WA Monthly Wrap Up - August 24

 
 

Welcome to the August 2024 wrap-up from your WA branch, highlighting the key activities and events that brought our community together and showcasing our shared achievements and memorable moments. 

ACS Tech On The "Perils and Pleasures of Generative AI – A Legal View

Generative AI offers exciting opportunities for quick, cost-effective content creation, but it also brings a host of complex legal issues. Presented by Natasha Blycha and Schellie-Jayne Price from Stirling & Rose Legal, this ACS tech forum session emphasised the importance of responsible AI implementation, balancing innovation, ethics, and regulation. 
 
Highlights included:

  • Legal and ethical considerations of GenAI and AI-generated content, focusing on intellectual property.

  • The value and quality of data in an AI-driven world.

  • Fascinating case studies and examaples showcasing real-world legal challenges with Generative AI. 

Thanks to Natasha Blycha and Schellie-Jayne Price for sharing their fascinating and though provoking insights.  
 
Join us for our next forum event , ' Cyber Resilience, Mastering Incident Response & Ransomware Management', where industry expert Peter Gigengack provides invaluable insights to strengthen your organisation's resilience against cyber threats.  

ACS Educators’ Committee and WA Member Wins Education Award.

Following her nomination in early August, ACS ICT Educators’ Committee member Michelle Chomiak was awarded the Fish Nankivell Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Non-Government category at the 2024 Australian Education Awards.

This accolade recognised Michelle's exceptional contributions to her school and the broader computer science education community in Perth and Australia, as well as her unwavering passion for STEM and digital technology education.

Michelle's commitment to advancing technology and STEM fields, especially encouraging more girls and women to participate, made a significant impact on our educational community in the view of the judges.

ACS would like to congratulate Michelle on her well-deserved recognition and thank her for her contribution to the Educators’ Committee and the wider sector. Read more about her inspiring work and how you can make an impact with volunteering and career transition opportunities.

WA Branch - Making an Impact in Information Technology

ACS West Australian Branch panel session on the 20th of August, "Making an Impact in Information Technology," was an inspiring and insightful event that brought together IT professionals at various stages of their careers. The event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to explore how they can leave a lasting mark in the field of Information Technology, regardless of where they currently stand in their professional journey. 
 
The panel facilitated by Brian von Konsky PhD(Curtin) FACS CP, and featured distinguished ACS Fellows Jan Kornweibel CF FACS, Nigel Chartres, Jim Ellis OAM, Mark Jackson, and Valerie Maxville. 
 
Their shared experiences and wisdom served as a beacon for all attendees, including students, emerging professionals, and mid-career individuals seeking to carve out impactful careers. Through their personal stories and examples, the panellists highlighted the importance of passion, drive, and innovation in shaping a successful and fulfilling IT career. 
 
Attendees gained valuable insights into how to differentiate themselves in a competitive job market and how striving for excellence can propel their careers to new heights. The session was more than just a discussion; it was a catalyst for reflection and action, encouraging IT professionals to think critically about their roles in the industry and how they can continue to drive positive change.

As we conclude this month’s review, we extend a formal invitation for you to engage more deeply with our upcoming events and community initiatives. As a valued member, your presence enriches our gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. We also recognise the expertise you bring, and we encourage you to share your knowledge and insights to contribute to the growth and success of our community. Your involvement is crucial in shaping the future of our branch, and we look forward to your continued participation in the months ahead.

Explore our upcoming events here

Until next time,

ACS WA Team