A lesson in how to use AI as fuel to enhance creativity and learning — not as a replacement

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Technology has transformed the way people create, consume, and organize information. As a technologist, I have witnessed firsthand how AI tools can enhance productivity to an extent. There are still limitations to AI. It should not be a replacement for human creativity and critical thinking.

My tech career began in undergrad volunteer research on robotics and connected devices — better known as IoT ("Internet of Things"). This research led to my first internship in systems engineering at NASA, where I was exposed to my first corporate office environment in the "Space Coast." Systems engineering is about making different systems talk to each other and transfer information. My understanding of this deepend over the last few years as a moved ino different tech roles, managing partner integrations and platform testing of devices: iPhones, Androids, streaming services, and smart TVs. Within 5 years, I became an integrations and systems specialist. This is when I was exposed to generative AI.

Over time, I experimented with AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Deepseek to better understand their potential. My first grad school professor — an engineer and writer — made it clear that AI should be used as a brainstorming tool, but not as a replacement to do the thinking or work for you. This mindset stuck with me.

This is what I've learned:

• Always fact-checking any information AI gives you.
• Prioritize expertise from real SMEs (Subject Matter Experts) like I did for a story in particle physics.
• Use AI as a way to find new learning resources and tech trends.
• Leverage it to build learning plans and outlines for yourself.
• Learn how to correctly prompt well. It's a learned skill— not a shortcut.

This mindset now actively shapes how I approach writing and technical work. Even in my current tech role, I have seen how AI can be effectively used as a learning tool when used correctly.

Here's my advice: People drive ideas, stories, and innovatation. Use AI to enhance your understanding of the world, but not as a replacement. Find a balance when using AI.