Leaders, educators and students gathered Wednesday at the Georgia Cyber Center for Georgia AIM Day, highlighting AI’s growing role in industry.
The Augusta event was part of Georgia AIM Week, a statewide initiative featuring 13 events from Sept. 29 – Oct. 3.
The event included leadership remarks, demonstrations from the Georgia AIM RICE Mobile AI Studio, and a Student Innovation Showcase in computer science and cybersecurity.
AI driving opportunities in manufacturing
Community Engagement Manager Dr. Ryan Scott, emphasized how AI is creating jobs and making an impact in manufacturing today.
“The unique thing about AI and manufacturing is there’s a lot of careers that are being created right now because of it,” Scott said.
“With the adoption of a lot of smart technologies, productivity is really increasing in production plants.”
Scott said Georgia AIM’s mission is to change outdated perceptions.
“We’re trying to dispel the myth of the four D’s: the dangerous, dull, dark and dirty plant. We’re looking to make manufacturing cool again,” Scott said.
Supporting Georgia manufacturers
John McLain, project lead for Georgia AIM, highlighted how the program reaches manufacturers across the state.
“Our program actually goes into manufacturers and their supply chains, and we do a no-cost cybersecurity risk assessment for them,” McLain said.
“We’re able to allow them to identify their needs and tailor the program for their needs.”
He also noted the program is still open to more businesses.
“We still have some openings for individual manufacturers and supply chains,” McLain said. “If anyone’s interested, they can get in touch with the Georgia Cyber Center and then get in contact with me, and we can get them signed up.”
Challenges ahead
Despite optimism, Scott mentioned some challenges do remain when it comes to implementing AI in manufacturing.
“When it comes to implementing AI in the manufacturing world, I think the biggest challenge is just the fear of the unknown,” he said.
He added AI is already part of everyday life.
“A lot of people don’t realize they’re using AI just by using Google on their phone or Google Maps. AI is more invasive and more pervasive than most people think. It is safe, and it is one of those things that could be a force multiplier for every industry in every sector. AI is not the future — it’s the now,” he said.
