ATU Mayo hosts event on AI integration for businesses in the West

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has hosted a business-focused event titled ‘Super Charge Your Business with AI’.

The event was aimed at exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) for businesses in the West of Ireland. 

Held at the university’s Castlebar campus, the event was organised by ATU in collaboration with Castlebar Chamber, the Local Enterprise Office Mayo (LEO), iHub, and Data2Sustain.

Minister Dara Calleary, delivering the keynote address, said there was ‘an urgency’ for businesses to engage with AI technology. 

He noted that the proliferation of AI is reshaping various industries and stressed that organisations must prepare for its impact as ‘the AI train has already left the station’.

Minister Calleary urged business leaders to assess whether they are adequately positioned to incorporate AI into their operations.

The event, which took place earlier this month, opened by Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, featured several presentations from industry experts, illustrating how AI is being applied in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and sports. Presenters focused on the accessibility of AI tools for businesses of all sizes, outlining how AI-driven technologies can streamline processes, improve decision-making, and enhance efficiency.

Networking sessions provided attendees with opportunities to discuss potential AI solutions tailored to their specific needs, promoting further engagement between businesses and technology providers.

President of Castlebar Chamber, Anne Conlon, said: “AI is no longer just a buzzword; it's a practical tool that can transform how businesses operate, from improving customer service to streamlining production processes. Our role is to help local businesses understand and implement these technologies, ensuring that the West of Ireland remains at the forefront of this digital revolution."

The event concluded with Dr Meghann Drury-Grogan, MC for the event, recapping on the takeaways, describing AI as ‘an industry disruptor that still requires the human element’. 

“AI cannot replace humans. Rather, AI handles the mundane processing tasks which helps increase our productivity and opens up other opportunities for us to be creative and innovative. We need to be drivers of that train that Minister Calleary referenced at the start of the day,” he concluded.