By Julie Hawker, CEO of Cosmic
Every day, I see the transformative power of artificial intelligence. I see it not only in my work, but also in the lives of the people around me.
As a leader, people often ask me:
“What does your day look like when AI is evolving so rapidly and people are turning to you for guidance?”
The answer is both inspiring and challenging. More importantly, it is a conversation we need to have now, especially with women and young people shaping the future of work.
AI is Becoming Part of Everyday Work
My mornings no longer begin with a scramble through reports and emails. Instead, AI-powered dashboards deliver real-time insights and help me focus on what matters most.
Before meetings, my AI assistant pulls together briefings from emails, chats, and documents. As a result, I spend less time searching for information and more time focusing on people, strategy, and planning.
Throughout the day, AI tools monitor communications, highlight key themes, and suggest ways to improve engagement. In addition, learning no longer sits at the bottom of my to-do list. AI now surfaces relevant updates, articles, and resources that match my interests and development needs.
Later in the day, I use AI tools to review insights and support strategic decision-making. These tools bring together information from multiple sources quickly and clearly.
Finally, at the end of the day, my AI assistant helps me reflect, prioritise tasks, and prepare for tomorrow.
However, this is not about replacing human judgement. Instead, it is about creating more time and mental space for the things only humans can do well: leading teams, making thoughtful decisions, and driving innovation.
Why Ethical AI Leadership Matters
With all this opportunity comes responsibility.
AI is not a moral compass. It is a tool. Therefore, leaders must set the tone for ethical and responsible use.
That means asking important questions:
- Who is accountable when AI gets something wrong?
- How do we build transparency, fairness, and trust?
- What is the environmental impact of AI?
- How do we make sure everyone benefits, not just a privileged few?
These conversations matter more than ever.
Women and Young People Must Shape the Future of AI
This is why the conversation around women, young people, and AI feels so urgent.
Research shows that women remain underrepresented in AI development and leadership roles. In addition, AI systems can reinforce existing bias if diverse voices are missing from the process.
At the same time, jobs traditionally held by women are more likely to be disrupted by AI in the coming years.
If we want AI to work for everyone, we need a wider range of people helping to shape its future.
Upskilling Is the Best Investment We Can Make
The pace of change can feel overwhelming. Naturally, many staff members worry about job displacement and the future of work.
However, I believe upskilling is our strongest defence and our greatest opportunity.
By investing in AI literacy, digital skills, and critical thinking, organisations can help people adapt with confidence. Furthermore, these skills help teams stay resilient and ready for future change.
According to the newly published FutureDotNow report, Embedding AI into the Essential Digital Skills Framework, there are four essential AI skills every staff member should begin developing.
For women especially, upskilling can be transformative. It helps break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create more opportunities in the digital workplace.
At Cosmic, we see this impact every day. Our programmes help people build confidence, strengthen digital skills, and prepare for the future of work.
Skills Bootcamps Supporting Workplace AI Skills
We currently offer two 60-hour SFIA Level 3 Skills Bootcamps:
These programmes help organisations improve efficiency, encourage innovation, and support career progression.
In addition, the Department for Education heavily subsidises the training:
- 90% funded for SMEs
- 70% funded for organisations with more than 250 staff
Leaders Need to Lead by Example
Leaders cannot afford to stand back from these technologies.
Instead, engage directly with AI tools and learning opportunities. Be honest about both the risks and the opportunities. At the same time, set clear goals for how AI can support your organisation and your people.
It is also important to establish policies and safeguards that protect data and encourage responsible use.
Most importantly, support your teams through change and create a culture of continuous learning.
Looking Ahead
The future of work will not simply happen to us. We all have a role in shaping it.
By prioritising digital skills, ethical leadership, and inclusion, we can help ensure AI becomes a force for good.
Most importantly, let’s make sure everyone has the opportunity to take part in that future.
