Knowledge Café: Sip, Share, and Ask — AI in our Working Lives

This half-day event invites members of the public to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping everyday working lives. Hosted in a welcoming café setting, the event blends storytelling, expert insights, and small-group discussions to foster inclusive, respectful dialogue.

Event Schedule:

10:00–10:30 AM: Arrival, networking, and refreshments.

10:30–10:50 AM: Community Story Wall – Part 1.

10:50–11:10 AM: Expert briefing and live demo of everyday AI tools.

11:10–12:20 PM: Speed Café Discussions – rotating table conversations on AI and work.

12:20–12:50 PM: Group Reflection Circle – shared insights and takeaways.

12:50–1:30 PM: Closing networking and Community Story Wall – Part 2 and Lunch.

This event explores how artificial intelligence is shaping people’s everyday working lives, particularly in communities that are often left out of tech conversations. Through a relaxed, café-style format, participants will engage in small-group discussions, hear from an AI ethics expert, and reflect on their own experiences with digital technologies. The event will address questions such as: How is AI influencing job opportunities and decision-making? What does fairness look like in automated systems? And how can we build trust in technologies that affect our lives? Attendees can expect a welcoming, jargon-free space to ask questions, share stories, and gain practical insights into the role of AI in work and society.

The event will be led by Dr Laura Di Chiacchio, Lecturer in Information Systems and Cybersecurity at Aston University, supported by colleagues from the Cyber Security Innovation (CSI) Research Centre and data analytics department.

This event is open to adult members of the public and welcomes anyone interested in learning more about how artificial intelligence is shaping our working lives. It is especially designed to be accessible to individuals who may feel excluded from traditional tech or academic spaces, including older adults, people from ethnically diverse backgrounds, and those with limited digital experience. No prior knowledge of AI is required,  just curiosity and a willingness to share and learn in a friendly, informal setting.

The event is open to all and designed to be especially welcoming to those who may feel excluded from tech conversations. Whether you're curious about AI, concerned about its impact on work, or simply want to share your experiences, this is a space to connect, learn, and be heard.

01/11/2025