February Chamber Forum | Can My Business Afford to Ignore AI?

Description

The Thurston County Chamber invites business and community leaders to the February Chamber Forum on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin’s University. This month’s program takes a forward-looking dive into one of the most pressing issues facing employers today: how artificial intelligence is transforming business, the workforce, and our regional economy.

The Forum will be led by John Hansman of truit, who will offer a high-level, strategic perspective on the rapid acceleration of AI, and what leaders need to know to stay competitive. His message is clear: If your business isn’t using AI, you will be left behind.

John will explore:

How AI and the digital age are reshaping work across industries

What the workforce may look like in 10–25 years, and the trends already emerging

The impact of retiring baby boomers, demographic shifts, and nationwide labor shortages

Why automation, technology adoption, and a strong immigration pipeline will be essential to long-term economic growth

What it means to be AI-ready in 2026, and how organizations can begin preparing now

As businesses confront rapid change, including productivity pressures, evolving employee expectations, and unprecedented technological adoption, this Forum offers clarity, direction, and practical insights for decision-makers.

  Thank you to this month's event sponsors:

Edward Jones - Dirk Farrar