Fathom believes that AI is the defining technology of our lifetime. It offers tremendous potential to drive innovation and improve the day-to-day lives of the American people. We also acknowledge that it poses important risks to national security, democratic institutions, and livelihoods. Beyond the technical challenges that AI introduces, it allows society to deliberate and decide through dialogue and debate what role AI should play in our future.

We are hosting The Ashby Workshops to do just that – convene diverse voices from sectors that have so far been underrepresented in the national conversation about AI to have those critical conversations. We approach this challenge and opportunity with both humility and excitement for what we can do as a collective group, in good-faith, engaging in productive dialogue with the goal of tangible outputs.

We hope that Ashby sparks long-lasting and productive working relationships between guests, all of whom share a desire to see AI developed and deployed for the good of society and the stability and security of the global world order.

W. Ross Ashby pioneered the field of cybernetics, the study of communication and automatic control systems in living organisms and machines. He posited the Law of Requisite Variety, which is as simple and straightforward as it is profound in its implications: The greater the complexity of a system, the greater the need for nuance and variety in its controls.

AI in society is very much this – a complex system that needs nuance and variety in its controls.

Fathom’s goal is to have diverse societal voices contribute their expertise and perspectives to the national conversation—and ultimately federal decision-making—about AI and its role in society.

Through expert speakers, fireside chats, discussion groups, scenario planning, and hands-on workshops, participants will strengthen their grasp of complex topics and work to generate insights to move forward in the collective conversation. It is our hope that many of these outputs will serve to help shape priorities and recommendations for the incoming U.S. Congress and Administration as it relates to AI governance.

In addition to convening a broader, more diverse array of voices than most other AI events, The Ashby Workshops will provide a hands-on experience. We’ve found that people engage best by doing, so the event will prioritize dynamic conversations, collaboration, knowledge sharing, scenario planning, and live demonstrations. Moreover, we plan to challenge our guests with ambitious questions, many of which have been avoided, while remaining focused on generating consensus, actionable insights, and newly proposed ideas.

The Ashby Workshops is a two-day event that will take place from January 8-9, 2025, at the renowned Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, VA.

The Ashby Workshops will bring together a diverse mix of attendees, including AI experts, elected officials, executives from key industries like technology, healthcare, finance, and more, and leaders from civil society organizations focused on a wide range of issues, from civil liberties and democracy to advocacy for various communities.

We will not publish a complete list of guests, but check back soon for a selected list of speakers and workshop facilitators.

The Ashby Workshops will operate under Chatham House Rule to encourage the free exchange of ideas, so sessions will not be recorded or photographed.

That said, given our desire to engage and educate stakeholders from across society, we will release an anonymized report summarizing key insights and takeaways within Q1 following the event. Leveraging the ideas and contributions of our guests, we will also publish a report with insights and recommendations for the incoming Administration and Congress.

No, we are not accepting sponsorship offers or charging for tickets.

The Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, is a Forbes Five-Star resort known for combining luxury with a serene countryside ambiance just an hour outside Washington, D.C. The Salamander Resort was founded by Sheila C. Johnson, co-founder of BET, in 2013. It reflects her vision of combining luxury with natural beauty and sustainability. Over the years, it has become a destination for high-end travelers and executives and stands out thanks to its…

• Award-Winning Spa: The Salamander’s Spa is renowned as one of the best in the country. It offers various wellness services, including massages, facials, and holistic treatments.
• Equestrian Experiences: Middleburg is known as the nation’s horse and hunt capital, and the resort offers exclusive equestrian programs, from trail riding to lessons, providing a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Culinary Excellence: The on-site restaurants feature farm-to-table dining, offering gourmet meals crafted with local ingredients.

We deeply value the time commitment our attendees are making for The Ashby Workshops, and we’ve carefully selected a location that balances convenience with comfort to provide the best possible experience. Set amidst the rolling hills of Virginia’s horse country, Middleburg offers a serene, retreat-like atmosphere that feels far removed from the busy world yet remains easily accessible from major urban centers.

We recommend arriving on Tuesday, January 7th. Registration will be open all day, and room check-ins will begin at 3 p.m. Our welcome reception will kick off at 6 p.m. with cocktails and dinner at The Salamander’s Harriman’s Restaurant.

Salamander Resort is located about 40 miles west of Washington, D.C., making it easy for those flying into the city or for locals. Depending on traffic, it’s approximately an hour’s drive from D.C.

• From Washington, D.C.: The most convenient way to the resort is by car, with a scenic drive through Northern Virginia’s countryside. Upon arrival, we will offer complimentary parking for your stay at The Samander. The hotel will also provide luxury transport to Middleburg for those who want to explore the town.
• By Air: For those flying in, Dulles International Airport (IAD) is the closest major airport, about 30 minutes away. We will have private shuttles to bring guests from all nearby airports to The Salamander.

Designed to be a distinctive and high-caliber experience, the Ashby Workshops bring together influential leaders across sectors for immersive, educational, and interactive sessions. Given the unique structure of the workshops – which will unfold over two days, with each session building on the last – we request that participants attend both full days to ensure they benefit from each session. The schedule has been carefully crafted to include opportunities for relaxation, networking, and exploring the venue’s surroundings, ensuring a balanced and enriching experience for all.

While all Ashby activities will take place at the Salamander, Middleburg is a charming town with plenty to explore. Situated in Virginia's wine country, local vineyards offer tours and tastings. The town itself is steeped in history, including Civil War landmarks, and its quaint streets filled with boutique shops and galleries make for lovely strolling.

For both our programming and evening events, attire is business casual. If you plan to take advantage of the resort’s equestrian programs, hiking trails, or other outdoor activities, consider packing outdoor activewear. The hotel has an indoor lap pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, so bring a swimsuit and workout clothes if you’d like to use those facilities. Luxury robes and slippers are already provided in every room.

The average temperature in January is a high of 43 degrees, with a low of 23 degrees and a chance of snow. While all sessions and activities will be inside, pack warm clothes for travel to and from the hotel and any outdoor exploration.