April 9, 2025 - I was invited to speak with a visiting group
from the Society for Information Management (SIM) during their Student Day at
Nike. SIM is the world’s foremost nonprofit membership association for
technology executives and industry leaders, dedicated to developing, enabling,
and empowering exceptional IT leadership through networking, knowledge sharing,
and leadership development. Their mission is to bring together IT professionals
to share best practices, mentor the next generation, and advance the value of
technology within organizations. I believe SIM chose to visit Nike to give
students and early-career professionals a firsthand look at how technology and
leadership intersect at a company known for innovation and transformation.
Event
We gathered for an hour in Pre’s Hall, Eugene Auditorium. I
began by briefly introducing myself and sharing my background—including that I
started in Nike’s IT department in 1977 as the fifth IT employee hired at the
company. The session set the stage for an open conversation about technology,
leadership, and the evolving landscape of our industry.
A Generation Energized by Change
The energy in the room was unmistakable. This group is growing up in a time of rapid transformation, and their curiosity was matched by a genuine sense of purpose. When I asked what excites them most about technology, the group zeroed in on artificial intelligence. They described AI as their generation’s “internet moment”—a force that is changing not just the tools we use, but the very nature of work and connection. The pace of change is both thrilling and daunting, and the students recognized the challenge of keeping up while also thinking critically about how new technologies should be used.
Lessons in Adaptability and Judgment
Our discussion turned to the practical realities of
technology in business. AI’s potential in forecasting was a hot topic. The
group quickly honed in on a key point: while AI can analyze vast amounts of
data and spot trends, its predictions become less reliable the further out it
looks—especially when the world throws unexpected curveballs. Their insight was
clear: technology is only as good as the people who use it. Human judgment,
adaptability, and the willingness to pivot are essential when reality diverges
from the model.
Building a Career with Purpose
When the conversation shifted to career planning, several
themes emerged:
- Bridge the gap between business and technology: The most successful professionals are those who can translate between technical and business needs.
- Prioritize fulfillment over hierarchy: Seek roles that bring you joy and align with your values, rather than just chasing titles.
Looking Forward
What stood out most from SIM Student Day was the optimism
and sense of responsibility these future leaders bring to the table. Their
questions and perspectives reminded me that every generation faces its own
“moment”—and that the real opportunity lies in how we respond, adapt, and help
each other grow.
Thank you to everyone who participated. Your energy and
insights are exactly what Nike—and our industry—need to keep moving forward.
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