Building an AI-Ready Association

Most association executives are using AI for content creation and productivity tasks. But the landscape is changing quickly. The associations that benefit most from AI won't simply use better prompts, they'll build systems that capture institutional knowledge, support strategic decision-making, and create greater value for members. 

Presented by Carol Wight, CEO of the New Mexico Restaurant Association, and Monica Poling, AI Business Strategist, this session explores three practical moves every association should be making right now. Through real-world examples, attendees will see how AI can become a strategic asset that supports their mission, members, and long-term goals. 

Learning Objectives Participants will learn how to: 

• Build a knowledge base that gives AI the context needed to produce accurate, useful results
• Incorporate strategic plans, organizational priorities, and member needs into AI workflows for smarter decision-making 
• Identify practical opportunities for AI agents to support communications, events, membership, and operations 
• Preserve institutional knowledge and reduce dependency on individual staff expertise 
• Develop a realistic roadmap for building an AI-ready association