I’m privileged to attend #AIAgentCopilotSummit this year. Last year, I spoke at a different conference, which was an incredible experience, but this time, I get to be a participant and observer. Here’s a recap of Day 1 at the conference.
Monday’s Agenda
- Golf Invitational – Apparently, my invitation got lost in the mail… or maybe because I’ve never played golf.
- Registration & Welcome Reception – A chance to connect with industry peers and get oriented for the week ahead.
- Keynote Fireside Chat: How to Have a Legendary Career in a Post-AI World – A thought-provoking discussion on the future of work and how AI is reshaping career paths.
Key Sessions & Insights
Welcome Reception
A great networking opportunity! It was fascinating to hear what others are working on and how different industries are looking at AI. I spoke with a few end users who were there to learn how they can pivot to AI in their industries. Scott, for example, has me pondering working AI in with Power Platform. What an engaged group of people. This reminds me of the very old days in Dynamics AX conferences. 😊
Keynote Fireside Chat: How to Have a Legendary Career in a Post-AI World
I walked into the keynote expecting the usual career advice. Instead, Christopher Lochhead and Bob Evans threw down a challenge: Will you shape the AI era, or let it shape you?
John Siefert hosted these two speakers in a provocative, engaging discussion.
- Both speakers pointed out how we’ve been working with change for many years; AI continues us along the same path albeit faster.
- Bob Evans argued that corporate culture must shift to prepare for AI, just like it did in past revolutions.
- Christopher Lochhead stirred the room as he seemed to suggest that AI was making startups of all of us. If AI is leveling the playing field, every professional—whether in a corner office or starting out—has a shot at reinvention.
- How AI is changing the value of knowledge workers.
- If AI is the great equalizer, what happens to traditional expertise?
- Key quotes from the Keynote Fireside Chat:
“I’m glad I’m alive for this.” – The AI revolution is happening now, and we’re part of it.
“Why not you and why not us?” – The opportunity isn’t reserved for a select few.
“Our enemy is the status quo.” – The risk isn’t AI. It’s resisting change.
“We must lift as we climb.” – Help others to learn as you do.
For me, that last quote hit home. That’s what I’ll be doing for the rest of this summit—and beyond.
Takeaways from Day 1
These conversations reinforced some themes I saw. Here are my top three takeaways from Day 1:
- AI is an enhancement, not a replacement. The most successful professionals will be those who embrace AI as a tool to amplify their work.
- Lifelong learning is essential. The pace of AI development means we must stay adaptable and continuously build new skills.
- Networking matters. Conversations with other attendees highlighted just how many use cases for AI are emerging across different industries.
That’s a wrap for Day 1! Stay tuned for more insights as the conference continues.
#AIforEveryone
Disclosure
AI assisted with this post!
janeteblake 