In this episode, host Janet Michael talks with Guy Curtis - Director of Marketing, Laurel Ridge Community College, Christine Kriz - Director of Corporate Training, Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions, and Professor Corinne Hoisington - Professor, Central Virginia Community College; AI educator, international speaker, and author of AI: A Business Perspective, to discuss the Laurel Ridge AI Summit — a half-day event designed to bring practical AI education to workers, business owners, and community members across the Shenandoah Valley.

Key Topics Covered

• Laurel Ridge's year-long participation in the American Association of Colleges and Universities AI initiative
• How local companies are asking for guidance on AI policies and employee training
• Why AI isn't as scary as it seems — and why most of us are already using it
• Real-world AI examples: car inspections, mammogram cancer detection, smart vacuums, autocorrect
• The three AI-proof job types: Imagination Workers, Skilled Workers, and Emotional Workers
• How AI is leveling the playing field across every industry
• Free AI tools beyond ChatGPT — and how to use them responsibly
• The importance of verifying AI output and keeping humanity in the loop

Summit Session Breakdown

Time

Session

8–9 AM

In the Blink of AI – Charting a Course for Virginia's AI-Powered Future

9:15–10:15 AM

Navigating the AI Revolution – Adapting Your Career Path for the Future of Work

10:30–11:30 AM

Creativity in the Workplace and Classroom – Supercharging Skills with AI Tools

Event Details

• Date: April 1st
• Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Location: Corron Community Development Center, Middletown Campus, Laurel Ridge Community College
• Cost: $225 per person
• Register: laurelridgeworkforce.com/aisummit

Questions: Call 540-868-7021