On October 14, KC Tech Council brought together regional tech leaders with U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt at H&R Block headquarters for a focused discussion on federal technology policy priorities. KC Tech Council thanks H&R Block for hosting this important conversation.
The roundtable featured more than 20 executives from leading tech companies, data center operators, cybersecurity firms, and policy organizations. Sen. Schmitt, who serves on both the Senate Commerce and Defense committees, engaged with attendees on critical issues ranging from AI innovation and data privacy to defense technology and workforce development.

AI Innovation and Workforce Development
Sen. Schmitt identified talent development as the most critical factor for scaling AI companies, noting significant misalignment between higher education and business needs. He advocated for fostering lifelong learning, on-the-job training, and innovative education models that reduce student debt while engaging high schools, community colleges, and businesses in developing workforce pathways.

Federal Standards for AI and Data Privacy
The group discussed benefits of federal standards to create consistency across states, particularly for smaller companies navigating compliance. Sen. Schmitt agreed standards are needed but emphasized avoiding restrictions that stifle innovation, supporting state regulatory sandboxes and marketplace competition to keep America competitive.

Infrastructure and Energy Solutions
Sen. Schmitt characterized data centers as essential infrastructure for business growth, identifying small modular nuclear reactors as a long-term energy solution while acknowledging the need for creative interim approaches. KC Tech Council CEO Kara Lowe highlighted Kansas City’s unique position: “Kansas City serves as the central nervous system for national data center operations, and we’re seeing significant growth.”

Defense Technology and Cyber Security
Sen. Schmitt outlined opportunities through the Defense Authorization Act, including defense tech momentum and faster innovation cycles for technologies like drone swarms. He emphasized reshoring critical mineral production to strengthen supply chain resilience.
Lowe emphasized Kansas City’s cyber security strengths: “We punch above our weight class with dense enterprise and defense assets, active university programs, and particular strength in industry-led supply chain protection. This positions us perfectly for Defense Tech Hubs.”

Regional Positioning
The discussion reinforced Kansas City’s strategic positioning as a technology and defense hub. Key takeaways aligned with KC Tech Council’s 2025 Policy Priorities, including federal AI and data privacy standards that encourage innovation, creative energy solutions for data centers, Defense Tech Hub opportunities, domestic supply chain resilience, and workforce development through education reform and industry engagement.

Interested in getting involved in KCTC policy work? Contact Christine Murray, Director of Policy, or visit our Policy Committee page to learn more.