Future Ready: How AI Is Shaping Our World and Transforming the Workforce
IEEE Lone Star Section EMBS Chapter and the Life Members Affinity Group will host Drs. Laura A. Ward and Nicholas Ward for a book signing and presentation. Books will be available for purchase on-site.
Talk Title: "Future Ready: How AI Is Shaping Our World and Transforming the Workforce"
Abstract:
This talk explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, redefining workforce roles, and accelerating the pace of technological disruption. Moving beyond hype, it provides a structured, engineering-informed perspective on how AI systems operate, where they deliver real value, and where risks emerge, particularly in critical infrastructure and decision-making environments.
Biography:
Drs. Laura A. Ward and Nicholas Ward are professionals working at the intersection of technology, systems thinking, and applied innovation. Dr. Ward is an Electrical Engineer and Energy Systems Scientist with over 15 years of experience in power systems, grid modernization, and advanced technologies at the intersection of engineering and policy. She holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and currently serves as a Clean Energy Innovator Fellow with the U.S. Department of Energy, hosted at the District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment. Her work focuses on integrating emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, into critical infrastructure systems, with an emphasis on reliability, governance, and workforce transformation. Nicholas Ward complements this work through a multidisciplinary perspective on technology adoption, practical implementation, and workforce adaptation, contributing to the translation of complex technical concepts into accessible, real-world applications. Together, they bring a combined perspective that bridges technical depth with strategic insight on how AI is reshaping industries and the future of work.
Registration details:
Seating goes to those who register via this vtools event in the order received; plan ahead to REGISTER.
Registration Fees:
At the door, there is a $20.00 fee for Members, $30.00 for Guests and $5.00 for Students. We accept Cash or Check, no credit cards. Exact amounts preferable. Remainder of the tab will be picked up by the EMB.
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
-
Add Event to Calendar
- Alamo Cafe
- 14250 San Pedro Ave
- San Antonio , Texas
- United States 78232
- Starts 20 April 2026 05:00 AM UTC
- Ends 08 May 2026 05:00 AM UTC
- No Admission Charge
Speakers
Dr. Laura Ward of U.S. Department of Energy
Future Ready: How AI Is Shaping Our World and Transforming the Workforce
Biography:
Dr. Ward is an Electrical Engineer and Energy Systems Scientist with over 15 years of experience in power systems, grid modernization, and advanced technologies at the intersection of engineering and policy. She holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and currently serves as a Clean Energy Innovator Fellow with the U.S. Department of Energy, hosted at the District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment. Her work focuses on integrating emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, into critical infrastructure systems, with an emphasis on reliability, governance, and workforce transformation.
Dr. Nicholas Ward
Biography:
Dr. Nicholas Ward complements Dr. Laura Ward’s work through a multidisciplinary perspective on technology adoption, practical implementation, and workforce adaptation, contributing to the translation of complex technical concepts into accessible, real-world applications. Together, they bring a combined perspective that bridges technical depth with strategic insight on how AI is reshaping industries and the future of work.
Agenda
11:00 - Arrival
11:30 - Book signing
12:00 - Presentation
13:00 - Adjourn