Attendee Q & A
Expo Attendee Q&A
Q1: What is the main focus of The Palm Springs AI & Creativity Expo 2025?
A: The Expo is a “One-Day Community Expo Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Our Lives.” Our goal is to demystify AI in a clear and accessible way, discuss its real-world applications (both exciting and challenging!), explore ethical considerations, and empower everyone in our community – residents, businesses, students, and creatives – with useful knowledge.
Q2: Who are the keynote speakers, and what will their talks be about?
A: We’re thrilled to feature:
• Mr. Baratunde Thurston, the Emmy-nominated host of “Life with Machines.” His keynote, “Prompting Our Future: AI, Humanity & A Dash of Palm Springs,” will offer an engaging overview of current AI trends and their broader societal implications.
• Mr. Rob Minkoff, the award-winning director of Disney’s The Lion King. His presentation, “AI and the Creative Spark,” will delve into the dynamic ways AI is impacting filmmaking, visual arts, and music.
Q3: I’m not very tech-savvy. Will this event be too technical for me?
A: Not at all! The Expo is designed as a “Community Learning Experience” for everyone, regardless of your current tech comfort. We’re focusing on clear explanations and practical takeaways, avoiding overwhelming jargon. There will be introductory content, and our “Ask the Experts” stations are perfect for getting your specific questions answered in a friendly setting.
Q4: What kind of topics will the breakout sessions cover?
A: We’ll have concurrent tracks to suit different interests:
• Resident Track: Sessions like “AI: Your Personal Superpower (and How to Control It)” will cover AI for daily life, health and wellness, understanding online safety, and ethical use.
• Business Track: Sessions like “AI in Business: A Practical Overview” will showcase practical AI strategies, real-world case studies, and tools to help local businesses improve efficiency and marketing.
Q5: What are the “Ask the Experts” stations in The Pavilion?
A: This is a fantastic opportunity for personalized learning! Throughout the day (during morning networking, and the afternoon reception), specialists in AI, tech, business, and creative arts will be available in the Expo Pavilion. You can join informal, small group discussions to get your specific questions answered and dive deeper into topics that interest you. A colored guide system will help you easily find experts in different areas. During lunch sponsor exhibitors and “Ask the Experts” will join you for lunch to continue answer questions and sharing their knowledge.
Q6: What is the GenJam@COD for Students and Creative Artists?
A: The GenJam@COD, hosted by Machine Cinema at the College of the Desert (Palm Springs Campus), is a dynamic, hands-on AI creative workshop for student and creative attendees. Participants will explore using AI tools to generate their own short films, music, and art. Plus, select creations from the GenJam will be showcased at the Expo’s closing networking reception for everyone to see! (This session is included with the free student ticket; commute to COD campus required).
Q7: What are the event hours, and what does my $50 General Admission ticket include?
A: The Expo runs from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Your $50 ticket is packed with value:
• Morning coffee & pastries during networking in the Pavilion.
• Access to all inspiring Keynote Presentations.
• Entry to all Breakout Learning Sessions on both tracks.
• Lunch
• Access to the Interactive Pavilion, including “Ask the Experts” stations and exhibitor booths.
• The Closing Panel discussion with Baratunde Thurston and local leaders.
• The Afternoon Networking Reception with refreshments and the GenJam Showcase.
Q8: Is there a student discount?
A: Yes! In fact, it’s more than a discount. Thanks to our generous sponsors, College of the Desert and Palm Springs Unified School District, students can attend FREE with a valid student ID. This includes morning networking, “Ask the Experts,” keynotes, the GenJam@COD (with lunch provided there), and the closing reception/showcase.
Q9: Will there be opportunities to network with speakers and other attendees?
A: Absolutely! Networking is a key part of the Expo. Dedicated times include the morning coffee and pastries (8:30-9:20 AM) and the afternoon reception (3:30-5:00 PM). The Pavilion area and “Ask the Experts” sessions are also great for making connections throughout the day.
Q10: Where can I find more information about the schedule and speakers?
A: Please visit the PS AI Expo website at www.pschamber.org/AIExpo to learn more about the program, sponsorships and to register. Check back often as more information will be added as the experience develops offering the latest updates on the detailed agenda, speaker bios, and to secure
your spot!