Guy Diedrich, Cisco’s global innovation officer, emphasizes that in the age of artificial intelligence, the most critical skills are not technical but deeply human. Drawing from his background as a programmer, entrepreneur, and academic, Diedrich reflects on the growing imbalance in education—where interest in the humanities has declined by 24% between 2012 and 2022—while demand for STEM fields has surged. Now leading Cisco’s Digital Impact Office and overseeing the company’s skilling initiatives, Diedrich sees a turning point. As AI becomes embedded in nearly every aspect of work and life, the real challenge is no longer access to information, but knowing what to do with it. The key question, he says, is not just “Can we do this?” but “Should we do this?” That ethical and philosophical dimension, he argues, is rooted in the humanities. Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and the ability to consider multiple perspectives—skills cultivated through studying philosophy, literature, psychology, and ethics—are becoming essential for AI practitioners and leaders alike. Diedrich notes that Cisco’s AI consortium report found 92% of jobs will be significantly affected by AI, with nearly all others eventually impacted. As AI takes over routine tasks, the value of human judgment, creativity, and responsibility grows. Those trained in the humanities are uniquely equipped to navigate complex decisions, assess unintended consequences, and ensure technology serves society well. He stresses that you don’t need to major in English or philosophy to benefit. What matters is developing the mindset—learning how to question, reflect, and communicate effectively. Technical skills can be learned quickly, often through self-study. But the ability to think critically and act ethically takes time and exposure to diverse ideas. Education, he says, is no longer a one-time event. It’s a lifelong journey. As technology evolves faster than ever—moving from the AI era toward the quantum age in just a few years—organizations must prioritize well-rounded talent. The future belongs to those who combine technical expertise with deep human insight. Employers, Diedrich hopes, will begin to value individuals who not only code but also understand the broader implications of their work. In the end, the most powerful AI systems won’t be built by machines alone—but by humans who know how to ask the right questions.