helping-AI   
(artificial intelligence)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a tool—much like a hammer. In the hands of a skilled builder, a hammer can construct a shelter for those in need. In the wrong hands, it can cause harm. The same principle applies to AI: it is inherently neutral, neither good nor bad. Its impact is entirely determined by the intentions, ethics, and decisions of those who design, deploy, and utilize it.

This analogy underscores a critical truth: technology itself does not possess morality. It is the human element—the values, goals, and accountability of its users—that shapes its outcomes. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, industries, and institutions, the importance of ethical frameworks, transparent governance, and responsible innovation cannot be overstated.

To ensure AI serves the greater good, we must prioritize inclusive design, fairness, privacy, and safety in its development and application. Only through thoughtful stewardship can we harness its potential to uplift society, rather than inadvertently deepen inequalities or cause unintended harm.

Podcast from top LinkedIn AI influencer Allie K. Miller
AI Insider: The Fastest Way To Use AI Agents In Your Business, Content & Life (Open Claw & Claude)

What is artificial intelligence (AI)?  (IBM)

The Pew Research Center published “How Teens Use and View AI,” surveying 1,458 U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 to examine their everyday AI habits.

Key Details:

• 64% of teens have used chatbots at least once. Of those, 57% have used them to “search for information,” 54% have used them for “help with homework,” and 47% have used them for “fun or entertainment.”
  
• Only 51% of parents believe their teenager uses AI, while 40% say they’ve never even discussed AI with their teenager. It’s referred to as the “parent perception gap.”
  
• Teens are far more likely to say chatbots are helpful for schoolwork, rather than unhelpful. It’s referred to as the “study buddy effect.” In fact, 25% of all teens say chatbots have been “extremely or very helpful for completing their schoolwork.” Interestingly, 59% of teens believe classmates use chatbots to cheat.
  

Why It’s Important:

• Teens tend to see AI as a “personal positive.” More specifically, 36% of teens believe AI will have a positive impact on their personal lives over the next 20 years, while only 15% foresee negative impacts. 34% of those who foresee negative impacts cite loss of critical thinking as a top concern.
  
• Our ability to think critically is crucial to making the right choices. It comes from the Greek word “Κριτικός” (i.e., “Kritikos”), which means “able to judge or discern.” If we rely on AI to do everything, we risk shifting from active critical thinkers to passive information consumers who blindly follow what isn’t fully understood.
  

AI is changing the world faster than most realize

Martin Brossman is publishing a new book being released shortly called Job Hunting in the AI Era: Practical Tips and Proven Strategies. 

​See jobs books on Amazon
​

​AI has immense potential to address social issues and support community work. Here are some positive uses:
​

1. Healthcare: AI can improve diagnostics, predict disease outbreaks, and personalize treatment plans. For example, AI algorithms can analyze medical images to detect diseases like cancer at an early stage[1].
2. Education: AI-powered tools can provide personalized learning experiences, helping students with different learning needs. AI can also assist in grading and administrative tasks, freeing up educators to focus more on teaching[2].
3. Disaster Response: AI can enhance crisis management by predicting natural disasters, optimizing rescue operations, and providing real-time information during emergencies[1].
4. Environmental Protection: AI can help monitor and manage natural resources, predict environmental changes, and optimize renewable energy usage[3].
5. Social Justice: AI can be used to combat human trafficking, monitor and report gender-based violence, and support legal processes by analyzing large volumes of data[3].
6. Community Services: AI can improve public services by optimizing resource allocation, enhancing communication between community members, and providing better access to information[1].

These applications demonstrate how AI can be a powerful tool for positive change, addressing critical social issues and enhancing community work. Do any of these areas particularly interest you?

References
[1] Applying artificial intelligence for social good - McKinsey & Company
[2] Positive impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) for good | Social ...
[3] Artificial Intelligence For Good: How AI Is Helping Humanity - Forbes

Will your job survive AI?

As AI continues to reshape the workforce, job seekers—especially those currently out of work—can benefit from focusing on roles that are less susceptible to automation and more resilient to AI disruption. Here’s some practical advice:

🔒 Jobs Less Impacted by AIThese roles typically require human judgment, emotional intelligence, creativity, or physical presence:
1. Healthcare and Human Services

• Nurses, therapists, social workers, caregivers – These roles require empathy, physical interaction, and nuanced decision-making.
• Mental health professionals – AI can assist but not replace the human connection in therapy.

2. Skilled Trades

• Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, mechanics – These jobs involve hands-on work in unpredictable environments, which AI and robots struggle with.

3. Education and Training

• Teachers, tutors, instructional designers – Especially in early childhood and special education, where emotional connection and adaptability are key.
• Corporate trainers and workforce development specialists – Helping others adapt to new technologies is a growing need.

4. Creative and Strategic Roles

• Writers, designers, marketers, brand strategists – While AI can assist, human creativity and originality still lead.
• Entrepreneurs and consultants – Especially those who can help businesses adapt to AI.

5. Leadership and Relationship-Driven Roles

• Project managers, HR professionals, community organizers – These rely on interpersonal skills, negotiation, and leadership.
• Sales and business development – Especially in B2B or complex sales, where trust and relationships matter.

​
6. AI-Resilient Tech Roles

• Cybersecurity analysts, data privacy officers, AI ethicists – These are growing alongside AI.
• AI trainers and prompt engineers – Helping AI learn and improve.

💡 Advice for Job Seekers

1. Upskill Continuously: Learn digital tools, data literacy, and AI basics—even if you're not in tech.
2. Leverage Transferable Skills: Communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are in high demand.
3. Network Strategically: Join industry groups, attend webinars, and connect with professionals in resilient fields.
4. Consider Contract or Freelance Work: It can be a bridge to full-time roles and helps build experience.
5. Explore Workforce Development Programs: Many offer free or subsidized training in high-demand areas.

Here are some AI-resilient job paths and training opportunities relevant to your area and the current job market in August 2025:

✅ Top AI-Resilient Careers to ConsiderThese roles are expected to remain in demand and less likely to be automated:

1. Healthcare & Human Services
   • Mental health counselors, nurses, physical therapists, and home health aides [1].
2. Skilled Trades
   • Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and mechanics.
3. Education & Training
   • Teachers, instructional designers, and corporate trainers.
4. Creative & Strategic Roles
   • Writers, marketers, UX designers, and brand strategists.
5. Community & Human-Centered Roles
   • Social workers, nonprofit leaders, clergy, and community organizers.
6. AI-Adjacent Tech Roles
   • Cybersecurity analysts, AI trainers, data privacy officers, and prompt engineers [2].

🎓 Training Programs & Resources Near Metropolitan Campus (NJ)While specific local listings weren’t in the top search results, here are some reliable ways to find training and job openings in your area:
1. New Jersey Career Connections

• Run by the NJ Department of Labor, this platform offers free training programs, career counseling, and job listings.
• Website: careerconnections.nj.gov

2. Bergen Community College & FDU Continuing Education

• Look for certifications in healthcare, trades, education, and digital marketing.
• They often offer short-term workforce development programs funded by state grants.

3. Workforce Development Boards (WDBs)

• Bergen County WDB offers job placement assistance, training vouchers, and career coaching.
• Website: bergenwdb.org

4. LinkedIn Learning & Coursera

• For remote learners, these platforms offer certifications in AI-resilient fields like project management, UX design, and healthcare administration.

References
[1] AI-Proof Careers: 15 Resilient Jobs That Will Thrive Beyond 2025
[2] 7 AI Training Jobs to Explore in 2025 | The Muse

​Recent Articles

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June 21, 2025 by Brian Foster
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​NJEDA Board Approves Two Programs to Advance New Jersey’s Leadership in Artificial Intelligence

The state of AI: How organizations are rewiring to capture value

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​Generative Artificial Intelligence’s Impact on New Jersey’s Technology and Life Sciences Sectors: A Literature Review

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Generative Artificial Intelligence’s Impact on New Jersey’s Technology and Life Sciences Sectors: A Literature Review

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is a machine-learning technology that uses reasoning, problem-solving, and creativity to generate new, original content from inputted text, audio and visual media, and other forms of data. The deployment of GenAI will transform products and processes in businesses and governmental agencies across the world, having profound impacts on work, workers, and organizations.

A new report from the Heldrich Center offers an overview of the impact of GenAI on work in the United States, and how GenAI may affect workers and employers in the life sciences and technology sectors of the economy and in New Jersey. The report considers both possible and actual use cases of GenAI for these sectors and highlights the ways in which the technology is being explored and/or has been adopted by New Jersey businesses and organizations. This report also samples survey data and highlights recent initiatives, partnerships, and events hosted by life sciences and technology organizations in the New York tri-state area. Finally, the report summarizes the considerations that workers, employers, and policymakers might make and actions they could consider taking to support the successful implementation of GenAI in the workplace, including ideas about reskilling, training, and policy.

The report was written by Jessica Starace, Survey Research Manager at the Heldrich Center.

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What We Know Now About Supporting the Workforce in an Age of AI

​Here are some of the top AI companies making significant strides in the industry:

1. OpenAI: Known for developing advanced AI models like ChatGPT, OpenAI has a valuation of around $86 billion
2. Anthropic: This company focuses on AI safety and research, with a valuation of $18.4 billion
3. Databricks: Specializes in data analytics and AI deployment software, valued at $43 billion
4. Microsoft: A major player in AI, investing heavily in AI technologies and integrating them into products like Microsoft Copilot
5. Nvidia: Provides the high-end processing power needed for AI applications, making it a key player in the AI hardware space
6. Alphabet (Google): Uses AI across its services, including the Bard AI chatbot and the Gemini AI model
7. Amazon: Integrates AI into its operations and offers AI services through Amazon Web Services (AWS)
8. Meta Platforms: Focuses on AI for social media and online advertising, with significant investments in generative AI
9. IBM: Known for its Watson AI solutions, which are used in various industries to improve processes and predict outcomes
10. Adobe: Uses AI in its creative software, including the Firefly generative AI model

These companies are at the forefront of AI innovation, driving advancements across various sectors. 

AI Literacy and Prompting

Here are some top AI companies and tools that are particularly beneficial for nonprofits:

1. IBM Watson: Offers a range of AI solutions including data analysis, virtual assistants, and data governance, which can help nonprofits manage and analyze their data more effectively
2. Google Cloud AI: Provides a suite of AI tools including generative AI, machine learning, and AI assistants, which can be used to enhance various nonprofit functions
3. ClickUp: This tool helps nonprofits streamline workflows and improve task management. ClickUp AI assists with writing tasks, generating ideas for social media content, and creating financial reports
4. DonorSearch AI: Focuses on identifying and segmenting potential donors, helping nonprofits increase fundraising revenue and build better strategies
5. RapidMiner: A data analytics tool that provides AI-driven insights into donors and simplifies operations, making it easier to build outreach programs and connect with top donors
6. Funraise: Offers AI tools like Fundraising Intelligence and AppealAI, which help with donor data analysis, creating fundraising reports, and generating donor-specific appeals

These tools can help nonprofits maximize their resources, improve donor engagement, and streamline their operations. 
​​

​Economic and Community Resilience through Technology

Governor Phil Murphy and Princeton University President Christopher Eisgruber announced plans to establish a hub for artificial intelligence (AI) activity in New Jersey in collaboration with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).state funding and private sector partnerships, the initiative will advance New Jersey’s leadership in AI and catalyze innovation in AI technologies, drive job growth and economic development across the region, promote rapid and responsible development of the field, and guide governments and public entities on AI implementation. The establishment of this new initiative underscores the Murphy Administration’s commitment to supporting innovation and the technologies of the future in tandem with New Jersey’s world-renowned higher education institutions. The initiative will bring together AI researchers, industry leaders, start-up companies, and other collaborators to advance research and development, house dedicated accelerator space, advance the use of ethical AI for positive societal impact, and promote workforce development to support new technology development, in collaboration with other New Jersey universities, community colleges, and vocational schools. Establishing a hub for AI activity in New Jersey will leverage the unique strengths of the region, including Princeton’s leadership in AI technologies, drawing on its institutional strengths in technology policy and education, applications of AI across a range of fields, foundational research on AI techniques and their application, novel hardware platforms and interdisciplinary collaborations on using technology for good.

​The initiative will also draw on New Jersey’s unique strengths in the health, sustainability, financial, and technology
​
Nonprofits can leverage IBM Watson in several impactful ways to enhance their operations and achieve their missions more effectively:

1. Data Analysis and Insights: IBM Watson's advanced analytics can help nonprofits analyze large datasets to uncover trends and insights. This can be particularly useful for understanding donor behavior, measuring program effectiveness, and identifying areas for improvement

1. Virtual Assistants: Watson's AI-powered virtual assistants can handle routine inquiries from donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries, freeing up staff to focus on more complex tasks. These assistants can provide information, answer frequently asked questions, and even assist with scheduling
   
   
2. Fundraising Optimization: By analyzing donor data, Watson can help nonprofits identify potential high-value donors and tailor their fundraising strategies accordingly. This can lead to more effective campaigns and increased donations
   
   
3. Program Management: Watson can assist in managing and optimizing various programs by providing insights into participant engagement and outcomes. This helps nonprofits allocate resources more efficiently and improve program delivery
   
   
4. Predictive Analytics: Nonprofits can use Watson's predictive analytics to forecast future trends and needs. This can be invaluable for planning and preparing for future challenges and opportunities
   
   
5. Natural Language Processing (NLP): Watson's NLP capabilities can analyze text data from various sources, such as social media, surveys, and reports, to gain insights into public sentiment and stakeholder feedback                                                                          
6. AI Incubators and Training: IBM offers programs like the AI Incubator for Social Impact, where nonprofits can work with IBM experts to implement AI projects. These programs provide training, tools, and support to help nonprofits leverage AI effectively

By integrating IBM Watson into their operations, nonprofits can enhance their data-driven decision-making, improve donor engagement, and streamline their processes, ultimately increasing their impact.

A good place to start on the continuing ed path would be Strategic AI in HR through
Mercy University

​Lots of training out there - and some of it’s free!  LinkedIn and Google are offering a number of different courses at no cost.  There are others available at a variety of price points.​

Workforce Development -​Taking a holistic approach to ​grow local and regional economies
​eda.gov/funding-opportunities


New AI Tool Can Identify “Invisible Cancer” During Brain Surgery: Study
Zoom abandons its video-based identity, rebranding as an AI-first company

​

In rebuilding my web site portal and moving to a new host after 14 years with the past company, i had the task of freshening up much of the information and i wanted to have stylized graphics that were consistent across my site. I used Microsoft Co-pilot to accomplish this below is some of the picture/graphics I created and am using on my various pages.

Buy books about AI on Amazon

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​Google, Harvard, and more have released FREE AI courses Here are 8 courses to master AI in 2025...

1. Google AI Courses Google offers 5 different courses to learn generative AI from the ground up. Start with an Introduction to AI and finish having a solid understanding of AI as a whole. ⁠

2. Microsoft AI Course Microsoft offers an AI course that covers the basics and then more. Start off with an introduction and continue through learning about neural networks and deep learning. ⁠

​3. Introduction to AI with Python Harvard University is offering a full 7-week course to explore the concepts and algorithms of AI. Start with the technologies behind AI and end with knowledge of AI principles and machine learning libraries. ⁠

4. Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT This 6 module course by Vanderbilt University offers beginners a starting point to writing better prompts. Start by learning effective prompting and complete the course knowing how to bend ChatGPT to your will. ⁠

5. ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Devs OpenAI in collab with DeepLearning is offering this course taught by Isa Fulford and Andrew Ng. Start off with best practices and finish with a better understanding of prompting with hands-on practice. ⁠

6. LLMOps Google Cloud in collab with DeepLearning is offering this brand new course taught by Erwin Huizenga. Go through the LLMOps pipeline of pre-processing training data and adapt a supervised tuning pipeline to train and deploy a custom LLM. ⁠

7. Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Ethics In this 4 module course, the University of California - Davis covers big data and introduces IBM's Watson. Start by learning about big data opportunities and end knowing the limitations of AI. ⁠

​8. AI Applications and Prompt Engineering edX has an introductory course on prompt engineering that goes beyond the basics. Start by learning the basics and end knowing how to create your own applications.

​aiforgood.itu.int

​AI for Good was established in 2017 by the International Telecommunication Union, the United Nations agency for digital technologies. The platform is co-convened with the Government of Switzerland and in partnership UN agencies. Its founding mission is to leverage the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive progress toward achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (S... Wikipedia

Unions and AI

​Unions have a nuanced view of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the hiring process. Here are some key perspectives:

1. Transparency and Fairness: Unions advocate for transparency in how AI tools are used in hiring. They emphasize the need for clear guidelines to ensure that AI does not perpetuate biases or discriminate against certain groups[1].
2. Job Security: There is concern that AI could lead to job displacement. Unions are pushing for safeguards to protect workers from being unfairly replaced by AI technologies[2].
3. Worker Involvement: Unions believe that workers should have a say in how AI is implemented in the workplace. They argue that collective bargaining can help ensure AI tools are used in ways that benefit workers, such as improving productivity without compromising job quality[1].
4. Regulation and Oversight: Unions support regulatory measures to oversee the use of AI in hiring. They advocate for policies that prevent the misuse of AI, such as using it for anti-union purposes or invasive surveillance[2].
5. Training and Adaptation: Unions also emphasize the importance of training programs to help workers adapt to new technologies. They argue that employers should invest in upskilling their workforce to ensure that employees can work alongside AI tools effectively[1].

Overall, while unions recognize the potential benefits of AI, they stress the importance of implementing it in a way that is fair, transparent, and beneficial to workers.

Is there a specific aspect of AI in hiring that you're particularly interested in?  Ask Professor John

References
[1] Unions Give Workers a Voice Over How AI Affects Their Jobs
[2] Belaboring the Algorithm: Artificial Intelligence and Labor Unions
[3] How AI and Intelligent Data Transformed a Major Labor Union
​

​Several unions have expressed opposition to the use of AI in the hiring process due to concerns about fairness, transparency, and job security. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Service Employees International Union (SEIU): SEIU has raised concerns about AI potentially perpetuating biases and discrimination in hiring. They advocate for transparency and strict regulations to ensure AI tools are used fairly[1].
   
2. American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO): The AFL-CIO has been vocal about the risks of AI in hiring, particularly regarding job displacement and the lack of accountability in AI decision-making processes[2].
   
3. Communication Workers of America (CWA): CWA has opposed the use of AI in hiring due to concerns about surveillance and the potential for AI to be used in anti-union activities[2].
   
4. United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW): UFCW has highlighted the need for regulations to prevent AI from being used to unfairly screen out candidates and to ensure that AI tools do not undermine workers' rights[3].
   

These unions emphasize the importance of involving workers in decisions about AI implementation and ensuring that AI tools are used in ways that promote fairness and equity.
Is there a specific concern about AI in hiring that you would like to explore further?

References
[1] Unions Give Workers a Voice Over How AI Affects Their Jobs
[2] Belaboring the Algorithm: Artificial Intelligence and Labor Unions
[3] How labor unions are putting checks on AI - POLITICO