The University of Findlay’s department of computer science will host the 25th Annual Information Assurance Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Stewart Center TLB Auditorium, located at 950 N. Main Street, Findlay.
This year’s theme is “Securing Automation: The Rise of Agentic AI and Bots.” Rapid advances in AI offer opportunities for business process improvement, decision-support analysis, and design generation, but they also bring challenges in security, compliance, and ethics.
Speakers will share insights on providing the governance and context needed to keep agentic AI operating safely within organizations. They will also look ahead to where AI may lead in healthcare and biotech, and how quantum technologies will shape the future. UF students will present as well, offering an introduction to creating an AI agent.
“Part of our mission as a center of academic excellence in cybersecurity is outreach to increase awareness on our campus and in the world,” said Helen Schneider, PhD, associate professor and chair of computer science. “We use this event to educate our majors, and to give them a chance to present to others.”
The forum is free and open to the community, thanks to several dedicated sponsors. Registration is available at www.iaforum.net. Lunch is included for those who RSVP by Oct. 21. Those unable to attend in person may join via Microsoft Teams (link provided upon registration) or watch live on UF TV.
The forum welcomes students, faculty, and staff from UF; students from other colleges and high schools; community members; regional businesses; and professionals interested in computers and security. More than 300 people attended last year, in person and online.
The IA Forum is an annual event that brings together UF and the regional business community to explore emerging technologies, their information security and privacy implications, and their potential impact on cybersecurity. Local universities also attend and participate.
“Working with nearby schools with cybersecurity curriculum, we bring together the next generation of cyber professionals that will help protect the region and beyond,” Schneider said. “This event serves as a great opportunity to network with others embracing emerging technologies in the region, and to learn from their experiences.”
Sponsors include CentraComm Cybersecurity, Systems Group Technologies, RCR Technology Group, J. Steve Welton – Hancock County Treasurer, GSW Manufacturing, LJW Cyber Consulting, and The Alliance of Findlay-Hancock County.
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