From series recommendations on streaming services to smart home applications at home, we often use AI in our everyday lives without realizing it. What we take for granted in our private lives can create uncertainty in the workplace. "The introduction of AI systems is associated with many emotional reactions," explains Dr. Eleni Georganta, professor at the University of Amsterdam and lecturer at the "AI as a Colleague" seminar. "In the course, we look at what adjustments need to be made for employees, managers and even top management," adds lecturer Dr. Anna-Sophie Ulfert-Blank from Eindhoven University of Technology.
In order to use the changes brought about by AI in the company as an opportunity, acceptance and understanding must be ensured among all those involved. The focus must be on people so that AI is perceived not just as a tool, but as a supportive team member
AI change approaches for your own company
In the one-day compact course at the TUM Campus Heilbronn, which is aimed at managers, owners and others, participants learn how to overcome uncertainties when dealing with AI in the company. Using practical examples, they gain insights into areas of application for AI in the working world and deal with expectations and limitations. In small group work and through guided reflection, they will focus in particular on change approaches using the example of AI implementation and develop strategies for their own company.
"The exchange among each other offers the opportunity to jointly identify application examples and gain new insights. The fact that we come from very different industries is very enriching. It allows me to get to know new perspectives and broaden my horizons. For me, the seminar is an important impulse to get started," summarizes Moritz Marbach, management trainee at Karl Marbach GmbH & Co. KG and Marbach Werkzeugbau GmbH in Heilbronn. He also cites the networking opportunities at regional level as a major added value of the event format.
He shares this view with other participants. Gernot Feiel, Chief Operating Officer at sealing solutions manufacturer KACO in Kirchstadt, wants to get more involved in the Bildungscampus Heilbronn in future. "For a local company like KACO, artificial intelligence is naturally a big issue. And if this is being driven forward so intensively here on campus, that's perfect for us."
The next compact course "AI as a Colleague" will take place on September 22, 2025. Further and up-to-date information is available on the TUM Campus Heilbronn website.
Course content "AI as a Colleague":
● Definition and role of AI
● Limits and challenges
● AI introduction as an organizational
● Own strategies for introduction