2026 GET-AI SERIES: 1. From Prompt to Power – The Gen AI Starter Lab

We are excited to continue the Orange County Computer Society (OCCS) Global Emerging Technologies (GET) Series—a monthly platform dedicated to spotlighting transformative innovations in computer science and technology. Hosted by the IEEE Orange County Computer Society Chapter, this series brings together professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts to explore the cutting edge of what’s possible.
Following a highly engaging March session filled with thought-provoking conversations on Advancement in Digital healthcare , we’re thrilled to bring you a powerful double-feature this April—exploring both the strategic and technical sides of artificial intelligence.
Curious about Generative AI? This hands-on lab simplifies core concepts—from tokens and LLMs to RAG, Agents, and MCP—while showing how they work together in real systems. By the end, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to build your own AI-powered applications.
Session 1: Understanding Generative AI — Core Principles and Industry Impact (40 mins)
1. What is GenAI
Understand how AI generates content and why it’s transforming every industry.
2. Tokens & How LLMs Think
Learn how text is broken into tokens and how that impacts cost, speed, and output.
3. Models & Ecosystem
Explore key GenAI players and choose the right model for your use case.
4. Prompting (Vibe Programming)
Master the art of guiding AI using structured, effective prompts.
5. RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation)
Enhance AI accuracy by grounding responses in your own data.
6. Agents (Automation Layer)
Move beyond chatbots to AI systems that can reason, plan, and take actions.
7. MCP (Tool Integration Layer)
Enable AI to securely discover and interact with real-world tools and APIs.
Session 2: GenAI in Action — From Prompt to Working Prototype (60 mins)
1. Hands-On Build
Follow along in a live demo as we integrate concepts and build an AI-powered application in real time using Visual Studio Code and Python notebooks
2. Architecture & Best Practices
Understand how all components fit together in a real-world AI system.
3. Next Steps
The journey doesn’t end here—stay with us for what’s next.
Gora Datta
FHL7,SMIEEE,SMACM
Chair IEEE Computer Society – OC Chapter
Chair IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS) – OC Chapter
Chair & Board Member IEEE Blockchain Technical Community
Founding Chair IEEE P3271.01 Working Group – Standard for Recurring Transactions Using Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLTs)
📧 gora.datta@ieee.org
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/goradatta
Co-sponsored by: Gora Datta
Speaker(s): Vinay, Pradyumna Kodgi
Agenda:
GenAI Unlocked: From Buzzwords to Breakthroughs
Generative AI is no longer just a trend—it’s transforming how we create, innovate, and solve problems across industries. But what’s really behind all the excitement?
In this interactive session, we’ll cut through the hype and help you truly understand Generative AI—without the jargon.
🔍 What you’ll explore:
– What Generative AI actually is (in simple, practical terms)
– How it works behind the scenes
– Key concepts and terminology you’ll hear everywhere—explained clearly
– Real-world use cases shaping industries today
💡 What makes this session different?
This isn’t just theory. You’ll experience Generative AI in action through a live, interactive demo, where we’ll demo and explore real examples together.
🛠️ To keep the learning going, we’ll also share source code and hands-on resources so you can experiment, build, and deepen your understanding at your own pace.
🎯 Who should attend?
– Beginners curious about AI
– Professionals looking to understand GenAI fundamentals
– Engineers, product managers, and innovators exploring AI adoption
✨ Walk away with:
– A clear, confident understanding of Generative AI
– The ability to engage in GenAI conversations without confusion
– Practical exposure to how GenAI works in real scenarios
Whether you're just getting started or looking to solidify your foundation, this session will kickstart your journey into the world of intelligent creation.
5270 California Ave , Irvine, California, United States, 92617, Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/553615