For leaders in Learning & Development, the age of AI presents a fundamental choice: will we be administrators of new tools, or will we become architects of a new, more capable workforce?

While many conversations get lost in the hype, this session is a focused, practical guide to navigating the real organizational shifts required to make AI work. We will move beyond the headlines to address the core L&D challenge: our functions have been historically siloed, separating training from assessment, and assessment from on-the-job support. Join Dr. Markus Bernhardt to explore how AI can act as the "Great Unifier," and learn a clear, repeatable process for leading that integration.

Speaker Details:

Dr. Markus Bernhardt is a globally recognized AI strategist and tech visionary known for his balanced approach to technology, innovation, and learning. With deep experience in learning and training, Markus advises organizations and governments worldwide on integrating AI to empower people and foster organizational growth. A sought-after keynote speaker, author, and trusted voice in the field, he shares forward-thinking perspectives that inspire a future where technology and human potential intersect, redefining what's possible in workforce transformation.

June 2025, Dr. Bernhardt published The Endeavor Report™, a new intelligence briefing about the state of applied workforce solutions. After going deep with eight pioneering organizations, Markus synthesized their hard-won lessons into a single, 100% vendor-neutral publication that includes practical, adaptable solutions and insights. He is providing the report as a free resource and hopes that it serves you well. 

Session Details: 

This is not a lecture; it is a hands-on strategy session.

Working through a live, real-world case study, you will learn and apply a series of powerful strategic tools. This is a unique opportunity to pressure-test your own ideas and architect a smarter approach to AI in your organization.

In this dynamic session, you will learn how to:

• Apply a powerful diagnostic method to assess the true strategic purpose of any AI initiative, avoiding costly misalignments.
• Use a proven blueprint to design integrated learning solutions that holistically Train, Assess, and Support your people.
• Build a sophisticated, C-suite-ready business case that articulates value across four critical dimensions: Financial, Operational, People & Culture, and Strategic.
• Develop a focused pilot program for your ideas, designed to de-risk innovation and generate credible data that builds momentum.

You Will Leave With:

• A clear methodology for leading AI projects from diagnosis to a de-risked pilot plan.
• The ability to build a more compelling and holistic business case for your initiatives.
• Lots of great conversations and networking to take back into your projects in the upcoming weeks and months.
• This session is designed for L&D leaders and practitioners who are ready to move from reacting to the AI revolution to actively architecting its future.

APTD and CPTD Approved The San Diego Chapter is pre-approved by the ATD Certification Institute to offer programs that can be used towards initial eligibility and recertification of the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) credentials. This event qualifies for 2.0 points!

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