Intersections: AI, Skills and the Future of Work
- Date
- February 12, 2026
- Time
- 5:30 PM EST - 7:30 PM EST
- Location
- Paletta Mansion, 4250 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, ON
Description
The Canadian AI paradox is that we lead in the development of technology but lag in its adoption. It is critical that Canada carve a path that takes advantage of the massive opportunities while avoiding the equally massive and largely unknown threats. Recent research shows that uncertainty is impeding innovation on the one hand but inaction is also increasing risks. For example, growing numbers of employees are using AI often without their employer’s knowledge or guidance. AI literacy is no longer an option — it is foundational, along with the skills to drive responsible AI adoption and the deep technology skills needed to maintain Canada’s global leadership while reducing rather than exacerbating the digital divide. Join Dr. Wendy Cukier, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Founder of the Diversity Institute for a discussion about AI and its implications for the future of work.
Speaker
Dr. Wendy Cukier
Dr. Wendy Cukier, MA, MBA, PhD, LLD (HC) DU (HC) M.S.C. is a professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Founder and Academic Director of the Diversity Institute, and Academic Research Director of the Future Skills Centre. Formerly the Vice President of Research and Innovation, Wendy has written more than 200 papers on technology, innovation and management. She co-authored the bestseller “Innovation Nation: Canadian Leadership from Java to Jurassic Park” and is a leader in disruptive technologies and innovation. Launched in 1999, the Diversity Institute now has 80 full time research staff, 10 hubs across the country, and 300 partners, undertaking research and evidence based programs to advance growth, sustainability, innovation and inclusion. As the Academic Research Director for the Future Skill Centre, Wendy has helped design, implement and evaluate FSC programs as well as specific projects focused on advancing digital skills, and AI adoption, training platform for small and medium enterprises, nonprofits and municipalities, and capacity building and leadership development projects. Current projects are focused on the impact of demographic shifts, trade disruption and the impact of technology particularly AI and their implications for the workforce and skills development. She has received many academic, industry and community awards for her work and was named one of the “100 alumni who shaped the century” by the University of Toronto. She holds an MA, MBA (Toronto), a PhD in Information Systems (Schulich, York) and two honorary doctorates (Concordia, Laval).
Location
Paletta Mansion (external link, opens in new window) , 4250 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, ON