What is the AI Ethics Iron Bowl?
April 22, 2026
Location: 2013 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
The AI Ethics Iron Bowl is a new academic competition that brings together honors students from Auburn University and the University of Alabama to examine the ethical challenges shaping artificial intelligence today. During this full-day event, students participate in a structured, multi-round debate centered on AI case studies. These cases explore complex issues such as algorithmic bias, privacy, surveillance, automation, misinformation and the broader societal impact of emerging technologies. Participants are challenged to analyze the ethical dimensions of each scenario, consider multiple perspectives and present thoughtful, well-reasoned responses.
Unlike traditional debate formats that emphasize winning an argument, the AI Ethics Iron Bowl prioritizes ethical reasoning, intellectual curiosity and respectful dialogue. Students are encouraged to explore the complexity of each issue, acknowledge uncertainty and engage constructively with differing viewpoints.
Industry professionals attend the event as judges and participants in the broader conversation around responsible innovation. The event also creates opportunities for networking between students, faculty, alumni and professionals working in fields impacted by artificial intelligence.
By bringing together students from two flagship universities, the AI Ethics Iron Bowl fosters collaboration, critical thinking and meaningful dialogue about the future of technology and society.
Register for the AI Ethics Iron BowlUndergraduate students interested in artificial intelligence, ethics, technology policy, or emerging technologies who want to observe the debate and connect with industry professionals.
Faculty members interested in artificial intelligence, ethics, technology, public policy or related fields who would like to observe the debate, engage with students and contribute to interdisciplinary conversations about the responsible development and use of emerging technologies.
Professionals working in technology, data, policy, healthcare, finance, education or other fields impacted by AI who are interested in engaging with students and contributing to conversations about responsible innovation.
Alumni and community members interested in the societal impact of artificial intelligence and in supporting student dialogue around emerging technologies.
Travel Information
Charter Bus Information
The bus will depart Auburn University at 7:15 a.m., arrive in Birmingham at 9:30 a.m., depart Birmingham at 2:30 p.m. and arrive back at Auburn University at 5:00 p.m.
Auburn in Birmingham
Location: 2013 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Parking Information:
- Parking is available in Deck #3
- Two entrances are located on: 2019 4th Avenue North or 401 20th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203
- (The deck is directly across the street from the Auburn building)
