Patrick Rhonemus, PCT Digital Editor
CHICAGO — Susan Frew, an AI thought leader, entrepreneur and business growth expert, delivered the PCT Top 100 Awards Ceremony & Executive Summit keynote, "Recoded: Transform Your Business DNA with AI," urging attendees to embrace artificial intelligence as a strategic business tool rather than fear it.
Frew acknowledged the growing divide in attitudes toward AI, noting that while some businessowners are enthusiastically adopting the technology, others remain skeptical or concerned about its impact on jobs and operations. Drawing on her own unexpected DNA discovery, she compared personal transformation to the changes businesses must make as AI reshapes industries.
She noted that successful AI adoption begins with understanding existing business processes before introducing new technology. Companies should identify operational bottlenecks, involve employees early in the transition and establish clear policies to prevent unauthorized use of AI tools that could expose sensitive company data.
Frew said AI implementation requires ongoing education, not a one-time investment. She said she spends eight to 10 hours each week learning new developments and encouraged business leaders to dedicate time for continuous training as the technology rapidly evolves.
The session concluded with attendees discussing repetitive tasks they would most like AI to automate, reinforcing Frew's message that AI should be used to eliminate routine work and allow employees to focus on higher-value responsibilities.
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