OMA x AI to Explore the Practical Power of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work, live, and think. But most people don’t know where or how to start using it. OMA x AI is on a mission to change that.

➡️ What’s new: The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), in partnership with KANEKO, will host OMA x AI the afternoon of Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at KANEKO in Downtown Omaha. The event is powered by the Greater Omaha Chamber and supported by the City of Omaha.

• Registration is now open, but spaces are limited and expected to fill fast.

• Information on speakers and activities are coming soon.

🤝 Who it’s for: Omaha by AI (OMA x AI) is where corporate leaders, small business innovators, nonprofit changemakers, educators, and trailblazers of all backgrounds gather to unlock the real power of generative AI.

✅ What to expect:

• Custom experiences: Attendees will have an opportunity to tailor their experience to their AI goals and comfort level: Beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

• Hands-on learning: Dive into demos and workshops designed to show AI in action—no tech degree required.

• Real-world insight: Hear from a wide variety of Omaha leaders already using AI to solve problems, spark ideas, and drive impact.

• Community-powered innovation: Connect with peers and partners committed to workforce development and inclusive access to AI.

🎤 What they’re saying:

• Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, Chancellor, University of Nebraska at Omaha: “AI fluency is quickly becoming one of the most valuable skill sets in today’s economy—not just for tech professionals, but for anyone who wants to stay relevant and make an impact. We created OMA x AI because we believe access to AI knowledge should be universal. It’s designed to meet people where they are. Whether you're new to AI or already exploring how to use it in your work, you’ll leave with practical ideas, approachable tools, and a network of peers who are asking the same questions. This event reflects UNO’s deep commitment to empowering our community with practical skills that elevate careers, expand opportunities, and unlock human potential.”

• John Ewing, Mayor of Omaha: “Omaha has always been a city that leans into innovation. From our history in transportation and finance to our leadership in emerging tech, we’ve never been afraid to try something new. OMA x AI builds on that legacy—it’s a chance for our entire community to come together, explore what’s next, and make sure we’re not just keeping pace with change, but leading it.”

• Heath Mello, President & CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber: “This event sends a powerful signal: Omaha is serious about the future of work. We’re not just adopting AI—we’re investing in the skills and mindsets that help our people and businesses thrive with it. OMA x AI is about demystifying this technology and helping our workforce see it as a tool for growth, not a threat to fear.”

• Chris Kircher, Executive Director, KANEKO: "KANEKO is pleased to partner with UNO to host the OMA x AI event, and we very much appreciate the support of the Greater Omaha Chamber and the City of Omaha. AI is a tool with many dimensions that’s clearly here to stay. We believe that open dialogue around this technology is critically important in all aspects of the creative process."

💡 Why it matters: OMA x AI arrives as artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the workplace, but much of the workforce lacks skills and familiarity with AI technologies:

• In 2025, 78% of organizations reported using AI, up sharply from 55% just a year earlier.

• The first quarter of 2025 saw 35,445 AI-related positions in the U.S., with median annual salaries for AI roles now at $156,998.

• 63% of American workers say they don't use AI much or at all in their jobs.

• Just 27% of working-age U.S. adults have used generative AI like ChatGPT at work.

• 82% of employees say they aren’t well-versed in the practical applications of AI.

• By 2030, 60% of jobs in advanced economies will have tasks significantly modified by AI.

• Mentions of AI in job listings soared 56% in the first four months of 2025 alone.

• Sectors exposed to AI are experiencing 3x higher revenue growth per employee.

🌎 The big picture: Led by UNO, hosted in partnership with KANEKO, powered by the Greater Omaha Chamber, and supported by the City of Omaha, this OMA x AI event is rooted in innovation and impact. This convening reflects a shared community mission to drive workforce development and social mobility in Omaha through cutting-edge learning experiences that meet the moment.