Looking to the future

Exeter Chamber and Exist looked forward to the future at an event attended by more than 100 people today (December 7), writes Chris Coward.

Navigating the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Frontier was held at Winslade Manor's The Forge.

An array of high-profile speakers ranging from the inspirational Earl of Devon to current or former executives or consultants of Accenture, Meta and Microsoft were joined by local specialists and experts.

And in addition to those physically present the event was streamed internationally.

James Cater, Chair of EXIST opened and closed the event which impressively stuck to a challenging timetable and agenda and left the audience engaged and wanting to know more.

It was clear that AI will affect all of us, whatever the industry and it will become a cornerstone of our coverage in Exeter Today's sister platform Exeter Tomorrow Magazine, which was available at the event.

Whether it be agriculture or industry, the private or public sector, large or small, AI will impact us all.

It will transform business but can accentuate the negatives as well as the positives if not properly managed, introduced or controlled.

Some see it as a risk to jobs, others as an opportunity to create time to be more creative. What is already proven however, is that if that the original data and content used is flawed or ill conceived the risk is compounded by AI.

James Moffatt also previewed a February 1st Hackathon at the same venue and invited delegates to come along and see examples of AI in discussion and practice.

It is great to see Exeter at the forefront of so much going on in this field and we will keep you regularly updated.