Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

What happens when a Java developer from IBM transitions into a leadership role at one of the nation's top universities? Join us as we chat with Kimberly Greene Starks, Executive Director of Digital Transformation and Digital Strategies at Vanderbilt University, who shares her incredible journey from hardware to software development and beyond. Kimberly talks about her unwavering dedication to innovation, the critical balance between technical skills and formal education, and the transformative power of continuous learning. She offers invaluable insights into developing essential communication and collaboration skills, which are pivotal for personal and professional growth.

Discover how emerging technologies like natural language processing (NLP) are revolutionizing the way universities manage IT service documents, saving time and resources while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human oversight. Kimberly discusses practical applications of these technologies and the importance of self-directed learning, encouraging everyone to take control of their educational path. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories that highlight the significance of upskilling across communities and balancing technical prowess with higher education for both individual and societal advancement. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!