Exploring AI’s Legal Frontier: Insights from SIM-NJ
In a world where technology evolves at a rapid pace, it’s easy to feel like we’re always working to keep up. But what about the legal side of things? As AI continues to transform industries, understanding how firms can create policies to ensure compliance with emerging regulations is crucial. That’s exactly what we explored during the Society for Information Management – New Jersey Chapter (SIM-NJ) meeting. This was an opportunity to dive deeper into the evolving landscape of AI and explore how companies can start the discussion and develop policies while embracing innovation with an eye on future compliance. With the EU AI Act now in effect and many U.S. states forming their own task forces, the timing of this discussion couldn’t have been better.
A Welcoming Connection
My journey to this event began with a podcast I hosted earlier this year, “Unlock the Secrets of IT Leadership with Pasquale Cirillo, Ep #34.” Little did I know that my conversation with Pasquale, the former SIM-NJ president, would lead to this opportunity. He made sure I could join the session, and I got to catch up with him and meet John Erickson, the current president, along with fellow first-timer Ilya Alper. The evening promised valuable insights and did not disappoint.
Diving Into AI and the Law
As the event began, it was clear that the room was eager to discuss AI and its legal implications—a topic that’s on the minds of IT leaders. The highlight was a panel discussion featuring some impressive speakers:
- Tyler Bryk, Head of AI at PTC Therapeutics Inc.
- Dr. Robert Spangler, CISO of the NJ State Bar Association
- Elijah Low, CEO of AI Matrix Solutions and author of Navigating AI with Faith
- Moderator: Chris Tyrrell, Senior Financial Services Executive
Key Takeaways from the Discussion:
- Data Privacy and Security: With AI becoming more embedded in daily operations, the panel stressed the importance of establishing standards and policies to protect sensitive data. Yet, in such a fast-moving field, creating a definitive rulebook is tough. Flexibility and an ongoing conversation within organizations will be key.
- Training and Remote Workforce: As hybrid and remote work reshape the workplace, training employees on responsible AI use is more important than ever. The panel highlighted the need for robust education to ensure data security and ethical standards, even when teams are spread out.
- AI Tools and Data Privacy: The discussion highlighted the risks associated with using publicly available AI tools for sensitive business operations. The panelists advocated for the development and use of internally created AI tools to better protect proprietary data.
- Ethical AI Usage: One of the most thought-provoking segments focused on the ethical considerations of AI usage. The panel debated how businesses can stay competitive while managing the risks associated with AI, emphasizing the need to find the right balance between innovation and responsible use.
- Vendor Selection and AI: The importance of thoroughly vetting vendors who use AI in their technology was underscored. The panel suggested developing AI-focused checklists for vendor selection to ensure compliance with company AI policies and to understand how AI is being used in the products or services being procured.
- Moving Forward with AI: The panel wrapped up with practical advice: Start conversations about AI now, stay informed about developments, assess how AI is being used within your organization, and put strong controls in place to guide its implementation.
Reflections and Future Considerations
As the event wrapped up, it became clear that this is just the beginning of many important discussions. A particularly thought-provoking moment came from Elijah Low, who asked whether we’re truly preparing the next generation for a world shaped by AI. He pointed out that many jobs of today may not exist in the future, and the roles that will replace them are still unimaginable.
The SIM-NJ meeting highlighted the importance of staying ahead of the curve, especially in a field as dynamic as AI. The insights shared at the event were not just informative—they were a call to action to engage with the evolving AI landscape, start setting policies, and stay connected with industry peers.
For anyone navigating the ever-changing world of AI, joining professional organizations like SIM-NJ is invaluable. The connections and insights gained could be the key to mastering AI’s challenges and opportunities in your own organization.