Today, Dr. Kollin Napier, Director of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network, had the privilege of joining the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce for February’s membership luncheon and connecting with business and community leaders focused on the future of the region.
Dr. Napier provided an overview of where AI has been, where it is today, and where it is going and highlighted the rapid rise in small business adoption. AI is no longer theoretical. It is becoming part of everyday business practice.
The discussion also focused on workforce impact. As AI tools scale, AI literacy is quickly becoming foundational. Communities that invest early in understanding and responsible use will be more competitive long term.
Through the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network – MAIN, Mississippi is leading with a coordinated, statewide approach to AI education, offering no cost, self paced courses aligned to real workforce needs.
Thank you to everyone who attended and engaged in thoughtful discussion about how AI can support business growth and community development. A special thank you to Lindsay Brown, Executive Director of the Chamber and a former classmate of Dr. Napier, for the invitation and leadership, and to Holland’s Tax Service for sponsoring the event. This is how Mississippi prepares to lead in the age of AI.