In this inspiring keynote, Robbert van Empel combines his background as a future-oriented historian with his expertise in artificial intelligence. He shows how technological innovations throughout history have often been met with fear and resistance, and how people have repeatedly adapted and continued to develop. He uses these historical lessons to deepen the conversation about AI and transform uncertainty into understanding. Robbert combines his technological vision and sharp storytelling style with clear, realistic insights into what AI can already do today and where it is heading. No hype or doomsday scenarios, but clarity, perspective, and direction for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the role of AI in work and life. This keynote is engaging, convincing, substantive, thought-provoking, and reassuring, and is suitable for groups of any size.
In this practical and engaging keynote, Robbert van Empel shows that AI is not a hype, but a powerful tool that, when used effectively, can deliver immediate results. With his accessible DROP method for writing effective prompts, he provides participants with a simple and immediately applicable approach to getting more out of AI tools, without unnecessary technical complexity. He shares which tools really work, which are better left aside, and demonstrates with smart and humorous examples how AI can make work not only more efficient but also better. Every participant receives a handout with the DROP cheat sheet, a ready-to-use prompt library, and an overview of the best AI tools currently available. The result: practical knowledge, useful resources, and above all, the confidence to start working with AI themselves, without frustration or lengthy learning curves. This lecture is practical, structured, accessible, and suitable for groups of any size.
In this interactive lecture, Robbert van Empel takes resistance to AI seriously while also challenging it. With his format Goochelen met AI, he invites participants to share their own questions, concerns, and work-related challenges, which he then tackles live on stage using smart AI solutions. No abstract theory, but immediate application and relatable examples that demonstrate how AI can genuinely help rather than pose a threat. With his empathetic and insightful style, Robbert even manages to engage the most skeptical audiences: he listens, puts things into perspective, and always remains focused on the human side. The result is a unique session in which the audience takes centre stage, filled with interaction and surprising insights. Resistance gives way to curiosity, and participants leave the room feeling confident and motivated to get started themselves. Ideal for groups of up to 100 people, but scalable if desired.
