By Lynzee Misseldine
Life Science Oklahoma opened its new Catalyst series last week with a keynote from Kathy VanEnkevort, Microsoft’s U.S. Health and Life Sciences industry leader. Speaking to a full room at Convergence in the Oklahoma City Innovation District, VanEnkevort outlined how artificial intelligence is already reshaping healthcare and why Oklahoma is positioned to lead in this new era.
“Biology can write the questions, but AI helps us find the answers,” said Craig Shimasaki, chair of LSOK, in his welcome. “Together we can turn those answers into therapies, diagnostics and cures faster.”
VanEnkevort acknowledged that conversations about artificial intelligence often focus on job loss or disruption but encouraged attendees to look instead at the opportunities to make work more efficient, creative and human. She urged organizations to let AI handle repetitive tasks such as scheduling, documentation, and data searches so that people can spend more time on strategy, collaboration, and innovation. “Use AI to help you think more, not less,” she said.
Her advice centered on balance and purpose. AI, she explained, should serve as an assistant that extends human capacity, not as an authority that replaces it. The most successful organizations are using AI to summarize information, generate first drafts and streamline operations while keeping people in control of judgment and oversight.
VanEnkevort also emphasized the importance of skilling up the workforce. She encouraged leaders to invest in training so employees can adopt tools responsibly and with confidence. Microsoft, she noted, has partnered with universities and professional organizations to help workers across industries build digital fluency and understand how to apply AI in ways that are transparent, fair and secure. “We will only move at the pace of trust,” she said.
During the Q&A, topics ranged from energy use in data centers to the challenge of measuring return on investment. VanEnkevort noted that early adopters in many sectors are already seeing faster workflows, stronger margins and higher employee satisfaction. Her closing message was simple: “You have talent and grit. You are doing novel things. Whatever I can do to advocate and amplify your efforts, I am here for you.”
Special thanks to the OKC Innovation District for hosting, and to the sponsors who made the inaugural Catalyst possible.