Illuminating the Human Side of the AI Revolution

Two weeks ago, top leaders in L&D and HR came together to drive transformative change, covering emerging technologies, the evolving workplace, and more. The Transform 2025 conference took place on March 17-19th at The Wynn Las Vegas, bringing together trailblazers from over 50 countries to drive the future of work. True to its standing as one of the most dynamic, people-focused work transformation events, Transform 2025 delivered an energetic, community-oriented event.

Unsurprisingly, given the far-reaching effects of technological transformation on HR over the last few years, the sessions at Transform 2025 covered AI extensively. HR leaders discussed these key topics:

• Staying ahead of the curve as AI continues to revolutionize the talent acquisition and hiring process
• The potential of Agentic AI – that is, AI that can reason and make decisions on its own
• The possibilities presented by AI-powered leadership development and coaching
• Building an AI-focused workplace as AI completely reshapes and redefines work
• Ethical considerations for HR professionals leveraging AI

There was also an emphasis on shifting the mindset from viewing AI as a replacement for jobs to seeing it as a tool that enhances them. Cassie Kozyrkov, former Chief Decision Scientist at Google, and Tigran Sloyan, CEO of CodeSignal, discussed the human side of AI. They emphasized the importance of centering humanity as technology transforms the workplace.

In addition to zeroing in on AI, speakers focused on the human side of work, particularly around building inclusive and productive workplace cultures. Presenters and attendees unpacked the role of leadership in an ever-changing workplace, human-centered transformation, and building accepting and innovative cultures that increase employee engagement and retention.

The spirit of innovation was a driving force for session topics and discussions, with leaders sharing pathways to positive change. During his session on creativity and innovation, Rob Lewis, Music Producer and AI & Creativity Speaker, said, “Success is built on three layers of connection: to self, to others, and to a mission.”

Employee well-being also took center stage. The discussion focused on total rewards, work-life balance, and fostering effective communication at work, along with future-forward, cutting-edge topics such as leveraging emerging technologies to enhance well-being.  

The conference struck a delicate balance that illustrates an overarching societal picture: we must recognize the significant potential of AI and rapidly evolving technologies while also acknowledging the necessity of remaining grounded in human qualities and fostering connections.