My best AI insights this week came from high school students. My ♥️ is full.
I judged practice presentations for upcoming state DECA competitions at my daughter’s high school where students discuss their solutions to business challenges.
To my surprise, 3 of the 5 teams chose AI-focused projects for local small businesses like real estate and pet boarding companies.
What gives me a lot of hope is that this high school is teaching AI, not banning it.
Learning that I work with AI, the business teacher asked if I’d speak to the students about responsible AI use and real-life applications. I immediately said yes.
These 16-18 year olds solved real business problems with AI. In 10 mins, they presented research, plans, and ROI calculations. They understood AI could improve business outcomes, not just productivity.
Their poise and business knowledge impressed me. But my consistent feedback for all teams: Solutions must inspire change in mindset and behavior.
Not everyone has the same understanding or acceptance of AI. Even the best solutions fail if we don’t build trust and bring people along.
This is a change management challenge. Understanding concerns. Building confidence. Creating trust.
As AI democratizes capabilities, our human connections matter more than ever.
Companies value this balanced approach. A global study from Microsoft/LinkedIn showed that 70% of execs prefer to hire candidates with AI expertise over those with industry experience.
That’s why teaching AI in schools matters. We’re preparing students to value their uniquely human skills while working with both human and AI teammates.
On this Valentine’s Day, success with AI comes down to capturing both ♥️♥️ and minds.
Every org faces this challenge: bringing people along on the journey.
Share how you’re building trust in your AI initiatives.
#AIinEducation #ChangeManagement #FutureOfWork
If you’re interested to learn more about AI in Education and ChatGPT Edu, listen to this 8-min segment from Paul Roetzer’s and Mike Kaput’s The AI Show Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyBMZSvQzKA