PHOENIX — Business leaders are optimistic that Arizona will lead the way in the AI revolution. The Arizona AI Venture Network recently hosted a networking event that highlighted a variety of AI companies thriving in the Valley, covering everything from software to robotics. “Artificial Intelligence essentially comprises computers that can think and reason like humans, drawing on an extensive repository of knowledge, " stated Bill Swartz, founder of the AI Venture Network. One notable participant at the event was Revobots. “Historically, robots have been limited to controlled environments where they perform repetitive tasks, ” explained Kent Gilson. In contrast, Gilson’s robot learns from human instruction about the specific tasks to undertake. Demonstrating this at the event, the robot was shown how to pour water between two cups and was able to replicate the task effectively. Gilson views this technology not as a way to replace human workers, but rather as a means to assist businesses in filling labor shortages. “These robots are capable of stepping in where there are currently millions of unfilled jobs, ” Gilson remarked. “We simply cannot find enough people to do those roles. ” The applications for AI extend well beyond robotics. Oxygen4Life, based in Scottsdale, utilizes AI to identify chronic diseases. By scanning the body and comparing the results to a comprehensive database, the technology aids in early health issue detection. "It represents the world’s most advanced infrared imaging technology for detecting inflammatory and chronic diseases, " said Mike Maunu.

"I am confident it will save lives. " Karl Ernsberger, the founder of SkipCourse, aims to leverage AI in education. "A school can only provide a limited number of courses and employ a finite number of teachers, " Ernsberger noted. His AI model allows students to input their assignments, subsequently helping them devise their own personalized learning plans. “The feedback they receive directs them to their next assignment, ” Ernsberger added. “It suggests what to do next, offers potential field trip opportunities, and connects them with mentors in their areas of interest. ” The World Economic Forum anticipates that AI will lead to a 21% increase in the U. S. GDP by the end of the decade. Swartz envisions events like this one as a way to position Arizona to benefit from that economic growth. “My goal is to form a consortium throughout the state, uniting efforts in AI and robotics, which will establish Arizona as a world-class hub, ” he said.