The concept of the Blockchain may seem intimidating and insurmountable to some, but Josh Cox is trying to change that for professionals in our region through the creation of the Northwest Arkansas Blockchain Society. The NWA Blockchain Society’s purpose is to help create and foster a community space for Blockchain learning. We at the Blockchain Center of Excellence wanted to know what inspired Josh to discover the need for this space as well as how he personally discovered Blockchain technology.
The following is an interview transcription between BCoE Graduate Assistant, Lily Wilson and NWA Blockchain Society Founder, Josh Cox:
When did you first hear about Blockchain Technology?
JC: “A family member first mentioned Bitcoin to me, but I wrote him off because I thought it was something illegal!! Then a few years later a friend took time to introduce me to bitcoin, alt coins, and Coinbase shortly before the 2017 rally. The hype got me interested but the details got me hooked! “
With this knowledge and foremost passion for learning Blockchain technology, what aspects ignite that passion and excitement for learning for you?
JC: “So many!! In short: seamless interactions. Stable currency is the most crucial for unbanked & impoverished areas like Yemen & Syria. Also – Smart Contracts, IOT hardware, & Supply Chain are all helpful and will enable consumers to make more informed decisions while also improving pain points. The possibilities are endless!!”
How does your knowledge of Blockchain affect your everyday life and working environment?
JC: “As a vendor to Walmart (Hormel Foods/Jennie-O Turkey Store) I see friction points along the “order to fulfillment” process that are ripe for cost effective efficiencies – like Payments, Paperwork, Tracking, 3rd Party assistance, etc. While I do not get to personally implement these efficiencies, I do get to be an internal advocate for our organization as large customers like Walmart adopt the technology.”
The Blockchain Center of Excellence is very interested in facilitating the organic growth of the NWA Blockchain Society. Knowing how intimidating Blockchain can seem to some, can. you tell us what the NWA Blockchain Society is and how to learn more?
JC: “I started NWA-BS with the hope of connecting likeminded individuals and introducing blockchain to the average person. I think most people don’t ask questions because advanced technology can be really complex/nerdy, but in groups it can be shared in bite sized portions. We wanted to make a space to ask questions even if we are only a few steps ahead! Joining NWA-BS is simple. Just email NWAblockchain@gmail.com or find us on LinkedIn. We’ll keep you updated on share groups, meet-ups, and local events!”
With the potential of Blockchain and people’s interest, give us several ways to begin in one’s search for knowledge on Blockchain technology outside the University or Group setting for those just starting out their learning journey.
JC: “Elon Musk said, ‘you can learn anything you want for free.’ I agree. YouTube is filled with great content and pioneer educators like Andreas Antonopoulos, Anthony Pompliano, and Joseph Lubin. The University of Arkansas is stacked with a powerhouse of blockchain educators like Dr. Mary Lacity, Dr. Daniel Conway, Dr. Matt Waller, and the Blockchain Center for Excellence. I’m excited for our area!!”
Finally, what do you think the future of Blockchain technology looks like?
JC: “Seamless, transparency, & privacy:
Today our data is constantly being hacked. Tomorrow it’s protected.
Today our transactions are delayed or expensive. Tomorrow it’s quick and cheap.
Today our supply chain is ambiguous. Tomorrow it is transparent. “
Here at the Blockchain Center of Excellence we are proud and excited to assist Josh and the NWA Blockchain Society on it’s journey of growth and enlightenment of the community not only for the future of Blockchain, but also the future of learning and discovery.
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