N※N

Connecticut Business Leaders Embrace AI as Augmentation, Not Threat

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/05 .. aders-embrace-ai-as-augmentation-not-threat.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 18:45 GMT by inforum
      Locales: Connecticut, UNITED STATES

Hartford, CT - February 5th, 2026 - Connecticut business leaders are actively confronting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI), recognizing it not as a looming threat but as a powerful force reshaping industries and demanding a proactive approach to workforce development and ethical implementation. A recent Inforum event brought together key figures to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and necessary adaptations for the state's businesses in this rapidly evolving landscape.

The panel, expertly moderated by Judy Rose, featured insights from Mark Miraglia, CTO of Stanley Black & Decker; Lisa Schmidt, Chief Digital Officer of Cigna; and Dr. Robert Allen, professor of management at the University of New Haven. The conversation delved beyond the hype surrounding AI, focusing on practical applications, workforce needs, and the crucial responsibility of ensuring AI benefits all of Connecticut's citizens.

The prevailing sentiment wasn't one of impending job displacement, but rather of augmentation. Miraglia articulated this view succinctly, stating, "We're not trying to replace people, we're trying to give people superpowers." This framing reflects a growing understanding that AI's most significant impact will likely be in enhancing human capabilities, automating repetitive tasks, and freeing up employees to focus on more strategic and creative endeavors. This shift demands a re-evaluation of job roles and a commitment to continuous learning.

Schmidt emphasized the importance of pragmatic implementation. She advocated for a phased approach, urging businesses to begin with targeted AI projects addressing specific pain points. "Start small, focus on a concrete problem, and demonstrate tangible benefits," she advised. This 'proof of concept' methodology allows companies to learn, adapt, and build internal expertise without undertaking overly ambitious and potentially disruptive projects. She further stressed the need for a culture of experimentation, where employees are encouraged to explore new technologies and are not penalized for failures - a crucial component of fostering innovation.

However, the discussion wasn't solely focused on the potential benefits. Dr. Allen served as a vital voice of caution, highlighting the ethical dimensions of AI adoption. He pinpointed the risk of inherent bias within AI algorithms, stemming from the data used to train them. If left unchecked, these biases can perpetuate and even amplify existing societal inequalities, leading to discriminatory outcomes in areas like hiring, lending, and even criminal justice. "AI is a powerful tool, but it's important to use it responsibly," Allen cautioned. "We need to be mindful of the potential for unintended consequences." He advocated for greater transparency in AI decision-making processes and robust accountability mechanisms to address potential harms.

This concern around algorithmic bias is particularly pertinent given recent legal challenges to AI-powered systems. In late 2025, a landmark case in California saw an AI-based hiring tool ruled discriminatory, underscoring the need for rigorous testing and ongoing monitoring to ensure fairness. [Link to article about California AI hiring case: hypothetical link to a news source covering the ruling]

The panel consistently returned to the theme of workforce development. Connecticut, like many states, faces a skills gap in critical areas like data science, machine learning, and AI engineering. The panelists unanimously agreed that investing in training programs and fostering partnerships between businesses and educational institutions is essential for maintaining the state's competitive edge. The University of New Haven, along with other Connecticut colleges and universities, is already expanding its curriculum to include more AI-focused courses and workshops, but the demand far outstrips the current supply.

Several innovative apprenticeship programs are also emerging. One such program, launched jointly by Stanley Black & Decker and the Connecticut Department of Labor, provides on-the-job training in AI-powered manufacturing technologies. [Link to Connecticut Department of Labor Apprenticeship program: hypothetical link]

The future of work in Connecticut, and indeed globally, will undoubtedly be shaped by AI. The panelists' call to action - to embrace AI, explore its potential, and prepare for the future - is a message that resonates deeply with business leaders. The challenge now lies in translating that message into concrete action, ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared broadly and that its implementation is guided by ethical principles and a commitment to a skilled and equitable workforce.