Top AI leaders traded full-blown optimism for apprehension at Pittsburgh’s premier tech summit
The AI Horizons Summit in Pittsburgh saw a shift from optimism to apprehension, with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro calling for increased regulation due to AI's cybersecurity threats and corporate carelessness. Protesters outside the event highlighted environmental concerns, chanting "data centers kill." Local officials also announced an AI hackathon focused on housing.
The annual AI Horizons Summit in Pittsburgh marked a notable shift in tone from previous years, moving from full-blown optimism to apprehension regarding artificial intelligence. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro took the stage to advocate for increased regulation, citing growing cybersecurity threats posed by AI and the perceived carelessness of companies prioritizing speed over potential negative consequences. While clarifying he is not a "doomer," Governor Shapiro acknowledged real concerns shared by many Pennsylvanians and Americans.
Outside the summit venue, protestors chanted "data centers kill," drawing attention to climate change and the environmental impact of AI. Panelists, including Zico Kolter, cofounder and chief scientist of Gray Swan, acknowledged that public apprehension about the "world-altering technology" is natural. Jake Loosararian, founder of Gecko Robotics, pointed to unequal economic gains from the AI boom as a source of public discontent, even suggesting wealth redistribution as AI and robotics transform the global economy.
Andrew Moore, CEO of Lovelace AI, emphasized the need for the public to see tangible benefits of AI in their daily lives. In line with this sentiment, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato concluded the first day of the summit by announcing a new hackathon later this month aimed at developing AI tools to address housing barriers. Joanna Doven, lead organizer of the summit and CEO of AI Strike Team, highlighted the two possible futures for AI, underscoring Pittsburgh's potential role in shaping its trajectory.