As one of the top three cities poised to become the next major tech hub and the #3 city expected to make the most of emerging Smart City and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, Atlanta ...
As one of the top three cities poised to become the next major tech hub and the #3 city expected to make the most of emerging Smart City and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, Atlanta is well on its way to becoming a leader in technology, specifically around IoT. The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) IoT Leadership Council works to build a collaborative culture across organizations to strengthen metro Atlanta’s IoT ecosystem. The recent second quarter meeting featured discussion around technology in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and how it enhances customer experience.
General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Stadium Scott Jenkins discussed how the technology in place has redefined the stadium experience and how everything built in the stadium was intentional for an enhanced customer experience.
“We put the customer in the center of everything when we built the stadium,” Jenkins said. “We are always working on how to make things better.”
Chief Digital Officer and Senior Vice President of Analytics and Technology at AMB Sports & Entertainment Jared Miller spoke about the ultimate fan experience at the stadium and ways the team is working to stay on the cutting edge of technology.
“The stadium is intended to be a connected experience, and the technology plays a role in that,” Miller said.
Cynthia Curry, the director of IoT/mobility ecosystem expansion at MAC, presented the 2018 goals for IoT.ATL, an initiative aimed at attracting IoT companies and talent to metro Atlanta and elevate the region’s reputation as an IoT and Smart Cities leader. Some of the goals include:
IoT.ATL also announced their 3-5-year plan of “IoT playgrounds,” spaces where companies can test their technology around Atlanta. The first IoT playground is the Flat Iron Smart Cities Digital Canvas, and the next playground will be revealed on the BeltLine in the fall. These testing grounds provide an opportunity to engage citizens and foster innovation through IoT experiences.
Community Development Manager at Flatiron City Sonia Sequeria gave an update on the Flat Iron Smart Cities Digital Canvas. Existing technology for the canvas includes:
Amy Lancaster, director of workforce development at MAC, provided an update on the 100K Opportunities Initiative aimed at bridging the opportunity divide for the 4.9 million Americans, aged 16 – 24, who are out of school and not working. The initiative works to forge connections between employers and the talent they need. She also gave an overview on ChooseATL After 5, the first program of its kind focusing on giving interns at Atlanta-based companies an experience they will never forget.
The next IoT Leadership Council meeting will be held on August 14. To learn more about the Chamber’s councils or to become involved, please reach out to Jack Murphy. Please contact Cynthia Curry if you are interested in the IoT playgrounds.
