Future-Ready; From Classroom to Career: the impact of AI

Our keynote speaker Heidi Siwak, has over 25 years of experience in Ontario education—ranging from local HWDSB classrooms to the Ministry of Education. Heidi is a leading voice on how we can empower students to use AI ethically and effectively. She leads I-Think’s work in Artificial Intelligence and is the architect of I-Think’s Artificial Intelligence Challenge Kit for gr. 6-12 students. A former K-8 educator for the HWDSB with a M.Ed. In Education Leadership and Policy, her work includes several years at the Ontario Ministry of Education in the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Branch, supporting the integration of Transferable Skills into learning through the Technology and Learning Fund.

Why attend?

• Expert Insight: Heidi leads AI initiatives at I-Think (originating at the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto).
• Responsible AI: Learn about the intersection of tech and human rights from a recent attendee of the Mila Quebec Institute for AI.
• Practical Skills: Discover how the “AI Challenge Kit” is helping students in grades 6-12 develop the transferable skills they need for a changing world.

Learn how AI is impacting careers from a panel of leaders who discuss the practical reality of AI across different industries. These experts will share how AI is reshaping their fields and what “future-ready” skills your child needs to thrive.

Meet our Panelists:

• The Skilled Trades: Robert De Rubeis (HIEC, ApprenticeSearch.com) discusses how AI is impacting apprenticeships and the digital evolution of the trades.
• Healthcare Innovation: Ted Scott (Chief Innovation Officer, Hamilton Health Sciences) on the future of medicine and health tech.
• Digital Change and Community Impact: Shawn McKillop (Senior Vice President of Communications and Digital Transformation at YMCA Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford). Shawn leads integrated strategies that build trust, strengthen community engagement, and advance digital transformation across the organization.
• Community & Recreation: Heather Davidson (City of Hamilton) on how AI is shaping the way young people think and learn, and the impact on confidence and identity. 
• Finance: Alex Pogacean (Associate Portfolio Manager & Financial Planner at RBC Wealth Management) holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designations, and is a licensed life insurance advisor. Alex will share how AI is impacting the world of finance.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. – Everyone welcome!