How AI is reshaping Wisconsin’s workforce and what employers, educators and policymakers need to do next
What will Wisconsin’s AI economy look like in five to 10 years, and what steps must be taken today to ensure the state has the talent, innovation capacity and partnerships needed to compete and prosper?
Join UW-Milwaukee’s School of Continuing Education for an important discussion about the future of Wisconsin’s workforce, innovation ecosystem and economic growth.
Drawing on new research and insights from faculty, leaders in business, workforce development, economic development and public policy, we’ll explore how AI is changing the state’s economy, what skills employers need most and how communities across Wisconsin can position themselves for future success.
This free event is sponsored by the Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership. Join us in downtown Milwaukee to connect with local professionals and take part in this timely conversation.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Time: 11:30 am – 2 pm
11:30 am – Lunch and Networking
Noon–2 pm Program
Cost: Free
Location: UWM School of Continuing Education – Downtown Milwaukee – 161 W. Wisconsin Ave., Suite 6000 | 7th Floor Conference Center
Virtual Option: Livestream available via YouTube. Registration required to receive the link.
Parking: In-person attendees can park for free in The Avenue Garage, which is entered from Plankinton Avenue between Wisconsin Avenue and Michigan Street. Bring your ticket with you for validation and garage re-entry.
Why Attend?
- Access Research-Based Insights: Learn how AI is impacting Wisconsin’s workforce, industries and regional economies through new state-focused research.
- Understand Workforce Trends: Explore which occupations and sectors are experiencing the greatest transformation and what skills employers increasingly need.
- Hear from Cross-Sector Leaders: Gain perspectives from business executives, workforce experts, economic development leaders and policymakers shaping Wisconsin’s future.
- Prepare for What’s Next: Discover strategies to strengthen talent pipelines, support innovation and position your organization or community for long-term competitiveness.
- Build Valuable Connections: Network with leaders from industry, higher education, workforce development and government.
Meet Our Keynote Speaker
Dr. Rina Ghose, Professor, Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Dr. Rina Ghose is leading groundbreaking research examining the state of artificial intelligence adoption and workforce readiness across Wisconsin. As the recipient of a Microsoft-supported initiative focused on understanding AI’s impact on the state’s workforce, Dr. Ghose brings a unique, data-driven perspective on where AI-related jobs and innovation are emerging, which industries are experiencing the greatest transformation and how prepared Wisconsin’s regions are to adapt.
During her keynote presentation, Dr. Ghose will explore:
- Where AI talent demand and innovation activity are concentrated across Wisconsin
- Which industries and occupations are experiencing the greatest workforce impact
- Differences in readiness among urban, suburban and rural communities
- The skills employers increasingly need in an AI-enabled workplace
- Opportunities for Wisconsin to strengthen innovation and economic competitiveness
- What leaders can do today to prepare workers, businesses and communities for the future
Panel Discussion – Preparing Wisconsin for an AI Economy: What Must We Do Next?
Following the keynote presentation, a panel of leaders from business, workforce development, economic development and public policy will discuss how Wisconsin can build an AI-ready workforce and strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving economy.
Panelists will explore:
- How AI is changing jobs and skill requirements today
- Workforce upskilling and reskilling strategies
- Talent attraction and development challenges
- Regional economic competitiveness and innovation ecosystems
- The role of education and workforce policy
- Opportunities and risks facing Wisconsin employers and communities
Meet Our Panelists
Kathleen Cady Schilling, Executive Director for Ozaukee Economic Development
Matt Adamczyk, Director for Microsoft
Dr. Idella Kangas, Interim Associate Vice President, Universities of Wisconsin Office of Business & Entrepreneurship
Employer Perspective
Tim Dickson, Senior Vice President, Chief Digital & Information Officer, Regal Rexnord
With senior leadership experience at leading manufacturing and technology companies, including Generac Power Systems, Astreya, Motorola Solutions and Dell, Tim brings a valued perspective on how AI is reshaping workforce strategy, talent development and business competitiveness.
Who Should Attend?
Anyone interested in understanding how artificial intelligence is reshaping Wisconsin’s workforce, economy and future competitiveness will benefit from attending.
- Business leaders and executives
- Human resources and talent professionals
- Technology and innovation leaders
- Workforce development practitioners
- Higher education administrators and faculty
- Economic development professionals
- Entrepreneurs and startup leaders
- Policymakers and public sector leaders
- Community leaders
- Students interested in workforce, technology and economic development issues
Can’t Make This Event?
Already have plans? Register to attend virtually, and we’ll send you a link to the recording.