Topic:  From Experimentation to Implementation: ARM Group's Practical AI Journey and Lessons for HR Leaders

Artificial intelligence is moving quickly, but most organizations do not need a sweeping technology transformation to begin using it productively. This session presents ARM Group's journey from early experimentation to a structured, firmwide AI program. Using a real-world professional-services case study, the presenter will explain how ARM conducted a cross-functional AI Opportunities Assessment; gathered and prioritized use cases; developed an AI Use Policy; delivered training and one-on-one support; evaluated tools and implementation paths; and began building a longer-term strategic roadmap.

The session will examine what worked, what stalled, and why organizational factors - executive sponsorship, clear ownership, implementation capacity, workflow and data readiness, risk management, and employee trust - often matter more than the technology itself. The discussion will also address HR's role in policy administration, responsible-use expectations, workforce communication, change management, and skills development. Participants will leave with a practical framework and concrete next steps for advancing AI responsibly in a small- or mid-sized organization.

Participants will learn to:

• Describe a practical, cross-functional process for identifying AI and automation opportunities.

• Evaluate and prioritize potential use cases based on business value, implementation effort, risk, data readiness, and ownership.

• Explain the core elements of an organizational AI use policy, including confidentiality, privacy, human oversight, verification, and acceptable use.

• Identify HR's role in responsible adoption through policy administration, workforce communication, training, change management, and skills development.

Speaker: Bill Prendeville, Senior Engineer & AI Champion, Arm Group, LLC

William J. "Bill" Prendeville, P.E., is a Senior Engineer for the Solid Waste Practice Area at ARM Group LLC. He also leads ARM Group Enterprises' AI, Innovation & Technology Team, where he coordinates the firm's practical adoption of artificial intelligence, automation, and emerging technology. Bill led ARM's cross-functional AI Opportunities Assessment, helped develop the firm's AI Use Policy and governance approach, established employee training and one-on-one adoption support, and works with executive, operational, IT, finance, and HR stakeholders to translate promising ideas into responsible implementation plans. As both an engineer and operational leader, he brings a pragmatic perspective to AI adoption focused on measurable business value, human oversight, risk management, workflow improvement, and organizational change.

To receive SHRM and/or HRCI credits for virtual meetings, attendees must be logged in no later than 5 minutes after the start and remain for the entire session, with no more than a 5-minute early departure. Attendance certificates will only be issued to those meeting these requirements.

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