Artificial Intelligence

AI 101 for Human Services Leaders

Led by: Dave Cole

Human services leaders are being asked to make decisions about AI, often without clear, shared definitions of what these systems are, how they work, or where they are already shaping service delivery. This session provides a practical, plain-language introduction to AI in human services, grounded in real operational contexts rather than hype.
Participants will explore how AI is currently used in areas such as eligibility determination, case management, fraud detection, and client communications. The session focuses on building informed leadership judgment: understanding what AI can and cannot do, where risks tend to emerge, and how leaders can ask better questions when evaluating tools, proposals, or pilots.
This workshop is designed for human services executives, program leaders, and managers who need a clear foundation to engage responsibly with AI initiatives.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
•    Distinguish between common types of AI systems and how they show up in human services operations
•    Identify current and emerging AI use cases across eligibility, case management, and client communication
•    Recognize common misconceptions and risks associated with AI adoption in high-stakes public programs
•    Ask informed, practical questions when evaluating AI proposals or vendor claims

This workshop is part of an InnovateUS Series called : AI and Human Services: Innovating to Serve People Better
Click here to view all workshops from this series
Dave Cole

Chief Innovation Officer, State of New Jersey.

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Moderated By

Rob Asaro Angelo

Senior Fellow, Burnes Center for Social Change & Professor, Northeastern University

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Format: online

Date & Time: March 23, 2026, 2:00 PM ET

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