Last month, for the third consecutive year, our Conectado team, in collaboration with Hola Metaverso, Linker Finance, OSI Engineering, and the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC), had the privilege of hosting the Tech Breakout Sessions at L’ATTITUDE in San Diego, California.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the L’ATTITUDE team and founders Sol Trujillo and Gary Acosta for bringing together over 6,000 guests and entrusting us with this significant experience. L’ATTITUDE is the largest business event in the country focused on the New Mainstream Economy, helping executives and business leaders understand the U.S. Latino cohort driving its growth. Their national platform showcases the economic leadership of U.S. Latinos in business, media, politics, science, and technology.
The Tech Breakout Sessions aim to highlight the economic leadership of U.S. Latinos in technology, and this year they centered on AI’s tremendous impact. The sessions commenced with the highly anticipated fourth annual edition of the 2024 LDC U.S. Latinos in Tech Report: AI™, co-authored by Nonny de la Peña, Ph.D., of Arizona State University, and Guillermo Diaz Jr. of Conectado Inc., and sponsored by Wells Fargo.
The day began with a packed audience eager to absorb the latest data presented by Guillermo Diaz Jr. He emphasized how the Latino cohort is at the heart of this AI transformation and acceleration. Following the report presentation was a panel titled “Latinos in Tech: AI Edition,” featuring distinguished leaders and professionals:
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The panelists shared personal and professional insights on AI’s growth and impact. They highlighted AI’s opportunities and challenges and offered actionable strategies to foster inclusion and accessibility. The live-stream and in-person audiences were deeply engaged, participating by asking insightful questions. Immediately after the panel, meaningful connections and discussions unfolded, continuing throughout the rest of the conference. Attendees left motivated, and ready to continue the conversations and collaborate.
The second panel, “Building the AI Backbone: From Applications to Data Models and Infrastructure,” was equally well-attended, with standing room only. Guests were keen to learn from the insights of esteemed tech leaders:
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Learning from senior technology leaders provided the audience with invaluable perspectives on AI and its developments. While one can read articles or watch videos, listening to seasoned professionals share their firsthand experiences was unparalleled. The panelists focused on key applications, data models, and the infrastructure driving exponential AI growth. They also recounted parts of their personal and career journeys, including early efforts in machine learning and data science. Their expertise underscored that it is the collective work of many that has brought this technology to the broader community today.
The afternoon sessions kicked off with an energetic audience ready to explore the impact of AI in education. The next panel featured leaders passionate about providing opportunities that help professionals transition from the classroom to influential industry roles:
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Education is at the core of AI acceleration and transformation, affecting academia, students, and professionals. The panelists emphasized the importance of AI accessibility, professional development, and leadership to guide us into these new frontiers. We were fortunate to hear from leaders at universities pioneering innovation and social mobility, committed to their communities and students by integrating new AI learning opportunities into their curricula. We departed inspired to continue building, learning, and uplifting each other to grow and lead in AI.
We concluded the day powerfully with a session focused on the AI tools and skill sets needed in today’s evolving world. The panel titled “Industry Spotlight – The Impact of AI in the Future of the Workforce” featured:
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This panel was enlightening for many, especially when Gustavo Suarez showcased an AI voice model he’s been testing to assist with payroll and other financial tasks. AI is already reshaping the workforce, and the panel noted how professionals equipped with AI are superseding those who are not. They delved into the challenges and opportunities AI presents, providing insights into the future of work and how businesses can adapt to thrive in an AI-driven world. The session ended on an encouraging note, with panelists reminding us of the importance of self-development and embracing these new tools wisely.
We extend our sincere thanks to our panelists, audience, team, and especially to L’ATTITUDE for creating a space where leaders can inspire and guests can learn and connect. We invite you to connect with us and help us continue growing and amplifying our reach to ensure our communities are well-educated and equipped for the next generation of careers and opportunities.
