Ashima Sharma on Data, Teams, and the Human Side of AI

In this episode of AI Today, host Kathleen Walch sits down with Ashima Sharma, Founding Partner of Ayuka Consulting, to explore what it really takes to deliver AI that works—in practice, at scale, and with purpose. 

This conversation was recorded live at PMI Global Summit 2025 and highlights the often-overlooked foundations of successful AI adoption: clean, contextual data; empowered, cross-functional teams; and a human-centered mindset that sees AI as a partner, not a product. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• Why most AI efforts fail without operationally ready data 
• How project teams can bridge the gap between experimentation and delivery 
• What true upskilling looks like for today’s AI-augmented workforce 
• How to navigate value misalignment, scope creep, and early AI friction 
• What makes for “good” AI adoption—and what questions we should be asking 
• The importance of empathy, ethics, and inclusion in AI delivery work 

Whether you're a project leader, product owner, or transformation coach, this episode delivers grounded insight into building AI that supports both systems and the people who run them.