Explore practical AI beyond the hype. Live demos, real use cases, and expert insight from Microsoft MVP Lewis Prince. Q&A to follow.

Speaker

 Lewis Prince

Agenda

18:30 - Arrival/Networking

19:00 - Talk 

19:45 - Roundtable Q&A and food

20:45 - MyBCS - Getting involved

21:00 - Event End

Synopsis

Join us for an insightful roundtable session that cuts through the hype and headlines to explore the practical realities of artificial intelligence.
Our featured speaker will demystify AI by addressing common misconceptions — it’s not just about ChatGPT or self-driving cars. In this session, we’ll explore how AI can deliver measurable value across any industry.

Expect live demonstrations showcasing the power of Microsoft’s Azure AI services, CoPilot Studio, and Azure AutoML — including natural language processing, chatbot frameworks, and predictive analytics in action.

We’ll bring these concepts to life with real-world use cases drawn from Manufacturing, Retail, Leisure, Education, and Security — offering inspiration for how AI can support innovation in Shropshire and beyond.

Following the presentation, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in an interactive Q&A, designed to spark conversation, share ideas, and foster a collaborative outlook on AI’s role in our communities and businesses.

Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or already on your journey, this session will equip you with practical insights and fresh perspectives.

About the speaker

Lewis Prince is a Microsoft AI MVP and AI Engineer at Purple Frog Systems Ltd, where he pioneers intelligent solutions across Azure’s AI ecosystem.

With a background in Statistics for Computational Biology and Biochemistry, Lewis brings a rigorous, data-first mindset to building impactful systems — particularly in the realms of chatbots, natural language processing, and predictive analytics.

Before joining Purple Frog Systems, Lewis spent several years as a Quantitative Analyst in the Life and Pensions sector, sharpening his expertise in statistical modelling and Python/R development.

His technical toolkit includes Synapse Analytics, ML Studio, and Cognitive Services — all underpinned by a growing affinity for Spark and scalable data solutions.

Our events are for adults aged 16 years and over.

BCS is a membership organisation. If you enjoy this event, please consider joining BCS. You’ll be very welcome. You’ll receive access to many exclusive career development tools, an introduction to a thriving professional community and also help us Make IT Good For Society. Join BCS today

Please note: if you have any accessibility needs, please let us know via groups@bcs.uk and we’ll work with you to make suitable arrangements.

For overseas delegates who wish to attend the event, please note that BCS does not issue invitation letters. 

This event is brought to you by: Nottingham and Derby branch

Roundtable Event: “AI – What, Why, and How?”
Date and time
Monday 7 July, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location
Wellington Cock Hotel
148 Holyhead Rd
Wellington
Telford
TF1 2D
Price
Free