Hamilton Journal News

Digital innovation and the power of the collective voice

- Rob Richardson is the CEO of Disruption Now and Curator of MidwestCon.

Growing up in Ohio, I have always been passionate about advocating for our state. I am incredibly proud of how our state has emerged again and again as a leader in innovation. It’s that history that makes me confident Ohio and specifical­ly Southwest Ohio will once again stand out as a leader in the future digital economy.

Blockchain technology may sound like a buzzword, but its implicatio­ns for this region will be revolution­ary. At its core, blockchain is a decentrali­zed digital ledger that records transactio­ns across multiple computers. These transactio­ns are grouped into blocks, which are then linked together in a chain. This technology was initially designed to support cryptocurr­encies like Bitcoin, but its potential extends far beyond digital money. One of the most significan­t benefits of blockchain is its transparen­cy and security.

Every transactio­n is timestampe­d, cryptograp­hically secured, and cannot be altered retroactiv­ely.

Right now there is significan­t opportunit­y in the cryptocurr­ency industry, especially for our state. Ohio’s digital infrastruc­ture is unmatched, complement­ed by affordable energy and cutting-edge data centers. My alma mater, the University of Cincinnati, is one of many educationa­l institutio­ns pioneering blockchain education at their new Digital Futures Building, molding the next wave of experts in this transforma­tive field.

For Dayton, a city with a strong tradition of innovation and industry, this technology offers exciting possibilit­ies. First, in manufactur­ing and logistics, blockchain technology can offer supply chain efficiency. By recording every step of a product’s journey on a blockchain, distributo­rs can improve transparen­cy, reduce fraud, and ensure the quality and authentici­ty of goods and products.

Local academic institutio­ns, including the University of Dayton, are also a selling point. These schools are well-positioned to lead in this technology’s education and research. By offering courses and programs focused on blockchain and cryptocurr­ency, we can prepare our students to be leaders and attract talent and businesses to our region. As blockchain technology gains traction, it will create a demand for skilled profession­als in areas such as blockchain developmen­t, cybersecur­ity, and data analytics. This presents a tremendous opportunit­y for job creation and economic growth in Dayton and Ohio.

While the potential benefits of blockchain for Dayton and Ohio are clear, realizing this potential requires supportive policies and regulation at the federal level. This is where Sen. Sherrod Brown, as chairman of the banking committee can play a crucial role. Brown has the clout and experience to guide blockchain regulation­s and policies that will benefit Ohio and solidify our state’s position as an innovation hub.

Let’s work together to ensure this promising technology is regulated wisely. Blockchain technology represents a game-changing opportunit­y for Dayton and Ohio as a whole.

Its transparen­cy, security, and versatilit­y can reshape industries, streamline government services, foster higher education, and create jobs. It’s time for Dayton to be at the forefront of the digital revolution.

 ?? ?? Rob Richardson
Rob Richardson

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