JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – The Magnolia State Technology Symposium took place Wednesday at the Mississippi Trade Mart.
The symposium featured speakers who highlighted topics such as cybersecurity to the future of technology
Dr. Kollin Napier, Director of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network, shared what took place at the event.
“Today, it is a great day of technology exploration,” Napier said. “We’re showcasing what is happening in the state from the front of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and even state government, and how we’re encapsulating all of this to push Mississippi forward.”
Napier also explained the importance of staying informed and educated on technological advancements.
“I like to tell people that AI is, of course, not going anywhere and we’re only going to see it growing smarter, faster, and more accessible,” said Napier. “So, now is the time to really educate people to understand what it is and how to use it ethically and responsibly.”
Chief Strategy Officer at the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services, Stephanie Hedgepeth, emphasized how she is working to educate students.
“We are kind of spring boarding from all this momentum to try and encourage this workforce pipeline into state government,” Hedgepeth said. “So, giving students the opportunity to get a better understanding of what is available and out there related to being a public servant in Mississippi and helping serve our citizens better with all the public services available.”
The event also featured various vendors showcasing their technology, as well as provided networking opportunities for those who attended.
Source: https://www.wlbt.com/2025/09/24/symposium-introduces-new-technological-opportunities-mississippi/