The Future of Excel: Modern Tools and AI Integrations

In the last decade, Microsoft has added, changed, and integrated tools in Excel so much that your mid-2000s workflows are absolutely antiquated. The introduction of Power Query changes how we ingest and clean data; the introduction of Power Pivot changes how we analyze it. The dozens of new functions come with an entirely new function engine, capable of things that used to be impossible. And the integration of Copilot - both with ChatGPT and Claude as driving models - gives us a tool that can create reports autonomously. In this session, we'll demonstrate the new order of things, and show you the most powerful opportunities for improvement.

Topics include:

• Rebuilding your data handling culture with Power Query
• Analyzing multiple related data tables with Power Pivot
• Leveraging new dynamic array functions and spillable ranges with calculations
• Introducing new agentic AI capabilities in Excel

Neil Malek
President, Knack Training

Neil Malek is a software productivity expert who delivers high-energy sessions that inspire participants to leverage the full power of their applications. Whether it’s creating the best presentation or chart you can, learning to collaborate more dynamically with your team, or diving into a new piece of software, Neil will provide explanations and examples that are directly relevant to your everyday experiences.

Neil has been a teacher for over 20 years and has run Knack Training for the last 12 years. He has a natural ability to translate generic skills and techniques to solve real-world problems for his clients, customizing every topic, session, and piece of material to match the situations you find yourself in. His strong background in performance makes him entertaining and engaging to watch, and his quick wits allow him to handle challenging questions on the fly. 

Grace Berube
Senior Content Manager, IOFM

Grace is the Senior Content Manager at the Institute of Finance & Management (IOFM), where she has led content strategy and development since 2022. In this role, she oversees all aspects of IOFM’s digital and event-based content, ensuring it remains timely, relevant, and actionable for all financial operations professionals.

Grace manages IOFM’s robust library of site content, leads the organization’s editorial and member webinar programming, and hosts IOFM’s podcast series. She also oversees a team of subject matter experts who contribute thought leadership and educational articles. In addition, Grace curates and manages all speaker content for IOFM’s in-person and virtual events, ensuring consistency and quality across every touchpoint. With over three years in the role, Grace brings a deep understanding of the financial operations landscape and a passion for delivering content that empowers professionals to excel in their roles.