With a decade of marketing experience, Ashley Gross has discovered the transformative impact of generative AI. After successfully implementing AI applications within an enterprise company and building a GPT for the sales team, Ashley founded a subscription-based community offering free tools, founder insights, workshops, and events.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Ashley shared her professional trajectory, the inspiration behind establishing The Prompt Community, significant career milestones, personal sources of inspiration, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Ashley. Tell us a bit about your journey into AI space? What got you excited about AI in the first place and how your work has evolved?
My journey into the AI space began somewhat serendipitously during the pandemic when I started exploring Jasper AI. I was initially intrigued by how AI could streamline my workload and enhance the tone and language in my emails, making communication more efficient and effective. This exploration opened my eyes to the broader potential of AI in the workplace.
In 2022, as a demand generation marketer for an enterprise company, I had the opportunity to volunteer to lead the rollout of AI across our marketing department, which included over 100 marketers. This role wasn’t just about deploying new technology; it was a profound learning experience. By teaching others and iterating on AI applications within our team, I gained invaluable skills and insights, which have shaped my understanding of AI’s impact in the business world.
What was the inspiration behind establishing The Prompt Community? What is its vision and mission?
The inspiration for The Prompt Community stemmed from my own experiences in learning and using AI. I noticed a significant gap in accessible and affordable AI education that was also engaging and community-driven. The vision of The Prompt Community is to empower individuals by providing them with the knowledge and tools to use effectively, fostering a fun and inclusive learning environment. Our mission is to break down barriers to AI education, making it easy and enjoyable for everyone to learn and grow with AI.
You are also an Instructor at Section. Can you please tell us about the topics/courses taught by you and their relevance in today’s fast-evolving business world?
At Section, I teach courses that help professionals use AI responsibly and effectively. These include addressing bias in AI systems, measuring and communicating AI’s return on investment, ensuring responsible AI use across various applications, and integrating AI into team workflows for better efficiency and productivity.
Have you faced any unique challenges or obstacles as an AI Educator & Entrepreneur and how have you navigated those challenges?
One of the unique challenges I’ve faced is overcoming the misconception that AI is only for tech-savvy individuals. I’ve navigated these challenges by focusing on simplifying complex concepts and using real-world applications to demonstrate AI’s value. Building a community around this philosophy has also helped in changing these perceptions.
How do you stay up to date on the latest developments in your field?
To stay updated, I regularly participate in AI conferences, webinars, and workshops. I also collaborate with other AI professionals and engage with recent academic research to keep ahead of the latest advancements and ethical considerations in AI.
How do you mentor the next generation of professionals to prepare them for future developments and opportunities in AI?
When mentoring the next generation of professionals, I prioritize creating a safe and comfortable environment where everyone feels heard. I always start by listening to their experiences and perspectives. This approach not only builds trust but also helps tailor the learning experience to their specific needs and concerns. I believe that a solid foundation in any educational journey begins with understanding and respecting where each learner is coming from.
Given your extensive career, is there any professional moment that has been particularly impactful or memorable so far?
One of my favorite moments is anytime I witness people truly get excited about how AI can personally benefit them. When they start getting curious and eager to learn more, it’s incredibly rewarding. Seeing that spark of interest and realizing the potential impact of AI on their lives and careers—that’s a memorable and fulfilling experience for me every time.
Who has influenced you the most in life and why?
That’s a challenging question to answer because I draw inspiration from every interaction I have. Life is a continuous journey of learning and sharing experiences, and I find myself deeply influenced by the diverse perspectives and positive forces I encounter. Each conversation adds a layer to my understanding and appreciation of the world’s potential for goodness and innovation.
What do you feel has been your ‘career-defining’ moment?
My career-defining moment was the launch of The Prompt Community. It marked the transition from being primarily an AI user and educator to leading a movement to democratize AI education. It has been both challenging and rewarding to lead this initiative.
Where would you like to be in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I hope to expand The Prompt Community globally, reaching more underserved regions and individuals. I aim to establish more partnerships with organizations that share our vision of making AI education widely accessible.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in pursuing a career in AI?
My advice to young women interested in AI is to be curious, persistent, and bold. Don’t shy away from asking questions and seeking out opportunities. Find a community or a mentor who supports your growth and remember that your unique perspective is invaluable in shaping the future of AI.