Over two packed days, attendees explored how AI can be an "incredible multiplier," boosting productivity, creativity, and innovation across diverse
sectors. The conference successfully demystified artificial intelligence, offering practical, real-world tools and strategies for all experience
levels.
Highlights from the Event
Engaging Keynotes & Panels Thought leaders like John Andresen (Oatmeal AI), Peter C Kirwan, Jr. (Mebot AI), and Janet Lee Johnson
(AI Governance Group) sparked crucial conversations on AI governance, ethics, and its future impact. We heard diverse perspectives on
AI in education, its role in our community, and how to navigate its rapid evolution.
Practical Breakouts & Live Demos From hands-on sessions with ChatGPT and Gemini to deep dives into AI for marketing, project management, small
business sales, and even no-code app building, attendees left with actionable solutions.
Community Focus. Discussions highlighted AI's role in vital local sectors such as agriculture (with insights from OSU Extension),
wildfire prevention (Jackson County Fire District 3), law enforcement (Eagle Point Police), and automotive innovation (Lithia & Driveway).
Addressing the Important Questions Experts like Victor Villegas (OSU) emphasized the need for AI education, while Teighe Thorsen
(Ethical AI Advocate) encouraged using AI for inspiration and enhancing human capabilities, addressing concerns about data privacy and bias.
Vibrant Networking The "Bits & Bytes Mixer" and "Flavors of the Rogue" provided fantastic opportunities for connection, fostering a collaborative,
community-driven atmosphere.
The goal was to educate and inform, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Attendees left empowered, understanding both the immense
potential and the ethical considerations of AI. As one speaker noted, "We're at crossroads where everything is changing drastically, and it's very
important for Oregonians to know about these technologies."
A heartfelt thank you to our esteemed speakers, dedicated sponsors, and every attendee who contributed to making the AI for Good Conference a
landmark event. The future of AI in Southern Oregon is bright, and we're excited to be a part of shaping it responsibly and effectively!
Day 1 of the AI for Good Conference focuses on making AI simple and useful. Learn how AI can
boost efficiency, security, and innovation—plus get tips
on using it responsibly in real-world settings.
8:30 - 9:00
Check-in, Registration, & Networking
9:00 - 9:15
Welcome Address, John Andresen, Oatmeal AI
Conference Overview, Kim Andresen
Local Resources, Organizations, and More.
Marshall Doak, SBDC, Marta Tarantsey, Business Oregon, Kim Freeze, SOIH, Annie Jenkins, Downtown Medford Assn., Alexandria Kegel, Toatstmasters International.
3:00 - 3:20
Blaze Control: The Role of AI in Predicting and Preventing Wildfires Chief Ian Kassab, Jackson County Fire District 3
Steering into the Future: AI's Impact on Automotive Innovation Meddie Strait, Process Optimization and Systems Manager, Lithia & Driveway
4:00 - 4:30
Tour of Building
4:00 - 4:30
Panel: Rogue Intelligence - AI, Community, & The Future of Technology in Southern Oregon John Williams - Moderator Aaron Moffatt - White Rabbit Creator Clubhouse Michael Zarosinski Mayor of Medford Eric Swanson City Manager, Phoenix
Day 2: AI for Greater Productivity and Smarter Decisions
Day 2 is packed with hands-on sessions, live demos, and expert insights into using AI for work,
creativity, and smarter decisions. Whether you lead a team, run a business, or create content,
you'll explore practical tools and strategies for every skill level—and leave with solutions
you can use right away.
Breakout: AI and Digital Literacy: Communications for Small Business Victor Villegas, OSU
1:30 - 2:30
Breakout: AI in Creativity:
Generative & Predictive Design, Automated Layout, Logo Design, Personalization in Marketing, Ads, Digital Experiences,
and Brand-Driven Identities. Thor Muller, Mach49
1:30 - 2:30
Breakout: AI Tools for Small Businesses Sales: Prospecting, Research, & Outreach Brandon Upchurch, Mebot AI
2:30 - 2:45
Break
2:45 - 4:15
Breakout: AI Risk & Governance: From Principles to Practice Janet Lee Johnson,AI Governance Group
2:45 - 4:15
Breakout: Strategic AI: How Leaders Can Foster Company-Wide Adoption Suzame Tong,Founder/CEO, Level 7
2:45 - 4:15
Breakout: No-Code App Building Workshop: Creating Apps with AI Coding Assistants Brandon Upchurch, Mebot AI
4:15 - 4:30
Break
4:30 - 5:00
Building Tour
Jeremy Leever and Taylor Dunn, of Pulver & Leever Real Estate Company, will provide a tour of the 1 W Main building.
Event space gnerously provided by:
