Edmonton's downtown is home to the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii), a prominent research headquarters at the forefront of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. In collaboration with local schools, a new AI pilot program is set to launch this autumn, facilitated by the researchers at Amii. The program involves gathering feedback from teachers and students at 20 high schools, including Elk Island Public Schools, Edmonton Public Schools, and STEM Collegiate. Ethical use of AI is a key topic of discussion, emphasizing the need to equip students with the necessary skills for future career opportunities in this rapidly advancing field. According to Sean Bradley, a teacher at McNally High School, embracing AI in the classroom is crucial for preparing students for emerging technologies. Fenton Cooper, a Grade 11 student at McNally, shares similar sentiments, acknowledging AI's potential to enhance various industries. Cooper, who aspires to pursue a career in engineering, recognizes the unpredictable ways in which AI can reshape our lives. Amii's CEO, Cam Linke, plays a vital role in predicting the possibilities AI can unlock.

Established in 2002, Amii has successfully attracted top talent and trained the next generation of researchers, solidifying Edmonton's reputation as an AI "hotbed. " The institute's collaborations span across industries, partnering with various companies to drive innovation, provide guidance, and deliver training. The Amii Fellows program supports established AI researchers by offering research funding, with plans to expand the program to include 60 fellows and approximately 500 students in the coming years. As one of Canada's three national centers of AI excellence, alongside Mila in Montreal and the Vector Institute in Toronto, Amii is dedicated to furthering AI literacy. Their recent launch of an introductory course for undergraduate students at the University of Alberta, titled "Artificial Intelligence Everywhere, " aims to increase AI literacy and encourage critical thinking about its applications. Additionally, Amii plans to introduce Canada's first AI certification in January. To showcase their commitment to community involvement, Amii is organizing two upcoming events: the Student Developer Conference (DevCon) and TechAid. These events will enable participants to utilize their skills to assist organizations such as Stollery Children's Hospital and Boyle Street Community Services. For an in-depth look at Amii's downtown headquarters, tune into this week's edition of Our Edmonton, airing on CBC TV and CBC Gem on Saturday at 10 a. m. , Sunday at noon, and Monday at 11 a. m.