AI expert Gus Fraser takes us from the 1950s checkers AI to today’s transformer-driven Generative AI, showing why it is the fastest-adopted technology in history and how it’s poised to rewrite every job that involves a computer. With vivid stories from ride-hailing drivers managed by algorithms to his inspirational 97-year-old grandmother programming her sewing machine, he unpacks self-attention, AI agents, and the looming power-and-skills gap. Gus issues a call-to-action for employers, students, teachers, and parents: assign AI a real task that you need to do but don’t enjoy or that takes you longer than you would like, evaluate the approach and results, and share what you learn, with a friend, a colleague, a family member.Adapt now and we can ride the wave together, eyes wide open! Gus is a seasoned technologist with over 25 years of experience as a software engineer, CTO, and technology start-up CEO. Most recently, he led the AI Engineering team at a global consultancy, working at the forefront of AI adoption and witnessing its transformative impact across industries. Now, as the founder and CEO of Helix Technologies, he helps organisations navigate AI strategy, governance, and transformation. Beyond business, Gus is passionate about building AI solutions for positive impact, including “It’s OK”, a mental health support service designed to complement professional care. His work sits at the intersection of innovation and responsibility, shaping a future where AI empowers rather than replaces human potential. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx