The University of Illinois Springfield College of Business and Management hosted a panel discussion during the recent Dean’s Advisory Board meeting on October 29, 2026, exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming business practices, the workplace, and higher education: bringing together industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence is changing the workplace and the skills students need to succeed.

Titled The Role of AI in Business and Business Education, the discussion brought together leaders from technology, human resources, financial services, and supply chain consulting. Panelists shared practical examples of AI in their fields and considered how students and organizations can prepare for an increasingly AI-enabled workplace.

The panel was moderated by Dr. Michele Gribbins, UIS associate provost for academic strategy and institutional effectiveness. Panelists included Kalpana Krishnamurthi, co-founder and CEO of bitsIO; Debbie Thompson, founder and owner of Always On Consulting; Aaron Rios, CEO of Heartland Credit Union; and Satyaveer Bhati, managing director and founder of Anvaya Consulting.

AI in the workplace

Panelists discussed the shift from AI tools that assist with individual tasks toward systems that can support or carry out larger workflows. Examples included using AI to help investigate cybersecurity alerts, analyze market information, screen and compare job candidates, and coordinate complex business processes.

The discussion also highlighted the limitations of AI. Panelists noted that organizations should test applications carefully, evaluate the quality of their data, and provide employee training. Human oversight remains essential, particularly when decisions affect customers, employees, security, or privacy.

Preparing students for an AI-enabled future

As AI changes how work is performed, panelists emphasized the continuing importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and relationship building. Students should be prepared to question AI-generated information, protect sensitive data, and explain the reasoning behind their recommendations.

Panelists also encouraged students and faculty to gain hands-on experience by applying AI to practical projects. Ideas included exploring market data, developing a simple AI agent, and using AI to investigate business challenges while assessing the quality of its outputs.

The College of Business and Management thanks Dr. Gribbins and all four panelists for sharing their time and expertise. Their perspectives will help inform ongoing conversations about preparing UIS students to use emerging technologies thoughtfully and responsibly.