When asked about their hopes for the future, two Chattanooga professionals shared similar views: more equitable approaches to technology.
April Sawhill, director at Grant, Konvalinka & Harrison law firm says she would like to see, “greater diversity in the profession.” And that’s something that’s especially needed for senior level positions.
“Considerable progress is still needed to achieve equal representation for women and racial and ethnic minorities within our industry,” she writes.
Austin Corcoran is the associate director for programming at the UTC Center for Professional Education. His hope for the future of technology is that Chattanooga “will continue to build an internationally competitive education system that opens doors for all learners.”
“I also hope we continue to invest in tech education, talent pipelines and experiences that prepare students not just for their first job, but for lifelong leadership and impact,” he writes. “Broad knowledge, hands-on learning and global awareness are the tools we use to equip students to lead with confidence, no matter where their journey begins.”
oto by Jennifer McNally / April Sawhill, director, Grant Konvalinka & Harrison
April Sawhill, director, Grant Konvalinka & Harrison
How is technology transforming your industry right now?
Thanks to technology, lawyers are seeing greater efficiencies in managing their daily tasks, allowing them to dedicate more time to complex legal challenges. Specifically, digital platforms, data analytic tools and AI-powered solutions are revolutionizing legal practices through task automation, more robust legal research capabilities and highly focused document review.
What is the biggest challenge your industry faces in the year ahead?
A significant and emerging challenge for the legal industry is the growing trend of nonlawyer ownership of law firms. While alternative business structures, which allow nonlawyers to invest in and potentially own legal practices, could lead to greater innovation, lower costs and improved access to justice, they also carry the risk of conflicts of interest and prioritizing profit over client needs.
What kinds of skills will workers in your industry need? Will a college degree still matter?
Increased data literacy and technology proficiency are becoming crucial for both lawyers and their support staff in the evolving legal landscape. Nonetheless, core abilities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, crisis management, and adaptability are key to maintaining a successful practice.
How are you using AI today, and where do you see it going?
For me, AI jumpstarts research, document review, and legal drafting, yet it cannot replicate human analysis, creativity and ingenuity. As these tools evolve, firms and individuals who best integrate AI into their workflows will have an advantage in client acquisition and retention.
Are you navigating the balance between remote and in-office work? What are some impacts you’re seeing?
We have observed a growing demand from younger lawyers for increased flexibility regarding remote and in-office work. Our response to this varies depending on the area of law and client needs. Personally, I find that in-person collaboration yields the best results.
Austin Corcoran, Associate Director for Programming, UTC Center for Professional Education
Former Executive Director, Chattanooga Technology Council (ChaTech)
How is technology transforming your industry right now?
Technology is reshaping how we work, what we teach, and how quickly we must adapt. AI and automation are redefining roles, cloud platforms are increasing organizational agility, and data is powering real-time decision making. In higher education, these advancements are transforming how content is taught, how students engage with learning and how they apply knowledge through hands-on projects and research.
What is the biggest challenge your industry faces in the year ahead?
Bridging the talent gap. Technology is advancing rapidly, creating a growing demand for skilled talent across an increasingly tech-driven world. As innovation accelerates, higher education has a powerful opportunity to lead by aligning academic programs with emerging fields, such as AI, quantum computing and data science, while expanding access to flexible, skills-based learning. The opportunity lies in deepening partnerships with employers, evolving how education is delivered, and continuing to prepare students with the technical expertise and interpersonal skills.
What kinds of skills will workers in your industry need? Will a college degree still matter?
Workers need to be agile thinkers, strong communicators and lifelong learners. Technical skills in areas such as AI, data analytics and cybersecurity are important, but so is the ability to collaborate across teams, adapt to new tools and think strategically. A college degree remains a powerful asset as it opens doors and lays the foundation for long-term success. There is also the value of leadership development, foreign language study, and global experiences, such as study abroad, as well as cross-cultural competencies and skills that position students to compete and lead in a global workforce.
Are you navigating the balance between remote and in-office work? What are some impacts you’re seeing?
Hybrid work has become a long-term reality, and it’s reshaping how organizations think about talent, collaboration and culture. Flexibility has expanded access to talent and improved work-life balance for many, but it’s also challenged traditional models for team connection and communication. What works best often depends on the type of work, the team’s needs and where a project is in its lifecycle.
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