May 05, 2026
SIU hosting a free workshop exploring AI in education, the workforce
CARBONDALE, Ill. — The saying goes, if you snooze – you lose. Artificial intelligence is rapidly advancing and those who wait to effectively apply the technology to their career or studies could fall behind.
That’s why a group of artificial intelligence experts is holding the AI @ SIUC workshop on Thursday, May 14. This special event is free and explores how AI is shaping teaching, learning, research, productivity and real-world problem solving.
“This will be an engaging day dedicated to exploring the impact of artificial intelligence — beyond the hype,” said Henry Hexmoor, a professor in the School of Computing. “As AI continues to reshape the workforce and everyday life, SIU faculty and students are leading the way in understanding and applying these technologies in meaningful, practical ways.”
Learning about AI
The morning session will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and will highlight the foundations of generative AI, key concepts, the current landscape, diffusion models and notable architectures.
More information about Hexmoor and the three speakers who will join him:
- Henry Hexmoor is a professor in the School of Computing at SIU. He’s published widely in artificial intelligence and multiagent systems. Hexmoor’s long-term and sponsored research includes federal and state agencies and prime contractors. His current interests include cyber-physical systems, wireless networks, complex networks, multiagent systems, cognitive science, robotics, and digital forensics and blockchain.
- Holly Lewis is a professor of philosophy and director of the Center for Virtual Expression (CVeX) at SIU, where she leads interdisciplinary work on AI, virtual worlds, and embodiment. She teaches and mentors on the philosophy of technology, phenomenology, and social/political thought, and is the author of “The Politics of Everybody” (2nd ed., 2022).
- Abdur Rahman Bin Shahid is an assistant professor of computer science at SIU with current research interests in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and block chain. He serves as the director for the university’s Secure and Trustworthy Intelligent Systems Lab (SHIELD Lab), which focuses on advancing the security, privacy, and trustworthiness of AI-driven systems, leading a team of doctorate, graduate, and undergraduate students.
- Malarvizhi Hirudayaraj is an associate professor in Rochester Institute of Technology’s Saunders College of Business. She also serves as the director of AdvanceRIT, which supports the career advancement of female faculty members. Hirudayaraj is an alumna of SIU, where she earned her doctorate.
The workshop will have an hour break starting at noon, when light refreshments will be provided for participants. The afternoon session will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. This portion of the event will focus on frontier models, challenges, trends, and demonstrations from students and administration. Plus, the event will offer a panel discussion with a question-and-answer session.
“We invite the community to the Engineering Alumni Lounge for a front-row experience featuring speakers, demonstrations, and conversations about how to learn, work, and thrive alongside AI,” Hexmoor said. “Whether you're new to AI or already working in the field, this event offers valuable insights and a chance to connect with our academic community.”
Sign up now
Pre-registration is required, and those interested can sign up here. The workshop is taking place at the Engineering Alumni Lounge inside the Engineering Building located at 1230 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, Illinois.
For additional information call 618-453-7955 or email salukidawg@siu.edu.