CES and WEF 2026: What’s the Global State of Tech? with Jim Harris - Modern CTO Recap

Podcast: Modern CTO

Published: 2026-01-29

Duration: 1 hr 1 min

Summary

Jim Harris shares insights from CES and WEF, highlighting how innovative AI applications can drastically improve efficiency in various industries. He discusses case studies from EY and Brunswick, showcasing the transformative potential of AI when integrated with fresh perspectives.

What Happened

In this episode, Jim Harris reflects on his experiences at CES and WEF, emphasizing the groundbreaking advancements in AI. He recounts an interview with the head of AI for EY, who discussed a remarkable transformation in their risk management process. Initially taking 46 hours, the team reduced the process time dramatically, first to 32 hours with AI intervention, then to just 15 minutes when leveraging fresh talent unbound by traditional practices. After ensuring compliance, the final time settled at six hours, marking an over 80% reduction. This case study illustrates that genuine innovation requires a shift in mindset, particularly when integrating AI into established workflows.

Harris also highlights Brunswick, a boat manufacturer facing challenges with pricing due to fluctuating tariffs. The company developed an AI solution that can reprice components in real-time, saving countless hours and ensuring accurate pricing. This innovation not only streamlined operations but also improved employee satisfaction by alleviating tedious tasks. Additionally, Harris points out the cultural shift needed to embrace AI, noting that senior leaders must be educated on AI's potential to drive organizational change. An example he shares involves the Havas network, where CEOs must complete AI courses to attend a key global summit, emphasizing the importance of widespread AI understanding across all levels of a company.

Key Insights

• AI integration requires innovative thinking beyond traditional processes.
• Real-time AI solutions can significantly enhance operational efficiency.
• Cultural education on AI is vital for organizational transformation.
• Humanoid robots are poised for mass adoption as costs decrease.

Key Questions Answered

How did EY transform their risk management process with AI?

Jim Harris details a fascinating case study from EY where they initially had a 46-hour risk management process. By applying AI, they managed to reduce this time to 32 hours. However, the most significant improvement came when they paired AI-first individuals with experienced risk management personnel, resulting in a staggering reduction to just 15 minutes. This shows that integrating AI is not just about enhancing existing processes but rethinking how work can be done entirely.

What role does culture play in adopting AI in organizations?

Harris emphasizes the importance of cultural change in organizations when adopting AI. He cites the Havas network, which requires CEOs to complete AI courses before attending a global leadership summit. This approach ensures that leaders are equipped with the knowledge to understand AI's impact, driving the entire organization towards embracing this powerful technology. A culture that prioritizes AI education can lead to more informed decision-making and strategic initiatives.

How is Brunswick using AI to manage pricing issues?

Brunswick faced significant challenges in managing pricing due to constant tariff changes affecting the costs of components for their boats. To address this, their engineers developed an AI that can reprice parts in real-time based on the latest tariff information. This innovation not only saved the team countless hours of manual recalculations but also allowed for more accurate pricing, enhancing operational efficiency and employee morale.

What advancements in humanoid robots were discussed at CES?

At CES, Harris noted the increasing availability of humanoid robots, particularly from a company called Unitree. These robots are becoming more economically accessible, with prices around $21,600 currently. The potential for mass adoption is significant once the prices drop further. Harris points out that the average person spends about 18 hours a week on housework, and the integration of such robots could free up substantial time for individuals, changing how we approach domestic tasks.

What insights did Harris share about the future of AI technology?

Harris envisions a future where the costs of humanoid robots will decrease, making them more attainable for the average consumer. He believes that once robots can handle specific tasks like laundry or cleaning effectively, the market will see a rapid increase in adoption. This shift could lead to innovative business models, such as renting out robots for domestic duties, showcasing how technology can reshape our daily lives and work.