Thriving in a Tech-Driven World: Nada Sanders on AI, Career Growth & Communication
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Nada Sanders
Nada Sanders is a professor at Northeastern University, internationally recognized AI thought leader, and expert in forecasting and supply chain strategy. Nada is a passionate advocate for bridging the gap between technology and humanity, helping professionals’ future-proof their careers in a digital world.
Nada is a sought-after speaker and the author of seven books including the “The Humachine: AI, Human Virtues, and the Superintelligent Enterprise”.
We’re giving away 5 copies of the latest edition of this fantastic book. Listen in to the episode to find out how to enter.
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Resources
https://nadasanders.com/ – Check out Nada’s website!
Find out more about Nada’s book, “Humachine” by clicking on the image below.
2 Top Career Tips
1) Nada’s top piece of advice? Be someone people want to work with. Beyond technical skills and accomplishments, it’s your relationships that propel your career forward. “Don’t be a jerk,” she says bluntly. In other words: Be collaborative, be supportive, and stay connected. Networking is not optional – it’s essential.
2) “Stay curious. Keep learning. Don’t let failure stop you.” Nada believes that resilience is the most important trait for long-term success—more important than any technical skill.
Show Notes
Worst Career Moment
Early in her career, Nada presented a mathematically complex forecasting model to a warehouse team, expecting praise. Instead, she was met with blank stares and confusion. Her mistake? Ignoring the human element. This experience taught her that success lies in connecting technology with people, not just crunching numbers.
Career Highlight
A proud moment for Nada was being invited to a private think tank at Windsor Castle, where she collaborated with global leaders to shape the future of leadership. It marked a career high point that reflected years of expertise, deep thinking, and global impact.
The Future
According to Nada, the IT industry is entering a new era—where hybrid skills rule. AI is automating technical tasks at breakneck speed, meaning that future tech professionals need more than coding skills.
The winning formula includes:
- Digital literacy: Understand what tech can do.
- Domain expertise: Know the context you’re working in (e.g., healthcare, finance).
- Communication: Translate complex insights to real-world stakeholders.
Those who can merge hard and soft skills will lead the next wave of innovation.
The Reveal
What first attracted you to a career in I.T.?
A deep fascination with problem-solving and how systems work led Nada toward tech, particularly how forecasting models could solve real-world issues.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
“Know your priorities.” Focus on what truly matters—the few impactful things that drive results—and ignore the noise.
What is the worst career advice you’ve ever received?
“Follow your passion.” Nada calls this a myth. Instead, she advises aligning your career with your skills, what the world needs, and what you enjoy—not just passion alone.
If you had to begin your career again in today’s world, what would you do?
Nada would learn more about finance. Understanding the financial language of VCs and boardrooms is key, especially for tech leaders.
What career objectives are you currently focusing on?
To guide professionals and organizations through AI transformation, and to explore how to effectively integrate AI copilots in education and business.
What’s the number one non-technical skill that has helped you in your career so far?
Communication. The ability to connect with people, translate ideas, and build relationships remains irreplaceable.
What do you do to keep your own career energized?
By staying curious and constantly learning. She’s always exploring how technology intersects with human behaviour and decision-making.
What do you do in your spare time away from technology?
Nada enjoys the outdoors, quiet reflection, and deep conversations that allow her to reset and think creatively—beyond the screen.
Contact The Guest
Contact Nada Sanders through the following social media platforms:
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