AI and Your Career: Key Takeaways from a Recent WIT Forum

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The conversation about artificial intelligence and career development is no longer hypothetical. It is happening right now, in boardrooms, on factory floors, and in every corner of the technology workforce. At a recent WIT forum, a panel of senior technology leaders came together to share candid perspectives on what the AI moment means for women in tech.

AI Is No Longer Experimental — It Is a Competitive Requirement

When attendees were asked how AI feels in relation to their careers, the most common responses were “competitive advantage” and “skill requirement.” The panelists agreed: this is not hype, and it is not coming someday. AI is already reshaping knowledge work in ways we have not seen before. Those who adopt early will have a distinct edge. Those who wait may find themselves left behind.

Gender Gaps in AI Adoption Are Real — and Worth Naming

Research suggests that women are less likely than men to self-start their AI learning journeys. Imposter syndrome, experienced by a significant majority of women at some point in their careers, plays a real role. The takeaway: culture matters enormously, and not everyone is working in a supportive one.

If Your Organization Is Not Giving You Time, Find It Yourself

The companies leading on AI are intentionally carving out time for their teams to learn, experiment, and fail safely. But for those without that support: do not let your company’s priorities determine your learning. Start small. A ten-minute YouTube video. A podcast on your commute. A few questions typed into a free AI tool on your own time.

Diversity Is Not Separate from AI — It Is Essential to It

Generative AI models are built on data, and that data carries bias. Diverse teams are not just a values-driven priority in the AI era; they are a technical and strategic necessity. Women who step into AI roles are helping to shape technology that will affect everyone.

The Bottom Line: Start Somewhere

AI may not replace your job. But people who understand AI will be more competitive for it. The skill gap is real, the opportunity is real, and the moment to begin is now.

Young Professional of the Year: Celebrating Rising Leaders in Tech

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The 2025 Young Professional of the Year category honored emerging leaders making an impact in technology through innovation, mentorship, and career achievement.

Sarah O’Brien — Data Scientist, Southern Company (Winner)

Sarah’s journey into technology began in high school, where a Business and Technology class sparked her interest in coding. At Georgia State University, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Data Science, graduating magna cum laude. She became a mentor for RISE in Computing and contributed to HackHERs, GSU’s first all-female hackathon. Today, as a Data Scientist at Southern Company, Sarah leads AI innovation and inclusive learning initiatives.

“These achievements have helped me grow as both a leader and an advocate for women in STEM, showing that persistence, skill, and mentorship can open doors for the next generation.”

Anjie Adeyemo — Lead of Advanced Analytics, AT&T (Finalist)

Anjie’s journey into tech began with a single conversation: a professor encouraged her to pursue a minor in data analytics. Today, Anjie leads Advanced Analytics in Global Supply Chain at AT&T. She also mentors students, volunteers with Girls Who Code, and shares her authentic journey at conferences and panels.

“I’ve always been soft-spoken, but over time I’ve found my voice through speaking engagements and mentoring others.”

Vivian Milender — Product Manager II, Cox Automotive (Finalist)

Vivian’s passion for technology began early. A pivotal moment came during a UGA WIT event, where she discovered early-career rotational programs. Vivian joined Cox’s LEAD Program, excelling as an Associate Product Owner and now Product Manager II, driving innovation in how vehicles are bought and sold nationwide.

“Strong mentorship and early exposure shaped my path, and now I aim to open doors for others.”

Sports Technology and Leadership: Insights from Our Virtual Forum

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On January 21, 2026, WIT hosted a virtual forum exploring how technology is transforming women’s sports and how female leaders are shaping the future of athletics. The discussion was moderated by Marie Mouchet and brought together three accomplished panelists:

  • Joni Taylor, Texas A&M basketball coach and five-time USA Basketball gold medalist
  • Tiffany Daniels, SEC Associate Commissioner for Competition and former University of Georgia player
  • Danielle Donehew, Executive Director of the WBCA, trained engineer, former Pat Summitt staffer, and Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame inductee

Leadership, Representation, and the Future of Sports Tech

Each speaker shared experiences of being “the only woman in the room,” especially early in their careers. Over time, their approach shifted from trying to fit in to confidently asserting expertise and leadership. Women must not only use technology in sports, but lead its development and application.

Technology in Athlete Performance

The panel highlighted how wearables and data are revolutionizing training and player safety. Joni Taylor shared how tools like the KINEXON track player movements, workloads, and recovery. Transparent sharing of this data allows athletes to monitor progress and learn from their performance.

AI and Smarter Competition Management

Tiffany Daniels discussed how AI systems such as Fastbreak.ai have streamlined complex scheduling for conferences. These tools consider factors like home/away balance, rest periods, travel distances, and television requests to optimize schedules while reducing human error.

Visibility and Growth of Women’s Basketball

The conversation explored the growing audience and commercial value of women’s basketball. From a single televised NCAA final in 1982 to hundreds of games today, viewership continues to rise. Danielle Donehew stressed that fan engagement is critical to sustaining the sport’s growth.