MVP Insights: Shawn Dorward on AI Innovations, Presenting at Community Summit

Welcome to “MVP Insights,” a podcast that explores the universe, ideas, and opportunities of the brightest stars in the Microsoft business applications ecosystem. 

In episode 46, Cam Sessinger hosts Shawn Dorward, Vice President, sa.global, Microsoft MVP, about his experiences being involved with Copilot and AI technologies as well as his upcoming sessions at Community Summit North America.

Key Takeaways

• Exciting innovations: Shawn has been involved with AI agents and Copilot, covering the latest innovations on the AI Agent & Copilot Podcast. He explains that he’s a big fan of AI because no one can claim to be an expert, as it’s so new and everyone is learning it at the same time. Shawn notes that “the most interesting things to me that are coming out in this time frame with it is agent orchestration,” which involves agents working simultaneously on a task together. He also appreciates “how much AI can bring individuals with accessibility and hidden disabilities into the foreground without exposing or making them more vulnerable than they already are.”
• AI outcomes: When working on a task or project, many individuals may feel like they’re starting with a blank canvas. This can make one feel inefficient or ineffective, adding unnecessary pressure. Businesses are experiencing more high-quality outcomes from individuals by applying AI. “We’re getting more out of our team and maybe a kind of influence in the organization that we normally would not have expected.”
• Community Summit: “I think it has changed my career, the way that I interact with folks, the way that I help, and the way that I elevate my own skillset,” Shawn says of Community Summit North America. Presenting to the community is a way that he sharpens his skills and grows to be more prepared. Because tips-and-tricks style sessions provided bursts of information, Shawn will be presenting life hacks sessions for specific products at the event this year, among other session types. He will be presenting:
  • “Academy: Introduction to Copilot Studio” on Sunday, October 19
  • “Academy: Introduction to Copilot in Business Central” on Sunday, October 19
  • “Copilot Life Hacks – Tips and Tricks for EVERY User!!” on Monday, October 20
  • “GP to BC – Everything you need to know, before you get started!” on Monday, October 20
  • “BC Life Hacks – Tips and Tricks for EVERY User – 2025 Edition!” on Tuesdsay, October 21
  • “CE/CRM Life Hacks – Tips and Tricks for Every User! New for 2025!” on Tuesday, October 21
  • “Excel Life Hacks – Tips and Tricks for EVERY user! 2025 Edition!” on Wednesday, October 22
  • “New to BC – Ask the Experts” on Wednesday, October 22
  • “Power Apps Life Hacks – Tips and Tricks for Every User” on Thursday, October 21