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Tech in Alberta – A Seemingly Perfect Pairing.  

From May 24 to 27, the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute invited the world to immerse themselves in the deep science of AI & ML and explore Alberta’s rich history of AI innovation. AI-Week provided the structure to build knowledge, connect with industry leaders and get acquainted with leading AI researchers. The exciting week-long conference included events such as: 

• Keynotes 
• Panel discussions led by industry leaders 
• Academic symposium highlighting Alberta’s AI research excellence 

• AI talent mixer connecting job seekers with potential employers 
• Community events 
• Networking events and mixers 

As Edmontonians, this conference spoke to the pride that we hold for our city. As luck would have it, the conference fell on a beautifully sunny week, and we were amid winning the Battle of Alberta. AI-Week was spread through our downtown core and called for a great amount of walking, and sightseeing. The conference brought in a lot of visitors from all over Canada and internationally, many of whom commented on how beautiful and lively Edmonton is.  

AMII did a wonderful job of coordinating with industry leaders and the University of Alberta to make the week a success. As the University is ranked 3rd in the USA and Canada for AI research, there were many gifted academics in attendance and sharing their work.  

The positioning of Alberta also brings many companies to our province. After AI-Week, we are confident that many more will pop up! With a young population, access to academic research and gifted talent, and the vibrant start-up culture of Alberta, there is a striving tech industry growing all around us. As Alberta navigates the current and long-term economic impacts of the pandemic and changes in the energy market, artificial intelligence and machine learning play an important role as key strategic opportunities for long-term recovery from these crises and will accelerate the diversification of Alberta’s economy. 

By adopting and applying AI in their businesses, Alberta-based companies – from startups to small- and medium-sized businesses and multinational corporations – will gain a competitive advantage that can support their efforts to: 

• Rapidly innovate business models to adapt to new realities  
• Develop a technology-first mindset to respond to business challenges  
• Improve processes and work practices to improve financial performance 
• Strengthen resilience 

Current and near-term AI applications include productivity enhancements in energy, agriculture and life sciences; precision medicine; speech recognition; autonomous driving; robotics; financial trading; smart cities; user interfaces; home automation; and entertainment. It is difficult to imagine a significant economic activity where AI would not play a key role.

Acting as the region’s AI connector, Amii works alongside the University of Alberta, various post-secondary institutions, economic development agencies and tourism authorities to advance conversations on a global stage related to Alberta’s role in scientific thought leadership in the field. This year, Amii celebrated their anniversary of over two decades in the industry. With this came amazing celebrations.  

After spending your day being immersed in discussions and activations, there were networking and social events to interact with fellow attendees. We enjoyed happy hour drinks, a “house party” and Amiiversary Party.  

Held on Thursday evening, the Amiiversary Party stole the show. Hosted at Craft Beer Market, the whole venue was at our disposal to eat, drink and mingle. Many beers were served, signature dishes devoured, and their live DJ brought the energy. After a long week, everyone was ready to let loose – which meant a dance party! 

Attending this conference has become a team favorite. The week of deep dive learning, conversations with industry professionals and seeing Edmonton’s tech culture in action was truly inspiring. We look forward to attending again next year! 

To find out more about AI Week, click here!