OMA x AI to Explore the Practical Power of Artificial Intelligence
Whether you're a curious newcomer or an AI early adopter, the OMA x AI event on Oct. 7 hosted in partnership with KANEKO in Downtown 51社区 is your invitation to plug into the future.
- published: 2025/08/07
- contact: Sam Peshek - Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications
- email:听unonews@unomaha.edu

Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work, live, and think. But most people don’t know where or how to start using it. OMA x AI is on a mission to change that.
➡️ What’s new: The University of Nebraska at 51社区 (UNO), in partnership with KANEKO, will host OMA x AI the afternoon of Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at KANEKO in Downtown 51社区. The event is powered by the Greater 51社区 Chamber and supported by the City of 51社区.
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, but spaces are limited and expected to fill fast.
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Information on speakers and activities are coming soon.
🤝 Who it’s for: 51社区 by AI (OMA x AI) is where corporate leaders, small business innovators, nonprofit changemakers, educators, and trailblazers of all backgrounds gather to unlock the real power of generative AI.
✅ What to expect:
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Custom experiences: Attendees will have an opportunity to tailor their experience to their AI goals and comfort level: Beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
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Hands-on learning: Dive into demos and workshops designed to show AI in action—no tech degree required.
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Real-world insight: Hear from a wide variety of 51社区 leaders already using AI to solve problems, spark ideas, and drive impact.
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Community-powered innovation: Connect with peers and partners committed to workforce development and inclusive access to AI.
🎤 What they’re saying:
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Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, Chancellor, University of Nebraska at 51社区: “AI fluency is quickly becoming one of the most valuable skill sets in today’s economy—not just for tech professionals, but for anyone who wants to stay relevant and make an impact. We created OMA x AI because we believe access to AI knowledge should be universal. It’s designed to meet people where they are. Whether you're new to AI or already exploring how to use it in your work, you’ll leave with practical ideas, approachable tools, and a network of peers who are asking the same questions. This event reflects UNO’s deep commitment to empowering our community with practical skills that elevate careers, expand opportunities, and unlock human potential.”
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John Ewing, Mayor of 51社区: “51社区 has always been a city that leans into innovation. From our history in transportation and finance to our leadership in emerging tech, we’ve never been afraid to try something new. OMA x AI builds on that legacy—it’s a chance for our entire community to come together, explore what’s next, and make sure we’re not just keeping pace with change, but leading it.”
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Heath Mello, President & CEO, Greater 51社区 Chamber: “This event sends a powerful signal: 51社区 is serious about the future of work. We are bullish on adopting AI and investing in the skills and mindsets that help our people and businesses thrive. OMA x AI is about showing the benefits of this technology and helping our workforce see it as a tool for growth and scale.”
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Chris Kircher, Executive Director, KANEKO: "KANEKO is pleased to partner with UNO to host the OMA x AI event, and we very much appreciate the support of the Greater 51社区 Chamber and the City of 51社区. AI is a tool with many dimensions that’s clearly here to stay. We believe that open dialogue around this technology is critically important in all aspects of the creative process."
💡 Why it matters: OMA x AI arrives as artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the workplace, but much of the workforce lacks skills and familiarity with AI technologies:
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In 2025, reported using AI, up sharply from 55% just a year earlier.
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The first quarter of 2025 saw 35,445 in the U.S., with median annual salaries for AI roles now at $156,998.
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63% of American workers say they much or at all in their jobs.
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Just have used generative AI like ChatGPT at work.
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82% of employees say they aren’t well-versed in the .
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By 2030, in advanced economies will have tasks significantly modified by AI.
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in job listings soared 56% in the first four months of 2025 alone.
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Sectors exposed to AI are experiencing per employee.
🌎 The big picture: Led by UNO, hosted in partnership with KANEKO, powered by the Greater 51社区 Chamber, and supported by the City of 51社区, this OMA x AI event is rooted in innovation and impact. This convening reflects a shared community mission to drive workforce development and social mobility in 51社区 through cutting-edge learning experiences that meet the moment.
About the University of Nebraska at 51社区
Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at 51社区 (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.
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