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

Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions: AI Summit