Regional Partners to Host Community AI Seminar in Owensboro
Owensboro, KY (February 23, 2026) – Four organizations serving the Greater Owensboro region are partnering to present “From Chat to Change: Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” a community seminar focused on helping people better understand how artificial intelligence is changing the way we work and do business.
The event will be held Friday, March 20 at 9 am at Owensboro Community & Technical College and is a collaborative effort between the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC), the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Open to the public, the program is designed to provide a clear, practical look at how artificial intelligence is already shaping workplaces and day-to-day operations.
“Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming an integral part of how our communities work and grow, and people deserve a clear, practical understanding of this technological revolution. This event is about giving citizens, leaders, and business partners straightforward insight they can use,” said Dr. Ryan Hall, Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Lead at OCTC. “OCTC is proud to partner with GOEDC, GO Chamber, and the SBDC to bring that conversation into the community in a way that’s accessible, thoughtful, and focused on real opportunities.”
“Artificial intelligence is already shaping how work gets done across every industry,” said Claude Bacon, President and CEO at GOEDC. “This is about making sure our community understands what’s changing, feels prepared to adapt, and has practical tools to move forward with confidence.”
The seminar will highlight real-world applications of AI, common challenges organizations face when adopting new technology, and practical ways individuals and businesses can begin using these tools responsibly.
“AI is changing the way the world does business and we want to do everything we can to help prepare our members to adapt and thrive. We’re grateful to get to be a part of this meaningful partnership and excited to see where it leads,” said Dave Kirk, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.
“The SBDC supports entrepreneurs as they navigate change in real time,” said Jody Hulsey, Director of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. “This session delivers practical tools and insights they can use right away.”
Registration for the event is now open.
From Chat to Change: Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Owensboro Community & Technical College
Humanities Building, Blandford Hall
Friday, March 20, 2026 | 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Register Here
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting innovation, workforce readiness, and long-term economic growth across Owensboro and Daviess County.
About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) supports economic growth across the region by advancing business development, entrepreneurship, and workforce initiatives.
About Owensboro Community & Technical College
Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC), part of the Kentucky Community & Technical College System, provides accessible education and workforce training that prepares students for in-demand careers and supports regional industry needs.
About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center
The Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been assisting the commonwealth’s small business community for over 40 years. With centers statewide and experienced and knowledgeable staff, the Kentucky SBDC provides unparalleled business coaching and training services at no cost to help existing business owners and potential entrepreneurs start, grow and succeed.
Kentucky SBDC services include one-on-one business coaching, training workshops, access to market research, loan packaging help, assistance with financial projections and information needed to make informed business decisions.
Kentucky SBDC is co-sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration and is administered by the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment in partnership with regional academic institutions, economic development organizations, the private sector and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
About the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce supports and advocates for local businesses by fostering connections, professional development, and a strong regional business climate.
Media Contacts
GOEDC – Summer Aldridge, 270-926-4339
SBDC – Jody Hulsey, 270-574-9990
GO Chamber – Dave Kirk, 270-926-1860
OCTC – Becky Barnhart, 270-686-4445
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