Exploring the future of AI with Maciej Mazur, Principal ML Engineer, Canonical

Ahead of World Summit AI (11th-12th October 2023, Taets Art & Event Park, Amsterdam), we asked Maciej Mazur, Principal ML Engineer at Canonical, his thoughts on the future of AI.

As an expert in the field, what critical challenges do you believe the AI community needs to address to ensure responsible & and ethical AI deployment?

I think the main challenge would be explainability. But not only on a traditional level, when we do it for legal reasons, but also ie. an LLM backed voice assistant explaining the user how it came to a certain conclusion.

In your opinion, what opportunities and challenges does AI present for job markets and workforce development worldwide?

As any new technical revolution, printing press, steam engine etc. AI will make many jobs obsolete ang create new different positions. So main thing it to look for a place for yourself in this new world coming from around the corner.

 

 

Can you share an example of an AI application or project that has personally impressed you, and explain why it stands out?
  

I was mostly impressed by LocalAI, as it allows you to efficiently use an LLM deployed locally, using open source models and keeping my data private with amazing user experience and low effort. 

 

What measures do you believe should be taken to bridge the AI research gap between developed and developing nations to ensure equitable technological progress?
  

I think open sourcing the tools and making them accessible is a key thing. It's also the main reason why I work for Canonical. To give the same tools to everyone, and level the playing field for silicon valley startup and a small village in the middle of nowhere (as I live in one of those :) )

 

What 2 people do you admire most in the world of AI in terms of their work?
  

Andrey Karpathy and Jensen Huang

 

What advice would you give to aspiring AI researchers and enthusiasts who want to make a positive impact in the field?
  

Make your work visible, publish a blog, podcast or videos and circulate the knowledge. That's how we speed up our development as humans.

If you could solve any global problem in the world with AI, what would it be and why?
  

Resource sharing and access to basics, food, and water. With vertical farming, hydroponics, de-salination, and solar power, orchestrated with AI, we can get to a point in 5-10 years where no child will be thirsty or starving. 

What inspired you to participate in this AI summit as a speaker, and what message do you hope to convey to the audience?
  

I love how vibrant and varied the AI community there is in Austin, and want to share my research with everyone there.