We live in a time where technology is changing fast, and artificial intelligence is becoming part of everything we do. It’s showing up in how we work, live, and connect with each other. It is essential that people understand what AI is, how it works and what it means for our future. And that’s what AI literacy is all about –– knowing how to think critically about AI, use it well and make wise choices.
What AI Literacy Day Is About
On March 28, people across the country celebrated AI Literacy Day. The goal of the day is to help people learn about AI in a simple and clear way. Students, teachers and communities came together to explore what AI really is and why it matters. It wasn’t just about facts; it was about getting people talking, asking questions, and thinking about how AI fits into their lives. The day also gave professionals and educators a chance to grow their knowledge through webinars and workshops. These events helped people stay in the loop as AI tools and ideas evolve.
Giving People Power Through Knowledge
When people understand AI, they can make better decisions about how and when to use it. It’s not enough to know that AI exists; it’s about learning how to use it the right way.
Rick Caccia, Founder and CEO of WitnessAI, said, “To be aware of the growing value of AI is one thing, but the true power lies in knowing how to use the technology properly and responsibly as it continues to grow in relevance. AI Literacy Day is a chance to think about the incredible power of AI and how it’s changing our world.”
Making Ethical Choices
AI literacy also helps people think through tough issues like privacy, fairness and the bigger effects AI can have on society. It’s essential to understand how algorithms work, what data they use and how those choices can affect real people.
Dr. Srinivas Mukkamala, PhD, Advisor at Securin, said, “As our world leans more heavily on artificial intelligence — whether in workplaces, schools, or daily life — knowing how to use AI carefully is no longer optional; it’s essential. AI isn’t just a tool to make tasks easier; it’s a technology that can shape our decisions, our work, and even our safety.”
Career and Workplace Relevance
In today’s job market, knowing how to use AI quickly becomes a must-have skill. As companies add AI into their workflows, workers who understand the technology have an edge.
Anthony Cammarano, Vice President, Engineering, & Chief Technology Officer at Protegrity, said, “Being literate in AI means being literate in best practices for data security throughout its lifecycle. To continue exploring uses for AI, it is key to make stolen data useless to threat actors.”
The Bigger Picture in Tech
AI literacy is critical in the world of technology. It’s not just about building new tools, it’s about people who understand AI creating new ideas, solving problems and moving it forward thoughtfully and intelligently. However, they also play a significant role in ensuring AI is used fairly and safely. Setting rules, thinking about bias and ensuring people are protected is key to this. It also means helping more people learn these skills so the gap between those who know AI and those who don’t doesn’t keep growing.
AI literacy isn’t just about the tech. It’s about the future. As Caccia puts it, “Understanding AI shouldn’t just be for tech experts — everyone should be able to get involved and safely take advantage of its fullest potential.”
