Fall Contracts Seminar Series - Session 3

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Wednesday, November 4, 2026 · 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Artificial Intelligence for Contracting: Practical Applications, Opportunities, and Risks

Professor Rafael Diaz
Old Dominion University

 

Join the VSRA Contracts Committee for an informative seminar featuring Dr. Rafael Diaz of Old Dominion University. This session introduces the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI) and explores practical applications in contracting and business operations, particularly within the ship repair industry. Topics include contract analysis, RFP responses, proposal development, cost estimation, and supply-chain management. Through examples and demonstrations, participants will learn how AI can improve efficiency, support decision-making, and be adopted responsibly while recognizing its limitations and risks.

Participants will:

  1. Understand the fundamentals, capabilities, and limitations of AI and generative AI.
  2. Explore practical AI applications in contract analysis, RFP responses, proposal preparation, and cost estimation.
  3. Identify opportunities to improve procurement, supply-chain operations, and project management.
  4. Recognize risks related to accuracy, confidentiality, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.
  5. Learn practical approaches to adopting AI responsibly in everyday business operations.

Contact Information

For additional information regarding this seminar, please contact:

Anika Clickener
Events & Outreach Coordinator
Virginia Ship Repair Association (VSRA)

Email: AClickener@VirginiaShipRepair.org
Phone: (757) 233-7034 ext. 109

Event Sponsors

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.Tecnico CorporationBAE Systems, Maritime SolutionsPrism MaritimeBay Metals & Fabrication, LLC (BMF)Hampton Roads Communication TechnologiesWoods Rogers Vandeventer Black PLCVigor Marine Group - MHI NorfolkWillcox & Savage, P.C.
This event is only available to VSRA Members. If you have a VSRA Member user account, please login to register.
3:00 PM

Check-In

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
3:30 PM

The Impact of AI on Ship Repair

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Join the VSRA Contracts Committee for an informative seminar featuring Professor Rafael Diaz of Old Dominion University...
5:00 PM

Networking Reception

5:00 PM
Immediately following the seminar, registered attendees are encouraged to stay for a networking reception featuring hors d'oeuvres and bar service.

The Impact of AI on Ship Repair

Join the VSRA Contracts Committee for an informative seminar featuring Professor Rafael Diaz of Old Dominion University, as he explores the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the ship repair and maritime industries. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how AI may influence business operations, contract management, workforce development, and strategic decision-making within the ship repair community.

Networking Reception

Immediately following the seminar, registered attendees are encouraged to stay for a networking reception featuring hors d'oeuvres and bar service. This informal gathering will provide an excellent opportunity to continue conversations on seminar topics, connect with industry peers, and strengthen professional relationships within the maritime and ship repair community.

Registration Details

Cost: VSRA Members: $50 | Non-Members: $75

Registration is for this seminar session only. Each seminar session requires separate registration. Registration is now open for all remaining sessions.

**VSRA members must be logged in to register at the discounted member rate. Non-members requiring registration assistance should contact Anika Clickener at AClickener@VirginiaShipRepair.org or by calling (757) 233-7034.

Rafael Diaz, Ph.D.

Rafael Diaz, Ph.D., is a Professor at Old Dominion University and Interim Graduate Program Director for the Schools of Cybersecurity and Supply Chain, Logistics, and Maritime Operations. He also serves as an AI Fellow for the 2026–2027 academic year. His work focuses on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, supply-chain management, risk analysis, and decision-support systems. He has contributed to AI education and workforce development initiatives, including COVAConnectAI, emphasizing practical applications and responsible AI adoption.

 

Upcoming Seminar Session

 

Explore the other sessions in the VSRA Contracts Seminar Series. Each seminar session requires separate registration. Registration for a session does not include registration for any other session in the series.

Session 4
Ethics & Standard of Conduct

Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026

Speakers: Jim Kelley, Woods Rogers Vandeventer Black PLC  AND Patrick O'Donnel, Kaufman & Canoles, PC

The renowned annual Ethics & Standards of Conduct seminar returns. This session covers ethical obligations, compliance requirements, and standards of conduct for government contractors. A must-attend for all contracting professionals.

VSRA Office
101 W Main Street
Suite 5500
Norfolk, VA 23510
Get Directions

Parking

The closest parking is available at the Town Point Garage (110 W. Main St, Norfolk). Please CLICK HERE for a detailed parking guide. Bring your parking ticket in with you for validation. DO NOT park in front of the World Trade Center building in the circle. If you have physical limitations and require assistance, please contact the VSRA Office at least 48 hours in advance.

VSRA Office

The VSRA Office is located in the East Wing of the World Trade Center on the 5th floor. Upon entering the building, turn left and take the elevators to the 5th floor. VSRA is located at the end of the hall to the left. Please check in at the front desk to complete registration and receive your name tag and materials.

Sponsorship Opportunities

 

Support the VSRA Contracts Seminar Series by becoming a sponsor and showcase your company to industry professionals across the ship repair community. This series features four 1.5-hour informational and networking sessions focused on key issues related to federal contracting, business development, and the annual Ethics & Standards of Conduct Seminar. Sponsorship opportunities provide valuable visibility through event recognition, promotional opportunities, and engagement with attendees.

Select the sponsorship level that best aligns with your company’s goals and maximize your presence throughout this year’s seminar series.

BenefitsSilver
$500		Gold
$750
Logo Placement on Event Marketing Items ✔ ✔
Logo on Screen During Each Seminar ✔ ✔
Complimentary Attendees at Each Seminar 1 2
Opportunity to Provide Sponsor Remarks — ✔

Ready to become a sponsor? Select your preferred sponsorship level and secure your sponsorship today.

View Sponsorship Packages

Questions?

Anika Clickener | Events & Outreach Coordinator
Email: AClickener@VirginiaShipRepair.org | Phone: (757) 233-7034 x109

Event Date/Time

  • Wednesday, November 04 2026
    3:30 PM — 5:00 PM

Location

VSRA Office
101 W Main Street
Suite 5500
Norfolk, VA 23510
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