Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force, revolutionizing industries and shaping the future of technology. As the field continues to evolve, thought leaders and visionaries have emerged, sharing their insights and expertise through captivating speeches and presentations. This article highlights the top AI speakers who inspire minds and ethically drive the conversation around AI forward.

1. Andrew Ng

Profile: Co-founder of Coursera, Adjunct Professor at Stanford University, and former Chief Scientist at Baidu.

Why Follow: Andrew Ng is one of the most influential voices in AI and machine learning. He has a knack for breaking down complex topics into understandable concepts, making AI accessible to a broader audience. His work on online education and AI democratization has been pivotal in spreading AI knowledge globally.

Key Topics: Deep learning, AI in education, AI ethics, and the future of work.

2. Professor Scott Christiansen

Profile: Associate Teaching Professor at the University of Missouri, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Trulaske College of Business, Founder of Kaleidoscope Consulting

Why Follow: Professor J. Scott Christianson is a dynamic educator and technologist known for his innovative approach to teaching and extensive expertise in emerging technologies. With decades of experience in project management, information security, and video conferencing, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge to his audiences. His dedication to interactive and immersive learning experiences makes him a standout speaker who informs and engages listeners.

Key Topics: How to think about AI, AI ethics, deep fakes, AI in education, and smart cities

3. Fei-Fei Li

Profile: Co-Director of Stanford University’s Human-Centered AI Institute, former Chief Scientist of AI/ML at Google Cloud.

Why Follow: Fei-Fei Li is renowned for her pioneering work in computer vision and cognitive neuroscience. Her contributions to the development of ImageNet have been fundamental in advancing deep learning and AI research. Li’s engaging talks explore the potential of AI to benefit society while emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the field.

Key Topics: Computer vision, AI for social good, human-centered AI, and ethics in AI.

4. Yoshua Bengio

Profile: Professor at the University of Montreal and Founder of Mila (Quebec AI Institute).

Why Follow: As one of the “Godfathers of AI,” Yoshua Bengio’s research has significantly impacted the field of deep learning. His contributions have helped shape modern neural network architectures and techniques.

Key Topics: Deep learning, generative models, AI ethics, and machine learning.

5. Demis Hassabis

Profile: Co-founder and CEO of DeepMind.

Why Follow: Demis Hassabis leads DeepMind, one of the world’s leading AI research labs, known for developing AI systems that have mastered games like Go and complex tasks such as protein folding. His vision for AI focuses on combining advanced AI techniques with neuroscience.

Key Topics: Reinforcement learning, neuroscience and AI, general AI, and ethical AI development.

6. Kai-Fu Lee

Profile: Chairman and CEO of Sinovation Ventures, former President of Google China.

Why Follow: Kai-Fu Lee is a leading voice on AI in China and globally. His insights into AI development trends in Asia provide a unique perspective on the global AI landscape. His book “AI Superpowers” is a must-read for understanding the competitive dynamics of AI between the US and China.

Key Topics: AI in China, AI investment, AI and employment, and AI policy.

7. Gary Marcus

Profile: Founder and CEO of Robust.AI, Professor Emeritus at NYU.

Why Follow: Gary Marcus is known for his critical views on deep learning and advocacy for hybrid AI models that combine neural networks with symbolic reasoning. His balanced perspective challenges mainstream AI approaches and fosters healthy debate in the field.

Key Topics: Cognitive science, hybrid AI models, AI critique, and AI-human collaboration.

8. Cynthia Breazeal

Profile: Associate Professor at MIT Media Lab, Founder and Chief Scientist of Jibo, Inc.

Why Follow: Cynthia Breazeal pioneered social robotics and human-robot interaction. Her work explores how AI and robotics can enhance human lives through personal and emotional connections with technology.

Key Topics: Social robotics, human-robot interaction, AI in healthcare, and educational robots.

9. Ilya Sutskever

Profile: Co-founder and Chief Scientist of OpenAI.

Why Follow: Ilya Sutskever’s contributions to AI, particularly in deep learning and reinforcement learning, are highly influential. At OpenAI, he works on advancing AI capabilities while ensuring these technologies benefit humanity.

Key Topics: Deep learning, reinforcement learning, general AI, and AI safety.

10. Yann LeCun

Profile: VP and Chief AI Scientist at Facebook and Professor at NYU.

Why Follow: A pioneer in deep learning, Yann LeCun’s groundbreaking work on convolutional neural networks has profoundly impacted computer vision and natural language processing. LeCun’s talks delve into the intricacies of deep learning architectures and their potential to unlock new frontiers in AI research.

Key Topics: Deep learning architectures, computer vision, and AI research.

11. Rana el Kaliouby

Profile: Co-founder and CEO of Affectiva.

Why Follow: Rana el Kaliouby is a leading expert in Emotion AI. Her work focuses on developing AI systems that understand and respond to human emotions. Kaliouby’s talks explore the intersection of AI and emotional intelligence, highlighting the potential for AI to enhance human-machine interactions and create more empathetic technologies.

Key Topics: Emotion AI, human-machine interaction, and empathetic technology.

12. Stuart Russell

Profile: Professor at UC Berkeley and author of “Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach.”

Why Follow: Stuart Russell is a thought leader in AI safety and ethics. His talks address the challenges and risks of developing advanced AI systems, emphasizing the need for robust safety measures and ethical frameworks to ensure AI benefits humanity.

Key Topics: AI safety, ethical AI, and the future of AI.

How to find the right AI keynote speaker

Choosing the right AI keynote speaker for your event is crucial for its success. A well-chosen speaker can provide valuable insights, inspire innovation, and captivate your audience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the best AI keynote speaker for your event.

1. Identify your event’s theme, goals, and purpose.

Before beginning your search, clearly define your event’s theme and goals. Are you focusing on a specific aspect of AI, such as its applications in healthcare, ethical considerations, or the future of work?

Or is your event aimed at providing a broad overview of AI’s impact across various sectors? A well-defined theme will help you narrow your speaker choices and ensure that their expertise aligns with your event’s central focus.

Additionally, consider the goals you want to achieve through your event. Do you want to raise awareness about AI’s potential, inspire attendees to embrace AI in their endeavors, or foster collaboration and networking among AI professionals? Understanding your objectives will guide you in selecting a speaker who can effectively deliver your desired message and outcomes.

2. Know your audience.

Understanding your audience’s needs and preferences is crucial in selecting the right AI keynote speaker. Consider the following:

• Demographics: Age, gender, profession, and educational background.
• Interests: Specific AI topics they are interested in (e.g., machine learning, AI ethics, AI in healthcare).
• Experience Level: Their familiarity with AI—are they beginners, intermediates, or experts?

3. Determine your overall budget

Your budget will play a significant role in selecting an AI keynote speaker. Speaker fees can vary widely based on their reputation, expertise, and demand.

Here’s how to manage your budget:

• Set a Clear Budget: Decide on a budget for the keynote speaker.
• Consider Additional Costs: Include travel, accommodation, and any special requirements the speaker might have.
• Seek Sponsorships: Look for potential sponsors who might help cover the costs of a high-profile AI speaker.

4. Research the best AI speakers available

Begin compiling a list of potential AI keynote speakers through:

• Online Searches: Look for top-rated AI speakers and experts in relevant fields. (Like this one!)
• Speaker Bureaus: These agencies represent a variety of speakers and can provide recommendations based on your criteria.
• Recommendations: Ask colleagues, industry peers, or previous attendees for suggestions.
• Social Media and Online Platforms: LinkedIn, YouTube, and TED Talks often feature AI experts and their presentations.

5. Evaluate speaker credenttials

Once you have a list of potential speakers, evaluate their credentials:

• Experience: How long have they been speaking professionally about AI? Do they have experience speaking at similar events?
• Expertise: Are they recognized experts in AI? Do they have relevant qualifications, publications, or achievements?
• Reputation: Look for testimonials, reviews, and ratings from past clients and audiences.

6. Review speaker content and style

Examine the speaker’s content and delivery style to ensure they align with your event’s goals and audience preferences:

• Watch Videos: View recordings of their previous speeches to assess their delivery style, engagement level, and how they handle different audiences.
• Content Relevance: Ensure their topics are relevant to your event and can be tailored to meet your specific needs.
• Interaction: Determine if they engage with the audience through Q&A sessions, polls, or interactive activities.

7. Conduct interviews with potential speakers

Narrow down your list to a few top choices and conduct interviews:

• Discuss Event Goals: Communicate your event goals and audience profile to the speaker.
• Customization: Ask how they can tailor their presentation to fit your event.
• Availability: Confirm their availability and any specific requirements they might have.

8. Check references

Before making your final decision, check the references:

• Client Feedback: Ask for references from previous clients and inquire about their experiences.
• Audience Feedback: If possible, get feedback from previous audiences to gauge their satisfaction.

9. Consider DEI

Diversity and inclusion must be considered when selecting an AI speaker. Aim to showcase a range of perspectives and experiences to foster a more comprehensive understanding of AI’s impact on society.

When evaluating potential speakers, consider gender, race, ethnicity, and cultural background. A diverse lineup of speakers can help challenge biases, promote inclusivity, and encourage a broader spectrum of individuals to engage with AI.

10. Finalize your selection

Once you have identified potential AI speakers who align with your event’s goals, expertise requirements, and engagement criteria, it’s time to evaluate their availability and fees.

Contact the speakers or their representatives to inquire about their availability for your event dates. When selecting an AI speaker, consider your event budget.

Determine the allocated budget for your keynote speaker and prioritize your choices accordingly.

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FAQ: Finding an AI Keynote Speaker in 2024

Q1: Who are some of the top AI speakers to follow in 2024?

A1: Some of the top AI speakers to follow in 2024 include Andrew Ng, Fei-Fei Li, Yoshua Bengio, Demis Hassabis, Kai-Fu Lee, Gary Marcus, Cynthia Breazeal, Ilya Sutskever, Yann LeCun, Rana el Kaliouby, and Stuart Russell. These individuals are known for their expertise, contributions, and thought leadership in various areas of artificial intelligence.

Q2: What topics do these top AI speakers typically cover?

A2: The top AI speakers cover a wide range of topics, including deep learning, AI ethics, computer vision, human-centered AI, reinforcement learning, AI in healthcare, social robotics, AI safety, and the future of work. They share insights on the latest trends, breakthroughs, and ethical considerations in the field of AI.

Q3: Why is it important to choose the right AI keynote speaker for an event?

A3: Choosing the right AI keynote speaker is crucial for the success of an event focused on artificial intelligence. The speaker should align with the event’s theme and goals, have relevant expertise, and possess strong communication skills to engage and inspire the audience. The right speaker can educate, motivate, and leave a lasting impact on attendees.

Q4: What factors should be considered when selecting an AI speaker for an event?

A4: When selecting an AI speaker for an event, consider the following factors:

• Event theme and goals: Ensure the speaker’s expertise aligns with the central focus of your event.
• Speaker’s expertise and relevance: Evaluate their background, qualifications, and contributions to the field of AI.
• Communication skills and engagement style: Assess their ability to deliver engaging presentations and connect with the audience.
• Diversity and inclusion: Consider speakers who bring diverse perspectives and advocate for inclusivity in the AI community.
• Availability and budget: Factor in the speaker’s availability and fees to ensure they fit your event schedule and budget.

Q5: How can event organizers evaluate a speaker’s communication skills and engagement style?

A5: To evaluate a speaker’s communication skills and engagement style, event organizers can:

• Review video footage of the speaker’s previous talks or attend one of their live events.
• Assess their ability to break down complex concepts, use storytelling techniques, and interact with the audience.
• Look for speakers who bring energy, passion, and the ability to inspire their audience.

Q6: Why is diversity and inclusion important when selecting an AI speaker?

A6: Diversity and inclusion are essential when selecting an AI speaker because they help showcase a range of perspectives and experiences, foster a more comprehensive understanding of AI’s impact on society, and encourage a broader spectrum of individuals to engage with AI. A diverse lineup of speakers can challenge biases, promote inclusivity, and inspire the audience to embrace these values in their own work.

Q7: How can event organizers find the right AI speaker within their budget?

A7: To find the right AI speaker within budget, event organizers can:

• Prioritize their choices based on the allocated budget for the keynote speaker.
• Consider emerging thought leaders or local experts who may offer fresh perspectives at a more affordable rate.
• Contact speakers or their representatives to inquire about their availability and fees, and if possible, provide flexibility in the event timeline.

Q8: What are the benefits of reviewing testimonials and references when selecting an AI speaker?

A8: Reviewing testimonials and references from a speaker’s previous engagements can provide valuable insights into their ability to engage audiences, deliver relevant content, and leave a lasting impression. It can also help gauge the speaker’s professionalism, reliability, and ease of collaboration. This information can assist event organizers in making an informed decision when selecting an AI speaker.

Final thoughts

These top AI speakers will inform you about artificial intelligence’s latest trends, breakthroughs, and ethical considerations. Their diverse perspectives and deep expertise offer valuable insights into how AI is shaping our world. Stay connected with their work to navigate the future of AI and leverage its potential in your own endeavors.

Why trust us

At DevX.com, we are committed to providing valuable and accurate information to our readers. Here’s why you can trust our content on top AI speakers and how to find the perfect AI speaker for your event:

1. Extensive Research

Our team of experienced writers and researchers conducts thorough investigations to identify the most influential and knowledgeable AI speakers. We analyze their backgrounds, expertise, and contributions to the field to ensure that we present only the most qualified individuals.

2. Diverse Perspectives

We understand the importance of showcasing diverse perspectives in AI. Our list of top AI speakers includes individuals from various backgrounds, expertise areas, and regions, providing a well-rounded view of the AI landscape.

3. Proven Track Records

The AI speakers featured in our article have proven track records of delivering engaging and informative presentations. We evaluate their previous speaking engagements, audience feedback, and industry recognition to ensure that they consistently provide value to their listeners.

4. Comprehensive Guidance

Beyond simply listing top AI speakers, we offer comprehensive guidance on selecting the perfect keynote speaker for your event. Our step-by-step approach covers essential factors such as aligning with event goals, evaluating expertise and communication skills, considering diversity and inclusion, and managing budgets.

5. Industry Insights

Our team stays up-to-date with the latest trends, breakthroughs, and discussions in the AI industry. We regularly attend AI conferences, follow industry publications, and engage with AI thought leaders to bring you the most relevant and timely information.

6. Objective Recommendations

We maintain objectivity in our recommendations, ensuring that our selections are based on merit, expertise, and relevance rather than personal biases or affiliations. Our goal is to provide you with a curated list of the best AI speakers to follow and consider for your events.

7. Continuous Updates

Our content evolves as the AI landscape evolves. We continuously update our articles to reflect the latest developments, emerging speakers, and shifting industry trends. You can trust that our information is current and aligned with the state of AI.

Our expert team at DevX is passionate about AI and its potential to transform industries and society. We strive to be a reliable resource for anyone seeking to learn from and engage with the brightest minds in artificial intelligence.