CTE Month: AI, Technical Skills and the Human Edge

As Seminole State celebrates Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, the spotlight turns to information technology. With an increasing focus on and use of artificial intelligence, Academic Dean Dr. Adam Stark shares how AI works best as a partner with, not a replacement for, human intelligence. 

We’re living in a time where being “tech-savvy” isn’t optional — it’s the baseline. AI tools are everywhere, and knowing how to use them can seriously level up your career or business. But here’s what I’ve noticed working with so many professionals and small business owners: AI can make you faster, but it can’t make you successful.

That part still comes down to your durable skills — how you communicate, adapt, lead, and connect.

AI can write an email, but it can’t read the room. It can analyze why sales dropped, but it can’t inspire a team to turn things around. The real value shows up when you combine technical ability with human intelligence — empathy, emotional awareness, creativity, and clarity.

I see this play out every day: two people can use the exact same AI tools, but get completely different results. The difference isn’t the software — it’s the intent, curiosity, and people-skills behind it. The professionals who treat AI as a partner instead of a replacement are the ones building stronger relationships, creating better content, and leading with more confidence.

So yes, learn the tools. Stay curious. Keep your technical edge sharp. But don’t lose sight of what truly makes your work matter — the soft skills that never go out of style.

Because in the age of AI, your human edge isn’t just relevant — it’s your superpower.

About the Author
Dr. Adam Stark is Academic Dean of the Center for Computer, Digital Media & Information Technology at Seminole State College and author of the book, "Everyday Office Tools and Artificial Intelligence."

Read more of Stark's AI insights on LinkedIn