Dr. Kollin Napier Highlights the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network at the Creating Futures Through Technology Conference
The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) was proud to help close out the Creating Futures Through Technology Conference. There, Dr. Kollin Napier, Ph.D., Director of MAIN, delivered the closing keynote and led a featured session on the future of human-centered technology strategy in Mississippi.
Dr. Napier’s closing keynote, “Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN): Where We Are and Where We’re Going,” highlighted the progress MAIN is making as Mississippi’s statewide AI initiative. He also led the session, “MAIN and the Future of Human-Centered IT: Aligning AI, Education, and Workforce Strategy,”. In that session, he focused on how Mississippi can advance AI adoption in practical, coordinated, and people-centered ways.
Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network Momentum Across Mississippi
As the nation’s first statewide initiative of its kind, the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network supports responsible AI adoption across education, workforce development, government, and industry. At the conference, attendees heard how MAIN is building momentum across the state through:
- faculty and educator AI training pathways
- curriculum integration efforts
- workforce-aligned credentials and learning opportunities
- governance and responsible AI practices
- cross-sector collaboration that keeps students, educators, and communities at the center
Mississippi AI and a Human-Centered Vision
One of the central themes of the sessions was that AI is not only about technology. Instead, it is also about people, institutions, opportunity, and long-term strategy. MAIN continues to promote an approach to AI that is thoughtful and responsible. It is also aligned with real educational, workforce, and economic needs across Mississippi.
In addition, that human-centered focus remains essential. As a result, organizations across the state are exploring how AI can strengthen teaching and learning, support workforce readiness, improve operations, and expand innovation.
Thank You to Conference Organizers and Attendees
We are grateful to the conference organizers, vendors, and everyone who joined the sessions. The energy, engagement, and dialogue reflected a growing interest in building Mississippi’s AI future with intention and collaboration.
Looking ahead, the work continues. MAIN remains committed to helping Mississippi lead through practical AI education, responsible adoption, and strong statewide partnerships.
Learn more about MAIN: Visit the MAIN website