Updating the Teaching & Research page on my portfolio website made me reflect on how my academic journey informs my work as an AI strategist. Over the years, I’ve navigated the worlds of media studies, film analysis, and communication — and now, I’m channeling that experience into shaping responsible AI practices. My path from academia to AI strategy isn’t just a career shift; it’s an evolution in how I think about technology, ethics, and human-centered innovation.

Academic Foundations: Building a Framework for Ethical AI

My journey started in the classroom, where I spent over a decade teaching Film, Media Studies, and Communication. Through courses that examined cinematic realism, media ethics, and cultural analysis, I developed a nuanced understanding of how media shapes perceptions and reflects societal values. One recurring theme in my teaching was exploring the impact of emerging technologies on storytelling and representation—a topic that would later shape my approach to AI ethics.

My academic research, particularly in cinematic realism and the works of Lino Brocka, emphasized the importance of representation and truthfulness. I became deeply interested in how narratives shape public understanding—a concept that seamlessly connects to my current focus on responsible AI. AI technologies, like cinema, shape how we perceive reality, but with far-reaching consequences on privacy, equity, and inclusivity.

In my blog post, “From Cinematic Realism to AI Ethics: The Journey that Inspired the AEIOU Ethos,” I explore how my background in film and communication inspired the development of AEIOU Ethos: A Framework for Responsible AI. The same critical analysis I applied to cinema now guides my approach to AI governance, where I advocate for systems that are Accessible, Equitable, Inclusive, Open, and Universal.

The Bridge to AI Strategy: Lessons from Academia

My transition from academia to AI strategy wasn’t a leap—it was a bridge. The skills I honed in teaching—critical thinking, ethical analysis, and exploring human impact—now guide my work as an AI strategist. Developing AEIOU Ethos was a natural extension of my academic focus on ethics and representation, shaped by my experiences as an educator.

Today, I help organizations and leaders navigate the ethical challenges of AI adoption, focusing on how technology can serve humanity rather than displace it. Whether through AI workshops, executive AI coaching, or speaking engagements, I aim to make AI ethics not just a topic of discussion but a practical tool for responsible innovation.

Connecting Research, Teaching, and AI Strategy

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career is translating academic concepts into real-world AI strategy. In teaching, I encouraged students to question narratives and think critically about media. In AI strategy, I encourage organizations to question assumptions, challenge biases, and integrate ethical practices.

Whether I’m leading an AI workshop, speaking at a conference, or consulting on strategic AI initiatives, I draw from my academic roots. My background gives me a unique perspective on AI ethics—seeing it not just as a technical challenge but as a human-centered endeavor that requires cultural insight, critical thinking, and creativity.

A Continuing Journey

If you’re curious to see how my academic journey informs my AI strategy work, visit my updated Teaching & Research page. It’s a reflection of how my career has evolved and a reminder that ethical thinking and critical analysis are just as vital in AI strategy as they are in the classroom.