As the fastest-adopted technology in recorded history, few sectors are untouched by artificial intelligence. It shows up everywhere in our personal and business lives, transforming sectors from education to health care, agriculture to small business.
We are learning about AI alongside our community, aware of both its opportunities and its ethical, equitable and workforce considerations. For this reason, we are grateful Fort Lewis College launched an institute one year ago dedicated to the study and deployment of AI, serving as a resource hub and catalyst for innovation, at FLC and across the Four Corners.
Over 400 business, education and nonprofit leaders, along with community members, attended the inaugural AI conference, eager to explore the technology’s real-world applications. The second annual conference is scheduled for Dec. 16.
For a more immediate opportunity, whether you are a neophyte or a seasoned AI user, attend the institute’s Elevate AI celebration from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at the FLC Center for Innovation. Elevate AI, one of the institute’s core programs, has supported 15 incubator projects in the community and classroom that address regional challenges. The celebration will showcase the diversity of these projects and their use of AI. Register at http://bit.ly/4fGuYsv.
As the FLC AI Institute’s 2024-2025 Annual Report says: “Artificial intelligence is already transforming how the world operates. It is changing how jobs are created, how decisions are made, and how communities access knowledge and resources.” As with any new technology, one can get on board or be left behind. The institute is helping ensure our region is on the right side of this transition and transformation.
But AI, like any new technology, brings both challenges and opportunities. In rural Colorado, it is reminiscent of broadband access – an ongoing issue that still puts us at a disadvantage compared with urban areas. Limited connectivity restricts education, health care, and economic opportunities, cutting residents off from online learning, telehealth and remote work. Businesses and farmers also lose access to tools and markets that could help them compete. Without reliable infrastructure, communities risk losing younger generations to places with better opportunities. With the institute’s help, we have a chance to get ahead on AI and ensure our region remains on the leading edge of this new frontier.
The news business is experimenting with AI as well, seeking new opportunities and efficiencies like other industries. With over 3,200 print newspapers closed in the past 20 years – including 130 in the past year alone – and journalism jobs down 80% since the 1990s, fewer reporters are covering the same number of beats. AI tools that assist with research, suggest story angles or scan local government meeting packets for important developments can help journalists focus on the stories that matter most to the community and deliver them in a variety of ways.
We want to hear from you. The Herald is asking for your help in understanding our community’s knowledge of and comfort with AI – and how we can use it ethically, transparently and in ways that maintain readers’ trust (Herald, Aug. 13). Please take this 5-minute anonymous survey, conducted in collaboration with the Local Media Association/Local Media Foundation and Trusting News, at http://bit.ly/4lrms1y. It is free for all to participate through Saturday, Aug. 16, and sits in front of our paywall.
AI is not just a tool – it’s a community conversation. By learning together, sharing insights, and asking questions, we can shape how this powerful technology benefits our region while staying true to the values we hold dear. Join the conversation.
