Manchester AI User Group - The Northern One (June Meetup)

UK AI User Groups is expanding! Join us in Manchester for the first ever Manchester AI User Group event.

Hosted By: Manchester AI User Group
Sponsored by: ANS Group, Mazik Global, Illuminate AI, MS Talent
Date And Time: 3rd June 2025, 18:00-20:30
Venue: ANS Group, 1 Archway, Hulme, M15 5QJ

Event Overview:
Join us to explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it is changing work in the tech industry.

We aim to demystify AI and delve into its practical applications and deepen your understanding. Designed for tech professionals, leaders, and knowledge workers, this seminar will navigate the opportunities for transformation using AI.

UK AI User Groups Mission: AI has the potential to aide us in creating a more inclusive world where everyone can thrive. Our mission is to empower everybody to use AI.

Speakers and Abstracts:
Phil Kermeen
When is AI not AI (and is that not inevitable?)

• Artificial Intelligence has been around for a long time, so why the big fuss with its recent advancements?
• AI has been in alot of computer systems for years - Do we no longer deem that AI?
• How and why have we suddenly appeared to jump forward?
• I look at the factors involved and ask how much AI do we have now and what we might get in the future.

Day Boyles
Adoption Roadmap to Success

• I will share what I have learned from working with SMB, SME and Enterpriser clients on their AI rollouts so far - the ingredients that lead to success, where we have failed and breakdown what was the difference in those stories.
• Real world lessons, impact and journeys so far!

Kat Beedim
Top 5 Must-Do’s When Piloting Microsoft 365 Copilot

• Piloting Copilot isn’t just about switching it on—it’s about setting the stage for long-term impact. In this fast-paced 20-minute session, Kat Beedim will break down the five most important actions organisations should take when launching their Copilot pilots.
• From choosing the right users to shaping realistic success criteria, you’ll get practical guidance, proven tactics, and real-world examples to help you avoid common pitfalls and drive meaningful results from day one.

Robert Fawcett
From Hype to Help: Embedding AI into Real World Workplace benefit

• AI is often wrapped in mystery- but at its core, it’s a tool to amplify human potential. In this session, Rob cuts through the hype and shows how AI (specifically large language models and machine learning) can be directly embedded into the software environments employees use every day.
• He will explore how connecting AI to Data and Data to Software unlocks faster development, sharper decision-making, better learning, and greater engagement- without replacing the human element.
• The focus: how AI becomes a human advantage, not a human replacement.
• Expect straight-talking insights, real-world examples, and practical steps businesses can take to build AI-powered environments that make their people stronger, faster, and smarter

Dhammika Mendis -

Agenda:

| Welcome & One Minute Wonder |
| --------------------------- |
| Phil Kermeen |
| Dan Boyles |
| Pizza |
| Kat Beedim |
| Robert Fawcett |
| Dhammika Mendis |
| Pub |