BIG RAPIDS, Mich — Ferris State University launched its inaugural AI day, bringing Michigan high schoolers to the Big Rapids university to get hands-on experience with artificial intelligence.

“We are exploring the bridge to comfort and security with the concept of artificial intelligence.” said Amy Dorey, Ferris State University’s Hospitality Management Program Director.

“Ferris is proud to be a part of leading practice, where we have an opportunity to share what we’re discovering, not only with our students, but with high school students that can be interested in this career with our local community, and with our colleagues and our faculty as well as industry,” she said. 

Throughout the newly-constructed Center for Virtual Learning, described as a “mecca of energy” by Dorey, high-school students were introduced to a multitude of technologies by FSU students. From video games, to robotics, to even planning out their own AI programs, there were no shortages of opportunities for high-schoolers.

“The collaboration today has everything from pharmacy to hospitality to data analysis, design and marketing, and then all of the traditional AI, cybersecurity, etcetera. So, when we look at that, it’s because AI touches every industry.” said Dorey, who herself has seen its usage in her own field of teachings.

“There is AI in restaurants, hotels and definitely in events. And when we use it correctly, it can make our jobs easier,” she said. 

One FSU student, Kyle Bowen, had the easiest job of all on the day. Currently on an exchange program in the Netherlands, Bowen was able to remotely control a rolling device displaying his face and voice through a tablet attached to the top. He spent the day “walking” the newly developed center, interacting with students and faculty alike. 

“It’s incredible. It’s really nice to be able to see the new building at walk around,” he said as he situated his robotic double.

“I really think that’s going to be a huge part of the field going forward,” Kyle said about AI.

“So, having a program dedicated to learning the ins and outs of machine learning, is really useful for figuring out where we can go and what works, what doesn’t work,” he said.

Artificial intelligence is still an emerging technology, yet to be fully regulated in the multitude of spaces it operates within. Concerns about ethical usage of artificial intelligence have been raised throughout the country, but instilling a code of ethical usage and development was paramount for Dr. Kasey Lynn Thompson.

“One thing that was very important at the launch of the program is that we focus on ethics, and everything that we do from an ethical perspective,” said Thompson, whom is the special assistant to the president for innovation and entrepreneurship at Ferris State University.

“There’s a lot of fear and a lot of concern around AI. And what better way to present artificial intelligence, but from the students who actually live in and breathe it every day,” said Thompson.

“These are the next generation of leaders who will be taking the helm, in artificial intelligence in various fields to ensure that from an ethical perspective, that we’re pushing this entire area in the direction that it needs to be,” she said. 

While the future of AI is still uncertain, it remains full of promise and excitement for people across all industries. 

“It’s always hard to predict the future [but] it’s already changing the way we’re interacting with the world,” said Kyle as he rolled away to say hi to another batch of high-school students.

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