Welcome to the AI Copilot Podcast, analyzing the latest AI Copilot and agent developments from Microsoft and its partners, delving into customer use cases, and exploring how AI plus the Cloud helps customers reimagine their business. In this episode, Tom Smith speaks with Avanade Americas President Gord Mawhinney about the company’s collaboration with Cal Poly Pomona to launch the Avanade AI & Innovation Center. Avanade is a joint venture between Microsoft and Accenture.

Highlights

Investment, Collaboration with Cal Poly Pomona (00:57)

Avanade has invested about $2 million in various programs, including the Mitchell Center focused on cybersecurity. The partnership includes internship programs and senior technical leaders engaging with faculties. The AI Innovation Hub aims to employ up to 200 Cal Poly grads full-time, focusing on AI and rapid technological changes.

Real-World Experience for Students (04:20)

Mawhinney emphasizes the importance of providing real-life experience to students. The partnership with Cal Poly Pomona is focused on career success and preparing students for the future workforce. The student population at Cal Poly Pomona is diverse and highly talented, with many graduates working in top technical companies.

Talent Pipeline and Skill Development (06:21)

Avanade has already hired 33 or 34 students from Cal Poly Pomona. The AI Innovation Hub will employ a mix of AI skills, engineering skills, and liberal arts skills. Some interns may work elsewhere, but the goal is to build a team of 200, with many coming from Cal Poly Pomona.

Critical Skills for AI Workforce (10:07)

Mawhinney highlights the importance of critical thinking, business skills, and understanding business processes for the AI era. The scientific method and teamwork are crucial for AI development. The AI team at the Innovation Hub will include a mix of technical and non-technical skills to create a holistic approach.

Commercial Implications and Product Development (15:40)

Mawhinney explains that the hub will focus on creating pods of cross-disciplinary teams to do productive work for customers. The goal is to industrialize AI technology to drive down costs and make it more accessible. Avanade is working on creating a library of AI capabilities to make projects more efficient and cost-effective

Microsoft Focus and Responsible AI (19:28)

The hub will primarily use Microsoft technology, but will also work with other platforms when necessary. Accenture, as a parent company, can provide additional capabilities. Responsible AI is a key part of the training program, focusing on ethical frameworks and digital ethics.

The partnership aims to address tough questions around digital ethics and responsible AI. Universities and colleges are ideal places for open dialogue and debate on these issues. The partnership allows for a unique approach to addressing ethical and technological challenges.

Impact on Students and Community

He highlights the impact of the partnership on students from modest means. Many students at Cal Poly Pomona are the first in their families to pursue undergraduate degrees. The partnership provides opportunities for students to gain real-world experience and prepare for the workforce. Avanade values the diverse and talented student population at Cal Poly Pomona.

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