On May 21st, the Crossroads Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce its monthly membership program and "Unlocking Tomorrow for Business Today" annual Business Expo. The program introduces a panel of academic leaders in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to explore its transformative impact on the business community with the expo following shortly after.
The day kicks off with registration and networking at 11:15 a.m., followed by lunch and an engaging AI panel from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Business Expo will commence immediately after the panel, running from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering attendees the opportunity to explore a wide range of business solutions and network with industry peers. Additionally, the event will feature Business After Hours from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., where attendees can enjoy cocktails and light appetizers. The business community is free to attend the complimentary business expo and after-hours.
Hosted at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center in Merrillville, the panel and expo are a must-attend event for businesses of all sizes and sectors in the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry peers at the expo and learn about the benefits of AI during lunch. Business expo booths are available to all chamber members in Northwest Indiana.
With the academic expertise and research insights of professors Rajan Kini of Indiana University Northwest, Sami Khorbotly of Valparaiso University and Spiros Bamiatzis of Ivy Tech Community College, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of AI's historical roots, current trends, and future trajectory by focusing on three pivotal themes: Cyber Security, Management Information Systems and the transformative implications for businesses.
"May 21st is the day we underscore our commitment to empowering businesses in Northwest Indiana with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in today's dynamic landscape," said Deann, President and CEO of the Crossroads Chamber. "The panel promises to be a critical moment in our community by offering invaluable insights and the expo provides networking opportunities for all attendees."
Stephen Muenstermann, president of Cloudbusters, will moderate the panel as a seasoned professional in the tech industry. Bringing a wealth of experience in automation and IT services for residential and commercial systems, he believes businesses must recognize that AI transcends mere buzzword status.
"It stands as an unstoppable force of global transformation," said Munenstermann. "The survival of triumph of businesses hinges upon embracing and mastering the relentless power of AI as it continues to evolve."
The academic panel discussion aims to demystify AI concepts and highlight AI-related opportunities.
"In the next decade, adopting AI methods and tools is not an option, but a necessity for the survival of any organization," said Professor Khorbotly, Chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering. "Refusing to embrace AI in the 2020s is analogous to refusing to use electricity in the 1920s."
"AI will help develop the next generation of employees that will empower the industry by handling complex problems and making reliable, accurate and understandable solutions in a fast-paced environment," said Professor Bamiatzis.
Crossroads Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to equipping attendees with essential knowledge and insights to thrive in today's rapidly evolving economic sphere. From networking opportunities to thought-provoking panel discussions, the panel and expo offer a platform for businesses to stay ahead of the curve and harness the full potential of AI.
"AI isn't inherently difficult; its complexity lies in the hidden software," said Muenstermann. "But its benefits are clear: it adds financial intrinsic value to businesses, makes operations easier for users who embrace it, and serves as a learning tool to shape a company's culture."
"Additionally, it fortifies cybersecurity, ensuring a stronger defense against digital threats."
For more information about the Crossroads Chamber Business Expo and to register for the monthly membership program, visit crossroadschamber.org or call 219-769-8180.
