The Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Mayo campus in Castlebar hosted the Digital West Conference 2024 on October 11, focusing on the theme “Supercharge Your Business with AI.” The event brought together business leaders, technology professionals, students, and alumni to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and driving business growth.
Dr. Orla Flynn, President of ATU, inaugurated the conference by highlighting the university’s expanding student body and its crucial role in addressing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the West of Ireland—a region comparable in size to Wales. She emphasized the importance of a strong educational institution in fostering regional development.
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, TD, followed with insights on innovation and technological advancement. He envisioned the West of Ireland as a leader in adopting new technological skills, with ATU playing a pivotal role in this transformation.
The conference featured a series of keynote speakers who provided expert insights into various aspects of AI:
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- Graham Baitson, AI and Technology Consultant, delivered a presentation titled “Machines of the Mind: How AI is Shaping Our World.” He traced the evolution of AI and emphasized the foundational role of data in AI functionality.
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- Brian Hanly, Co-founder and CEO of Brightbeam, presented “Gen AI: The Reality.” He showcased real-world case studies illustrating successful business applications of AI technology, underscoring the importance of accuracy and practical implementation.
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- Mike Conroy introduced the Data2Sustain Hub led by ATU. His presentation highlighted how the hub supports companies in leveraging data-driven sustainability practices. By integrating data analytics and AI, businesses can drive sustainable solutions—aligning with Data2Sustain’s mission to promote environmental responsibility through technology.
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- Muireann Fitzmaurice, founder of Marketing Coach, conducted a live demonstration titled “Using AI for Marketing.” She showcased AI tools capable of creating images, videos, presentations, and web pages in real-time, illustrating how businesses can optimize resources and focus on strategic initiatives.
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- Dr. Muslim Jameel Syed, Lecturer at ATU, discussed “Empowering SMEs with Responsible AI.” He emphasized the importance of ethical AI usage for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), highlighting considerations around data privacy and responsible implementation.
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- Yvonne Comer, MBA, presented “Supercharging Sport with AI.” She explored the application of AI in sports analytics, stressing the need for human expertise to interpret data effectively and advocating for athlete-centric approaches in AI-driven solutions.
A notable segment of the conference was the “LightBulb Talks,” where industry leaders shared concise presentations on how AI has revolutionized their businesses. These talks provided practical insights and encouraged attendees to consider innovative AI solutions within their organizations.
Anne Conlon, Assistant Lecturer at ATU and event organizer, expressed satisfaction with the conference’s success. “We are delighted to have hosted this event on a larger scale, providing enhanced opportunities for engagement between businesses and students,” she stated.
The conference was particularly significant for ATU students across various programs, including Digital Media and Marketing, Marketing and Sales, Entrepreneurship, and Business Information Systems. Dr. Meghann Drury-Grogan, Head of the Department of Enterprise and Technology, highlighted the event’s value: “This conference offers our students the chance to make new connections and gain insights into how AI and digital technologies are impacting the West of Ireland and beyond.”
Data2Sustain played a key role in the conference by introducing initiatives that promote sustainable business practices through data and AI. Mike Conroy’s presentation of the Data2Sustain Hub underscored our commitment to assisting companies in integrating sustainability into their strategies using advanced technologies. The positive reception of our initiatives reflects the growing importance of sustainability in the business sector.
