Regional Meeting in San Bernardino County Highlights Artificial Intelligence, Clean Energy, & Economic Opportunity
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County leaders convened in San Bernardino County for CSAC’s first Regional Meeting of 2026 to explore both the opportunities and challenges associated with technological innovation.
Day one kicked off with a tour of Exquadrum, Inc., an aerospace technology firm located in Victorville, CA, where they learned about the company’s work on projects ranging from rocket propulsion to renewable energy.
The second day featured two panel discussions focused on powering innovation in the Inland Empire and across California.
The first session brought together regional experts to discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), water and energy use, and economic growth. Panelists included Shaolei Ren, Ph.D., Associate Professor at UC Riverside; Jose Lopez-Gallego, Ph.D., Senior Manager of Hydrogen Development at RIC Energy; and Mathew Mena, Senior Director at Inland Economic Growth & Opportunity (IEGO). The discussion covered the benefits and challenges of data centers, green hydrogen’s potential as a low-emission energy solution, and how partnerships between regional organizations, local governments, and the State strengthen economic resilience.
The regional meeting concluded with a conversation featuring Lynn Fyhrlund, Chief Innovation Officer for San Bernardino County, and Jeff Van Wagenen, County Executive Officer for Riverside County, on their counties’ adoption of AI. They shared lessons learned as they integrate AI into county operations, highlighting both successes and areas for continued growth and caution. Throughout the conversation, they emphasized best practices for using AI to support and empower county staff while ensuring responsible governance.
Last week’s meeting brought regional leaders together for a dynamic discussion on the technological and environmental shifts shaping the state. The conversation underscored the significant opportunities for counties to uplift staff and communities through the strategic and purposeful use of AI and emerging technologies.