Panel: A.I. And The Work We All Do: What Comes Next?
Artificial intelligence is already brushing up against the edges of the voice world —quietly in the background, and sometimes uncomfortably close to center stage. In this 90-minute session, we focus on various vantage points that reflect our community : the voice teacher, the voice therapist, the laryngologist, and the singer. With James Thomas, Lee Cary, Anthony Law, and a moderated discussion, we will explore how AI may reshape assessment, training, diagnosis, and even identity in voice.
This is not a tech demo - but more of a provocation. What does it mean to be a voice expert when machines can listen, analyze, and even imitate? What does the singer lose—or gain—when artistry meets algorithm? We will ask you to think forward: five years, ten years. Where does each role expand, where does it erode, and where does it fundamentally change? And for those not ready to dive in headfirst, we will map practical, low-stakes entry points to begin engaging with AI today. The goal is not consensus—it is clarity. About opportunity, about risk, and about what parts of our work are truly irreplaceable.
Cary Lee, BM, BS
Cary Lee (he/him) is a Seattle-based technology leader and classical tenor. He serves as Vice President of Engineering at MD Clarity, a mission-driven company focused on bringing greater price transparency to healthcare and helping providers ensure they are paid accurately by insurers for the care they deliver. Since joining MD Clarity last fall, Cary has led development of a new AI-powered product for managing and negotiating payer–provider contracts and is helping shape the company’s use of agentic AI systems to detect and address insurance underpayments.
Cary brings more than a decade of experience in technology startups, with a focus on big data, distributed systems, and machine learning engineering. After beginning his career at Microsoft, which brought him to Seattle, he moved into startups, contributing to the growth of enterprise software companies Usermind and Amperity from early stages. At Amperity, he led teams building machine-learning systems for identity resolution and predictive analytics and helped introduce early applications of large language models into engineering workflows and product capabilities.
Cary holds dual degrees in Computer Science and Vocal Performance from Northwestern University. Alongside his work in software, he maintains an active performing career in the Pacific Northwest, appearing as a tenor soloist with ensembles such as the Kirkland Choral Society and performing with regional opera companies including Puget Sound Concert Opera, Lowbrow Opera Collective, and Vashon Opera.
Financial Disclosure: Mr. Lee has no financial disclosures.
Non-Financial Disclosure: Mr. Lee has no non-financial relationships to disclose.