Public Artificial Intelligence Expo scheduled for August 17

WENATCHEE - The 2023 AI (Artificial Intelligence) Expo, hosted collaboratively by the NCW Tech Alliance, North Central ESD, and the Apple STEM Network, will be held from 12:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, August 17, at the Wenatchee Convention Center. This year marks a significant milestone as the AI Expo transitions from an online event to in-person format for the first time. The AI Expo is included in the NCESD STEM Summit, running from August 15-17 at the Wenatchee Convention Center. 

The AI Expo is free to the business community and general public. It will provide an inclusive platform for individuals from all walks of life to plug into the fascinating universe of AI, which is rapidly gaining ground in North Central Washington and beyond.

The core objective of this year's AI Expo sessions is to foster an environment of connection and exploration, focusing on the profound impact of AI on education, workforce development, and everyday life within rural communities. Featuring an engaging lineup of speakers and discussions, participants will be immersed in community conversations aimed at addressing the myriad questions that arise in the context of AI integration.

To inaugurate the event, attendees will be treated to an engaging keynote conversation followed by interactive breakout sessions, offering real-world insights into the practical applications of AI. Beyond the invaluable knowledge sharing, the AI Expo presents a unique networking opportunity. The event welcomes educators, community leaders, and business professionals from diverse backgrounds, creating an environment where both AI experts and novices can thrive.

 Speakers include:

• Ben Bardsley, founder of BX, and a tech entrepreneur who is now building a climate tech platform that can support farmers in their environmental journey using data, AI and FX exchanges to enable this transition. 

• Jolenta Coleman-Bush, Microsoft, leader of the Education & Workforce Development portfolio for Microsoft Philanthropies in Washington State.

• Dr. Paola Pesantez-Cabrera, AgAID Institute, a Research Assistant Professor in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Washington State University.

• Dr. Shannon Thissen, Capital Region ESD 113, Regional Administrator for Educational Technology and Computer Science.

• Eduardo Castillo, Director General at Centro de Inteligencia Artificial - IA Center: A renowned technology enthusiast and innovator with an impressive 30-year career in the field of information technology and communications.

To inaugurate the event, attendees will be treated to an engaging keynote conversation followed by interactive breakout sessions, offering real-world insights into the practical applications of AI. Beyond the invaluable knowledge sharing, the AI Expo presents a unique networking opportunity. The event welcomes educators, community leaders, and business professionals from diverse backgrounds, creating an environment where both AI experts and novices can thrive.

As part of the NCW Tech Alliance commitment to including all communities, this year’s AI Expo includes an all-Spanish session.

For more information or to register for free please visit NCWTech.org or contact info@ncwtech.org or 509-661-9000.

The Apple STEM Network (applestemnetwork.org) is a regional alliance of K-12, higher ed, and community partners in North Central Washington

Since 1999, NCW Tech Alliance (ncwtech.org)  has served as the region’s tech alliance, championing growth and development in North Central Washington.

The North Central Educational Service District (ncesd.org/) provides a wide array of programs, services and support to the public school districts in the North Central Washington region of Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties.