Exciting panel discussion on artificial intelligence with Dr Christian von Dobschütz and experts from MEKRA Lang

What are the possibilities of artificial intelligence (AI) in rural areas? This was just one of many questions posed by experts from MEKRA Lang together with district administrator candidate Dr. Christian von Dobschütz at a meeting in Ergersheim last Friday, 17 May 2024.

In addition to Dr. Christian von Dobschütz, participants in the discussion were Bernd Dehner (Site Manager MEKRA Lang), Dr. Johannes Tröger (Electronics Development), Dr. Felix Hellwig (Product Manager Electronics) and Felix Scholl (Software Development). The event was moderated by Elea Lang.

Site Manager Bernd Dehner gave an outlook on where AI can be used in MEKRA products. This is very much about the topic of safety. AI can be used here as a helper for the driver. As assistance and support.

The latter in particular can also be an advantage in production if AI recognizes that the product is faulty. However, Elea Lang made it clear immediately afterwards: "We are not using AI to replace jobs, but to be able to deploy employees for other requirements."

Dr. Christian von Dobschütz also uses AI in his day-to-day work as mayor and pointed out that AI programs are great for initial structuring or smaller tasks. It's about which programs can also be used in administration. Both in companies and in the public sector, such as the district administration.

The local district was also quickly discussed. The expansion of fiber optics and mobile communications are topics that also occupy the employees of MEKRA Lang. How do you get skilled workers and academics from the cities to rural regions, how do you make locations such as Ergersheim or Bad Windsheim attractive?

For Dr. Christian von Dobschütz, one thing is clear: "Although our district is so rural, it is not in a bad position compared to other districts."

The idea of locating new technologies in the district was born. "Politics and business must work together. We have to succeed," emphasized Dr. Christian von Dobschütz.

The issue of infrastructure also needs to be addressed in the district in order to attract skilled workers and academics to the district. "It's great that you work here. The next step would be for you to live here." Vacant properties need to be filled with life using innovative approaches. According to Dr. Christian von Dobschütz, it's also a lot about positive communication to the outside world. You have to tackle the emotional aspects in order to make the district more attractive.

All participants agree that there is still a lot to do. Both on the topic of AI and when it comes to making the district attractive and innovative.