AI Is Reshaping
Business. Will You
Lead or Follow?

For organizational leaders, the challenge is no longer determining whether to integrate artificial intelligence, but where, how and when. The AI Academy is designed to help small and mid-sized businesses  evaluate, develop and implement AI strategies in practical, responsible and impactful ways.
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Overview

A 5-PART PROGRAM TO BUILD YOUR AI LEADERSHIP CAPABILITY

The Business Report AI Academy is a five-session, in-person professional development program that blends expert instruction, real-world case studies, strategy development and a guided capstone project. It builds AI leadership capability and equips participants to lead with this transformational technology.

AI Academy offers:
A practical understanding of artificial intelligence and how it applies to business
Experience using AI tools and greater confidence leading AI decisions and implementation
A peer network of professionals navigating similar change
An opportunity map, identifying high-value use cases
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Facilitators & Presenters

Meet the leaders guiding the Business Report AI Academy
Josh Fleig, Chief Innovation Officer, Louisiana Economic Development
Dr. Andrew Schwarz, Professor of Information Systems and AI Initiatives, LSU E.J. Ourso College of Business
Richard Pellerin, Chief Executive Officer, Pellerin Technology
Justin Obney, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, obney.ai
Adrian Owens Jones, Partner, Success Labs
Tony Zanders, President & CEO, Nexus Louisiana; Founder & CEO, Skilltype
Tammy Tuminaro, Chief Operating Officer, Pellerin Technology
Dr. Beverly Brooks Thompson, CFRE, Chief of Staff, Pellerin Companies
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frequently asked questions

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Why should I join the AI Academy?
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organizations operate, compete, and innovate. Business leaders don’t need more noise around AI ... they need clarity, confidence and a practical path forward. This program is designed to help leaders identify where AI can create value in their organizations and equip them with the tools to act on it.
What are the upcoming session dates?
Session 1: Friday, November 13, 2026, 8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., lunch provided
Session 2: Friday, November 20, 2026, 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. 
Session 3: Friday, December 4, 2026  8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Session 4: Friday, December 11, 2026, 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Session 5:  Wednesday, December 16, 2026  8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., lunch provided 
Where does the training take place?
All sessions will take place in the Business Report Leadership Academy Training Center inside Melara Enterprises headquarters at 9029 Jefferson Hwy., Suite 300, Baton Rouge LA 70809.
Who is this program for?
Small and mid-sized business leaders who want to better understand AI and learn how to lead the application of this transformational technology within their organizations.  Participants may include business owners and principals, C-suite executives, division and department leaders, nonprofit executives, project managers, engineers, business consultants, healthcare administrators and other professionals responsible for strategy, operations, innovation and organizational growth.
What makes this program unique?
Expert instruction, CEO and CTO interviews, real-world case studies, collaborative exercises, strategy development, and a guided capstone project leave participants   with a clear, actionable AI roadmap tailored to their organization.
How do I apply?
You can apply directly or be recommended by your organization. Space is limited, so early application is encouraged. The application form can be found here.
How much does it cost?
$2,950 per individual
Is there a cancellation policy?
All cancellations must be received in writing. Because seats are limited, tuition is nonrefundable but may be applied toward a future AI Academy session. Tuition payment acknowledges that the registrant has read and accepted all terms and conditions.
What should I wear?
Business casual and comfortable attire. Dress comfortably for interactive learning and professional networking.
What if I miss one of the sessions?
We recommend attending all sessions, but if a conflict arises, we’ll help you catch up.
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Please complete the application form below to be considered for the Fall/Winter 2026 Session.
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