MacLachlan Speaker Series: Navigating the Age of AI

The MacLachlan community gathered for an inspiring MacLachlan Speaker Series event featuring Pam Snively, Chief Data & Trust Officer at TELUS.

Pam shared valuable insights into the future of artificial intelligence, trust, and responsible innovation, reminding us that “we cannot innovate faster than the speed of trust.” She explained how the rapid evolution of technology requires us to build systems that are not only powerful but also trustworthy, transparent, and guided by strong ethical principles.

Throughout the evening, Pam emphasized the importance of developing trusted technology, highlighting TELUS’s leadership in creating customer-facing AI tools built on fairness, safety, and accountability. She spoke about how organizations must clearly communicate how they are safeguarding trust and remain transparent about what they do and why.

A key message of the evening was that AI is a tool, not a crutch. As technology continues to change the way we work, learn, and connect, the most valuable skills of the future will be deeply human ones. These include critical thinking, sound judgment, creativity, emotional intelligence, and the ability to make balanced decisions. Pam encouraged students and families to stay curious, learn together, and approach AI with an open and reflective mindset.

The event also featured Mr. Gregory Dominato, who shared an update on MacLachlan’s innovative pilot project, “Putting the I in AI.” This initiative invites students to explore how artificial intelligence can enhance learning through responsible and ethical use. By combining technological curiosity with moral awareness, the program encourages students to understand not only how AI works but also why values such as honesty, respect, and empathy are essential in shaping its impact.

The evening sparked meaningful dialogue about the future of learning and the role that education plays in preparing students to thrive in a world transformed by technology.