The College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET) at Northern Illinois University (NIU) hosted its second annual Innovation Showcase on Friday, featuring a range of presentations, networking opportunities, and expert panels focused on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in engineering.
Key Takeaways
- The event included presentations from various engineering departments and a panel discussion on AI’s integration into society.
- Industry leaders shared insights on the ethical considerations and future implications of AI in engineering and education.
- Networking opportunities allowed students to connect with professionals in the field.
Event Overview
The Innovation Showcase took place from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Engineering Building, showcasing the role of AI in engineering through in-depth presentations and exhibits. Dean Dave Grewell opened the event, followed by presentations from leaders in electrical, mechanical, industrial, and biomedical engineering, among others.
Panel Discussion on AI and Machine Learning
A highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled "Harnessing AI and Machine Learning," which ran from 1:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. The panel featured industry experts discussing the integration of AI into various sectors, including engineering and manufacturing. Notable panelists included:
- Scott Meyer: Co-founder of Chipp, an AI chatbot platform.
- Greg McFalls: Founder of McFalls Technical Solutions.
- Brian Freeman: Senior data scientist at Trane Technologies.
- Kristy Schomaker: North America Digital Services Commercialization Leader at Trane Commercial.
Meyer emphasized the importance of AI in streamlining laborious tasks, stating, "AI is great at what you hate," and aims to help individuals focus on more meaningful work.
Skills for the Future
Freeman highlighted the essential skills for graduates entering the AI workforce, including:
- Data Collection: Gathering accurate data with necessary metadata.
- Data Clarity: Ensuring data is accessible and reliable.
- Data Analysis: Interpreting data sets effectively.
- Prompt Engineering: Crafting effective prompts for AI tools.
Ethical Considerations in AI
The panel also addressed concerns regarding AI’s impact on critical thinking skills among students. Meyer suggested that educators should adapt their teaching methods to prevent over-reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT for solving homework.
Schomaker raised ethical concerns about AI potentially replacing jobs, emphasizing the need for a culture that encourages skill development and career growth in the face of technological advancements.
Conclusion
The Innovation Showcase concluded with a networking lunch for attendees who registered in advance. The event not only highlighted the advancements in AI technology but also fostered discussions on its implications for the future of engineering and education. Students and industry leaders alike left with valuable insights and connections that could shape their careers in the evolving landscape of engineering technology.