Introduction to Agentic AI Session

Generative Artificial Intelligence is quickly becoming a practical tool for business communication, analysis, creativity, productivity, and everyday work. However, using AI effectively requires more than simply typing a question into a chatbot.

Join the Center for Business Analytics (CBA) at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota for an in-person workshop focused on practical ways to use generative AI tools more effectively and responsibly. This session will introduce participants to tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, Claude, image-generation tools, and other emerging AI platforms.
Dr. Michael Ratajczyk is a Program Director and Associate Professor of Business Intelligence and Data Analytics at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, specializing in AI and its practical business applications.
In this workshop, Dr. Michael Ratajczyk will cover:

• What generative AI is and why it matters in the workplace
• Practical uses of AI for writing, brainstorming, summarizing, analysis, presentations, and creative design
• Prompt-writing strategies to improve clarity, tone, structure, and usefulness
• Ways to compare AI tools and evaluate AI-generated responses
• Common AI traps, including hallucinated information, weak sources, privacy concerns, bias, and overconfidence
• How to use AI as a thinking partner while keeping human judgment at the center

Participants will also have an opportunity for guided hands-on practice, where they can test prompts, revise outputs, and explore how AI may support their own professional needs.
Following the workshop, attendees are invited to stay for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Weekend Kick Off networking event from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm at 125 Live.
- - -
This session is part of the CBA x RACC Series, a collaboration with the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce (RACC), designed to provide practical and accessible insights for the Rochester, MN business community.
This session is designed for professionals, business leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, and community members who want a practical, beginner-friendly introduction to using generative AI more confidently and responsibly.