Plenary Talk – Frank La Vigne, Principal AI Technical Marketing Manager, RedHat

“Empowering AI Innovation: The Critical Role of Open Source”

Time: 5-6:30 PM, February 24

Abstract: Open-source software has long been a driving force behind technological progress, and in the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence, its role is more critical than ever. This talk explores the deep interconnection between AI development and the open-source movement, highlighting how open collaboration fosters innovation, transparency, and accountability.

We begin by tracing the historical impact of open source in AI, showcasing key milestones where open-source frameworks have propelled groundbreaking advancements. The discussion then shifts to the present, examining how platforms like TensorFlow and PyTorch have democratized AI, enabling a global community of researchers and developers to contribute to and benefit from state-of-the-art machine learning technologies.

Beyond technical progress, open-source AI raises important ethical considerations. This talk explores how transparency and community-driven collaboration can lead to more responsible, bias-aware AI systems while also addressing challenges such as sustainability, funding, and quality assurance in large-scale, community-driven projects.

Looking ahead, we consider the future of open-source AI—how it can continue to shape the field by fostering diverse research communities, accelerating AI adoption in developing regions, and balancing collaboration with proprietary AI development. Through this lens, we highlight the enduring impact of open source on the trajectory of artificial intelligence and its role in ensuring an inclusive and innovative AI ecosystem.

Biography: Frank La Vigne is the Principal Technical Marketing Manager for AI at Red Hat, where he focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence and open-source innovation. With a passion for data science and machine learning, he has spent his career making advanced technologies more accessible and impactful.

Frank is a recognized thought leader in AI and data science, co-hosting the Data Driven podcast and running FranksWorld.com, a widely followed blog on technology and AI. He actively engages with the tech community through LinkedIn livestreams, covering topics from quantum computing to the metaverse.

A longtime advocate for responsible AI and open collaboration, Frank continues to bridge the gap between emerging research and real-world applications, shaping the future of AI innovation.