Embracing change: Solent event explores opportunities in AI

'Embracing change: is AI powering up content creation and marketing?' is one in a series of RCM Socials – regular evening events which offer informal and lively networking opportunities alongside the chance to learn about digital marketing trends from industry experts. Julia Waldman, Operations Director at RCM, says:

“We are very pleased to be co-hosting this event with Solent University. We work with several clients leading the way in areas including the development of AI and robotics, and we are seeing how quickly this influence is extending to the world of marketing and video production, so we know how important it is to stay on top of trends and developments in AI.”

RCM has been supported in organising this social by a cohort of third-year Media Production students under the moniker of Next Step 9, bringing together undergraduates and alumni for networking and industry talks designed to kick-start creative careers. Alongside the benefit for Solent’s learning community, the invitation to attend extends to city residents, and free tickets can be booked here.

Brad Collingborn, Thomas Kidd and Jack Watchman, Media Production undergraduates involved in planning, say: “As a part of the team organising this event, we think it’s an amazing opportunity to gain real-life insight into what it’ll be like in the creative industries after university, in addition to an amazing networking experience.”

The event’s alumni panel invites graduates who are now working in the creative industries, as well as others with an interest in the area, to return to the University and share insight into the way technological advancements are driving the way we work, offering advice into the best way to carve out a career in media and broadcasting. Madeline Bates, a Solent graduate who studied Media Production and is now a Production Coordinator at Vivid Broadcast Ltd, says:

“I feel honoured to be a part of this year's event. The jump from finishing university to transitioning into work in the industry can be very daunting. Any way I can give direction to, and guide, current students at Solent is a pleasure.”

This event, which runs from 5-9pm on Wednesday 20 March, is open to everyone interested in connecting with students and graduates and exploring opportunities for adopting artificial intelligence at work. Solent’s Associate Professor of Film and Media, Dr Roy Hanney, says:

"Our alumni are a valuable resource for our current students; they have already been through the transition from education to employment, they have a wealth of knowledge to share, and they have already taken 'the next step', so where better to go for advice on how to get started after graduation.”

Solent is embracing the opportunities ahead, with scholarships funded by the Office for Students for a postgraduate course in Applied AI and Data Science to ensure learners are equipped to meet the changing landscape of work. Elsewhere at the University, the Department of Film and Media recently invested in a Virtual Production Stage, the latest evolution in filmmaking, to give students an industry head-start.

Find out more about this event and book free tickets here.