'AI gives us the ability to leverage that data more efficiently,' says panellist ahead of summit in Calgary
This year’s Women in Safety Summit is set to be a vibrant hub of knowledge-sharing and professional development, bringing together industry leaders to discuss pressing safety topics. With its dynamic mix of panels, workshops, and networking opportunities, the summit offers a unique chance for safety professionals to connect, learn, and recharge their passion for workplace safety.
Among the standout events is the panel discussion, “The Impact of AI on the Safety Industry – Current Applications and Future Outlooks.” This timely session will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming safety practices, from predicting incidents and assessing risks in real time to optimizing protocols. Leading voices like Ashley McKie, director of health and safety at Inland Truck and Equipment, will tackle these critical issues.
“We collect gigantic data sets in safety,” McKie notes. “AI gives us the ability to leverage that data more efficiently, helping us achieve better results without requiring the manpower we often lack in safety departments. It’s an incredible opportunity to enhance our programs.”
From ethical concerns to practical solutions
The panel will also delve into AI’s ethical dimensions, including concerns about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and decision-making accountability. McKie emphasizes the need for balance: “Tools like AI can optimize communication, turning complex policies into podcasts or bite-sized training materials that frontline workers can absorb more easily. It’s about meeting people where they are.”
Adopting AI is not without challenges, and McKie acknowledges the barriers professionals face, such as costs and aligning new technologies with existing frameworks. “Safety departments often have limited resources, so tools that save time and streamline workflows—like AI-generated forms—can be game changers,” she explains.
Reconnecting and looking ahead
For McKie, the summit’s value goes beyond the panels. After years of limited in-person events, she sees it as a chance to reestablish connections and share insights with peers. “Safety can be daunting, especially when your role spans so many responsibilities,” she says. “This event reminds us why we do what we do and lets us learn from others in ways that inspire real change.”
With sessions designed to address challenges across industries, the Women in Safety Summit promises to equip attendees with fresh perspectives and practical tools.
“I hope this panel encourages more professionals to explore AI’s possibilities, whether they’re early adopters or just testing the waters. Even small steps can lead to significant improvements,” encourages McKie.
Set against the backdrop of Calgary’s vibrant professional community, the summit is poised to empower safety leaders as they navigate the challenges of today—and the opportunities of tomorrow.
