With the rapid rise and influence of technology in our lives and society in general, how do we balance its promise and peril, especially in our civic life? How can we navigate the complex ethical, regulatory and economic considerations to ensure that technology serves the greater good? With major technology companies in our region, what is their role and responsibility for AI development? How do local governments and elected officials implement programs and policies to protect residents and minimize negative impacts? What are some practical steps individuals can take to take advantage of AI and protect themselves in the process? How can we as a community prepare for an unpredictable future?

Join us as we discuss these and other critical questions about artificial intelligence with local experts

Segment 1 – AI and Government Response

  • Jim Loter, Chief Technology Officer, City of Seattle
  • Matt Boehnke, Senator, 8th Legislative District, WA State Legislature
  • Kelly Fukai, Vice President of Government and Community Affairs, WTIA

Segment 2 – AI and Corporate/Business Response

  • Nicole DeCario, Director, AI and Society, Allen Institute for AI
  • Mary Snapp, Vice President, Strategic AI Initiatives, Microsoft
  • Peter Hallinan, Sr. Manager of Applied Science, AWS Responsible AI team, Amazon

Moderator

  • Karen Weise, Technology Correspondent, New York Times

About Civic Cocktail

Civic Cocktail connects elected and community leaders with the public for lively conversations about important issues facing our region. Whether you’re new to the Pacific Northwest, a self-described “civic nerd,” or looking to meet people engaged in their communities, your evening at this beloved program is sure to be friendly, fun, and fascinating. Civic Cocktail’s welcoming and conversational tone is inspired by our Dialogue Across Differences initiative.

More Event Information

  • The event will be held in-person at The Collective the South Lake Union neighborhood.
  • The formal program begins at 6:30 pm. Doors open at The Collective at 5:30 pm for networking.
  • Appetizers will be provided, and a cash bar is available.
  • Parking: Street parking may be available, and a parking garage (for paid parking) is located under The Collective via the alley off Harrison.
  • Bus/transit routes nearby: 62 bus line, RapidRide C-line, Route 320, SLU Streetcar

Parking: The Collective is located less than a mile from I-5, on the corner of Harrison & Dexter. Street parking may be available and a parking garage (for paid parking) is located under The Collective via the alley off of Harrison.

Bus/transit routes nearby:

  • The 62 bus line stops directly in front of the building and covered bike parking is available
  • RapidRide C-line
  • Route 320
  • South Lake Union Trolley

About Seattle CityClub

Seattle CityClub is a 40-year-old nonpartisan, civics-focused nonprofit, providing a platform for insightful and educational conversations that include a diverse range of perspectives.