Posted on October 2, 2024 by UTSA School of Data Science
Second annual Los Datos Conference coming to San Pedro I
The UTSA School of Data Science (SDS) is hosting the second annual Los Datos Conference on Friday, October 4 at San Pedro I. This free conference brings experts from across the nation together to discuss advancements in data science in a variety of fields, including academia, government and the private sector. This wealth and diversity of experience is an intrinsic aspect of the conference, says Jeffrey Howard, Ph.D., Los Datos co-organizer, SDS Faculty Council member, and associate professor of public health with the College for Health, Community and Policy.
“The goal of Los Datos is to bring together leaders in data science and AI within academia, industry, and government to share insights on how these advancements are impacting each of these areas and make connections across disciplinary boundaries,” Howard said.
The theme of this year’s conference is "Future-Proofing with Data Science and AI: Balancing Innovation, Security, and Fairness.” While this marks a slightly different focus than that of the first conference, which centered on both security and equity, it does not abandon the concept of justice entirely. Indeed, Howard notes that “future-proofing” is all about looking ahead and identifying risks and opportunities, both in terms of security and social well-being.
“To future-proof we need to get out in front of technological developments and think about how to build appropriate safeguards for humanity while also allowing innovation to benefit everyone,” he said. “This really gets at one of the central issues facing data science and AI, which is how do we manage the risks and opportunities in a way that minimizes shocks and stresses to existing social and economic systems.”
Presenters at the conference will include a mix of SDS faculty and other data science experts, including keynote speakers Trey Tinnell – leader of artificial intelligence and generative AU at IBM – and Ronald Rodriguez, professor of integrated biomedical sciences with UT Health San Antonio. It will also feature a poster session, providing SDS students an opportunity to showcase their research to a broader audience of subject matter experts.
Despite the caliber of presenters at this year’s conference, attendance to Los Datos is not limited to researchers, professionals, or even students, but is open to anyone who is interested – and it’s free to attend, Howard reminds people.
“We want Los Datos to be accessible to all levels, from students to faculty to business professionals and members of the community,” he said. “All you have to do to attend is register on our website.”
For more information on Los Datos Conference 2024 and to register for the event, visit https://sds.utsa.edu/los_datos/.
— UTSA School of Data Science
