The Crawl, Walk, Run of AI Adoption - Connecticut Society of CPAs

Overview

This course is designed to demystify AI for teams and give them the confidence to start using it in their day-to-day work. Aimed at professionals across various functions HR, Operations, Marketing, Finance and more, this session guides participants through the practical stages of AI adoption. From easy-to-use tools, to function-specific and advanced AI platforms. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of what’s possible today, what’s coming next, and how to get started in a way that delivers immediate value.

Objectives

Recall the current landscape of AI tools, from beginner to more advanced.
Identify simple, accessible AI solutions to use immediately in their roles.
Select intermediate and advanced AI tools relevant to their function (e.g.
Finance, HR, Marketing, Operations).
Recognize opportunities for AI integration within their team or department.
Indicate how to build confidence in experimenting with AI and developing use cases.
Recall how to avoid common pitfalls and misconceptions around AI adoption.
Distinguish how to create a simple action plan to begin the AI adoption journey, starting with "crawl," moving to "walk," and preparing to "run."

Highlights

Introduction to AI in the workplace

Everyday tools

Quick wins for immediate productivity

Tools for data analysis, task automation, and content generation

Use cases across Finance, HR, Marketing, and Operations

Evaluating fit-for-purpose AI tools Run: Scaling AI Adoption

More technical tools

Strategic implementation within functions

Building a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement Overcoming - Barriers and Building Buy-In

Addressing adoption fears and misconceptions

Building trust and momentum within teams Planning Your Next Steps

Designed For

This can be for all operational teams - Finance, core operations, HR, Marketing

Prerequisites

None

Notice

You will receive an email from the AICPA with instructions to access the webinar.

Fees

Credits

Level

Code

Vendor

Fields of Study

Leader(s):

Waleed Saleem, AICPA

Leader Bios

Waleed Saleem, AICPA

Waleed Saleem Waleed Saleem is an experienced transformation leader who helps finance and operational teams drive strategic impact across the organization. He specializes in finance and operational transformation, with a focus on strategy development, end-to-end operating model redesign, and the automation of activities through emerging technologies like AI. Waleed began his career at Deloitte, working across Audit and Strategic Consulting within Financial Services, supporting clients across Investment Management, Insurance, and Banking. Over the years, he has broadened his sector experience through deep engagement within Private Equity, Venture Capital and working in Boutique Advisory practices, leading transformation initiatives across Manufacturing, SaaS, and FMCG industries. He has worked with a wide range of clients, from FTSE 100 and international organizations such as AIG, NatWest, RSA, Massy Group, Nasdaq, to high-growth mid-market firms. His cross-sector exposure and strategy expertise allow him to translate transformation into practical outcomes for leaders and their teams. Waleed regularly delivers workshops, training sessions, and webinars to CFOs, COOs, CIOs, and their teams, tailoring content to make it practical, engaging, and action-oriented. He is known for his enthusiastic and approachable delivery style, often blending real-world examples with interactive exercises to drive learning.

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