The KSEA Upstate NY Chapter successfully hosted its 2026 Spring Symposium on March 21, 2026, at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Gathering researchers, professionals, and students from across the region, the symposium served as a dynamic platform for exploring technological advancements under the overarching theme, “Building the Future in the Age of AI.”
The event highlighted the remarkable momentum of the Upstate NY Chapter, which recently experienced explosive growth, expanding from a modest group of 30 to a vibrant community of 71 total members. This expanding network of brilliant Korean-American scientists and engineers brought incredible energy to the symposium, reflecting a strong commitment to regional collaboration and innovation.
A major highlight of the program was the insightful speaker sessions. Prof. Sam Chung from City University of Seattle delivered a highly anticipated presentation titled “How AI impacts the future job market,” offering attendees a deep dive into the evolving landscape of career opportunities and industry shifts driven by AI.
The program also proudly featured esteemed guest speakers Prof. Deok-Ho Kim and Prof. Ohbong Kwon, who contributed their extensive expertise to the discussions, further elevating the academic and professional caliber of the gathering.
To foster greater student engagement, the organizing committee introduced the chapter’s very first poster session. This new initiative provided undergraduate and graduate students with an invaluable opportunity to present their research, receive constructive feedback from faculty and postdoctoral mentors, and build their professional networks. To recognize outstanding academic efforts, cash prizes were awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners, which significantly boosted participation and enthusiasm among the student members.
The symposium concluded with an award ceremony, a commemorative group photo, and a networking dinner that allowed attendees to forge stronger connections. By bridging the gap between established professionals and emerging talents, the 2026 Spring Symposium not only celebrated the chapter's recent achievements but also set a strong foundation for its future endeavors.