, we’re here to help you do it right.
Get in touch with our team to start a conversation about secure, smart, and tailored technology adoption.