jerry-and-alan

North Dakota University System Vice Chancellor Jerry  Rostad and VCSU President Dr. Alan LaFave

VALLEY CITY, N.D. (VCSU) – Researchers, industry practitioners, educators, and several presenters spoke at the inaugural North Dakota AI Conference at Valley City State University on Thursday, September 26th. Attendees heard about the evolving relationship between humans and AI technology in the context of work, society, personal development and what it will mean for all North Dakotans.

This years theme was “Being Human and Working in the Age of AI.” Presenters said users can leverage the transformative power of AI while maintaining human connection across all sectors of society.

“Every day, we see the advancement in AI technologies and the expansion of its uses. AI is here and is altering how we live, work and interact with one another,” said North Dakota University System Chancellor Mark Hagerott. “It’s important for all North Dakotans to understand the implications for AI use and development, particularly how it will challenge the use of our humanity, creativity and compassion for one another. This conference was a great opportunity to have these conversations so we can better prepare for the future ahead.”

The presentation of Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president and professor for the Center for Cybersecurity at the University of West Florida, focused on how AI is transforming the workforce and how academic institutions can prepare skilled professionals who recognize AI’s benefits and pitfalls and are ready to use technologies across all sectors and work roles.

Steve Urness had a chance to visit with North Dakota University System Vice Chancellor Jerry  Rostad and VCSU President Dr. Alan LaFave during the conference held at the Larry J. Robinson Center for the performing arts building. The full interview is below.

The statewide conference is a partnership between Valley City State University, University of Mary, the Dakota Digital Academy, North Dakota University System, North Dakota Information Technology and North Dakota Department of Public Instruction.