RECAP: CSI Nite 2024 "AI threat or opportunity?"

Last Wednesday, March 27th, 2024, the CSI Los Angeles committee hosted an energizing event. This gathering brought together a remarkable lineup of architectural and law firm leaders. These experts are pioneering their practices' development, research, and implementation of artificial intelligence technologies.

The event explored AI's role in accelerating progress within the AECO industry, mainly focusing on the future of work—whether a threat or an opportunity—and its impact on contractual agreements. Thank you, Valarie Harris , for inviting me to this wonderful event.

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As a Design Technology Manager HNTB , I'm intrigued by how Artificial Intelligence can offer opportunities to enhance our work efficiency without compromising liability. I'm interested in discovering the intersection of technology and the legal portion of our practice and how it integrates with our contractual documents, especially our specifications.

The venue?

The event was hosted in the conference rooms of the 3rd floor of the modern and beautiful Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown

The presentation

The first part of the event was a Panel Discussion?and the speakers were

Wendy W Fok 霍渭瑜 (she/them),?Associate Professor of Architecture 美国南加州大学 School of Architecture School

Kevin Sherrod, Designer at Gensler建筑设计事务所 ?

Brian Stewart, Managing Principal at Collins + Collins LLP

Erin Dunkerly,?Partner at Collins + Collins LLP

Henry de Jesus, NBBJ Design , moderated the panel discussion ?

A few highlights from the panel discussion

Kevin Sherrod Presented tangible examples of AI's real-world impact, highlighting how it enhances accuracy, streamlines processes, and fosters innovation in architectural design.

Erin Dunkerly Cautioned against AI bias, advising careful consideration in its application, such as avoiding its use in filtering hiring pools. Explored the ethical dimensions of AI development and stressed the importance of human oversight for responsible integration.

Brian Stewart Provided valuable insights into the U.S. Copyright Office's extensive review of its laws and introduced the concept of "fair use of AI."?

He emphasized that copyright protection extends only to material originating from human creativity.?

It raised an intriguing question regarding the disclosure of ChatGPT usage in legal practice.

All applicants must disclose AI-generated content and highlight human author contributions.

Wendy:

She offered insights into future trends, a glimpse into AI's evolving landscape and potential collaborations, and the trade-offs of automation.

Prizes and Awards:

Highlighted CSI committee's recognition of members and provision of raffles, promoting industry camaraderie and engagement among attendees.

The Trade Show

It featured diverse vendors showcasing products and technologies in the building construction industry, fostering learning and connection opportunities with industry leaders.

Larry Loo CSI , Dunn Edwards Corporation booth

FHC Glazing booth

The conversations?

The conversations after the event were the best part. For fun, I am sharing a few pictures (primarily selfies) throughout the event as we connected and through lively conversations during and after the event. Fostering connections of linked-minded professionals.

Paul Veloz, AC Martin

Tom Williams, Gensler

Stanley Kiernicki AIA CCCA CDT LEED BD-C, Perkins&Will

Patrick Comerford , FHC Frameless Hardware Company LLC · Contract

Ben McAlister , Gensler | President of CSI Los Angeles

Ethan Johnson, CSI Taylor Metals | CSI West Region

Paras Nanavati , PNC Studios David Pebley , Specialty Building Components

James Fitzsimmons , Arcadia

Enjoy!