Inventing the Future of Learning and Work

C21U’s 2025 symposium, Inventing the Future of Learning and Work, was held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Georgia Tech Global Learning Center.

The half-day symposium brought together thought leaders from academia and industry to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of work, particularly in manufacturing, and how higher education institutions can align learning pathways with the evolving demands of the labor market.

Learn more about the panelists and presenters.

PROGRAM

AI in Manufacturing

This panel session brings together thought leaders from academia and industry to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of work, particularly in manufacturing. As AI technologies drive unprecedented efficiency and innovation, they also create new challenges for workers, businesses, and educational institutions.

Our distinguished panelists will discuss:

The evolving relationship between humans and intelligent systems in production environments
How academic research can address emerging workforce needs
Strategies for developing educational programs that prepare students for AI-augmented careers
Ethical considerations in AI implementation and workforce transition
Case studies of successful academia-industry partnerships

Join us for this timely conversation about fostering collaboration between research institutions and industry partners to ensure technological advancement creates opportunities for all stakeholders in tomorrow's economy.

Moderator: Executive Director C21U Steve Harmon
Panelists: GTPE Project Management Academic Program Director Chris Carter, Assistant Director of the Center for Economic Development Research Leigh Hopkins, Georgia Tech AI Academic Program Director Tim Brown

STEVE HARMON

CHRIS CARTER

LEIGH HOPKINS

TIM BROWN

The C21U Roadmap for the Future of Education: AI, Innovation, and the Next Frontier

The talk delves into C21U’s mission to revolutionize and shape the future of learning and foster lifelong education.

Presenter: Jeonghyun (Jonna) Lee, Director of Research in Education Innovation, C21U

JONNA LEE

The Future of Digital Credentials: Intersecting the Value of Lifetime Learning

The College of Lifetime Learning is building the future of academic digital credentials, enabling learners to carry verifiable evidence of their academic achievements throughout their careers.

Presenter: Eric Scott Sembrat, Director of Digital Learning Technologies, C21U

ERIC SEMBRAT

The Future of Learning

The future of learning lies at the intersection of education, workforce development, and economic opportunity. This session brings together leaders from academia, workforce research, and skill-building to explore how institutions can align learning pathways with the evolving demands of the labor market. Panelists will discuss strategies for fostering economic mobility through skills-based education, creating sustainable partnerships between universities and industries, and leveraging data-driven insights to shape educational programs. Together, we will envision a dynamic and inclusive learning ecosystem that prepares individuals for success in a rapidly changing world.

Moderator: Inaugural Interim Dean of the College of Lifetime Learning Nelson Baker
Panelists: Co-founder of Skill Bridge Foundation Art Recesso, Vice Provost for Graduate and Postdoctoral Education Bonnie Ferri, Executive Director of Programs at the Burning Glass Institute Stuart Andreason.