Seminole State College will host Dr. John Hassell, associate professor of software development at the University of Oklahoma Polytechnic Institute and former SSC student, for a presentation titled “AI Myths: A Clear Look at Artificial Intelligence.” The event will take place Wednesday, April 23 at 9 a.m. in the Jeff Johnston Fine Arts Auditorium on the SSC campus. It is free and open to the public.

Hassell, who grew up in Wewoka and has more than 30 years of experience in the tech industry, will examine common misconceptions about artificial intelligence. His career has spanned web and mobile app development, embedded systems and AI-based solutions in sectors such as oil and gas and emergency response.

The presentation will challenge popular beliefs that AI is conscious, will take every job, is always fair or can solve every problem. Hassell will explore the technical realities behind predictive and generative AI, emphasizing their dependence on data quality and lack of true understanding. He will also discuss the risks and limitations of these systems, such as bias, overfitting and factual inaccuracies.

Hassell is the founder of ZigBeef, a University of Oklahoma student-led technology startup that developed long-range RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tracking systems for cattle. The system, based on his doctoral research, allows ranchers to monitor livestock movements using electronic tags that transmit data over extended distances.

A strong proponent of hands-on education, Hassell has taught at both the University of Tulsa and OU, where he integrates real-world application with classroom learning.

The event is sponsored by the SSC STEM Division. For more information about the event, contact STEM Division Chair Emily Carpenter at 405-382-9234 or e.carpenter@sscok.edu.