(US and Canada) The University of Cincinnati’s 2024 Data Science Symposium brought together 245 industry professionals, UC students and faculty to explore the latest trends in data science and AI. Hosted by the UC Center for Business Analytics, the event facilitated meaningful discussions on the impact of AI, large language models (LLMs), and practical data science applications.

Event executive director Tim Cholvat underscores the Symposium’s purpose — to inspire, bring fresh perspectives, and encourage collaborative ventures among professionals. “We want to remind attendees of their passion for their work,” Cholvat states. Echoing this sentiment, Dean Marianne Lewis emphasizes UC’s legacy of cooperative education and the importance of integrating theoretical research with practical applications, especially in the fast-evolving fields of data science and AI​.

Keynote insights: Evolving definitions and uses of AI

Rehgan Bleile, CEO of AlignAI, opened the Symposium with her talk, “From Models to Agents: The Evolution of Data Science and AI.” Bleile posed fundamental questions on intelligence, inviting attendees to consider the complexities of AI that mimic human traits like creativity, reasoning, and emotional intelligence. She argued that defining intelligence in machines remains a philosophical challenge, as these models lack intrinsic understanding but simulate reasoning and problem-solving at impressive scales. Her address also covered the technical challenges associated with LLMs, including testing, ethical evaluation, and governance, urging the audience to think deeply about the role these technologies should play in society.

Concluding the event, Jeffrey Shaffer, director of the UC Applied AI Lab, presented “The Future of AI: The Wild West of Modern Technology.” He discussed the rapid advancement of AI tools, from email to data analysis platforms, and addressed the potential of these systems to assume greater responsibilities in decision-making processes. Shaffer introduced the newly established Applied AI Lab, a research and training center focused on curricular innovation and advancing industry partnerships. He highlighted the importance of human oversight, stressing that while AI is capable of significant task automation, it remains essential for humans to guide and evaluate its applications.

Expanding industry collaboration and learning

Throughout the day, symposium attendees participated in tech talk sessions led by industry leaders from companies like Great American Insurance Group, Fifth Third Bank, Procter & Gamble, and GE Aerospace. The topics spanned data governance, the ethical dimensions of AI, and the practical implementation of advanced analytics in business operations. These discussions provided a platform to exchange knowledge, bringing insights from a diverse range of industries that underscore the collaborative nature of modern data science.

As AI and data science applications continue to evolve, events like this are instrumental in preparing everyone for the challenges ahead. The symposium served as a reminder that while technology can transform industries, the responsibility lies with those who wield it. Shaffer sums up this outlook saying: “AI will soon be everywhere. We must be ready to adapt, guide its applications, and ensure it serves humanity responsibly.” The symposium left attendees with a call to action: Embrace collaboration, maintain ethical oversight, and stay curious in the face of technological transformation​.