Together, we'll explore the tangible ways AI is shaping industries globally and discuss the ethical and philosophical considerations that come with its integration. From examining its impact on specific job sectors to offering strategies for professionals to thrive in an increasingly automated landscape, this event promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the future of work.
Dr. Joshua Gellers (Panelist) is a professor in the Department of Political Science and Public Administration at the University of North Florida.
He is also a member of the IEEE working group on design centered human-robot interaction and governance, expert with the Global AI Ethics Institute, and co-editor of the environment unit in Oxford University Press's AI in Society series. Josh's research focuses on
environmental governance, rights, and technology. He has published over two dozen articles or chapters, edited a special issue of Earth System Governance on AI and Digitalization, and written two books, The Global Emergence of Constitutional Environmental Rights (Routledge
2017) and Rights for Robots: Artificial Intelligence, Animal and Environmental
Law (Routledge 2020). Josh has advised universities and elected officials on
AI regulation.
John Froese (Panelist) is the Director, Head of Banking and Wealth Management at Google Cloud.
As a senior leader at Google Cloud and Citi, John has spearheaded various transformative programs that yielded substantial efficiency gains and cost savings. His expertise lies in harnessing the power of technology and cross-functional collaboration to optimize operations and accelerate growth. John has a proven track record in managing large-scale projects, developing effective partnerships, and leading teams towards the successful realization of their goals.
In John's current role as Director of Google Cloud's North America Banking organization, he leads a diverse team in delivering innovative cloud solutions tailored for the financial industry. John brings a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges in this sector, which has enabled effective guidance of Google's strategies and solutions.
Abraham Blocker (Moderator) is a Vice President and Banker for J.P. Morgan Private Bank at the Jacksonville office.
Abe works closely with affluent clients whose goals have evolved to more complex sets of needs across their balance sheets. He serves as their advocate, providing an entry point to the premier offerings of an industry leader.
Abe brings a dedication to purpose, handling high-impact relationships with a concierge touch. He listens carefully to ensure his clients feel seen and heard, then surrounds them with a team of specialists to address their needs for investments, lending, planning and more. In Abe's role as a conduit to the strengths of J.P. Morgan, he delivers direct access to the Commercial Bank, Investment Bank and other strategic capabilities. A "master connector," he brings like-minded individuals together to find alignment and share best practices and innovative ideas.
Taking a leadership path to a career in finance, Abe has served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 18 years—nine years on active duty, during which he served in Afghanistan with the 2nd Battalion 2nd Marines and received the Purple Heart. He transitioned to the civilian world in 2014, and soon joined J.P. Morgan in New York City to work in the Investment Bank and cover hedge fund clients on the Prime Finance Team. Most recently, Abe was with the firm's Office of Military & Veteran Affairs in Washington, DC, overseeing critical partnerships across the private and nonprofit sectors, and with the government on issues of employment and entrepreneurship. He continues to serve in the United States Marine Corps Reserves as a Gunnery Sergeant with the Marine Innovation Unit.
Abe earned a B.B.A. from Jacksonville University, completing the undergraduate degree in less than three years while working full-time. He holds an M.B.A. from Fordham University's Gabelli School of Business. He is a published author. Abe serves on the board of directors for Operation New Uniform and is a member of the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville.
Originally from Ocala, Abe is a sixth-generation Floridian and the youngest of five brothers currently serving in the U.S. Military. He was raised in a dynamic family that stressed the need to place service above all else. Abe and his family reside in Ponte Vedra, Florida.
Leading EDGE Dialogues are programmed by and for the Council's young professional members and are open to all Council members to attend.