How to Successfully Roll Out AI Across Your Organization | Scott Likens, Global Chief AI Engineer, PwC

AI integration within large enterprises hinges less on technical capability and more on navigating the human and cultural shifts required for adoption. Scott Likens, Chief AI Engineer at PwC, identifies the "frozen middle"—experienced professionals comfortable with established workflows—as the primary barrier to meaningful transformation. Organizations often fail by focusing on incremental efficiency gains rather than end-to-end process redesign. To capture real value, firms must move beyond the robotic process automation mindset and embrace flexible architectures that adapt to the rapid evolution of generative models. Ultimately, the path forward involves fostering personal curiosity and hands-on experimentation, allowing employees to develop the skills necessary to leverage AI as a tool for strategic augmentation. This evolution requires a shift in professional development, prioritizing critical thinking and adaptability to ensure humans remain central to the future of work.