Reviewed by: Grace Howard
Learn from OpenAI pros + more at this Birmingham tech event
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If talking tech over food and drinks sounds like your kind of night, mark your calendar: BirminghamAI is kicking off 2026 with a can’t-miss event with representatives from OpenAI.
The local nonprofit is hosting its 2026 Kickoff Event on Wednesday, January 14, at Red Mountain Theatre, bringing together Birmingham’s tech-curious community for an evening of panels, interactive experiences and big-picture conversations about the future of work.
Why this event is a big deal

BirminghamAI is welcoming OpenAI representatives—leaders from one of the most prominent artificial intelligence organizations in the world—for a panel discussion sponsored by KEYSYS focused on the role of AI in Birmingham’s workforce and beyond.
The night will also include a keynote exploring how our city can lean into AI innovation while creating opportunity for local talent. It’s a major moment for the year-old nonprofit, which connected with more than 2,000 attendees through workshops and programs in 2025.
“We’re bringing together Birmingham’s builders, leaders and curious minds to have an honest conversation about AI. Whether you’re already using these tools or just getting started, this event is designed to meet you where you are.”
Austin Senseman, co-founder of BirminghamAI.
What to expect at Birmingham AI 2026 Kickoff event
Whether you’re:
- Curious about AI but not sure where to start
- A professional looking to future-proof your career
- A business owner, student or creative interested in innovation
This event is for anyone who’s curious about the potential function of AI in everyday life and work. Whether you’re a business owner, student, creative, marketer or someone just beginning to explore AI tools, BirminghamAI’s kickoff is designed to meet you where you are.
BirminghamAI’s mission centers on practical, accessible education that empowers individuals and organizations to engage proactively with new technology.
Birmingham AI 2026 Kickoff—event details

- Where: Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus | 1600 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233
- When: Wednesday, January 14 | 4:30-8PM
- Agenda:
- Hands On AI Experiences, Food, & Drinks | 4:30-5:30PM
- AI experiences, food, drink + networking
- OpenAI Fireside | 5:45-6PM
- Featuring OpenAI representatives, discussing real-world AI applications and workforce impact
- Birmingham AI Vision for the City | 6-6:20PM
- A forward-looking talk on AI’s role in Birmingham’s future
- Keynote on AI + Curiosity | 6:20-7PM
- Action you can take to use AI in a meaningful way the next day
- Closing and Drinks | 7-7:45PM
- Networking with fellow attendees, speakers and local innovators
- Hands On AI Experiences, Food, & Drinks | 4:30-5:30PM
- Cost: $30
- Tickets
Bonus: FREE PARKING!
Spend an evening turning “what if” into “what’s next” at BirminghamAI 2026 Kickoff on January 14th + get your tickets today!
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