In its most recent Maui Tech ʻOhana, a business support and networking opportunity, Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) offered an interactive gathering with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI). During the session, guest speaker Doug Nelson, founder and CEO of Kinection and an AI consultant with The Prompt, explored some of the human skills that matter most for effective collaboration, even as AI becomes an increasingly important part of the workforce.  

Based on Maui, Nelson has successfully produced over 20 interactive courses, simulations, and games in the eight years since he founded Kinection. At The Prompt, he trains corporate and nonprofit teams to use AI to enhance creativity and impact. Nelson has also worked to prioritize cultural diversity and community-building throughout his career. 

“My job is to help people understand AI innovations and how to succeed in an AI world,” he said. “It’s time for a different way to think, a new mindset. While AI is rapidly changing how tasks get done, strong human connection remains essential for communication and collaboration. We need to learn how to use AI, not as a replacement for people, but as a way to free up valuable time and resources.” 

Nelson used structured games and playful activities during the session to help attendees connect and share in ways that felt natural, energizing, and meaningful. He explored three human skills—presence, risk-taking, and adaptability—to show how to build safety, trust, and connection. 

Participants offered their takeaways from the event. Jerry Isdale from Maui Techies noted, “I’ve noticed that people are hungry for more AI discussion at all different levels. MEDB presented a vital topic at the right time.” 

Tech consultant Sarah Tomascik said, “This Tech ʻOhana offered an interesting dynamic in an experimental way to think about how human connection and AI can be used in cooperation with each other, instead of in opposition. I saw what we can gain from interpersonal relationships and the interconnectivity that forms from networking. This was a great experience!” 

Nelson concluded, “This interaction provided a fresh appreciation for why human skills are critically important in an AI-driven world. We also discussed how to bring these activities to the workplace and build these new skills.” 

More information about MEDB’s Maui Tech ʻOhana program and to sign up for MEDB’s newsletter, visit https://www.medb.org/techohana/.