SALISBURY — Ever wonder how self-driving cars work, or how your favorite streaming service recommends movies you’ll love? The answer: artificial intelligence.

Join Dr. Karl Ricanek Jr., a world-renowned speaker and publisher on AI, biometrics, facial analytics and the deployment of AI technology for an engaging exploration of this fascinating field when he addresses the English-Speaking Union’s March 21 dinner program. He has over 30 years of experience in AI development, working with U.S. and world governments, Department of Defense contractors and corporations.

Ricanek will take you on a historical journey of AI, from its early roots in the 1960s to its present-day applications; explain how AI works, using clear and understandable language, even for those with no technical background; showcase real-world examples of how AI is already affecting and transforming our everyday lives, from healthcare and finance to entertainment, transportation, and politics; and discuss AI’s exciting possibilities in shaping the future but also address the potential challenges and ethical considerations.

Ricanek received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering from North Carolina A&T State University, founded his own AI technology company, has won numerous fellowships and awards for his research and inventions, and currently teaches at UNC-Wilmington.

The event will take place at the Country Club of Salisbury, 747 Club Dr., Salisbury, with cocktails at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m., and the program at 8 p.m. Cost is $50 per person with first-timers permitted to attend without joining the organization. Reservation cut-off is March 18. For more information, contact ESU president Gerry Wood at gerry@oldyorkllc.com or 704-213-6008.