AI Unscripted

AI on campus—a conversation about education with VUB's Chancellor, Jan Danckaert

Send us Fan Mail AI’s evolving at such a rapid pace that a project from just six months ago might already seem outdated. That's why we captured this insightful discussion at the FARI Institute in Brussels. Join us and Jan Danckaert, Chancellor of Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), as we explore AI not as a mere tool, but as a transformative force in education, research, and governance. We begin by uncovering the often-overlooked context. VUB has been pioneering artificial intelligence since the 1980s, and the current surge in large language models feels like both a nod to AI's origins and a significant technological advancement. Jan shares how AI’s propelling scientific progress in areas like chemistry and biomedicine, why AI-designed chips are steepening the innovation curve, and how energy consumption might soon be the real constraint. Next, we delve into practical applications. We examine real-world AI implementations within a university setting—analysing thousands of course descriptions to identify outdated assessment methods, expediting student appeal processes while maintaining human oversight, and leveraging AI to access institutional memory in governance. We also explore student behaviour, including AI's unexpected role in psychological support and its implications for personalised tutoring in diverse classrooms. We conclude with clear guidelines, ethical considerations, and Europe's influence in AI regulation and competitiveness, along with insights into future workforce skills in law, translation, engineering, and coding. Subscribe, share with others, and leave a review. Tell us—where should AI transform learning first? Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

Belfius CEO Olivier Onclin on AI, trust, and sovereignty

Send us Fan Mail Your banking app has already completely transformed everyday banking. The next shift’s even bigger—banking that feels like a conversation. At the end of April, just a few days before becoming CEO of Belfius, we engaged with Olivier Onclin to unpack what it truly takes to move from traditional digital channels to conversational AI, and why the "wow" factor only matters if the underlying processes are rebuilt end to end. We get practical about how AI in banking has evolved over decades, from scripted automated decision making in credit models to compliance automation, and now to large language models that can reshape the client experience. Olivier explains why efficiency and customer experience are tightly linked, why the talent challenge is real even for well-prepared organisations, and why late starters still need to jump in quickly while treating AI as a management journey, not a plug-in tool. Next, we explore trust in AI. Olivier breaks it down into four clear dimensions: transparency (people should know they're talking to a machine), security (including cybersecurity for consumers), a human layer (AI cannot replace basic humanity), and sovereignty. When it comes to sovereignty, we discuss European AI and why Belfius favours European providers when performance is comparable, including a partnership with Mistral, alongside the broader need for resilient infrastructure and cooperation across European players. We also tackle the uncomfortable topic of ROI. If the best transformations can take seven to ten years to pay back, how do leaders justify AI investments in uncertain times and short reporting cycles? If you care about digital transformation, AI governance, cybersecurity, and the future of customer experience in financial services, this conversation will provide a sharp framework and real-world constraints. If this episode has sparked new ideas on conversational banking, AI governance, and responsible AI in your organisation, subscribe, share it, and leave a review. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

How AI’s electrifying the energy transition with Luminus’ CEO Grégoire Dallemagne

Send us Fan Mail Energy independence is no longer an abstract policy goal when your region imports most of its oil and gas and global tensions spike prices overnight. We sat down with Grégoire Dallemagne, CEO of Luminus, one of Belgium’s largest electricity producers and energy suppliers, to talk about the fastest path to lower emissions and stronger sovereignty—electrification. We walk through the simple physics behind electrification, from why electric vehicles use far less energy per mile than thermal cars to why heat pumps outperform gas boilers, and how shifting more of daily life to electricity can shrink total energy demand. Then we get practical about AI. Electrification sounds straightforward until you look at what it does to the grid and to customer expectations—smart metres create real-time energy data, renewables add weather-driven variability, and people want prices and guidance that match the moment. We unpack how Luminus uses AI and machine learning for renewable energy forecasting, how smarter models help integrate wind and solar into the electricity system, and how AI-enabled tools support flexibility like smart EV charging that’s cheaper for customers and healthier for the network. We also tackle the tough questions. AI uses electricity, so when is it worth it and how do you keep “garbage in, garbage out” from undermining results? Grégoire explains why solid processes and data governance matter, how internal AI governance supports safe adoption, and why the standard for customer experience is rising fast with large language models (LLMs). If you care about AI in energy, the Belgium energy market, grid flexibility, or the future of electrification in Europe, this conversation gives you a grounded, operator’s view. Subscribe, share with a friend in energy or tech, and leave a review with your biggest question about electrification and AI. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

Insuring the AI future with insights from Allianz's Claudia Max

Send us Fan Mail AI’s finally crossing the line from demos to day-to-day work, and the hardest part isn’t the model, it’s the operating system around it. We sit down with Claudia Max, Regional CEO of Allianz Benelux, to get specific about how a major insurer approaches AI implementation across core processes like claims, underwriting, and operations while keeping trust and data protection at the core. We talk about the shift from scattered proofs of concept to scaling real capabilities, including voice bots and enterprise knowledge assistants that help employees find accurate client and customer information faster. Claudia shares how Allianz builds a practical map of customer journeys, then identifies where AI agents can improve coverage checks, decision quality, and service speed. The big takeaway—generative AI creates the most value when it forces you to rethink the journey, not just automate a step. Because insurance runs on trust, we also get into governance and responsible AI—group-wide frameworks, local transformation teams, AI ambassadors in each department, and the non-negotiables like human-in-the-loop decision making and transparency. We cover the messy reality of vendor selection in a fast-moving market, plus why many leaders “see AI everywhere except in the P&L” and what to measure as adoption grows. If you’re building an AI strategy for a regulated enterprise, this conversation offers a grounded playbook for AI adoption, AI governance, workforce AI training, and customer experience improvements without losing control. Subscribe, share this with a colleague, and leave a review with the one AI challenge you want us to tackle next. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

AG Insurance CEO Heidi Delobelle on using AI to serve customers faster

Send us Fan Mail Tired of hearing about "AI transformation" without seeing a clear path to implementation? This discussion takes a different turn. It sets the essential groundwork that makes AI truly effective in insurance. We engage with Heidi Delobelle, CEO of AG Insurance, Belgium's oldest and leading insurer, to explore how AI has been integrated into daily operations while remaining reliable, secure, and transparent. We focus on where the real value materialises. Heidi reveals that a successful AI strategy goes beyond cost savings to enhance customer experience, streamline distribution, and bolster employee support. We explore hybrid service models in which digital channels manage routine tasks, leaving humans to handle critical interactions. We also delve into how AI and data are reshaping call centres, moving past "press 1" menus to provide agents with real customer insights, enabling quicker and higher-quality resolutions. Next, we examine the foundations and risks of AI. Clean data, a unified customer view, a shared sandbox, and central standards prevent chaotic tech and help mitigate AI risks. Heidi highlights the importance of governance, cybersecurity, bias checks, and human oversight for significant decisions and external communications. You'll also hear about a specific use case where AI reduces SME underwriting research from days to minutes, freeing up capacity for growth, along with a five-year perspective on claims automation and prevention-focused insurance. If this conversation has sparked new ideas on applying generative AI, data governance, and responsible AI in your organisation, subscribe, share the episode and leave a review. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

Bonus episode: Panel discussion about the state of AI in today’s world

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to a special episode of AI Unscripted, recorded during our recent strategy session in Antwerp. This conversation brings together leading voices to explore the urgency, risks, and opportunities of the AI revolution—and what it means for your business, your teams, and the future of work. Panelists Xavier Verhaeghe, Rik Vera, Joris Van Der Gucht and Prof. Dr. Ann Nowé draw compelling parallels between the current AI wave and the early days of the internet, noting that AI is an active, rapidly evolving tool that demands swift action from organisations. Unlike previous technological shifts, AI’s accessibility allows even small teams to build impactful products quickly, reducing barriers to innovation and enabling a new generation of creators. The discussion highlights the importance of responsible AI adoption, focusing on transparency, explainability, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. Social scientists and technologists are working together to address bias and make sure AI aligns with human values. Human input remains essential, guiding AI systems and validating their outcomes, especially as large language models become more prevalent in business and daily life. Real-world examples showcase how AI’s reshaping industries, from gaming—where AI enhances user engagement—to professional services—where clients increasingly seek validation of AI-generated advice. The panel acknowledged the unpredictable pace of AI’s evolution, urging leaders to foster a growth mindset and embrace experimentation. Ultimately, the session underscores the critical role of leadership in navigating AI-driven change. Storytelling, vision, and engagement are key to overcoming resistance and making sure organisations thrive ethically and responsibly in the age of AI. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

Reimagining banking: Johan Thijs on AI’s transformative role at KBC

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to reinvent a bank for the AI era? In this episode, we sit down with Johan Thijs, CEO of KBC Group, who shares how his background in applied mathematics and actuarial science shaped a bold, data-driven strategy for one of Europe’s leading financial institutions. Johan explains how KBC’s virtual assistant, Kate, was designed to proactively solve customer problems, not just answer questions. The goal: zero hassle, zero friction, and instant solutions—like blocking a lost credit card and issuing a new one in minutes, all without human intervention. He demystifies the investment behind Kate, clarifying that the real cost lies in the infrastructure, not the AI itself, and shares how initial skepticism from staff gave way to widespread adoption as the benefits became clear. We challenge the common view that AI is just for back-office efficiency. Johan argues that starting with customer-facing solutions delivers the biggest impact, and that KBC’s approach—using AI first to drive sales and value—helped secure buy-in and measurable returns. He warns that Europe risks falling behind global tech giants unless it gets smarter about data sharing and regulation and stresses the importance of trust: KBC never sells customer data, using it only to personalize and anticipate needs. Johan also shares his optimism for the future, urging everyone to keep learning as AI reshapes cognitive work. He highlights KBC’s internal AI-powered training platform, Stipple, which helps staff match their skills to future roles. The episode closes with practical advice: focus on customer needs, adapt as technology evolves, and embrace the blend of human and machine intelligence. If you want to see how AI can transform not just processes but the entire customer experience, this conversation is essential for listening. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

Supporting Belgian SMEs with AI: insights from BECI's CEO Thierry Geerts

Send us Fan Mail What if the quickest route to AI success isn't about building new systems. We sit down with Thierry Geerts, CEO of Beci, Brussels Chamber of Commerce and former Google Belgium director, to explore why small businesses in Brussels might be better placed than large corporations to harness AI's potential right now. Thierry argues convincingly for practical use over invention, suggesting that the region's high wages and pragmatic talent make ready-made AI tools a strategic advantage. We challenge the myths surrounding AI-driven job loss and examine the Brussels labour market with fresh data. Thierry reveals how his team used AI to uncover around 100,000 open positions—showing that the job gap is more about discovery and matching than scarcity. From automated translation that prepares businesses for export to AI copilots enhancing customer relationships, he explains how leaders should view AI as an opportunity first, then a tool for efficiency. The key is adoption: empower your team, redesign workflows, and measure the gains so that time saved translates into value created. Thierry also introduces Homo Digitalis, a mindset recognising that employees already engage with AI in their personal lives. Companies that restrict tools at work create a cultural mismatch and lose momentum. We discuss what Belgium needs next — not another hype cycle, but a clear AI master plan connecting universities, policy, and businesses for long-term value. Looking five years ahead, AI should feel as familiar as your smartphone—some teams will lead because they started small, learned quickly, and expanded what worked. If you're seeking a plan that's grounded, measurable, and human-centred, this conversation is your guide. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

Bonus episode: 2026 AI Business Predictions - a conversation on the future of value and impact

Send us Fan Mail While skepticism often grabs attention, data may reveal a different narrative. A select group of companies is already harnessing AI to create tangible business value. We delve into new survey insights with Xavier Verhaeghe to explore why these companies are leading, how they organise their initiatives, and what it takes to transition from isolated trials to significant results. The key is clear: view AI as a transformative force, not just a tool. We outline the strategies successful leaders employ. It begins with a compelling "why" linked to enhancing customer experience and boosting revenue, rather than merely cutting costs. Next is targeted execution: choose a few high-impact processes, redesign them comprehensively, and safeguard resources with a dedicated transformation office. Looking forward, agentic AI is already in use for specific applications, moving from "human in the loop" to human oversight, with agents monitoring agents for quality. This shift challenges leaders to rethink governance, monitoring, and risk management. It also transforms talent. Generalists, armed with AI, can now provide value previously reserved for experts. Boards that move past headlines to genuine urgency invest in reskilling, redefine roles, and align AI with strategic goals. Looking to refine your plan—focus deeply on fewer initiatives, measure outcomes that matter to customers, and align business and AI leadership? This discussion offers a clear starting point and practical guidance. Subscribe, share with a colleague responsible for a key process, and leave a review with the one process you'd transform first. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

AI Adoption: inside-out perspectives with Microsoft

Send us Fan Mail AI alone won't revolutionise a business just because the tools are available. We explore how Microsoft transitioned from trial phases of AI to achieving tangible results—and why governance, training, and clear KPIs are crucial in moving from novelty to tangible outcomes. With insights from Marijke Schroos, General Manager, Microsoft Belgium and Luxembourg, and Michiel De Keyzer, a Director at PwC, we delve into daily adoption mechanics, from leader-driven prompt sharing to community building and weekly reports that push usage beyond 90%. Our discussion goes beyond buzzwords to reveal how teams truly capture value. We explore how to align AI with specific processes and challenges, establish baselines, and assess outcomes like cycle time, quality, and risk reduction. You'll discover how engineering advancements can be transformed into industry-specific solutions across finance, HR, legal, and procurement, and why AI is now a business-driven agenda with IT ensuring security, architecture, and data readiness. You can also take a glimpse into how local market feedback informs product development, while public sector constraints inspire practical innovations like fraud detection and service productivity. Trust and responsibility are at the core of every decision. This episode covers data classification, access controls, content policies, and review boards that mitigate bias and misuse—alongside training that empowers individuals to verify sources and question outputs. Education emerges as a key driver, with teachers and students using AI to enhance critical thinking rather than bypass it. Looking forward, agentic workflows will reshape work structures as teams learn to manage fleets of agents. With the addition of quantum computing, breakthroughs in fields like Pharma could accelerate significantly, displaying results rather than interfaces. If you're committed to AI adoption, this is your guide: establish boundaries, aim for impact, measure what counts, and combine human insight with machine efficiency. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

• Transcript
• Chapters

AI at work: a junior perspective on business, learning, and human value

Send us Fan Mail Season two of AI Unscripted begins with a deep dive into how artificial intelligence is transforming the business landscape and the early career experience. Host Patrick is joined by Oscar Monville, a junior cloud data and AI expert at PwC, who shares his unique perspective as part of the first generation to enter the workforce with AI as a daily reality. Oscar’s Journey: From University to PwC Oscar recounts his academic background in digital business at the University of Namur, where AI tools like ChatGPT became central to student life. While AI was not formally part of the curriculum, it was a frequent topic thanks to engaged professors and curious classmates. Oscar describes how students learned to use AI critically—balancing curiosity, experimentation, and the need to maintain academic integrity. AI in the Workplace: Tools, Efficiency, and Learning Transitioning to PwC, Oscar explains why he chose the company for its growth opportunities and willingness to invest in new talent. He details his daily use of AI for brainstorming, translation, and idea generation, relying on secure, bespoke PwC tools. Oscar discusses the challenge of balancing efficiency with personal development, as automation changes the nature of entry-level work and the traditional learning process. Generational Differences and Human Skills The discussion highlights generational contrasts in AI adoption. Oscar notes that digital natives adapt quickly, while more experienced professionals must adjust established habits. He stresses the ongoing importance of human skills—such as client interaction, argumentation, and pitching—that AI cannot replace, and the need to remain critical of AI-generated outputs. Ethical and Environmental Considerations Oscar addresses the ethical and environmental impact of AI, making conscious choices about when to use energy-intensive features like image generation. He emphasises the importance of necessity over convenience and the responsibility to use AI thoughtfully. Looking Ahead: The Future of AI and Work The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions on personal boundaries, overhyped and underrated AI technologies, and predictions for 2027. Oscar foresees AI becoming ubiquitous but stresses the need for upskilling and maintaining human connection and value in the workplace. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 11: Leveraging AI to future-proof the tax function

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to this episode of AI Unscripted, where the focus turns to the impact of artificial intelligence on the tax profession. Host Patrick is joined by Laurens, a director with a background in accounting and tax compliance, for a practical discussion on how AI is reshaping tax functions, from efficiency gains to strategic transformation. Key topics include: AI in the tax function: Laurens explains how AI is already integrated into daily tax work, supporting both efficiency and enhanced analysis, and handling large volumes of structured and unstructured data. 2:21 Tools and technology: The conversation covers the use of general AI solutions like Copilot and specialised tax tools such as Harvey, including the benefits of ring-fenced environments for data security and the development of territory-specific models for improved accuracy. 7:04 Balancing efficiency and quality: Patrick and Laurens discuss the dual role of AI in automating routine tasks and elevating the quality of tax analysis, with examples of measurable improvements in accuracy when using advanced AI models. 7:40 Adoption challenges and upskilling: The episode addresses the need for upskilling, the importance of critical thinking, and strategies for training both generalists and specialists within tax teams to ensure future readiness. 11:06 Strategic implementation: Insights are shared on how organisations - large and small - can develop a clear tax technology strategy, align it with business goals, and avoid the pitfalls of adopting AI purely out of fear of missing out. 16:49 SMEs vs. multinationals: The discussion highlights differences in AI adoption between large companies and SMEs, noting that agility and focus can offset budget constraints for smaller organisations. 18:23 AI as a sparring partner: Laurens shares how AI tools can help reduce uncertainty in complex tax scenarios by enabling scenario analysis and supporting nuanced decision-making. 21:21 Gamification and engagement: The episode introduces the "AI flag" gamification initiative, designed to encourage hands-on learning and adoption of AI tools within tax teams. 22:43 The future of tax professionals: Patrick and Laurens reflect on the evolving role of tax experts, the enduring need for human judgement, and why a career in tax remains relevant and exciting in the age of AI. 23:24 Join us for an insightful look at how AI is transforming the tax landscape, the practical realities of adoption, and what it means for the future of tax professionals. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 10: AI in education and early careers: student perspectives and workplace realities

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to episode 10 of our AI Unscripted series, where host Patrick explores the evolving role of artificial intelligence in education and the early stages of professional life. This episode offers a candid look at how students and young professionals are engaging with AI, both in their studies and as they embark on their careers. Key topics include: AI in the classroom: Hugues and Cosme share their personal experiences with AI at university, discussing how students use AI tools for programming, research, and report writing, and reflecting on the challenges and opportunities this brings to higher education. 2:14 Bridging the gap: The conversation highlights the lag between academic curricula and the rapid pace of AI adoption, with insights into how universities are beginning to adapt and the importance of fostering critical thinking skills. 4:04 Workplace realities: The episode explores how AI is being used in consulting and business environments, the maturity of organisations in leveraging data, and the balance between efficiency gains and true innovation. 12:01 Ethical and practical considerations: The speakers discuss the risks of over-reliance on AI, the importance of maintaining personal skills, and the environmental impact of AI technologies. 18:06 Looking ahead: Hugues and Cosme share their perspectives on the future of AI, the rise of AI agents, and the evolving role of humans in supervising and collaborating with intelligent systems. 14:59 Join us for an honest and practical discussion on how AI is shaping the next generation of learners and professionals, and what it means for the future of work and education. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 9: Trust in AI - Insights on the EU AI Act

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to another insightful episode of our AI Unscripted series, where we explore the dynamic world of artificial intelligence (AI). In this episode, we delve into the critical topic of trust in AI, focusing on its legal and regulatory aspects, particularly within the European context. Key topics include: Understanding the AI Act: Loïc provides an overview of the AI Act, a significant piece of European legislation aimed at securing the safety and trustworthiness of AI products. He explains how the Act categorises AI applications based on risk levels and the implications for businesses. 1:36 Risk classification and compliance: Wim discusses the practical aspects of complying with the AI Act, emphasising the importance of risk classification and proportionality. He highlights the need for transparency and the challenges of applying these requirements in real-world scenarios. 6:12 Impact on businesses: The conversation touches on how the AI Act affects various stakeholders, from large enterprises to SMEs. Loïc explains the roles and responsibilities of providers, deployers and other actors in the AI value chain, stressing the importance of accountability and security. 8:56 Global perspective: The episode also explores how other regions, particularly the US, are approaching AI regulation. The discussion includes the potential competitive advantages for European companies adhering to these standards and the broader implications for global AI governance. 19:55 Future of AI regulation: Looking ahead, the speakers discuss the evolving nature of AI technology and the need for flexible regulatory frameworks. They emphasise the importance of ongoing engagement with regulators and the potential for innovation within the bounds of the AI Act. 26:25 Join us as we navigate the complexities of AI regulation and its impact on trust, innovation and the future of artificial intelligence. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 8: The intersection of AI and music: Insights from Casco Phil on the future of musical composition

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to another captivating episode of our AI Unscripted series where we delve into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) and, in this episode, its intersection with art, music and technology alongside the creative minds from Casco Phil. Key topics include: Casco Phil's unique approach: Discover the innovative spirit of Casco Phil, a socially engaged cultural organisation known for its adventurous and experimental approach to performing arts. Benjamin and Arne share insights into their creative journey and the organisation's distinctive blend of classical and modern music. 0:38 AI and music: Explore the intriguing relationship between AI and music. Benjamin and Arne discuss how AI’s becoming increasingly relevant in the music industry, both as an artistic tool and a commercial asset. They highlight the importance of distinguishing AI's impact on music as an art form versus its influence on the industry at large. 3:34 Windmill Symphony project: Learn about the Windmill Symphony project, a collaboration between Casco Phil, the Port of Antwerp and the University of Antwerp. This innovative project transforms data from wind turbines into a symphonic masterpiece, showcasing the creative potential of data-driven music composition. 6:27 AI's role in music composition: Gain insights into the creative process behind AI-generated music. Benjamin and Arne explain how AI can assist composers by providing efficient solutions for tasks like harmonising melodies and checking for errors, while still preserving the human element of creativity and intuition. 20:55 Ethical considerations and ownership: Delve into the complex ethical questions surrounding AI and music. The discussion touches on the challenges of defining ownership and authenticity in AI-generated art, comparing it to traditional intellectual processes in music composition. 24:45 Join us to explore how AI is reshaping the world of music and art, driving innovation and creative collaboration that pushes the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 7: Racing towards innovation - AI and solar cars with PwC and Innoptus Solar Team

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to another engaging episode of our AI Unscripted series, where we explore the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and engineering with the team from KU Leuven University's Solar Team. Key topics include: Evolution of AI in engineering: Explore the integration of AI in building a solar-powered car with Thibaut and Kevin from the Innoptus Solar Team. They walk us through the transformative journey of converting solar energy into automotive power. [0:39] AI Innovations in automotive sustainability: Discover how AI’s revolutionising automotive sustainability through anomaly testing and big data analysis. Delve into the complexities of adapting AI for real-world applications in racing and vehicle performance. [5:43] Embracing an AI education revolution: Our discussion extends to the educational trends shaping the next generation of engineers. With a new master's programme in AI, students are prepared to tackle the fast-evolving tech landscape. [22:06] AI’s multifaceted role: Gain insights into the application of AI beyond black-box solutions. The team highlights the significance of explainable AI in understanding AI-driven decision-making processes. [20:43] Rising to the solar challenge: Learn about the Solar Team’s accomplishments as they gear up for the world’s Solar Challenge in Australia, the pivotal role of AI and the team’s strategic approach to racing. [0:51] Join us to witness how AI’s shaping the world of engineering and sustainability, driving innovation and academic collaboration that paves the way for greener, smarter technologies. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 6: The role of AI in shaping modern education and ethical practices

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of our AI Unscripted series, we welcome Professor Hannes Datta from a leading university to discuss the institution's initiatives with artificial intelligence (AI) in education and the ethical considerations surrounding it. Key topics include: AI in education initiatives Professor Datta shares his experience leading the AI in Education Work Group, highlighting the development of an AI lab and a popular blog dedicated to informing students and faculty about best practices in using AI tools. [0:50] Innovative AI tools in educational settings Discover the real-world applications of AI within classrooms, such as chatbots trained on course material to assist students with queries related to their courses. [2:09] Adaptable approach towards AI With a positive mindset, Professor Datta likens the AI landscape to a Lego box, encouraging students and educators to adapt and innovate as new AI tools emerge. [20:07] Ethical and environmental impacts The discussion extends to the ethical dimensions of AI use in education, emphasising the importance of awareness and responsible use, while also considering the environmental impacts of AI technology. [14:09] Collaborative efforts in AI advancement Universities in close proximity are joining forces to enhance their AI capabilities through organisations like SURF, striving for better infrastructure and use of AI models. [12:10] Join us for an insightful conversation on pioneering efforts in the integration of AI within education, where ethical, innovative and practical elements merge to shape the future of learning. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 5: AI-driven collaboration: Coaching insights and data strategies

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of our AI Unscripted series, Paul Van Den Bosch, author of "Lead Like a Coach", and Liesbet Vanderstappen, our HR director, explore AI's transformative role in data and coaching. Key topics include: AI and Sports Data: Paul explains how AI processes immense volumes of sports data, such as athletes' resting heart rates, sleep hours, and training metrics, to deliver recovery scores and performance insights. [1:09] Human Touch in Coaching: Despite the importance of data, Paul underscores the irreplaceable value of personal interaction. He shares a story of an athlete whose performance declined due to personal loss, illustrating the need for empathy and understanding beyond raw data. [4:41] Critical Mindset with AI Tools: Liesbet highlights the necessity of maintaining a critical mindset when using AI tools, ensuring that data is interpreted correctly and informs decisions effectively. [7:45] AI's Role in Incremental Improvements: The discussion delves into how AI fosters both small incremental improvements and significant breakthroughs in performance, especially in cycling. [9:40] Data Privacy and Competitive Advantage: The conversation also touches on the competitive edge teams gain by collecting and analysing data, while keeping it confidential to maintain their advantage. [11:23] Join us for an insightful discussion on how AI is revolutionising sports, enhancing both athlete performance and coaching strategies. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 4: AI in the field - Revolutionising data in sports

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of our AI Unscripted series, Patrick Boone is joined by Xavier Verhaeghe, PwC Belgium’s AI and Innovation Lead, and two experts, Max and Maxim, who delve into the intersection of AI and football. Key topics include: AI in Football: Max and Maxim discuss how data science and AI are being integrated into football, from performance analysis to scouting and player development. Data Utilisation: The use of event data and tracking data to analyse player performance and team strategies, highlighting the importance of combining data with traditional coaching methods. Generative AI Applications: Exploring how generative AI can predict player positions and enhance game analysis, even when players are off-screen. Youth Development: The upcoming integration of data from youth leagues to better track and develop young talent in Belgian football. Collaboration with Academia: The partnership with universities like KU Leuven to advance AI applications in sports through research and student projects. Future of Fan Experience: The potential for 3D reconstruction data to transform how fans experience football matches, including VR applications. Join us for an insightful discussion on how AI is revolutionising football, enhancing both player performance and fan engagement. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted

Episode 3: AI Business predictions for 2025 and beyond

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of our AI Unscripted series, we’re joined by Xavier Verhaeghe, PwC Belgium’s Technology and Innovation Lead Partner, and Quinten Devreker, Experience Centre Lead with PwC Belgium, who share their expert insights on predictions for AI in 2025 and beyond. Key topics include: AI Lab and Experience Centre: The purpose of the new AI Lab in our PwC Experience Centre is to provide clients and visitors with hands-on experience with AI, particularly Gen AI, showcasing its potential and applications. Predictions for 2025: Xavier discusses the rapid evolution of Gen AI and its potential positive impact on individuals, organisations and society. Strategic integration of AI: The need for C-level management to embed AI into business strategies, its impact on user productivity and transformational changes in industries. Efficiency and user experience: AI can improve both efficiency and user experience, as illustrated by examples in call centres and job description generation. Workshops and cultural adoption: The importance of workshops to help organisations understand and adopt AI, addressing cultural challenges and fostering a mindset shift towards AI-driven approaches. Upskilling and adoption: The need for a basic understanding of and upskilling in AI across organisations, with a focus on targeted adoption and value realisation. Future trends: The continuous positive evolution of Gen AI, with significant potential for creating value and transforming industries. Join us for an engaging discussion that offers valuable perspectives on the evolving role of AI in business strategy and its broader implications for industries and society. Join us and listen to all episodes on www.pwc.be/aiunscripted