Christofer Nelson

Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
President/CEO

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve—especially with the rapid rise of large language models (LLMs)—science museums are positioned to shape how society understands, engages with, and influences this transformative technology. In this keynote, Christofer Nelson will explore how science museums can not only adapt to but actively shape the future of AI through three interconnected roles:

1. Innovating with AI: Enhancing Exhibits, Experiences, and Operations
How can science museums use AI to create more personalized, immersive, and efficient experiences for visitors—while upholding ethical standards, ensuring transparency, and supporting staff in navigating these shifts? The keynote will offer emerging examples and future potential for implementation.

2. Building AI Literacy and Future Readiness
Science museums have a critical role in demystifying AI, equipping learners of all ages with the tools to understand its capabilities and limitations, and inspiring confidence to navigate and shape an AI-augmented future. This includes preparing youth for new career pathways and supporting adults through transitions.

3. Empowering Communities: Museums as Civic Platforms for AI
Museums can serve as trusted spaces for public dialogue, deliberation, and co-creation—giving communities a voice in how AI is designed, governed, and deployed. The keynote will highlight efforts, including a new taxonomy in development by ASTC with support from the U.S. National Science Foundation, to help museums facilitate inclusive and impactful engagement on AI.

Throughout the address, Mr. Nelson will emphasize the dual imperative facing science museums today: to seize the creative possibilities of AI while shouldering the responsibility to ensure equity, inclusion, and public trust. Drawing on lessons from previous technological transformations, he will argue for adaptive strategies that center community needs and elevate science museums as essential civic and educational infrastructure in the age of AI.

Christofer Nelson

Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
President/CEO

(Cur) President and CEO, Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
(Cur) Facilitator & Subject Matter Expert, Bloomberg Philanthropies
(Prev) Chief Operating Officer, ASTC
(Prev) Assistant Director for Open Innovation, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)
(Prev) Director of Content, USA Science & Engineering Festival
(Prev) Program Director, Georgetown University Program on Science in the Public Interest
(Prev) Program Designer and Project Director, Illinois Joining Forces
(Prev) Content Producer, X PRIZE Foundation
(Prev) Director of Programs, Impact Center
(Prev) Resource Manager, Washington DECA

Christofer Nelson

Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
President/CEO