Rochester Tech Powerhouses Drive AI from Experiment to Real-World Impact in 2026

As 2026 unfolds, Rochester's technology sector is witnessing a significant shift, moving from theoretical AI exploration to the implementation of tangible, scalable applications across diverse industries. Local tech leaders are uniformly emphasizing artificial intelligence as a powerful tool designed to augment, rather than replace, human expertise. This strategic embrace of AI is driving innovation across crucial sectors including payroll, defense, cybersecurity, healthcare, marketing, and public safety, with regional organizations like NextCorps and TechRochester actively fostering startup growth and cultivating a robust talent pipeline. The consensus among these industry pioneers is a commitment to leveraging technology for real-world impact and sustained growth.

AI: Elevating Human Expertise and Business Operations

In the realm of payroll and human resources, Dave Wilson, Vice President of Platform and Technology Services at Paychex, Inc., highlights the evolution of AI from mere assistance to sophisticated orchestration. Wilson posits that successful companies in 2026 will be those that integrate humans into the technological loop, using AI to amplify human judgment, creativity, and speed. "We think that companies that win won’t be the ones that remove humans from the equation, but instead, keep them in the loop," he states, emphasizing that technology should elevate human capabilities. Paychex itself has progressed beyond the experimental phase, now scaling AI solutions that specifically benefit small and medium-sized businesses lacking the resources for custom AI development. The company's focus for 2026 is on manifesting earlier investments in platform modernization and data architecture into "smarter products, simpler experiences, or faster innovation cycles" Rochester Business Journal.

Transforming Mission-Critical Communications and Public Safety

For L3Harris Technologies, a global leader in defense and public-safety communications, AI presents unprecedented opportunities to accelerate information sharing in high-stakes environments. Chris Aebli, President of Mission-Critical Communications, notes the consistent challenge organizations face in rapidly synthesizing vast data for actionable intelligence. L3Harris is addressing this by collaborating with AI leaders, while also strategically reorganizing its business structure. This reorganization expands Rochester’s focus beyond tactical, networking, and satellite communications to include the public-safety portfolio, recognizing the convergent needs and capabilities between defense and first-responder technologies. Aebli stresses that much of the company's advanced technology is developed and produced in Rochester, supporting local job growth and delivering vital systems to international partners, including NATO and Five Eyes countries. The core need remains universal: transmitting critical information quickly and reliably across diverse agencies and coalitions, a proficiency Aebli is excited to further innovate upon Rochester Business Journal.

Applied AI Drives Efficiency and Expansion Across Sectors

The imperative of applied AI is also profoundly shaping compliance software and marketing. Steve McDonnell, President and CEO of Wilmac Technologies, a firm specializing in AI-powered solutions for highly regulated organizations such as 911 centers, unequivocally states that companies not embracing AI will struggle to survive in the coming years. Wilmac is developing use cases for its customers, applying AI to centralize recorded communications for more efficient search, analysis, and action. McDonnell highlights the rapid adoption rate among C-level executives, making an "AI plan" indispensable. Wilmac’s recently launched Continuity WFM, the first AI-powered workforce management and forecasting platform for 911 centers, exemplifies this trend, streamlining staffing and promoting dispatcher wellness. McDonnell underscores the significance of Rochester's strong universities and talent pipeline in fueling the expansion of local companies offering high-paying tech jobs. Similarly, Mary Rombaut, Ed.D., CEO of R-Squared Solutions LLC and Recommenda, pinpoints agentic AI as a critical growth opportunity in marketing. This advanced form of AI empowers small to medium businesses to adapt in real-time, making swift adjustments to client interactions and optimizing marketing strategies without extensive investment. Rombaut, also a key figure at TechRochester, encourages businesses to move beyond rudimentary AI understanding, urging engagement with the local tech community to stay abreast of rapid advancements.

Cybersecurity Adapts to Evolving AI Threats

In cybersecurity, innovation is a relentless pursuit, constantly adapting to emerging threats. Annette Warren, President of iSECURE, notes that conversations with clients in 2026 are heavily influenced by the rising challenges posed by artificial intelligence and quantum computing. iSECURE is proactively expanding its offerings to mitigate these risks, focusing on AI-specific security, compliance, and navigating complex regulations like CMMC. Warren emphasizes a creative approach to minimizing risk and closing security gaps for clients, while also advocating for a robust "cybersecurity culture" within organizations. Beyond client services, iSECURE is committed to community engagement, inspiring young women from K-12 through university to explore careers in cybersecurity. Warren looks forward to continuing to help organizations identify and address new threats, developing bespoke solutions for a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Strategic AI Adoption for Higher-Value Work

Alma Vieru, President of LMT Technology Solutions, a managed IT and automation services provider, echoes the sentiment that AI's true potential lies in its purposeful application. "The real opportunity isn’t just adopting AI, it’s applying it in ways that automate repeatable work so people can focus on what truly matters: relationships, strategy and expertise," Vieru states. LMT is internally deploying AI to streamline operations, handling documentation, administrative tasks, call routing, and ticket creation. Vieru emphasizes that with thoughtful implementation, robust security safeguards, and smart automation, AI enables teams to concentrate on higher-value activities. This strategic approach ensures that technology remains a tool for human empowerment and organizational advancement.