Georgia expo gives people hands-on experience with AI tech

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – As the world of artificial intelligence continues to grow, leaders are creating new opportunities for anyone looking for a career in the industry.

The inaugural Georgia Artificial Intelligence and Manufacturing Expo took place at the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center on Wednesday, hosting organizations from across the state.

Georgia AIM is a statewide program focused on educating and employing the AI in manufacturing workforce.

“We’re also focused on underrepresented and underserved communities women, minority veterans, people without a college degree, people who want to get into the workforce, learn new skills, get a really, really good-paying job, start a career,” said co-director Donna Ennis.

At first, multiple organizations showed up, dedicated to the same mission.

Justin Kirnon, community engagement specialist for Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, said: “We’re exposing this to minority communities, specifically black communities, all over the state of Georgia, because of the fact that, when you look at manufacturing owners and companies, we’re not represented in that space as well as we should be.”

The goal is to create exposure through demonstrations using AI-driven software like 3D printing and virtual reality.

University of Georgia graduate research assistant Christian Garcia-Ponce, said: “A lot of people when they hear AI, they think it’s going to take over the world and people are going to lose jobs. Really, what we’re hoping to show people is we’re going to grow with it. It’s not going to grow without us and showing them how they can kind of play into that.”

One partnering organization says they start the learning process at a young age.

“We train girls in the areas of computer programming, of course, cyber security, artificial intelligence, digital safety, robotics, drone technology and other STEM-related areas as well,” said Ebony Brown, CEO of Brown Girls Code.

They say they plan to host an expo every year with the hope they’ll keep people up to speed as AI and technology continue to grow.

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