Join an inspiring conversation with U.S. Representative Don Beyer, Vice Chair of the bipartisan AI Caucus, about his journey into AI at 72, the AI Foundation Model Transparency Act, and discussions on AI policy regulations, ethical considerations, and AI's impact on healthcare.
Rep. Beyer leads AI legislation initiatives in Congress.
AI has potential to revolutionize healthcare and human longevity.
Deep dives
Congressman's Journey Into the Science Committee and AI
The congressman shares his journey from high school love for math to his interest in science and AI policy in college. Despite initially pursuing physics, he transitioned to a career in the car business. Later in Congress, his interest in science led to appointments in the science committee, where he found fascination in topics like climate change and NASA oversight.
AI Course Experience and Return to Education
Reflecting on his AI learning journey, the congressman recalls his first encounter with AI courses on Coursera, where he struggled due to lack of programming and math skills. A pivotal moment occurred when he took courses at a local university, reigniting his passion for learning, leading to mastery in Python and Java. His pursuit now focuses on obtaining a master's degree in machine learning.
Congressman's Advocacy and Engaging with AI Policy
The congressman highlights the evolution of his engagement with AI, celebrating AI-driven advancements in healthcare, including early cancer diagnosis and precise radiation treatment. He emphasizes his optimism about AI's potential in extending human lifespan, with the belief that the use of artificial intelligence will revolutionize biology and healthcare practices.
Future of AI in Healthcare and Optimism for AI Impact
The congressman underscores the transformation AI brings to personalized cancer treatments, discussing advances in radiation therapy precision. He mentions the impactful role AI plays in predicting health trends, supporting the possibility of increased human longevity. He remains optimistic about AI's ability to unlock mysteries in biology and the human brain, projecting a future where AI shapes healthcare innovation.
At the age of 72, U.S. Representative Don Beyer of Virginia enrolled at GMU to pursue a Master’s degree in C.S. with a concentration in Machine Learning.
Rep. Beyer is Vice Chair of the bipartisan Artificial Intelligence Caucus & Vice Chair of the NDC’s AI Working Group. He is the author of the AI Foundation Model Transparency Act & a lead cosponsor of the CREATE AI Act, the Federal Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Act & the Artificial Intelligence Environmental Impacts Act.
We hope you tune into this inspiring, nonpartisan conversation with Rep. Beyer about his decision to dive into the deep end of the AI pool & his leadership in bringing that expertise to Capitol Hill.
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