Innovative, AI-fueled conference returns to Lindner

Steven Jones is an assistant professor in Lindner's Department of OBAIS.

Among the presenters this year are Steven Jones, a Lindner assistant professor-educator of operations, business analytics and information systems (OBAIS). Jones, who is also the director of Lindner's undergraduate operations management program, will focus his session on leveraging generative AI to enhance project efficiency.

"The PMI Southwest Ohio 2025 Summit presents a unique opportunity for students to step directly into the future of business and technology," said Jones. "They'll hear from leading voices in AI, project management and business strategy, network with professionals and gain insights that bridge classroom learning to the dynamic demands of industry."

"The Future is Here: Project Leaders Shaping Tomorrow with AI"

Michael Lively and Michelle Morrison

Step into the future at the opening keynote: "AI, The Great Disruptor." Explore the brief but powerful history of AI and uncover what's next - from near-term breakthroughs to the possibilities of superintelligence and emergence. Will the AI era shape a dystopian reality, or unlock a new utopian age? More importantly, what does this mean for you as a project leader? Discover the skills that will matter most, the jobs of tomorrow and how to position yourself at the forefront of unprecedented change. This is not just about managing projects - it's about shaping the future.

• "Beyond Agile: Building Human-Al Teams for Continuous Delivery and Innovation," presented by Chanda Monroe-Williams, UC's Digital Technology Solutions Department
• "AI Literacy for Project Stakeholders: Enhancing Acumen," presented by Dave Davis, Cincinnati Children's
• "The Human Advantage: Strategy, Tactics and Leadership in AI-Powered Project Management," presented by Andy Burns, Siemens Digital Industries Software
• "From Noise to Notes: Using Microsoft Copilot plus Power Apps to Rock Your Product Requirements," presented by Kris Jones, UC Lindner College of Business

• "Privacy and Security Risks of Generative AI in Project Management," presented by Dave Hatter, Intrust IT, Cincinnati
• "Avoiding Automation Overload: Where AI Belongs - and Where It Doesn't," presented by Sam Drauschak, Cavi Consulting, Virginia
• "The Augmented Office: Integrating AI Wearables into Your Business Workflow," presented by Haidar Bin Hamid, Great American Insurance Group
• "Project Managing Through the Cyberstorm," presented by Elizabeth LaForce and Lisa Shivers, Kettering Health

• "Wired for Change: Engage the Mind for AI Journey," presented by Dan Eslinger, BWI Group
• "Strategic Connection: Turning Conversations into Career Capital," presented by Darshika Patel of Data Tamers and Michelle Morrison of Culture Timing
• "Leveraging Generative AI for Enhanced Project Efficiency," presented by Steven Jones, Lindner College of Business
• "How to Ethically Manage AI," presented by Eric Frayer, enterprise data and analytics leader

"Thriving in an AI-Augmented Project World"

Ashima Sharma, founder of Ayuka Consulting

As artificial intelligence becomes embedded in everyday business operations, the roles of project managers and business analysts are evolving rapidly. This keynote explores how AI is transforming project environments - from planning and analysis to stakeholder communication and decision-making. Rather than replacing project managers and business analytics, AI is augmenting their capabilities, enabling smarter workflows and more strategic impact. The session introduces the Cognitive Project Management for AI methodology as a structured framework to successfully manage AI-enabled projects. Attendees will gain clarity on how to future-proof their skills, adopt a growth mindset and lead confidently in AI-integrated settings.

At the Carl H. Lindner College of Business, we live our mission of empowering business problem solvers by pushing our students to lean into challenges that foster opportunities to learn, innovate and adapt.