BOE14 - Blockchain & Cryptocurrency: Foundations of the Digital Economy
Program Description
Moving beyond the headlines and speculation, this interactive online workshop provides a business-first foundation for navigating today's decentralized digital economy. You'll explore core concepts like blockchain mechanics, wallet operations, stablecoins, and asset utility, while gaining insights into Web3's transformative impact on revenue models, operational efficiency, and risk management. Drawing on real-world examples from fintech, supply chains, and emerging regulations, this course equips you to evaluate strategic opportunities and implement practical solutions in your organization.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this program, you will be able to:
- Explain how decentralized systems work and their potential for streamlining business processes.
- Differentiate blockchain technology from volatile assets, enabling informed assessments of strategic and operational value.
- Confidently navigate key ecosystem tools, including wallets, exchanges, and stablecoins.
- Analyze business implications, such as innovative revenue streams, capital efficiency, and compliance in a Web3 environment.
Who Should Attend
- Business leaders and decision-makers across any industry.
- Professionals evaluating digital transformation and revenue channels.
- Teams involved in fintech, compliance, or payment operations.
- Anyone seeking to evaluate blockchain and cryptocurrency's real business impact.

Ian McCullough, known as Cullah, is a Milwaukee-based multi-disciplinary artist, producer, songwriter, engineer, and entrepreneur. He has released an open-source album every year on his birthday (April 27) since 2006, blending diverse genres and earning acclaim including a WAMI Award for Unique Album of the Year (2023). With a background in computer engineering and experience in emerging technologies, Ian is the founder of Awen, a founding member of the Wisconsin Blockchain Business Council (WBBC), and serves as Wisconsin Chapter President for Stand with Crypto, representing over 28,000 members. He advocates for blockchain, cryptocurrency, and decentralized systems, testifying before the Wisconsin State Assembly and engaging in policy efforts to shape pro-crypto legislation. He has also guest lectured on Web3 and blockchain at UW-Milwaukee, presented a CPE course at DeWitt LLP, and guest lectured at the University of Illinois.