The AI Bite: Will You Become Spider-Man or Stay Peter Parker?

My heart sank – I thought I was getting fired.?

Six months into my first data engineering role, my manager took me aside and told me I was no longer allowed to touch production code again.?

Instead, he said, "You’re great with people. So you're going to communicate everything we do to the business."

That moment of perceived failure launched an unexpected trajectory.?

- I evolved from a data engineer to IBM's internal data expert.

- Helped launch Watson in 2011.?

- Issued 10 Patents

- C-Suite Exec of 4 Fortune 100’s

- Forbes AI Maverick & Visionary of the 21 Century

Each of these transitions was only possible by embracing the unknown. AI is akin to Peter Parker being bitten by a radioactive spider. What initially felt strange, unknown and frustrating - went on to becoming a superpower. But first, he had to take control over and command it.

Every Friday morning, I deliver 1 actionable insight to help you navigate the post-AI landscape, simplifying complex transitions into a clear path for business impact. You can click here to subscribe.

Here are 5 perspectives on how AI can catalyst your career growth.?

1. Augment

AI amplifies your natural strengths. It’s not about replacing you; it’s about making you more effective. Whether it’s automating repetitive tasks, improving decision-making, or multiplying your output, AI allows you to do more of what you do best—at scale.?

My own transition from coding to becoming a technical business translator was an example of this. AI can do the same for you by elevating your unique capabilities.

2. Complement

Think of AI as your strategic partner. The key is not to use every tool available but to select a handful (5-7) that align with your workflow. Instead of trying to replace human judgment, AI should enhance it—helping you make better decisions, faster.?

The real competitive advantage lies in leveraging AI to strengthen your unique value proposition, not just following the hype.

3. Displace

As AI automates certain tasks, it simultaneously creates new opportunities.?

The energy you once spent on manual processes can now be redirected to higher-value activities like strategic thinking, business development, and communication—skills that AI struggles to replicate.

4. Replace

Routine tasks will continue to be automated. The key is to double down on uniquely human skills: relationship-building, cross-functional collaboration, and high-level problem-solving.?

These are the skills that become even more valuable in leadership roles—because AI can process information, but it can’t build trust, influence stakeholders, or drive vision.

5. Elevate

AI isn’t here to take jobs—it’s here to create opportunities for higher-value work. Your role is to find that sweet spot where AI enhances, rather than threatens, your career.?

Identify emerging trends, take the lead on AI initiatives, and position yourself as the bridge between technology and business value.

Start small, focus on tangible results. It’s like learning a new language. You will fumble, do it wrong but eventually get it right. What’s important is that you start and don’t stop.?

What might seem like disruption can become your greatest advantage.

As I always tell my teams: you need a backbone, not a wishbone. Success with AI requires stamina, stubbornness, and a love for continuous learning.

Every Friday morning, I deliver 1 actionable insight to help you navigate the post-AI landscape, simplifying complex transitions into a clear path for business impact. You can click here to subscribe.