AFSA is tackling AI head on in a few short days at the 2026 Independents Conference & Expo – all of our sessions, committees and networking groups will revolve, even in a tangential way, around AI, how the consumer credit industry can get the most out of this emerging technology and what you need to keep your eye out for.

Back in the fall, Dan Bucherer, Senior Director, Member Services & Engagement with AFSA moderated a panel at the Annual Meeting about some of the ways AI is already integrated into lending systems, analyzing unstructured information moving beyond traditional credit metrics, enabling sharper risk assessment and, ultimate a more personalized borrower experience at every stage.

The panel included:

• Elizabeth Blackhall, Senior Compliance Specialist with Husch Blackwell
• Lawrence Buckley, SVP, Business Development, DataOceans
• Tammy Mouta, Product and Growth Lead with Salient AI.

While you pack your saddle bags for Frisco or wait in that boarding line, take a listen and refresh yourself on where we stand in the AI space. Then, when you land, get ready for a deep dive on all things AI.

Listen to the Extra Credit Podcast wherever you get your podcasts or visit afsaonline.org/podcasts.