At Darden, leaders find opportunities to evolve through continuous learning, from executive education to degree programs. For Adam Callahan, Senior Director of the Data Analytics Group at GCI, participating in Darden Executive Education & Lifelong Learning’s (EELL) AI-Powered Data Analytics program in November 2024 provided a timely and immersive introduction to AI, and a preview of the Darden experience before his Executive MBA program starts this fall. The program was a return to his technical roots, and it offered insights about how to harness AI in data analytics and leverage powerful AI tools to gain an edge in everyday tasks and complex problem-solving.
Tell us more about your career journey.
After earning my degree in Computer Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in 2003, I moved to the Washington, D.C. area, envisioning myself in a job doing hands-on technical work. I interviewed for several positions, but ended up in a role focused on project management—and to my surprise, I found myself fully enjoying it. During the next 14 years, I stayed with that organization, traveling to 30 states and more than 30 countries across six continents. While working in that job, I also earned a master’s degree in Engineering Technology Management from George Washington University in 2009. I made a shift in 2017 to a smaller company, where I worked for a couple of years before joining GCI, where I now serve as Senior Director of the Data Analytics Group.
Why did you come Darden to take the AI-Powered Data Analytics program?
Because the programs in my portfolio have a heavy focus on data analytics, the title of the program intrigued me. I wasn’t looking to dive into the technical weeds, but I wanted a strategic perspective on the technologies my team is already using or could be using on a regular basis. As someone leading technical professionals, I believe it’s essential to understand the tools and trends shaping their work, especially as AI evolves and new capabilities surface. A quote I came across recently captures this well: “AI won’t replace managers—but managers who use AI will replace those who don’t.” That perspective reinforces the importance of not just keeping up, but actively integrating AI into leadership and decision-making.
I’ve always been a lifelong learner, pursuing growth through podcasts, training and hands-on learning opportunities. This program offered the chance to deepen my understanding of AI and explore practical ways our team can apply it to create better business outcomes.
The program confirmed for me that AI is a powerful tool, but it requires human involvement to achieve the best possible results. AI might be able to provide the 80% solution, but human discernment and guidance is a critical input.
What were you hoping to take away from your program experience?
Going into the program, I knew that I would be starting in Darden’s EMBA program in fall 2025 and thought it would be a great opportunity to get exposure to Darden – the faculty, the case method and what classes would be like.
What stood out was the interactive environment: learning alongside a similarly-motivated group of professionals, engaging with faculty and experiencing the application of the case method firsthand. We also explored emerging tools like ChatGPT, with access to a month-long license that allowed us to experiment with how AI can shape business thinking—especially how the quality of your inputs into the tool impact the quality of the answers it provides.
Beyond the exposure to Darden, I was excited to dive into a technical topic closely aligned with my work. Being back in a space where I could exercise those hard skills again was both energizing and highly relevant.
Were there any ‘a-ha’ moments from the program that have stuck with you?
The program confirmed for me that AI is a powerful tool, but it requires human involvement to achieve the best possible results. AI might be able to provide the 80% solution, but human discernment and guidance is a critical input. For example, the program demonstrated that if you didn’t push the tool to drill deeper into the data or guide it toward the desired framing and tone of the output, the answers could be incorrect or misleading. You need to have a thoughtful human in the loop to ask the right questions, interpret results, and ensure the output is meaningful.
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How did you decide to pursue your Executive MBA at Darden and how did your executive education experience get you excited for this fall?
With 20+ years of professional experience, an Executive MBA was the right fit for the next stage of my career. Initially, I didn’t consider Darden because I assumed that it would be necessary to commute regularly to Charlottesville; but after learning about the D.C. area campus, I took a closer look. The more I researched, the more I was drawn to Darden’s distinctive approach, especially its use of the case method and its reputation for blending rigor with authenticity.
After being accepted to both programs I applied to, I chose Darden. The application process and experiences for admitted students were polished, yet approachable and authentic, and my executive education experience only reinforced that I made the right decision. The program reactivated parts of my brain I hadn’t tapped into in a while and got me genuinely excited for what’s ahead.
What are you most looking forward to with pursuing your EMBA?
I’m looking forward to being back in the classroom and having a chance to dive into topics and sharpen skills that I haven’t had to use very much in my current role. I’ve always wanted to pursue formal training in business, and now it’s finally coming full circle. This next chapter is about building on my engineering and program management foundations while expanding into new business domains that will support my continued growth and prepare me for what’s next.
I’m also excited about the different perspectives I’ll encounter and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships along the way. And on a personal note, with four young children ages 3 to 8 who are all in school themselves, there’s a fun sense of solidarity—this fall, we’re all headed back to school together.
