AI Automation and Job Disruption Lead 15th Annual Executive Summit
Timely, dynamic and of high importance, the 15th Annual Executive Summit captured audience attention, tackling the future of work through the theme, AI Automation and Job Disruption, as companies — ranging from Fortune 500s to start-ups across all industries — strive to understand the evolving AI landscape.
Part of Drexel University’s Alumni Weekend, the one-day seminar, held on May 10, offered a unique blend of ideas, vision and inspiration, where professionals from diverse backgrounds explored the intricacies and forecasts of AI and how it can disrupt the workforce.
This year’s theme was delivered by a skilled and diverse set of thought leaders. Keynote speakers featured Shelton Mercer III, award-winning innovation pioneer, serial entrepreneur and Fortune 100 advisor; and Cindi Howson, host of The Data Chief podcast and the chief data strategy officer at ThoughtSpot.
“This event epitomizes what Drexel’s LeBow College of Business can do, being a leader in innovation, providing education on topics that are top of mind,” said Vibhas Madan, PhD, LeBow Dean and R. John Chapel Jr. Dean’s Chair.
Mercer’s topic was “Virtuous Innovation: Transforming AI to Fuel Authentic Ingenuity,” providing insights into advanced technologies and how, if used thoughtfully, they could boost global equity and societal advancement.
Howson’s topic was “Creating a Data-fluent Culture in the Age of AI-Powered Analytics,” which addressed profound new ways of working and democratizing data insights. Panels included additional timely topics, such as “The Future of Work: Digital Transformation of the American Workforce” and “Health Innovation.” The “Future of Work” panel was moderated by Keisha Bronson, EMBA ’20, director of human resources at BlackRock. Panel members were Fran Dillard, vice president and chief DEI officer, Micron; Andi Le, vice president, electronics and industrial CIO, Dupont; Alan Rihm ‘88, CEO and co-founder, Fall Forward; and Rosina Weber, PhD, professor of information science, Drexel University’s College of Computing & Informatics.
The “Health Innovation” panel was moderated by Patrick Ehret, EMBA ‘20, innovation lead, Johnson & Johnson. Panel members were Matthew Fenty, managing director, innovation and strategic partnerships, St. Luke’s University Health Network; Sheila Shah, managing director and partner, L.E.K. Consulting; and Kindra Tatarsky, managing director, Touchdown Ventures.
Additionally, the summit also gave LeBow’s EMBA community the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of their alumni through the EMBA Alumni Awards. Bill Powell, EMBA ’18, director of analytic strategy for Holman, was presented with the award recognizing Service to Alma Mater.
The 15th Annual Executive Summit was sponsored by LabWare and Drexel LeBow’s Office of Corporate and Executive Education.
