9th Keren High School Reunion

Seattle 2025

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Overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

By Thomas Michael

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a technology that enables machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as thinking, learning, and making decisions. AI works by analyzing large amounts of data, recognizing patterns, and using those patterns to make predictions or decisions. For example, when you get personalized music recommendations on Spotify, AI is analyzing your past listening habits and comparing them to the preferences of others to suggest new songs you’ll like. In self-driving cars, AI uses sensors and data to understand the environment and make driving decisions. It’s essentially machines "learning" from experience, similar to how we improve our own skills over time.

One of the most exciting developments in AI is Agentic AI, which is AI that doesn't just follow instructions but can take actions on its own to achieve specific goals. Imagine an AI that can automatically book your travel or handle an entire customer service conversation, solving problems without human intervention. Tools like Salesforce are already using AI to send follow-up emails, log calls, and even automate workflows, helping businesses run more smoothly and efficiently.

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As AI continues to evolve, it's dramatically changing the workforce. Many routine, repetitive tasks—like data entry or generating simple reports—are now being automated, which frees up workers to focus on more complex, value-adding activities. But just like machines and robots replaced factory workers in the past, AI is beginning to replace many office jobs, especially those that involve routine or predictable tasks. For instance, AI agents can handle customer service interactions or process data much faster than humans can.

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But here’s the key: AI is one of the most powerful tools for creating value. Businesses exist to solve problems and create value for their customers, and AI is becoming an essential tool for doing that more effectively and efficiently. To stay ahead, people need to be able to use AI to create more value—better, faster, and smarter than before. Whether you're in marketing, design, education, or customer service, those who know how to use AI to solve problems will stand out. It’s no longer just about doing tasks; it's about leveraging AI to produce more impactful results in less time.

While AI brings exciting new opportunities, it also means the workforce is evolving. Routine office jobs are increasingly being automated, but new opportunities are emerging in areas like AI development, data science, cybersecurity, and ethics. So, it’s important to learn how to work with AI, not against it. This doesn’t mean you need to become an AI expert, but you do need to understand how to use it to make your work more valuable.

To thrive in an AI-driven world, focus on skills that AI can’t easily replace, like creativity, leadership, and problem-solving. Stay curious and adaptable, and be ready to collaborate with AI to create better outcomes. Whether you’re in tech, consulting, or any other industry, the future belongs to those who can use AI to innovate, solve problems, and drive value. The key takeaway? AI is a tool so learning how to use it effectively will set you apart in an increasingly automated world.

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