This presentation explores the practical applications and current limitations of artificial intelligence in genealogical research. Drawing from his experience, Steve Little will demonstrate real-world AI applications, including a specialized tool he's collaboratively developing that analyzes cemetery headstones - extracting and translating text, describing symbols, and providing cultural context particularly relevant for Jewish genealogy. The session will cover how AI can assist with tasks like document transcription, data organization, and project management, while also discussing important limitations such as research verification and translation reliability. Attendees will receive an overview of major AI platforms and their specific strengths, concluding with guidance on finding reliable resources for continued learning in this rapidly evolving field.

With the support of the Lucille Gudis Memorial Fund for Jewish Genealogy of the JGSNY

Thank you to Ancestry, the Center for Jewish History’s Family History sponsor

About the Speaker:
Steve Little serves as AI Program Director for the National Genealogical Society and founded AI Genealogy Insights, where he explores the integration of artificial intelligence into genealogical research. His background uniquely combines graduate work in computational linguistics with years of experience building information systems for libraries and archives. As co-host of The Family History AI Show podcast, he helps researchers understand both the possibilities and limitations of AI in family history research. His work focuses particularly on using technology to understand complex genealogical relationships, including endogamy and pedigree collapse.