#United States #Grand Forks #AI Summit #IEEE-USA

Advancing Technology at the IWRC AI & Autonomy Summit

On September 10, 2025, Grand Forks, North Dakota, will host an influential gathering focused on the cutting-edge fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems. The IEEE-USA's Innovation Workforce Research Conference (IWRC) is set to assemble a diverse range of industry professionals, governmental figures, and academic experts, all eager to explore the future of technology in these rapidly evolving sectors.

The Significance of the Event

As AI and autonomy evolve, industries worldwide are increasingly influenced by these advancements, making this summit particularly significant. North Dakota has emerged as a pivotal player in this transformation, boasting a robust environment for innovation that spans aerospace, agriculture, and defense sectors.

The conference aims to not only facilitate discussions among stakeholders but also to lay the groundwork for new collaborations and partnerships that can stimulate regional and national growth. Mark Askelson, Associate Vice President for Research at the University of North Dakota (UND), emphasizes the importance of such interactions by stating, "We are creating a space to foster collaboration and economic growth. By uniting government, industry, and academia, we are cultivating partnerships that will shape national policy and prepare the workforce for an AI-driven future."

What to Expect

The summit agenda is packed with insightful keynotes and engaging breakout sessions that target various aspects of AI and autonomy. Participants can expect to hear from leading figures in defense, industry, and academia, including presentations from representatives of the Department of Defense and Northrop Grumman Grand Sky. The summit will delve into topics such as:

• - Air, Ground, and Space Autonomy: Exploring the latest advancements and applications.
• - Counter-Autonomy Strategies: Addressing emerging challenges in autonomous systems.
• - Intersection of Technology and Manufacturing: Understanding how automation reshapes manufacturing processes.
• - Workforce Development and Policy: Discussing educational strategies and policies relevant to emerging tech.

Who Should Attend?

This summit is tailored for a wide range of attendees:

• - Industry Professionals: Executives, engineers, and legal advisors will find valuable insights into potential federal, state, and local partnerships.
• - Academia Members: Faculty and researchers can connect with grant program officials and explore business collaborations.
• - Government Policymakers: Officials at all levels are invited to engage with local entrepreneurs and technologists, fostering relationships that can lead to informed policymaking.

The Hub of Innovation

Grand Forks has become a unique hub for AI and autonomous systems, primarily due to the leadership of the University of North Dakota in aerospace research. Furthermore, the establishment of Grand Sky, the nation’s first UAS-focused business park, highlights the region's dedication to education, research, and technological innovation. These assets make North Dakota an ideal location for discussions about advancements in autonomy across various sectors.

Conclusion

The IWRC AI & Autonomy Summit will be a milestone event where the fusion of AI, agriculture, aerospace, and defense is expected to set the tone for future advancements. As Dr. Eric Lam from the AFRL Regional Network-Midwest asserts, the collaboration formed at this summit will be essential for developing the infrastructure and talent pipeline necessary to sustain leadership in AI and autonomy for years to come.

Don't miss the opportunity to be at the forefront of technological innovation. Registration is open now, and you can find more information by visiting iwrc.ieeeusa.org/iwrc-grand-forks. Let's shape the future of AI together!