AI Master Class 3: Local AI and Agents for Business Automation

Explore how artificial intelligence can help automate everyday business tasks using locally run AI models and AI agents. This hands-on master class includes two complementary, two-hour sessions introducing practical ways to organize information, evaluate customer feedback, and create automated notifications.

Part One: Local AI—Getting Started introduces locally run AI using Meta’s open-source Llama model. Participants will explore how local AI works, how to switch between models, and how these tools can support business processes at a low cost.

Part Two: AI Agents—Putting Automation to Work explores how AI agents can review information and trigger actions. Using customer service feedback as an example, participants will work through an instructor-guided project that reviews emails, identifies priority concerns, and sends text notifications based on urgency. Participants will receive sample Python code to adapt for their own notification needs.

Designed for faculty, staff, business professionals, and community members, this class requires no previous programming experience. Participants will leave with sample code and practical ideas for applying AI automation in their workplace.

What to bring: A laptop with reliable internet access and permission to download software and run local files. Activities will use Meta’s Llama model, Python, and Gmail. Specific setup instructions and computer requirements will be provided before class.