From Classrooms to Boardrooms: The Journey of AI Adoption

Over the past two weeks, I’ve been on an incredible journey, exploring the adoption of artificial intelligence across education, associations, and broader innovation ecosystems. From teaching in Madrid to facilitating a workshop at #BIAF with my colleague Antonin de Bellefroid , and now preparing for ThinkYoung at Google in Brussels, I’ve witnessed AI’s growing presence—and its challenges—firsthand.

In Madrid, two weeks ago, I had the privilege of engaging with students to explore AI’s impact on journalism and cultural production. Through an interactive exercise, we tackled the benefits AI brings to storytelling and the ethical dilemmas it poses for truth and transparency. The energy and curiosity in the room reaffirmed how vital it is to prepare future professionals for a world shaped by #AI.

Yesterday, at the BIAF workshop, Antonin and I focused on how associations can leverage AI to better serve their members. What stood out was the divide: while many attendees shared how they are beginning to experiment with AI on an individual level, only one mentioned active adoption at an organizational level. This highlighted a critical gap that needs to be bridged—how can we empower associations to fully harness AI’s potential?

Looking ahead, this Friday, I’ll be speaking at ThinkYoung at Google in Brussels. This event will delve deeper into AI’s transformative potential, including tools like Google’s Gemini. It’s a platform to discuss not just where we are with AI, but where we’re headed—and how we can ensure a future that’s inclusive, innovative, and ethical.

AI is here to stay, and its role in shaping our lives is only growing. What steps are you or your organization taking to integrate AI effectively?

ZN Philip Weiss Kai Troll