AI Innovations at Work Conference
Thursday, February 27, 2025
Stevens Point
Business and Leadership, Educators, Natural Resources
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Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. ​CT | One-Day ​​​Conference

UW-​​Stevens Point in the Drey​fus University Center, 1015 Reserve St, Stevens Point, WI 54481​​


​Speaker Proposal Form

​The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is accepting proposals for 50-minute presentations for the 2025 AI Innovations Conference.

To ensure full consideration, please submit your proposals by December 1st, 2024.​ Each proposal should be be submitted using a sepa​rate form.​​

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​Description


Join us for "AI Innovations at Work," an in-person conference hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. This event is designed for general AI enthusiasts who are looking to integrate Artificial Intelligence into their work or personal life!​

Throughout the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend insightful keynote presentations, thought provoking breakout sessions led by industry experts and educators at the forefront of AI advancements. Discover innovative tools and strategies that can enhance teaching methodologies, streamline administrative processes, and support sustainable practices in natural resource management.

Networking opportunities will allow attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on future initiatives. Whether you're looking to integrate AI into your work, into your classroom,​ or improve natural resource management practices, this conference is your gateway to practical applications and best practices.

Don't miss this chance to be part of a forward-thinking community that is shaping the future of education and environmental stewardship through AI. Join us at UW-Stevens Point for a day of inspiration, collaboration, and innovation!

​Registration​


Pricing:

​$249 - General​
$39 - UWSP Student
$39 - NTC Student

Price includes event registration, parking pass, and lunch.​​

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‭(Hidden)‬ Schedule at a Glance
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​8:15 - 9:00 AM
​Check-in and continental breakfast​
​9:00 AM​
​Welcome by UWSP Chancellor, Thomas Gibson
​9:10 AM
​Secretary Amy Pechacek, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
​9:30 AM
​Morning Keynote
​11:15 AM
​Breakout 1
​12:05 PM
​Lunch
​1:00 PM
​Breakout 2
​2:00 PM
​Breakout 3
​3:00 PM
​Breakout 4
4:00 PM
Afternoon Keynote
​5:00 PM
​Conference Concludes


‭(Hidden)‬ 9:00 - 9:10 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Remarks

​Welcome by Chancellor Thomas Gibson, UWSP​

‭(Hidden)‬ 9:10 - 9:25 a.m. | Presentation by Secretary of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

Artificial Intelligence and Advancing the Workforce of the Future​

​Amay Pechacek

​Amy Pechacek, Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary Amy Pechacek has focused her career on public service with an emphasis on government administration strategy, as well as crisis and risk management, having led DWD since September 2020 following previous roles as Deputy Secretary for the Wisco​​nsin Department of Corrections and leadership over numerous public programs for Milwaukee County. She chairs the Governor's Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence, which is bringing together leaders from business, agriculture, education, technology, labor, workforce development, and government to identify policies and investments that will advance Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through the AI transformation. ​

Amy's early efforts at DWD turned the tide on a backlog of unemployment insurance benefit claims that arose during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and DWD is continuing its comprehensive modernization efforts under her leadership to improve customer service through tools such as machine learning and multi-language translation. Thanks to Gov. Tony Evers' historic investment in workforce development, Amy has integrated strategic new initiatives with longstanding DWD programs to reduce employment barriers and address a worker quantity challenge arising from demographic trends that have been decades in the making. 

Amy received her master's degree in public policy and public administration from Northwestern University and her undergraduate degree from UW-Madison in sociology and criminal justice; she also is a graduate of the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service's Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia.



‭(Hidden)‬ 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. | Opening Keynote

​​​The Transformative Impact of AI and Machine Learning in Healthcare, Business, and Industry

In this presentation, Ron Galloway will explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning across three pivotal sectors: healthcare, business, and industry. This deep dive will not only showcase how AI is redefining operational efficiencies and strategic decisions but also how it's driving innovation at an unprecedented scale. Through real-world examples and cutting-edge research, Ron will shed light on AI's role in revolutionizing diagnostics, optimizing supply chains, and personalizing customer experiences, among other breakthroughs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Revolution in Healthcare: AI's integration into healthcare is improving diagnostic accuracy, enabling predictive analytics for patient care, and facilitating the development of personalized medicine, significantly enhancing patient outcomes and operational efficiencies.

  • Business Innovation: In the business realm, AI and machine learning are at the forefront of automating routine processes, providing data-driven insights for strategic planning, and enhancing customer engagement through personalized services.

  • Industrial Automation and Efficiency: AI technologies are transforming industries by optimizing manufacturing processes, improving supply chain management through predictive logistics, and ensuring sustainability through energy-efficient solutions.

  • Cross-Sectoral Synergies: Ron will highlight how innovations in AI are not isolated within sectors; instead, advancements in one area, like healthcare, can inspire and accelerate applications in business and industry, leading to a synergistic growth in AI's capabilities and impacts.


Ron Galloway



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​Ron Galloway

Ron Galloway​ is a researcher and author from Augusta, Georgia who concentrates on disruptive trends and technologies, with a particular focus on the impact of artificial intelligence across industries and society.

Ron's work has been featured in the New York Times​, the Wall Street Journal, and New Yorker magazine. He has appeared on CNN, CNBC, the BBC, and Jon Stewart's Daily Show.

Over the last 17 years, he has spoken at hundreds of conferences, board retreats, and corporate events. He is the author of 4 books, and the director of 3 films.​​​

He is a graduate of Georgia Tech, and began coding AI in Turbo Prolog (in DOS) in 1988. You read that right, 35 years ago. Time flies.​​

11:15 a.m. - 12:05 p.m. | Breakout Session 1

Option 1: Overcoming Barriers to AI Adoption: A Strategic Approach to Training

In this practical session, we'll explore common challenges organizations face when implementing AI tools and provide a strategic framework for successful adoption. Drawing from real-world case studies in social impact organizations, we'll examine effective training methodologies that address privacy concerns, build user confidence, and create sustainable AI practices. Participants will learn how to assess organizational readiness, identify potential barriers, and develop targeted training approaches that align with their organizational goals and ethical considerations.

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Stacy Wilkes​
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Option 2: AI Data Governance: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

We'll discuss the importance of Data to support AI. Data organization, Data Strategy, and Data Governance are the cornerstones of a successful AI journey.

Key Takeaways for Participants:

  1. Understand how to organize their data for ML and AI.

  2. Learn approaches for data organization.

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Lynn Olstadt

Lynn Olstadt is a leader in quality and continuous improvement with 25 years of experience in CRO, pharmaceutical, and dietary supplement industries. She has experience in laboratory operations with an emphasis on sample management, stability, and document control. She has participated in FDA, supplier qualification, and contract laboratory audits.

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1:00 - 1:50 p.m. | Breakout Session 2

Option 1: Coming Soon​

Option 2: The Value​ of Open-Source: Leveraging Free, Code-First Tools to Iterate Towards Advanced Analytics​

AI is often relayed as out-of-the-box "gadgets" for productivity boost. While this view can be useful, it elicits ambiguity about actions organizations should take--especially those early in their data science journey--often with large financial implications, and bypasses a foundational strategy for data-informed decision making: solid data infrastructure, a flexible tool stack, and sound analytical thinking—the building blocks of AI itself. In this presentation we discuss free, code-first tools that individuals and organizations can begin integrating as a cost-effective way to move towards advanced analytics. Specifically, we shed light on the R statistical programming language, Quarto for reproducible reporting workflows, and Shiny for custom web applications. We also cover some practical tips, tools and resources to aid in your learning journey. Finally, an example of how these tools are currently used to manage a repository of clinical risk prediction models (riskcalc.org) is provided.​​

​​Option 3: A Beginner's Guide to Integrating AI Tools into Your Daily Routine

You’ve likely seen the buzz about AI tools in the news and online, but it’s not always clear how they can make a real difference in your daily work. This workshop is designed specifically for AI beginners w​​ho want to take the mystery out of this transformative technology and put it to work in practical, meaningful ways. During this session, you’ll discover how AI tools can:

  1. Streamline your workflow, saving time and effort.

  2. Take over repetitive, mundane tasks so you can focus on more impactful work.

  3. Offer innovative solutions to common workplace challenges.

Through hands-on demonstrations and relatable examples, you'll learn how to seamlessly integrate AI into your routine, whether you’re managing emails, organizing your workload, conducting research, or tackling other daily tasks. By the end of the workshop, you’ll feel empowered with actionable strategies and the confidence to make AI a transformative part of your workday.

LaMaide, Noah - Head Shot.jpg​​​

​Noah LaMaide



‭(Hidden)‬ 2:00 - 2:50 p.m. | Breakout Session 3

​Option 1: Is it the Real World, or is it AI? Use Cases for AI Tools​​

You’ve heard plenty about Artificial Intelligence being a “game changer” across industries – but what does that mean for your day-to-day work? Our Small Business Development Center (SBDC) team asked ourselves how AI could level the playing field for small businesses – and small teams like us! – and did some investigating. 

We know that as a small business owner, manager, or employee, there are so many trends and best practices to keep up on - so when do you have time to learn how to use AI? 

Today is the day to get started! 

In this beginner-focused session, join an “AI Explorer” to discuss the basics of Artificial Intelligence. In this “AI 101” session, we will:
  • Build a foundational understanding of how AI “thinks,” including common drawbacks and areas where the tools excel.
  • Offer a framework for how to talk to AI using prompt engineering (and suggestions for improving prompts when something goes wonky!)
  • Give you examples of how you might use a variety of free or low-cost tools - including, but not limited to ChatGPT! - to increase efficiency in tasks ranging from marketing to administration and operational planning.
We’ll spend most of our time in Part 1 discussing the evolution of AI and foundational principles of using AI tools and prompt engineering. In Part 2, we’ll dive into a variety of use cases for AI tools that will get your ideas flowing! 

Attendees will leave this session with sample prompts to try, tools and resources to explore, and the confidence to embrace being an AI Explorer - starting today! ​

Heather Ferguson

​​Heath​​er Ferguson, Program Manager, UW-Madison Small Business Development Center

Heather’s career has always centered around lifelong learning and helping distill complex information into actionable knowledge; becoming an AI Explorer has been no exception. In the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship, Heather has developed a foundational understanding of game-changing AI technology and wanted to provide employee-strapped entrepreneurs with resources to help them work more efficiently.

In her time at the SBDC, Heather has supported the Center’s classes and training opportunities, including pivoting courses online at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing the Center's online presence.

She was also heavily involved in:

  • the creation of t​he Center’s Navigating the New Normal COVID response/strategic planning guide
  • developing content for The Beginner's Guide to Financial Projections
  • adapting – and revamping! – Intro to Financial Management – for non-accountants who were new to financial management terminology and concepts
  • redesigning the Center’s long-running Entrepreneurial Training Program to offer a hybrid course format and a custom course workbook
  • Heather also received a national ASBDC 40 Under 40 award in 2022.​

 

Option 2: The Art and Science of Hiring AI Talent

Rachel Neill, CEO, Carex Consulting Group

Innovation or Revolution? How AI is Changing Healthcare 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly increasing presence in our world and daily lives. This technology is already creating unparalleled change in healthcare practice and education. But is healthcare ready for this innovation? Preparing practitioners to engage in the revolution? This presentation highlights where AI is currently influencing healthcare and what must be done to ensure a healthy AI future for all.​​​

​Tracie Risling


​Tracie Risling RN, PhD, Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Calgary

Tracie Risling is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Calgary, the Vice-President of the Canadian Nurses Association and the Past-President of the Canadian Nursing Informatics Association. With a practice background in pediatric nursing, Tracie leads a patient-oriented program of health and nursing informatics research including study on artificial intelligence, social media, co-design, and the use of texting for wellness and workforce support. She is a passionate advocate for increased clinician engagement in the develo​​pment, use, and evaluation of digital health solutions.​


‭(Hidden)‬ 3:00 - 3:50 p.m. | Breakout Session 4

Mastering AI Methodologies: Frameworks for Effective, Efficient, and Accurate AI Utilization

This presentation will focus on developing and applying frameworks that enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness of AI tools in various sectors, including business, industry, and healthcare. We will introduce and delve into practical frameworks like the RPO model (Role, Process, Outcome), which guides users in creating structured and impactful AI prompts. By understanding these methodologies, attendees will learn how to harness the full potential of AI, turning raw computational power into tailored solutions for their specific needs. This session is a must for anyone looking to elevate their AI strategy and execution.

​Spencer X. Smith​

​Spencer X. Smith, Founder, AmpliPhi - Madison, WI

Spencer X Smith consults for and invests in dozens of high-tech projects and teaches using simple language. After starting his career at IBM during the Y2K days, he's always been an early adopter of new technology so he can better teach others what he’s learned.

He’s given over 300 in-person speeches, including presentations at the New York Stock Exchange, Gillette Stadium in Boston, and The Superdome in New Orleans. Clients inclu​​de the world's largest bond manager and two of the top 10 largest private equity companies.

Spencer is a graduate of the Economics of Blockchain & Digital Assets program at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business and serves on the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin Technology Council.​

‭(Hidden)‬ 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Afternoon Keynote

Revolutionizing Healthcare Economics: The Billion Dollar Impact of AI-Driven Personalized Care

Health inequities in the U.S. healthcare system, which include disparities related to race, socioeconomic status, and sex/gender due to a continued lack of personalized patient care, are responsible for approximately $320 billion in annual healthcare spending. If these issues remain unaddressed, this figure could escalate to over $1 trillion by 2040. This must change.

In this presentation, we’ll explore the transformative role of AI in personalized patient care and how it will help usher in the necessary change required to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare. We’ll discuss and share examples of how AI-driven personalized care can address the costly burden of non-personalized treatments, as well as AI’s growing role in predictive analytics, personalized treatment plans, and cost reduction. For healthcare to serve everyone effectively it must become more personalized, and AI can help build a future where healthcare is more adaptive, patient-centric, and economically sustainable.​

Nick Myers

​​Nick Myers, CEO & Co-Founder, RedFox AI​

Nick Myers is the Co-Founder & CEO of RedFox AI, an AI-focused digital healthcare company based in Madison, WI. The AI-powered RedFox Navigator platform can verbally facilitate and troubleshoot any home diagnostic or medical device closing the last mile in communication between patients, diagnostics and devic​​​e manufacturers, and healthcare providers.

Nick is a TEDx and International Keynote Speaker having delivered dozens of talks on the future of Artificial Intelligence, conversational AI, and data privacy across the U.S. and around the world. Nick is an In Business Madison 40 Under 40 award winner and has been featured in publications such as PR Daily, the Journal of Digital and Social Media Marketing, the Wisconsin State Journal, Wisconsin Inno, Wisconsin Health News, In Business Madison, and the PropertyGuru Property Report for his work.

He is an outspoken advocate of the need for stricter consumer data privacy regulations and currently volunteers as a member of the Open Voice Network (OVON) Privacy & Security Workgroup. As part of his work with OVON, Nick co-authored the OVON sponsored Privacy Principles and Capabilities Unique to Voice white paper published last year. In addition, Nick co-authored a whitepaper focused on the impact of conversational AI on remote patient monitoring.​

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Thank You to Our Sponsors

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​​Interested in becoming a sponsor? Visit our sponsorship page!

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Cancellation Policy


Refunds will be granted if the Continuing Education and Outreach office is contacted by February 13, 2025 at noon. No refunds will be given after the deadline. We reserve the right to cancel this conference due to low enrollment, severe weather, or instructor illness. A full refund will be issued under these circumstances. BE SURE to provide your email address and phone number when registering so we can contact you if the conference is cancelled for any reason. Email Continuing Education Customer Service at  uwspceweb@uwsp.edu to cancel your registration.

​Special Needs and Accommodations


Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two week in advance. Please contact Continuing Education Customer Service at 715-346-3838 or uwspceweb@uwsp.edu.

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