On Monday, 16th June 2025, MCD System's Software Engineer, Max Croft, travelled to Newcastle to attend an AI-focused roundtable hosted by Sunderland Software City. The session welcomed voices from across the UK’s tech sector and was joined by Emran Mian, the Director General for Digital Technologies and Telecoms at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
This roundtable formed part of a wider government initiative to engage industry stakeholders on the future of artificial intelligence in the UK. It offered a valuable platform for startups, established companies, and public sector leaders to explore how the UK can lead in the responsible development of AI.
The session was designed to facilitate open discussion around the opportunities and challenges surrounding AI adoption. Key goals included:
The roundtable covered a wide range of important topics, with a particular focus on how UK businesses can adopt AI technologies in a way that is both safe and scalable. Participants explored how to ensure that AI systems are robust, reliable, and accessible across industries.
A major point of discussion was the secure use of AI in trust-sensitive sectors such as healthcare, law, and finance. These industries face unique challenges when integrating AI, and the conversation highlighted the need for rigorous safeguards, clear accountability, and strong ethical oversight.
Another recurring theme was the difficulty of building AI systems that comply with UK data protection and privacy regulations. Developers and businesses alike are navigating complex legal requirements, which can slow innovation if not clearly supported by policy and guidance.
The group also discussed barriers to innovation, particularly around access to the infrastructure and computing power required to build and scale advanced AI solutions. There was a shared understanding that more support is needed to help companies move from research and prototyping into real-world deployment.
Finally, the conversation turned to the future - what’s next for AI in the UK, and what challenges we must anticipate. These included ensuring a skilled workforce, addressing concerns around AI safety and public trust, and developing clear national frameworks for governance and oversight.
At MCD Systems, we are committed to being part of the national conversation on emerging technologies. Sessions like this help ensure that innovation in AI is matched with responsibility, security, and inclusivity.
We believe that engagement between government and industry is essential in shaping a tech ecosystem that is not only competitive but also trusted by the people and communities it serves.
As the role of AI continues to grow, MCD Systems remains focused on building ethical, high-performance digital solutions that support clients across logistics, transport, and compliance. We’re proud to represent regional voices in national discussions and look forward to playing an active role in the UK’s digital future.
Stay tuned to our blog for more insights from events, industry developments, and how we’re helping businesses navigate the evolving technology landscape.
