AI might seem like just another trendy buzzword, but at the City of Seattle, it’s driving real, meaningful change. From reshaping public services to promoting digital equity, AI has become a core tool in ensuring that technology serves every member of the community. At the forefront of this mission are Seattle Information Technology’s Chief Privacy Officer Ginger Armbruster and Privacy Program Manager Sarah Carrier. Their recent presentation, AI 101 & City of Seattle Initiatives, offers a compelling glimpse into how AI is being leveraged to make public spaces more equitable and inclusive.
Originally part of a session for the Digital Equity Learning Network (DELN), this discussion highlights how AI is breaking barriers in access to public services and reshaping digital equity in Seattle.
AI and digital equity in Seattle
By leveraging AI, the City of Seattle is moving closer to this vision. AI is being used to target and bridge gaps that traditional processes might have missed. From automated tools that streamline public service interactions to generative AI that simplifies processes for marginalized communities, innovative solutions are making systems more inclusive than ever before.
Ginger and Sarah’s presentation highlights key examples of these changes in action, underscoring the City’s commitment to equity and innovation.
“AI is here, it’s been here so we have to figure out what our approach is and how we can leverage it to get the most out of AI to help us,” said Carrier.
The DELN session served as a platform for community stakeholders, policymakers, and advocates to explore the potential of AI in public initiatives.
Through the AI 101 presentation, Ginger and Sarah provided an accessible, yet in-depth breakdown of artificial intelligence, demystifying what it is and how it works. More importantly, they demonstrated how AI intersects with everyday public services. For example:
- Streamlined Processes: AI technologies are helping reduce friction in accessing services like housing, education, and health resources.
- Data-Driven Inclusion: Through data analysis, the City of Seattle is identifying underserved populations and tailoring services to meet their needs more effectively.
- Community-Driven AI Applications: Initiatives are designed with input from the community, ensuring that solutions are relevant and respectful of individual experiences.
Be sure to watch the full AI 101 video for a closer look at these game-changing initiatives and discover what lessons other cities and organizations can take from the City of Seattle’s approach.