Brandon Z. Hoff

Biography

Brandon Z. Hoff is a researcher, educator, and technology strategist helping organizations navigate the rapidly changing world of artificial intelligence. He is the founder of RUDI – Responsible Use of Digital Intelligence, a public education initiative that brings AI literacy and ethics into schools, communities, and boardrooms. Hoff’s work bridges innovation and practice from designing AI-powered financial tools for healthcare providers to creating professional development programs for educators and policy leaders. He has advised universities, school districts, and legislators on responsible adoption of AI, while also building real-world systems that streamline decision-making and expand access to opportunity. A frequent speaker and workshop leader, Hoff has been featured by several media publications for his human-centered approach to technology. His philosophy is simple: technology should solve human problems, not create new ones. Whether teaching, building, or consulting, he focuses on ensuring AI empowers people, strengthens communities, and drives meaningful progress.

Sessions

1. Open Mic: Idea Hour with Brandon Z. Hoff

   Thu, Nov 5, 9:40 AM – 10:40 AM CT

   Track Product&Design

   Brandon Z. Hoff founded RUDI (Responsible Use of Digital Intelligence) and has taught hands-on sessions for AfroTech’s AI Edge series. In this Idea Hour he is your live AI advisor. Bring one of three things: a business you run where AI might help but you are not sure how, a product you want to build without an engineer, or an AI-powered product idea. Pitch it, and he will tell you how far AI can take you, what you may be missing, and the first step to take.

2. Mandatory AI Agent Training for Executive Leaders

   Wed, Nov 4, 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM CT

   Track Artificial Intelligence

   Most leaders are still using AI one question at a time. In this hands-on session, Brandon Hoff, Chief AI Officer of RUDI AI, shows you how to move past one-off prompts and build AI systems that handle entire processes, from research to finished work. Follow along as he walks through real-world examples step by step, then put it into practice yourself. You’ll leave with a working approach you can bring back to your team and use right away.