Who are you when you use AI? (Human-centered AI)

Food and drink from 6-6:30. Come early!

Human-Centered AI presents a working session on the psychology of using AI: not the ethics of it, not the productivity of it, but what happens to you in the loop.

We'll work through four functions AI is quietly filling for many of us, each through a personal story and a question for you to sit with. We'll explore both sides of the coin: What does it enable? What does it leave out that we should care about for healthy human relationships?

AI as psychological safety: The relief of working with something that doesn't judge you, doesn't sigh, doesn't remember your last mistake.

AI as cognitive infrastructure: A tireless thinking partner for people who process out loud and find that most humans, however well-meaning, derail them with their own needs.

AI as creative collaborator: Co-creating with something good enough that you lose clarity about what's "yours."

AI as emotional surrogate: Navigating emotional strife, or receiving something you needed to hear, even when it didn't come from the person it should have.

Between stories, you'll inventory your own use through the same lens, in pairs and small groups. Expect honest reflection and one sharp question to take home.

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About the Human-Centered AI group:

Navigate AI's Impact — Without the Hype
For busy software and product leaders, staying ahead of AI means more than chasing tools. Our monthly AI Special Interest Group cuts through the noise to explore what actually matters: how AI is reshaping collaboration, product strategy, leadership, and organizational change.

This isn't a technical meetup. We skip the algorithms and implementation details to focus on the human systems that determine whether AI adoption succeeds or fails — collaborative learning, strategic thinking, ethical design, cross-functional alignment, and adaptive leadership.

What to expect: Each session features an expert speaker, small-group discussions, and practical takeaways you can use immediately.
Connect with experienced peers who share your challenges. Leave with new ways to think, not just tools to buy. Build the confidence to lead responsibly through uncertainty.

Our sponsors

Venue: Thrive Workspace, Centennial: A flexible 22,000 sq ft coworking space designed for modern professionals. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or small business, this event is a great opportunity to check out the space, meet fellow professionals, and explore a fresh alternative to working from home or a traditional office.

Food: Currently looking for a food sponsor.