Leading Change in the Era of AI Book Discussion with CAPT. W.G 'Bill' Kirst, A&S '00 and Susan Burwick, A&S '00

Leading Change in the Era of AI Book Discussion with CAPT. W.G 'Bill' Kirst, A&S '00  Header Image

Sponsored by the Office of Alumni Relations Lifelong Learning, Alumni in Technology & Alumni Authors 

Join us for an engaging virtual conversation moderated by Susan Burwick, A&S '00 with CAPT. W. G. 'Bill' Kirst, A&S ’00, as he discusses his newest book, Leading Change in the Era of AI. In this lively discussion, CAPT. Kirst will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the world around us, from transforming industries and redefining the future of work to influencing how we learn, lead, and connect with one another. Through a compelling blend of storytelling, expert insight, and thoughtful reflection, Bill and Susan will examine the ethical, societal, and deeply personal implications of living and leading in an AI-driven age.

Leading Change in the Era of AI offers a timely and thought-provoking guide for navigating one of the most profound technological shifts in modern history. download assetWhile AI is advancing at extraordinary speed, the real challenge is profoundly human. How we adapt, grow, and lead through uncertainty and change. The book explores the internal journey leaders must take from confronting feelings of inadequacy in the face of rapid transformation to embracing the unlearning required to think differently about the future. Ultimately, it argues that leading effectively in the AI era begins with a deeper understanding of ourselves and our shared humanity.

Whether you are guiding an organization through disruption, exploring the future of work, or simply trying to understand the forces reshaping our world, this book offers both clarity and courage. It is an invitation to lead with foresight, integrity, and heart. In the age of intelligent machines, the most important leadership skill may be remembering what it means to be human. 

Leading Change in the Era of AI is available for purchase through major retailers including Amazon and Goodreads.

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Disclaimer: The perspectives and opinions expressed by the speaker(s) during this program are those of the speaker(s) and not, necessarily, those of Johns Hopkins University and the scheduling of any speaker at an alumni event or program does not constitute the University’s endorsement of the speaker’s perspectives and opinions.
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ABOUT CAPT William 'Bill' Kirst, A&S '00
Veteran, Change & Enablement Leader, Storyteller, Podcast Host "Coffee & Change"

As a change management expert, Bill Kirst leads organizations through change with compassion and care. He has worked across a breadth of industries and has helped dozens of clients achieve transformational goals.

Bill’s passion for creativity and innovation runs over into his podcast, Coffee & Change, where his guests share insights on managing change in their daily lives. He’s a creative writer, a storyteller, and a polyglot, having studied six languages during his international travels. He currently resides in Seattle and alongside his work focuses on wellness and mindfulness in his daily life. Bill currently works at Adobe. 

He is a U.S. Army veteran having served 10 years as a reserve officer in the United States Army. Bill is actively involved in numerous veterans’ programs working with minority veterans and those dealing with PTS. He has a bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and a master’s degree from Georgetown.

Bill values giving back and to investing in the next generation of leaders and diverse voices. He sits on the Johns Hopkins University Alumni Council & Board and is also a member of the Association of Change Management Professionals.

ABOUT Susan Burwick, A&S '00
Customer Service and Software Delivery Senior Leader

Susan is an energetic and passionate senior leader with more than 25 years of experience driving result across customer success, software delivery, and cross functional teams. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she excels at building strong relationships with clients and internal teams while delivering strategic initiatives that support long-term business growth. 

Throughout her career, Susan has successfully managed complex customer portfolios and partnered closely with executive leadership and C-suite stakeholders to align strategy, execution, and customer outcomes. She brings deep experience leading global teams across both onshore and offshore environments, fostering high performing cultures that empower individuals to do their best work. 

Susan has also played a key role in organizations navigating mergers and acquisitions, helping teams integrate processes, align cross functional efforts, and build cohesion during period of transformation. 

Outside of work, Susan enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending time with her two boys who keep her on her toes. 

 Event Date
Thursday, April 9, 2026
Start Time: 6:30pm EDT
End Time: 7:30pm EDT

 Contact
Office of Alumni Relations
Brian Davis
Lifelong Learning
1-800-JHU-JHU1 (548-5481)
bdavi125@jhu.edu

Free

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