Overview
Artificial Intelligence is transforming nearly every industry and profession. But the term itself is often misunderstood, used interchangeably to describe everything from simple automation to advanced machine learning. This webinar is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of AI fundamentals, structured to support learners at different levels.
We’ll begin with the basics, including definitions, key concepts, and common AI techniques. From there, we’ll explore practical applications and use cases, demonstrating how organizations are using AI today to improve decision-making, streamline operations, and unlock new opportunities.
The session will also cover more advanced topics, such as natural language processing, generative AI, predictive analytics, and ethical implications. Participants will gain insights into both the potential and the limitations of AI, along with frameworks for thinking critically about when and how to adopt AI tools in their own work.
This is not a technical coding class, but a practical, accessible overview designed to build confidence and clarity. Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or looking to strengthen your expertise, this webinar will leave you better equipped to navigate the AI-driven workplace of today and tomorrow.
Why you should Attend
AI is no longer optional knowledge; it's essential. Yet most people fall into one of two traps:
- Beginners feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start
- Experienced users struggle to keep up with emerging tools, ethical debates, and advanced applications
This webinar bridges that gap. Whether you’re new to AI or already experimenting with it, you will gain a clearer understanding of the foundations, current capabilities, and future possibilities.
You will also learn:
- What AI really is (and isn't), cutting through hype and misconceptions
- Which tools and techniques are most relevant right now
- How AI is applied across industries - from HR to finance to customer service
- The risks, limitations, and ethical considerations you must keep in mind
- How to move from curiosity to practical use cases in your own work
Areas Covered in the Session
- Understanding what AI is (and isn't): definitions and core concepts
- A short history of AI: from expert systems to machine learning to generative AI
- The building blocks: data, algorithms, and models
- Practical examples of AI in the workplace across industries
- Beginner-friendly tools and how to start experimenting safely
- Advanced concepts: machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, and NLP
- Ethical, legal, and social considerations of AI use
- Limitations and risks: what AI can’t (yet) do
- How to evaluate AI tools for your own professional use
- The future of AI: trends to watch and how to prepare
Who Will Benefit
- HR Professionals, Managers, and Business Leaders seeking to understand AI's impact
- Professionals who want to start using AI tools effectively in their daily work
- Advanced Learners looking for insights into Generative AI, Predictive Analytics, and Ethical Considerations
- Organizations evaluating AI adoption and looking to upskill their Teams
Speaker Profile
Mark Smith Ph.D., is a respected HR consultant and assessment expert who previously directed certification testing for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). He has a Ph.D. in organizational psychology and experience evaluating leaders and candidates for key roles in construction and other industries. He has personally assessed about 1,000 leaders or candidates across many organizations.
He was recently named one of the top 50 HR Professionals and Leaders of 2024. He has also served on research and advisory boards for such organizations as HR.com and Xobin. He even testified before Congress about skills-first hiring and candidate assessments.
Throughout his career, Mark has contributed significantly to advancing hiring practices and talent development strategies. He has developed a reputation for creative approaches to candidate assessments, as well as an understanding of validation and research for all types of workplace issues.