More than 200 attendees gathered at the Charles B. Wang Center Theater on September 20 to hear mathematician Po-Shen Loh discuss artificial intelligence and its impact on the future workforce.
The event was organized by Stony Brook University’s Institute for Creative Problem Solving (ICPS) in collaboration with the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) and Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL). The lecture, titled “How To Thrive in the Age of AI,” marked the beginning of a new ICPS series called Convergence, which seeks to connect participants and the Long Island community with leaders in STEM fields to address current topics affecting science and employment.
Po-Shen Loh addressed concerns about artificial intelligence potentially replacing human jobs. He acknowledged that while automation may reduce certain staffing needs, he emphasized that human qualities remain essential. “AI can solve extremely difficult math problems, write its own code, and perform statistical analysis better and quicker than most humans can, but it does so in response to questions asked by people. Unlike us, it cannot form interpersonal relationships in order to further the development of mankind. AI programs are here to stay, and they’re rapidly evolving. According to Loh, humans must embrace this and utilize the technology for what we do best – fostering understanding and improving communication skills.”
Loh encouraged adaptation to changes brought by generative AI rather than resistance. He argued that as technology evolves, maintaining relevance depends on developing skills that machines cannot replicate.
Arthur Kalish, program manager for ICPS, commented on the success of the event: “This event was even more successful than we imagined,” said Arthur Kalish, program manager for ICPS. “I look forward to continuing our partnership with MoMath and BNL as we bring in more speakers who spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and engage not only the ICPS community, but the general public as well.”
The Convergence lecture series will continue bringing prominent figures from STEM fields to discuss key issues facing both professionals and communities.
