Computer Networks Tech Talk on Telecom Reimagined in the Age of AI

Abstract:

This talk explores how the telecommunications industry stands at a defining inflection point — one that will determine whether telcos remain relevant or risk being outpaced by the AI revolution. The talk examines why becoming Autonomous and AI-native is no longer optional but existential. It highlights the danger of clinging to legacy thinking — deterministic processes, static architectures, and manual assurance — and contrasts it with the immense opportunity ahead: networks that can sense, decide, and act on their own. By embracing AI-native design principles and intent-driven operations, telcos can transform from service providers into intelligent platforms — enabling new forms of value creation, resilience, and innovation in the AI age.

Speaker:

Dr. Ali Tizghadam is a TELUS Fellow and the Chief Automation Architect within the CTO team, spearheading TELUS’s transformation toward self-driving networks using the TM Forum Autonomous Networks (AN) framework. With over 25 years of experience in the telecom industry, Ali brings a unique blend of deep technical expertise and seasoned leadership, having served as VP of Innovation, Director of R&D, startup founder, and technical executive. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto.