Introducing Kathryn Stephens, PhD
Artificial Intelligence, Workflow Optimization, Software Integration
Kathryn Hechtel is an AI consultant based in Reno, Nevada, with a PhD in mathematics from the University of Kentucky. She specializes in crafting AI-driven tools and software solutions that optimize business processes and improve operational efficiency.
After completing her PhD, Kathryn founded TechFrontier AI Consulting, where she partners with businesses to address specific operational challenges including:
AI-Driven Business Operations
Resource Optimization
Streamlined Data Transfer
Process Efficiency
Private AI Deployment
The key isn’t just having access to AI—it’s knowing when to use it, when not to, and how to integrate it safely into real business workflows. Kathryn focuses on solving the actual operational problem first, then selecting the right mix of automation, software, and AI to support it.
Her work emphasizes reliability, security, and practical adoption, particularly for organizations handling sensitive data or complex internal processes. Many of Kathryn’s projects combine traditional software engineering with AI tools, ensuring systems are maintainable, auditable, and aligned with how teams already work.
One client now saves over 100 hours per month through a custom suite of tools Kathryn developed, including automated financial reporting, optimized scheduling workflows, and seamless internal data transfers. These systems were built around the client’s existing processes rather than forcing a new workflow onto their team.
Another organization engaged Kathryn to help define their AI strategy from the ground up—identifying high-impact use cases, assessing data readiness, and determining whether private or locally hosted AI models were required. The focus was not experimentation for its own sake, but measurable gains in efficiency, consistency, and decision-making.
Kathryn’s background in optimization and applied mathematics continues to inform her work, particularly in scheduling, resource allocation, and systems design. Earlier in her career, she participated in an international research initiative optimizing municipal electric bus schedules using advanced optimization algorithms. Today, that same problem-solving mindset is applied to business operations rather than academic research.
Kathryn regularly speaks with business leaders about practical AI adoption, common pitfalls, and how to move from interest to implementation without unnecessary risk. Her recent talks and workshops focus on AI strategy, internal tooling, and responsible deployment—especially in construction, operations, and professional services.
Companies interested in exploring practical, secure AI and automation solutions are welcome to contact Kathryn at kstephens@techfrontierai.com.
