THP 30: Monica Young

Program: Global Strategic Communications
Current Position: Global Innovation and Technology Engagement Catalyst, AIG
Hometown: Spanish Fort, Alabama
LinkedIn: Monica Young

Describe an interesting trend you see emerging in your profession and how you think it will affect the field:

I work in the fields of innovation and emerging technology as well as communication. The way one is shaping the other astounds me. Our field was pioneered by early cave dwellers drawing their narratives as eloquently as their tools allowed on rock walls. Communication mediums now include trends like augmented reality, livestreaming, and tools like SnapChat and Instagram—the modern day pictorial narrative. Technology has delivered a new canvas, a blank cave wall if you will, to explore how we can expand where our art and where science intersect in order to dream. It could not be a more exciting time to have a career in this space.

Who (or what) has inspired you and how has your life changed as a result?

I would say the cohort as a whole has inspired me. Each of us contribute in our own way to this elite, intimate group of learners. We may not reach out every Wednesday, but I cannot imagine we will not be in touch for the rest of our careers.