Friday, February 28, 2025 - 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Generative AI in Real-World Applications
Friday, February 28, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., in Room 110, 216 Pillsbury Drive.
This session aims to provide students with practical insights into how generative AI is transforming industries and how they can leverage this technology for career advancement. We would love for you to be a part of this engaging discussion.
Event Details
Topic: Generative AI in Real-World Applications
Sub-Plan Focus: Data Science
Date: Friday, February 28, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Room 110, 216 Pillsbury Drive
Format: Expert-led discussions, networking lunch, and career insights
Register Here: Event Registration Link
Agenda & Speakers
Welcome & Opening Remarks (12:00 p.m. – 12:05 p.m.)
Speaker: Colin Miller
Introduction to generative AI and its transformative impact on industries.
Professor Colin Miller is a technology leader and educator with over 30 years of experience in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data management. As Faculty Director of the Information Technology Infrastructure (ITI) program at the University of Minnesota, he oversees curriculum development and industry partnerships to equip students with cutting-edge skills.
Previously, he served as Associate Professor and Director of Technology at North Central University and held IT roles at UCare, Xcel Energy, General Mills, and Cargill. His expertise spans SAP Business Intelligence, digital transformation, and enterprise IT solutions.
Committed to mentorship and workforce development, Professor Miller bridges industry and academia, preparing students for success in today’s evolving tech landscape.
Session 1: AI in Data Science – Beyond Predictive Analytics (12:05 p.m. – 12:25 p.m.) Speaker: Andy Carroll
Andy Carroll is a healthcare executive and AI strategist with over 20 years of experience in consulting, med tech, payer, and provider sectors, including leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente and Medical Alley. As Founder of Sláinte Consulting, he helps organizations drive AI adoption, process improvement, and strategic growth. He holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and a postgraduate degree in AI from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. Andy also serves as Board Chair of the Seward Neighborhood Group and an AI 2030 advisory board member, advocating for responsible AI and community development
Exploring how AI models are evolving from analytics to content creation and beyond.
Industry use cases of AI-driven automation and innovation.
Session 2: genAI – What’s in It for You? (12:25 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.)
Speaker: Norman Owens
Norman Owens is a Senior Solution Architect at AWS with over 10 years of experience in cloud computing, IT security, and IT operations. He specializes in helping state and local government organizations build scalable, secure cloud solutions using AWS technologies.
A US Coast Guard reservist, former university instructor, and head election judge, Norman is passionate about leveraging technology to drive transformation and innovation. He is also an advisor at the University of Minnesota’s College of Continuing & Professional Studies, contributing to curriculum development in IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. Through his work in education, public service, and technology, he empowers teams to build resilient, future-ready cloud strategies.
Understanding the Hype – Exploring the real-world impact of generative AI, including its connection to cutting-edge innovations like this year’s Nobel Prize-winning advancements.
The Future is Now – A look at how generative AI is already shaping industries, from automation to personalized experiences, and what this means for your career.
Practical Applications & Live Demo – Actionable steps to leverage genAI tools today, plus an interactive demo showcasing how you can integrate AI into your workflow.
Break (12:45 p.m. – 12:50 p.m.)
Session 3: AI and Data Science Career Opportunities (12:50 p.m. – 1:10 p.m.)
Speaker: Dr. Sean Masterman, Ed.D.
Dr. Sean Masterman is a technology leader, educator, and consultant with over 30 years of experience spanning healthcare, finance, retail, and cybersecurity. He has spent 15+ years in higher education, teaching and designing courses at universities and corporate settings.
Currently serving as a Faculty of Practice at Concordia University, St. Paul, and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Minnesota and the University of Sioux Falls, Dr. Masterman is dedicated to preparing students for the future workforce in an era of AI and digital transformation. His expertise in data management, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies drives his passion for mentorship, servant leadership, and fostering innovation in education and industry.
- Exploring data-driven careers that enable and protect business operations through AI.
- Uncovering AI and machine learning opportunities driving innovation and transformation.
- Understanding the growing need for AI governance and ethical practices for responsible deployment.
Lunch & Networking (1:10 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)
An opportunity for students to connect with industry experts, explore job opportunities, and discuss AI trends.
Closing Remarks (1:30 p.m.)
Speaker: Professor Colin Miller
Summary of key takeaways and actionable steps for students interested in AI.