Start the year with AI clarity and traction: understand how it works in the morning, then build real outputs in a guided hackathon.

Here’s the reality: leaders know AI is transformative—and not going away. But many don’t know how to put it to work responsibly, securely, and at scale. The result is predictable: fear, misinformation, security anxiety, and pilots that never turn into sustained momentum.

This full-day experience gives you both the foundation and the repetitions to lead with confidence.

In the morning, we demystify AI by giving you an overview—what it is, how it works, and why it’s unlike past tech shifts—so leaders can make better decisions and communicate clearly in the middle of rapid change.

In the afternoon, you’ll apply that understanding in a guided hackathon where you get hands-on with tools in a safe, sandbox environment and produce tangible outputs you can bring back to your organization.

You’ll walk away with:

• A practical understanding of AI fundamentals (so decisions aren’t driven by hype or fear)
• A shared vocabulary and simple decision filters leaders can use immediately
• A HumAIn-first approach that builds trust and reduces resistance
• A pilot-ready path: selecting use cases, setting guardrails, and creating momentum
• Hands-on reps with tools—and real outputs you can bring back to your org

This event is proudly co-hosted by American Leadership Forum and Softway, uniting two communities committed to business and leadership transformation.

Softway, is a people-first consulting firm that helps businesses truly transform in areas of technology, communications, and culture. They have led enterprise leaders, Fortune 500 executives, and high-growth founders through complex change journeys, equipping them to lead with confidence in times of uncertainty.

Four leaders from Softway will be your facilitators for the event:

Mohammad Anwar ALF Class 59

Chris Pitre ALF Class 62

Jeff Ma ALF Class 64

Frank Danna ALF Class 65

HumAIn First is Softway’s human-first approach to AI transformation, ensuring that technology serves humanity rather than replaces it. Through thought-provoking discussions, real-world examples, and interactive exercises, you’ll uncover how to lead with empathy while embracing the opportunities of AI. Together, we’ll explore how trust, accountability, and connection can amplify the power of technology rather than diminish it. You’ll leave with practical tools to spark change in your organization and the confidence to navigate transformation with both head and heart.

Taking place at Amegy on Main in downtown Houston, the workshop begins with breakfast at 8:30am before diving into a day of learning, collaboration, and growth. Sessions will run from 9am to 4pm, with breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided to keep you energized. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to connect with peers, challenge assumptions, and reimagine what’s possible when humanity leads the way in transformation.

Open to leaders from every function and industry, no technical expertise required.

Note: By RSVPing, you understand and agree that photos and/or videos may be taken at the event, which may be used in future marketing materials.