Mindset Over Machines
May 12, 2026 | 3:00–4:00 PM ET | Virtual
The world is moving faster than any of us can think. And, honestly, this is as slow as it’s ever going to be.
Across education, leaders are being asked to make decisions in an environment shaped by rapid technological change, especially around AI. Which tools should we adopt? How quickly should we move? What comes next?
But tools change constantly. What does not change is how we think, how we lead, and how we make decisions when conditions keep shifting. That is a mindset challenge.
Mindset Over Machines brings educational leaders together for a timely, practical conversation about what it means to lead with clarity, judgment, and intention in an AI‑accelerated world. Rather than focusing on specific tools, this roundtable centers on how leaders can strengthen the human capacities that technology cannot replace.
AESA Roundtable on AI & Leadership
What Participants Will Gain
Participants will engage in a guided conversation focused on:
- Why mindset matters more than tools in periods of rapid change
- How leaders can move from reactive decision‑making to intentional leadership
- Practical principles for thinking clearly and exercising judgment as AI reshapes systems
- What it means to lead people, not just manage technology
Who Should Attend
This roundtable is designed for:
- ESA leaders and senior staff
- Superintendents and central office leaders
- Education leaders navigating AI, systems change, and increasing complexity
No technical background in AI is required. This experience is about leadership thinking, not technical skills.
About the Facilitator
Dr. Eric Solomon is a cognitive psychologist, professor, and former executive at YouTube, Instagram, Spotify, and Google whose work connects human behavior, leadership, and AI. As Founder and CEO of The Human Operating System, he helps leaders strengthen judgment, clarity, originality, and trust—and stay thoughtfully and responsibly in the loop as AI reshapes decision-making and culture. His work has appeared in Harvard Business Review and Psychology Today, and he delivered a widely viewed TED Talk in 2025.
Join the Conversation!
Participation in the Mindset Over Machines Roundtable is $79 and includes a live, interactive virtual conversation with Dr. Solomon and ESA education leaders from across the country.
For more information about this program, contact:
Jessica Huizenga
Chief Program Officer
Email