A captivating keynote launched IP EXPO Europe yesterday for its 13th year today, as renowned astronaut Colonel Chris Hadfield shared his unique experience of space travel and considerations for the next leap for mankind.

Hadfield, the former Commander of the International Space Station, spoke in front of a packed crowd about the human element of space travel: the teamwork and collaboration that is required to make an off-world team function. 

From the future of space to the future of technology, day one of IP EXPO Europe also saw popular sessions from several academics focusing on AI. British mathematician Dr Hannah Fry, explored the power of data and algorithms that can be used for the social good in our world today, examining whether machines are really an improvement on the humans they are said to replace.

Dr Greg Benson, professor at the University of San Francisco and chief scientist at Snap Logic, drew on his dual responsibilities as the basis of his speech, to explore the importance of collaboration between industry and academic perspective for AI development.

Dr Beth Singler, junior research fellow at the University of Cambridge, also dug into AI, discussing how public perception on AI is shaped and what that perception might mean for the future of this technology.

Andy Steed, director of content at IP EXPO Europe 2018 said, “It has been another terrific year for IP EXPO Europe, which continues to grow in popularity year on year. Having the show opened by Colonel Chris Hadfield was a surreal experience for attendees, who were thrilled to hear his thought-provoking perspectives on leadership accumulated through his unique career.

“The rest of the day lived up to this fantastic start with speakers sharing expert insights into AI, machine learning and cybersecurity, providing attendees with advice which they can use to improve their businesses.”

Additional highlights from day one at IP EXPO Europe co-located at Digital Transformation EXPO included:

• Graham Cluley, security analyst, who shared some unbelievable tales of cyber-attack.
• Mayank Prakash, chief digital and information officer at Department for Work and Pensions, who informed his audience about the critical ingredients required to drive digital transformation including the challenges faced by businesses.
• Paul Fletcher, enterprise architect at Sainsbury’s Supermarkets, who presented the three key pillar of any successful transformation: people, processes and technology.
• A timely panel discussion exploring cyber security in the year ahead, which brought together Gary S. Miliefsky of Cyber Defense Magazine, Doug Howard of RSA, Adam Brady of Illumio, Claire Galbois-Alcaix of Yubico and David Atkinson of Senseon.