Understanding AI Agents: What They Are and Why They Matter

You have heard the term 'AI agents'. But what does it actually mean — and should it concern you, excite you, or both?

This 4-hour session answers those questions clearly and without hype. We start with the fundamental shift that agents represent: from AI that responds to questions to AI that pursues goals. Through live demonstrations, you will see this difference in action — and understand what it means for how work gets done.

The session is deliberately observational rather than deeply hands-on. You will watch, discuss, and reflect rather than build or configure. The goal is a clear mental model you can take back to your organisation: what agents can do, what they cannot yet do reliably, and where they are most likely to affect your role in the next two to three years.

We will also discuss governance: who is responsible when an AI agent makes a decision? How do you maintain oversight? These questions sit at the intersection of AI governance and everyday management and matter to everyone, regardless of technical background.

No prior knowledge of AI is required. Curiosity is the only prerequisite.