PDA Event: AI + Accessibility: Why Keeping Humans in the Loop Matters

Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 12:00pm to 1:00pm

In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping communication, access, and our daily lives, it’s crucial that we don’t lose sight of the people at the center. This talk explores the intersection of AI and accessibility - and why human judgment, empathy, and oversight are more important than ever.

In this session, we’ll dive into:

  • How AI tools are being used to improve accessibility (and where they fall short)
  • Real-world challenges that arise when AI replaces or overshadows human input
  • Best practices for designing AI systems that include people - not push them aside
  • Practical strategies for keeping people “in the loop” so that technology empowers, rather than excludes

Whether you’re a designer, developer, educator, policy advocate, or simply curious about the future of technology, you’ll come away with insight and actionable ideas for building more inclusive AI-powered systems.

Presenter:

Valerie Lockhart serves as Executive Director of the MN Tech Network and is the founder of the Minnesota Women in Tech. She is passionate about liberty, accessibility, and universal design, and spends most of her time helping people learn how to leverage technology and media to become more self-sufficient and successful.

Register to attend.

Hosted by Minitex