By Catherine Pugh
Special to the AFRO
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a pivotal topic of discussion globally, influencing conversations from the White House to local classrooms. And the issue will be among the marquee themes of the 39th (BEYA) STEM Conference, which will convene at the Baltimore Convention Center Feb. 13-15.
Organized by Tyrone Taborn, president of Career Communications, and his team, this prestigious annual event celebrates the achievements of African Americans in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The event promises to attract about 16,000 attendees, including speakers, government officials, industry experts, professionals, students and entrepreneurs, many eager to explore the latest advancements and implications of AI while learning, networking and celebrating STEM education and careers.
“We are looking forward to an exciting BEYA and the collaborations that will be developed and the lessons that will be learned, “ said Taborn.
“This year’s conference promises to be a landmark occasion, as it hosts an extensive track dedicated to artificial intelligence. Our goal is to bring together experts and enthusiasts from various fields to discuss the state of AI and its potential impact on the future,” Taborn added. “I’ve spent decades understanding the future of artificial intelligence, which is why we developed one of the most comprehensive platforms with STEM City, USA, which will be on display at BEYA.”
Leading engineering, technology, STEM and software companies along with the nation’s Armed Forces will be at BEYA, displaying their products, inventions and businesses, and recruiting individuals to serve in their companies as interns and employees. Colleges and universities will also be searching for students interested in engineering and technology careers, including AI. Over 3,000 young people from across the country will attend this event in an effort to take advantage of the offerings at BEYA.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore first showed his commitment to developing AI by signing an executive order back in January 2024, as he said, “to ensure that we integrate Artificial intelligence in state government, as well as efforts to bolster cybersecurity. This technology is already here; the only question is whether we are going to be reactive or proactive in this moment. Our administration will always choose to lead.”
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a transformative force that is reshaping industries, economies and societies. From enhancing productivity and efficiency to solving complex problems, “AI has the potential to drive significant progress and innovation. However, it also raises important ethical and societal questions that must be addressed to ensure that its benefits are widely shared,” Taborn said.
That is why Taborn said he and his team, during the last General Assembly, worked closely with Sen. Cory McCray, D-District 45, to support legislation that would create an oversight committee of experts outside of state government.
The hope is that those experts, “would help us achieve the governor’s goals and integrate this technology equitably into our communities which means providing access to education, training and economic opportunity,” Taborn said.
The STEM advocate said many don’t understand the concept of artificial intelligence, although it is being fused more and more into society via the mundane, such as virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, to the more advanced.
“Artificial Intelligence is being used now and can either enhance our future or undercut our progress. That is why I am focused on building an infrastructure that educates and trains this generation and the next one on how they can benefit and create additional opportunities and jobs with AI. This is a growing market and we cannot afford to be left behind,” said Taborn.
AI has the potential to disrupt labor markets and change the nature of work, he continued. “While it can create new opportunities and drive economic growth, it may also lead to job displacement and require workers to acquire new skills. Addressing these challenges through education, training, and economic opportunities is vital for our communities,” he said.
The 39th Annual BEYA STEM Conference provides a unique opportunity for stakeholders to come together, share knowledge and shape the future of this transformative technology. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, the conference aims to ensure that AI is developed and used in a manner that benefits all of humanity.
“The AI premium track at BEYA is designed to empower professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the evolving digital landscape,” said Taborn. The BEYA STEM Conference will feature a series of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops led by industry leaders and subject matter experts. These sessions will cover a broad range of topics, including:
- AI in Business & Government: Leveraging AI for innovation, efficiency and operational strategy.
- Cybersecurity & AI: Securing digital assets and mitigating risks with AI driven solutions.
- AI and Education: Discussing how AI & Workforce Developing-Preparing the next generation of AI leaders and talent.
- AI & Policy: Understanding the evolving AI regulatory landscape and ethical considerations.
- AI-Data Insights: Using machine learning and AI Analytics for strategic decision-making
Among the notable speakers are:
- Kenneth Washington, senior vice president and chief technology and innovation officer, Medtronic, which is a leader in AI-driven medical innovations transforming healthcare.
- Gary Simms Sr., director of area support, Microsoft; AI strategist focused on enterprise risk management
- Victor Brown, former vice president and distinguished engineer at IBM; trailblazer in AI cloud computing and cybersecurity
- Robert Steward, founder and CEO, End2End Solution; expert in AI-powered supply chain optimization and analytics.
- Ernest Smiley, senior data scientist and analytics expert; specialist in AI, machine learning and data intelligence.
- Dr. Kevin Kornegay, endowed professor and director of the Cybersecurity Assurance and Policy (CAP) Center for Academic Excellence at Morgan State University. Research leader in AI-powered cybersecurity solutions.
- David Jones, CEO, Lumena Energy. Innovator in AI-driven renewable energy and smart grid technology.
- Meghan Franklin, senior consultant, Deloitte. AI and data analytics expert with a focus on sustainability and geospatial intelligence.
- Jennifer Blum, Ph.D., director of AI and analytics, HII. Al strategist leading government and defense AI applications.
“The subject matter experts that we have brought together not just for the AI track but the many topics at this conference will help shape the future of our city, state and country. I’m excited,” said Taborn, “and that is why we are inviting Baltimore and the State of Maryland to join us for an exciting time.
“The BEYA Conference plays a crucial role in shaping a positive and inclusive technological future,” Taborn concluded. “See you at the Baltimore Convention Center, Feb. 13-15.”
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