Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: An Interview with Atlas Aultman

By Mike, Host of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge

Welcome back to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge. Today, we have a special guest, Atlas Aultman, a five-time bestselling author. Atlas has a fascinating background in the military and technology. In this interview, we delve into his experiences and insights, exploring topics such as leadership, team dynamics, stress management, and the future of AI. Let’s dive in and gain the technology leadership edge with Atlas Altman.

Background and Leadership

Atlas Aultman’s journey began in the Air Force, a decision that surprised his mother, who came from an army background. However, Atlas followed his father’s advice and joined the Air Force, where he found great success. He emphasizes the importance of being a leader who can motivate and empower their team, rather than simply telling them what to do. Atlas believes that leaders should focus on understanding their team members’ passions and placing them in roles where they can excel. He states, “People are passionate about things, but no one’s going to tell you what their passions are unless you ask.”

The Role of Technology in the Military

Atlas Aultman’s experience as a technologist in the military provided him with unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of working with technology. He highlights the importance of effective communication and problem-solving skills for tech professionals. Atlas emphasizes the need to go beyond temporary fixes and truly understand the root cause of a problem. He states, “The tech person has to be an excellent communicator to be able to pull it out and figure out what the actual problem is, not band-aid a solution for them.”

Stress Management and Different Stress Models

Atlas Aultman discusses the different stress models he encountered throughout his military career. From changing the Air Force promotion system to working in high-pressure situations, Atlas learned the importance of managing stress effectively. He explains that stress can come in various forms, and it is crucial to adapt and develop strategies to handle different stressors. Atlas believes that understanding oneself and knowing one’s strengths and weaknesses is essential for effective stress management.

The Power of Targets over Goals

Atlas Aultman introduces the concept of targets versus goals. He argues that targets are more effective than goals because they provide a clear focus and allow for adjustments along the way. Atlas draws an analogy to shooting at a target, where hitting the target is the primary objective. He states, “If you give people more than three things, they dump it because it’s too much. If you give them one thing done, they can focus on that and move forward.”

The Rise of AI and Its Implications

Atlas Aultman expresses his enthusiasm for AI and its potential to revolutionize various industries. He shares his personal experience of using AI as a personal assistant and highlights its ability to provide valuable insights and recommendations. However, he also emphasizes the importance of human oversight and decision-making. Atlas cautions against blindly trusting AI and encourages individuals to use AI as a tool rather than relying solely on its outputs.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, Atlas Aultman’s insights provide valuable lessons for technology leaders. Effective leadership, clear communication, stress management, and the integration of AI are all crucial elements in gaining the technology leadership edge. As technology continues to advance, leaders must adapt and embrace new tools and strategies to stay ahead. By understanding the power of targets, fostering a strong team dynamic, and leveraging the potential of AI, technology leaders can navigate the ever-changing landscape and drive innovation.

The future holds exciting possibilities for technology leadership, and it is up to leaders to embrace these opportunities and guide their teams towards success. With the right mindset, a focus on continuous learning, and a commitment to empowering their teams, technology leaders can shape the future of their organizations and gain the technology leadership edge.