This half-day symposium brings together industry leaders, academic researchers, social innovators, and technology providers to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the world of work and society at large. From workforce development and career readiness to data-driven platforms that empower connected workers, optimize industrial operations, and strengthen community resilience, the program highlights real-world applications, research breakthroughs, and initiatives advancing AI for Social Good.
Sessions will feature insights into industrial innovation, applied research from DePaul University, and a spotlight on emerging technologies such as digital twins, contextualized data models, and workforce analytics that are shaping the future of enterprise transformation. The agenda also examines how AI can contribute to humanitarian logistics, community health, and broader societal impact.
Designed as a collaborative forum, the symposium connects executives, scholars, practitioners, and community leaders to discuss the future of work in an AI-driven economy, spanning talent pipelines, industrial platforms, and social good initiatives.
![]() Nezih Altay
Professor & Fulbright Scholar DePaul University |
![]() Elias Brown
North American Data Manager Vallourec |
![]() Kathy Fulton
Executive Director American Logistics Aid Network |
![]() Martin Gonzales
Director of Innovation BP |
![]() Konrad Konarski
Chairperson AI Applied Consortium |
![]() Ron Norris
Retired Director of Innovation Georgia Pacific |
![]() Kevin Patel
Student Researcher DePaul University |
![]() Tushar Vantaram
Student Researcher DePaul University |
![]() Vishwa Teja
Student Researcher DePaul University |
![]() Mike McFarlane
Director of Digitalization (Ret.) BASF |
![]() Adam J. Hecktman
Head of Community Impact Forgood.io |
![]() Michael Burgess
Vice President Crenlo Engineered Cabs |
Main Session – Agenda1:00 β 1:20 PM | Welcome & Opening Remarks 1:20 β 1:30 PM | SPARK Center Director Welcome 1:30 β 2:10 PM | Keynote: Workforce Development in the Age of AI 2:10 β 2:55 PM | Industry Panel: AI Driving Innovation in Energy & Manufacturing 2:55 β 3:10 PM | Networking Break 3:10 β 4:00 PM | Research & Academia Showcase: Building AI Career Architectures 4:00 β 4:40 PM | AI for Social Good: Humanitarian Logistics & Community Impact 4:40 β 4:55 PM | Roundtable: Career Pathways & Social Good in an AI-First Future 4:55 β 5:00 PM | Closing Reflections & Next Steps |
5:30 to 7:30 PM | Evening Cocktail Reception (By Invite) πΈβ¨
Connect with speakers and peers over signature drinks and chef bites. Expect warm introductions, quick networking rounds, and a relaxed lounge vibe with music to turn fresh insights into real partnerships and pilot ideas.