A JAM factory was part of a forum discussing the futuristic world of artificial intelligence.

Tiptree-based Wilkin and Sons and Colchester-based solar inspectors Above rubbed shoulders with big businesses such as Google and Facebook in the online AI Global Festival this month.

The two-day festival, backed by BT and Orbital Global, explored what AI could mean for business, skills, and employment in the future.

AI researchers from Essex University also discussed projects which harnessed the power of AI, a strategy Wilkin and Son and Above have taken advantage of.

University spokesman Rob Walker said: “We’re incredibly proud of the way we’re connecting with businesses in the region and beyond to develop new products and services using the latest AI across so many markets.

“Our academics will be joining other leaders in this sector to highlight AI’s huge potential.

“I’m also thrilled that many companies we have worked with will be able to share their experiences of how AI can unlock so many opportunities and drive growth.”

Chris Newenham, joint managing director of Wilkin and Sons, gave a keynote speech on the use of AI in a progressive farming business.

Braintree and Witham Times: Chris Newenham, joint managing director of Wilkin and SonsChris Newenham, joint managing director of Wilkin and Sons (Image: Wilkin and Sons)

Will Hitchcock, chief executive of Above, joined the energy workshop discussing wind farm maintenance, energy storage and system failure prediction.

Professor Tim Whitley, MD of research at BT, completed a PhD at Essex University and is a visiting professor in the school of computer science and electronic engineering.

He said: “The East of England is one of the world’s leading locations for AI innovation.

“At BT, we’re proud to play a leading role in that as the UK’s most prolific filer of AI patents, so we’re delighted to broadcast this inaugural event virtually from Adastral Park, our Martlesham research and development campus.”