In this episode of In AI We Trust? Susan Gonzalez, Founder and CEO of AIandYou, joined hosts Miriam Vogel and Rosalind Wiseman to discuss AI literacy. AIandYou is a nonprofit dedicated to “educating ordinary people about artificial intelligence and preparing them for its opportunities and challenges in an accessible way”. Susan brings extensive experience in technology policy and community outreach from her former roles at Facebook (now Meta) and Comcast. She is also a member of the National AI Advisory Committee and serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including EqualAI and the Eva Longoria Foundation.
Susan’s Journey into AI Advocacy
Susan first became interested in AI while working at Facebook, where she witnessed its potential to improve accessibility for the blind community. This inspired her to launch AIandYou in 2019, with the goal of bridging the gap between the AI ecosystem and the general public. Over time, AIandYou has shifted its focus to promoting AI literacy, emphasizing the importance of foundational knowledge so that communities can confidently adopt and interact with AI technology.
Defining AI Literacy and Addressing Fear
Susan emphasizes that AI literacy must begin with the basics. Many people, from policymakers to everyday users, do not fully understand AI despite frequently interacting with it. Fear is a significant barrier to adoption, particularly among marginalized groups, and Susan stresses the need to address people’s fears through education. Her approach is comparable to learning mathematics: just as students begin with algebra before moving to trigonometry, AI literacy education must start with foundational concepts such as algorithms, generative AI, and predictive modeling.
AI and Workforce Transformation
One of the most pressing concerns about AI is its impact on employment. While AI is creating new opportunities, it is also disrupting traditional job markets. Hiring trends show that employers increasingly value AI literacy, even in non-technical roles. AIandYou helps people understand how AI can be leveraged for career development by providing accessible educational content on AI use in small businesses and job searches. She highlights the importance of expanding AI discussions beyond tech circles to ensure that diverse communities understand and engage with AI. Susan acknowledges the paradox of AI-driven equity: while AI allows marginalized communities to submit applications more easily, it also inundates employers with applications, leading them to revert to familiar hiring networks, which reinforces existing disparities.
The Role of Government in AI Literacy
Susan believes that government agencies should play a larger role in promoting AI literacy. She suggests that federal agencies such as the Small Business Administration and the Department of Commerce could provide AI training tailored to different sectors. Federal engagement is crucial for scaling AI education efforts and ensuring equitable access to AI literacy programs.
Encouraging AI Curiosity and Overcoming Barriers
Susan argues that fostering curiosity is key to increasing AI adoption. Many individuals hesitate to engage with AI due to a lack of confidence or fear of making mistakes. She encourages people to experiment with AI tools and use generative AI to answer questions in real-time. By making AI education practical and relevant, Susan hopes to dismantle misconceptions and promote wider AI adoption.
Closing Thoughts
Susan stresses that AI literacy is not a static achievement but an ongoing process. As AI evolves, continuous learning will be essential for individuals and communities to keep pace. She encourages people to take an active role in understanding AI, helping others gain literacy, and ensuring that AI’s benefits are accessible to all. Through initiatives like AIandYou, she is committed to making AI education inclusive and empowering communities to navigate the AI-driven world with confidence.
Listen to the episode here:
