The American University of Rome recently welcomed David Willson, a seasoned entrepreneur and global advocate for artificial intelligence (AI), to speak with students about AI's transformative potential. Willson, who has dedicated his career to integrating AI into industries as varied as professional services, finance, and biotech, presented an engaging and thought-provoking session that urged students to look beyond traditional career paths and envision a future shaped by intelligent automation.
With an emphasis on AI's practical applications, Willson shared a message that resonated deeply with AUR’s aspiring professionals. He urged students to see AI not as a threat to the workforce but as a tool for innovation and progress. “AI will change everything,” he emphasized, “but that doesn’t mean it has to be feared.” For Willson, embracing AI is less about replacing human jobs and more about enhancing efficiency, boosting creativity, and unlocking new business potential.
Throughout the lecture, Willson discussed the concept of "cannibalization"—the idea of disrupting one's success model to stay competitive. This approach, he argued, will be key for future leaders who want to stay ahead in an AI-driven world. He encouraged students to develop a mindset of resilience and adaptability, skills he considers essential in navigating a landscape where technological advancements continuously reshape how organizations operate.
Students left the session inspired, with a clearer understanding of how they might leverage AI in their future careers. Willson’s message reinforced the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset in adapting to technological shifts. He encouraged students to seek out learning opportunities in AI, build foundational knowledge, and remain open to how these tools could reshape their chosen fields.
Layla Jaff, AUR senior Business student and department student assistant, contributed to the creation of this article.