The first cohort of VU School of Business and Economics Executive Education’s newest program—built on four years of ethnographic research—has completed their journey! As AI technologies like GenAI reshape workplaces, this program equips managers with the strategies to develop, implement, and use AI responsibly
After eight weeks of exploring the complexities of AI in organizations, the first participants of the Managing AI WISEly postgraduate program have completed their journey. The program bridges AI theory with real-world organizational challenges, covering topics such as data organization, testing & validation, algorithmic brokering, and change management. The program was developed by the researchers of the AI@Work group (KIN Center for Digital Innovation) in collaboration with practitioners, based on the insights of the four years of research on how AI is developed and applied within organizations.
On the last day of the program, participants went on a fieldtrip to RTL, the country's largest all-round commercial TV and entertainment company. The visit, hosted by Jana Retkowsky and Daan Odijk, RTL’s Head of Data & AI, provided an engaging and insightful experience, featuring a behind-the-scenes tour, discussions, presentations, and a hackathon.
Key Takeaways from the Program
Throughout the eight weeks, students gained valuable insights and practical expertise, including:
- A solid understanding of AI technologies, including generative AI and its distinctions from other tools
- In-depth knowledge of real-world AI applications, from development to implementation
- Best practices for managing AI in organizations
- A critical perspective on AI’s intended outcomes, ripple effects, and unintended consequences
- Strategies for bringing together developers, domain experts, and stakeholders to ensure responsible AI implementation
The success of the program would not have been possible without the dedication of the program director and AI@Work research group founder Marleen Huysman, along with the teaching team—Lauren Waardenburg, Anne-Sophie Mayer, Reza M Baygi, Francesco Balocco, and Marijn Plomp—who also coordinated the program.
Congratulations to the first cohort! We look forward to seeing how they apply their knowledge in shaping the future of AI.