AI for the Rest of Us: Knoxville’s EmberRidge AI Announces Beginner Workshop Series
If you feel like Artificial Intelligence is moving faster than you can keep up with, you aren’t alone. Fortunately, a Knoxville-based business is bridging that gap right in our own backyard.
This May and June, EmberRidge AI is teaming up with the Farragut Community Center, Karns Senior Center, and West Knox Senior Center to launch a series of in-person AI workshops. Unlike expensive or intimidating tech seminars, these affordable sessions are designed for local residents who want practical, jargon-free knowledge. Instead of a generic online tutorial, you’ll find a hands-on, face-to-face environment where you can ask questions in real-time and learn alongside your neighbors.
Demystifying the Hype
- The series kicks off with “Artificial Intelligence Demystified.” This isn’t a coding class; it’s a high-level look at how AI is changing daily life. Attendees will get an honest look at the pros and cons of the technology, with a heavy emphasis on safety and privacy.
- The session includes live demonstrations of the big names you’ve heard in the news, like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot, and NotebookLM. It shows how they can be used for simple things like organizing hobbies or streamlining communication.
Hands-On AI Training
- For those ready to dive in, the second workshop, “Start Using AI in Real Life,” turns talk into action. Participants will:
- Get Set Up: Walk through the process of safely loading AI tools onto a smartphone.
- Master the “Prompt”: Learn the art of “prompting”- the specific way of asking questions to get the most helpful answers.
- Practical Practice: Use AI to plan trips, summarize long articles, or help with writing projects.
“We are excited to work with our community partners to bring affordable AI literacy workshops directly to our neighborhoods,” says Kerry Hoerth, Founder of EmberRidge AI.
In an era where technology can feel isolating, these workshops offer a chance to learn in a social, supportive environment. Whether you are a senior looking to stay connected or a resident curious about the latest tech, these sessions offer a low-pressure entry point.
Are you part of a local organization? EmberRidge AI is seeking additional community organizations, churches, or clubs interested in hosting these affordable AI literacy sessions. Email Kerry.Hoerth@EmberRidgeAI.com to discuss scheduling a workshop for your group.
