How AI will make you better at your job

Artificial intelligence isn’t coming to steal the careers of young automotive aftermarket pros, but to supercharge them.

Todd Campau, associate director of aftermarket solutions at S&P Global Mobility, wants emerging professionals to see AI as a powerful ally, not a threat. In the automotive aftermarket, he said, AI isn’t a replacement — it’s a powerful professional assistant that can help young workers become more efficient, creative and strategic.

Speaking at a recent YANG Professional Series webinar, Campau outlined how young workers can leverage AI to become more productive and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

“AI is just the next evolution in technical tools,” Campau told participants of the webinar, Demystifying Data in the Automotive Aftermarket. “What it’s going to do is amplify what you’re doing.”

Young professionals who embrace AI as a tool, rather than fearing it as a threat, will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly data-driven industry, he advised. By staying curious, continuously learning, and understanding AI’s potential, they can transform technological change from a challenge into an opportunity for growth.

Campau emphasized that AI should be viewed as a tool for enhancement, not replacement. He pointed out that while some computational jobs might be impacted, the human element remains irreplaceable, especially in relationship-driven industries like automotive.

There are several practical ways young professionals can integrate AI into their daily work, Campau noted. For instance, using AI to help generate product names and working through multiple prompts to create creative options. In sales and marketing, AI can handle repetitive tasks like generating weekly reports or synthesizing complex data, allowing professionals to focus on strategic thinking and customer relationships. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can help with tasks ranging from brainstorming to refining communication strategies.

“Institutional knowledge is something that AI is going to struggle with for a long time,” Campau said, adding that young professionals’ industry expertise and interpersonal skills remain crucial.

However, he cautioned professionals to be mindful of corporate policies, especially when handling confidential information.

“Do make sure you understand what your corporate policies are, especially before you put anything confidential in there,” Campau warned.

For those feeling intimidated by technological change, Campau offered some advice. “You consume a lot more data, and you synthesize a lot more data in your brain than you probably think already, so lean into it.”

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