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Critical Connect Conference
Occurring on February 3, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the 2026 Critical Connect Conference, hosted by the University of Toronto’s Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE), is a full-day exploration of the transformative power of artificial intelligence in real-world applications. This conference will be located in the Myhal Centre for Engineering Innovation & Entrepreneurship, 5th Floor Atrium.
Under the theme “AI in Practice: Responsible Innovation, Real-World Impact,” the conference brings together leaders in AI research, technology, and policy to examine how AI is reshaping industries and society. Discussions span enterprise strategy, data privacy, ethical innovation, and regulatory frameworks – highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of applying AI responsibly at scale.
Highlights include:
- Expert panel on the practical implications of AI across sectors
- Debate session on the gap between AI hype and real-world impact
Throughout the day, attendees can explore a graduate student research poster presentation and engage in AI-themed roundtable discussions over lunch. The event will also include a tour of ECE’s state-of-the-art research labs during the afternoon open house.
Agenda
| 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. | Breakfast |
| 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. |
Opening Remarks Professor Chris Yip, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, and Professor Deepa Kundur, Chair of The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering |
| 10:30 -11:30 a.m. | Panel Discussion: AI in Practice: Responsible Innovation, Real-World Impact
Moderator: George Babu, Founder, Aire Labs Panellists
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| 11:30 – 11:45 a.m. | Break |
| 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Debate: AI in Practice: Examining the Real World Impact
Moderator: Isi Caulder, Principal, Smart & Biggar LP Participants
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| 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. | Lunch: AI-Themed Roundtables
Host: Isi Caulder, Principal, Smart & Biggar LP |
| 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. |
U of T ECE Labs Open House
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