Hosted by the North Carolina INFORMS Chapter in collaboration with NC State University’s Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, the conference was held on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, at Duke Energy Hall on the campus of NC State University.
The event convened researchers, industry leaders, and students from across North Carolina to explore emerging trends and real-world applications of analytics and artificial intelligence. Through presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, attendees gained valuable insights into how data science and AI are transforming industries including finance, marketing, operations, health care, and technology.
Faculty and students from the Ketner School of Business engaged with thought leaders and practitioners, deepening their understanding of the growing role of AI in business decision-making and strategy. Their participation reflects the school’s commitment to preparing students for impactful careers in an increasingly data-driven and technology-enabled global economy.
“The Ketner School of Business recognizes the significant impact of artificial intelligence and data science across industries,” said Jennifer Yurchisin. “Experiences like NC Analytics and AI Day allow our students to connect classroom learning with cutting-edge industry practices and better understand the skills needed to lead in today’s business environment.”
Participation in events such as NC Analytics and AI Day underscores the school’s focus on innovation, experiential learning, and equipping students with the analytical and technological competencies essential for success in modern business.
About the Ralph W. Ketner School of Business
The mission of the Ralph W. Ketner School of Business (KSOB) at Catawba College is to prepare students for impactful careers in service of the social good through a distinctive business education complemented by broad exposure to the liberal arts. Accredited by ACBSP at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, KSOB is intentionally interdisciplinary, blending traditional business disciplines — accounting, business administration, entrepreneurship, finance, information systems management, and marketing — with business-adjacent fields such as artificial intelligence, communication studies, computer science, data science, television, film and streaming media, and mathematical sciences, alongside its MBA program.
