Navigating AI, Innovation and Ethical Considerations with Alex Ferguson Artwork

The Spotlight Series - Don’t just survive, thrive!

Welcome to "The Spotlight Series – Don’t Just Survive, Thrive”. Season 1 was launched to help people through the pandemic by talking to a variety of experts about topics such as psychology, finance and health. Season 2 focused on more work related issues including HR, marketing and leadership. Now it is time for Season 3! Season 3 is centred on the IT industry, specifically tech startups. There are also Career Spotlights from senior IT people revealing the secrets to their impressive career trajectories.Your host is Nicola Steel, founder of JJP Talent Solutions, an Australian IT recruitment company. For over 20 years, she has helped tech startups and innovative SMEs to attract, recruit and retain technical talent.

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The Spotlight Series - Don’t just survive, thrive!

Navigating AI, Innovation and Ethical Considerations with Alex Ferguson

July 09, 2024 • Nicola Steel • Season 6 • Episode 11

In this episode, Nicola Steel, Founder of JJP Talent Solutions, talks to Alex Ferguson, a visionary tech leader and entrepreneur with extensive experience in AI, startups and leadership. Alex has an impressive track record in driving innovation and building successful tech teams.

Alex describes his diverse background, including an engineering degree in Aerospace, a degree in Chinese from the University of Queensland, and a Master’s degree from Taiwan. He provides unique insights from over a decade of experience in engineering, design and helping businesses embrace digital and AI-driven transformations.

Alex and Nicola discuss the challenges faced by startups, from navigating rules and regulations to seeking innovative opportunities in today's tech landscape. Alex shares fascinating stories of helping customers bring transformative ideas to life within organisations, focusing on technology and problem-solving.

Alex talks about how to avoid common pitfalls in startups, such as not solving the right problem, managing cash flow and building the right team. He discusses strategies for attracting top talent and the importance of self-reflection in leadership. Alex emphasises the value of surrounding yourself with smarter individuals, avoiding micromanagement and allowing team members to excel in their areas of expertise.

Alex also focuses on AI automation, ethical considerations in AI design and training, and the most exciting emerging tech trends. From AI agents to augmented reality, Nicola and Alex explore how these advancements will shape the future.