Angelina College Psychology Club Hosts Panel on AI Prevalence
Discussions Include Focus on Employment Opportunities, Academics
AC Office of Communications
The topic of Artificial Intelligence and its prevalence in nearly every aspect of everyday life has prompted plenty of concerns and discussions.
This past week, an Angelina College student group hosted a discussion panel on how AI is affecting everything from student life to future employment opportunities.
Featuring guest panelists Dr. Michael Simon (AC president), Wesley Virdell (State Representative, District 53), Zane Adams (CEO, ZJ Industries), Michael McCracken (Angelina County GOP Chairman) and Dr. Andrea Barrett (AC Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs), the discussion included questions from the audience.
AC Psychology Club president Tommy Cole served as moderator.
Questions fielded included the expansion of data centers in Texas and their effects on nearby residents. Virdell mentioned the concerns for rising energy costs passed down to consumers, along with the need for more stringent regulation.
Simon addressed a question regarding the “human element” when it comes to the fears of artificial intelligence replacing human interaction, sharing a conversation with a local employer who assured him the human element will always be a necessary component, but that the use of AI will provide more efficiency in certain areas.
Simon also discussed the expanding roles of community colleges when it comes to preparing all students in using AI as a tool in both academics and careers.
McCracken focused on the responsibility vital to the application and use of such technology, stating there hasn’t been enough clarification over public concerns over water consumption and the increased demand for electricity. McCracken mentioned the need for agreements between data center developers and local governments to ensure compensation should resource consumption exceed original projections.
Adams, an AC alumnus, cited the possibilities for future construction workers, technicians and engineers needed for both designing and maintain the facilities. He added that while AI certainly assists in overall capabilities, the technology isn’t always correct, meaning humans will still play a vital role in overall implementation and supervision.
Angelina College Psychology instructor Benetha Jackson serves as sponsor of the Psychology Club. For further information, contact her at bjackson@angelina.edu.
Photo captions:
Group:
The Angelina College Psychology Club recently hosted a panel regarding the prevalence of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on society as a whole. Guest panelists pictured are (L-R) Wesley Virdell (State Representative, District 53), Michael McCracken (Angelina County GOP Chairman), Dr. Michael Simon (President, Angelina College), Zane Adams (CEO, ZJ Industries), Dr. Andrea Barrett (AC Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs) and moderator Tommy Cole (President, AC Psychology Club). (Gary Stallard photo for AC Office of Communications).
Tommy Cole:
Angelina College student and Psychology Club president Tommy Cole served as moderator for the recent panel discussion regarding the prevalence of Artificial Intelligence in both the academic and professional sectors. AC’s Psychology Club hosted the event featuring several guest panelists. (Gary Stallard photo for AC Office of Communications)
Full panel:
Angelina College student and Psychology Club president Tommy Cole served as moderator for the recent panel discussion regarding the prevalence of Artificial Intelligence in both the academic and professional sectors. AC’s Psychology Club hosted the event featuring several guest panelists. (Gary Stallard photo for AC Office of Communications)