PENNSYLVANIA (WHP) — Leaders from major technology companies, including OpenAI and Microsoft, gathered Tuesday for a summit focused on the future of artificial intelligence and how it can help nonprofit organizations.
The Goodwill AI Networking Summit (GAINS) brought together hundreds of people to explore how AI is changing the workplace and how people can use the technology to build skills for future jobs.
Alex Nawar, head of OpenAI Academy, said one of the goals is to help people feel more confident using AI tools in their own communities.
“Goodwill are able to leave today with a little bit of confidence about how they can apply the tools in their own communities,” Nawar said.
Nawar said the summit also focused on making AI more accessible to nonprofits that help people find jobs.
He acknowledged concerns about privacy and accuracy, saying users should understand their data settings and how to manage them.
Goodwill Keystone, known for its thrift stores and donation services, is also using AI to help people prepare for interviews, build resumes and find jobs.
Steve Preston, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International, said AI can help people with a range of training needs.
“It can help them in their training needs, whether they’re learning digital skills or how to become an electrician,” Preston said.
Jennifer Chley, vice president of mission and business services at Goodwill Keystone, shared an example of how AI can help people deal with personal challenges.
“We had an individual whose mom had dementia, and it was just a really good opportunity for her to interact with AI to figure out what questions should I ask a doctor,” Chley said.
Preston said he recognizes the risks associated with AI but believes the technology can be used to help people when those risks are addressed.
“There are a lot of risks, but let’s focus on the good and how we can leverage these tools for good and make sure at the same time that we protect ourselves,” Preston said.
Some technology leaders at the summit said AI is more likely to change the nature of people’s jobs than replace workers entirely.