Journey in Tech from Microsoft to Empowering Diversity and AI

Today, I'm chatting with William A. Adams, a technologist, engineering trailblazer, and philanthropist. With over 35 years in the tech industry, William has done it all—from running his own company to being recorded in the Computer History Museum. He even served as the first Technical Advisor to Microsoft's current CTO, Kevin Scott.

William breaks down AI in simple terms, calling it an “amazing instrument.” He shares how tools like ChatGPT can simplify tasks, such as writing memos or planning marketing strategies. He also introduces the concept of custom GPTs, specialized versions of ChatGPT for specific tasks, like his CNC router projects.

William’s journey at Microsoft included founding and overseeing global initiatives, from early XML technologies to the Leap program, which focused on diverse hiring and was named Microsoft's D&I Program of the Year in 2020. Now, he’s focused on "Tequity," which aims to create intergenerational wealth for women and minority-owned businesses through equity-based shares in technology.

Starting with tech from day one is key, says William. Even beginners can boost their productivity and creativity with ChatGPT. He offers tips on training ChatGPT to be even more helpful, making it user-friendly for everyone.

We also explore the future of AI and how different systems can work together. William’s insights show how AI can enhance our creativity and simplify complex tasks.

Main Topics Covered

• Introduction to William A. Adams and his tech journey
• Simplifying tasks with AI tools like ChatGPT
• The concept and benefits of custom GPTs
• Integrating tech from day one in business ventures
• Practical tips for beginners on using ChatGPT effectively

Key Insights and Takeaways

1. AI as a Tool: William emphasizes that AI, especially tools like ChatGPT, is an "amazing instrument" that can help simplify everyday tasks, from writing memos to planning marketing strategies.
2. Custom GPTs: Learn how to create and use custom GPTs tailored to specific needs, enhancing productivity and making complex tasks manageable.
3. Tech Integration: William advises incorporating technology from the start in any business venture, highlighting the importance of learning and leveraging AI tools early on.

 ABOUT WILLIAM A. ADAMS

William A Adams is a technologist, engineering trailblazer, and philanthropist. With over 35 years in the tech Industry, William has run his own company, been recorded in the Computer History Museum, and served as the First Technical Advisor to Microsoft's current CTO Kevin Scott.

William has founded and overseen global initiatives at Microsoft from XML technologies as early as 1998, to DE&I initiatives in 2015. The Leap program, with a focus on diverse hiring, was named Microsoft's D&I Program of the year in 2020.

Today, William is focused on Tequity; the creation of intergenerational wealth, through equity based shares of technology, for women and minority owned businesses. He is turning his years of experience and wisdom into actionable tools for the creation of modern tech centered businesses.

Connect with William:

• William Adams requests@william-a-adams.net  
• Website: http://william-a-adams.com/   
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewilliamaadams  
• Twitter: @LeapToTech https://twitter.com/LeapToTech  
• Instagram: thewilliamaadams  
• Facebook:William A. Adams  
• Phone: +1 (425) 906-3555  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Cary is a seasoned marketing professional and partner in the Bangor, Maine-based advertising and marketing firm Sutherland Weston. He is a certified “They Ask You Answer” coach – a sales and marketing framework developed by Marcus Sheridan designed to help companies stand out as the voice of authority in their industry and drive measurable sales results. His specialties lie in developing practical and tactical strategies to help businesses overcome sales and marketing challenges. Cary is available for coaching, consulting, and strategy engagement with businesses and not-for-profit organizations. Connect with Cary:

• Podcast Website: www.ChatGPTExperiment.com
• Agency Website: www.SutherlandWeston.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryweston

LINKEDIN NEWSLETTER The Chat GPT Experiment is also a LinkedIn Newsletter and you can find it here: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-chat-gpt-experiment-7110348839919702016/

MUSIC CREDITS The instrumental music used in this podcast is called “Curious” by Podington Bear. You can contact the artist here: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/