Artificial Intelligence and the Future of How We Work | May 2026
As we move further into 2026, it’s apparent that we are no longer approaching the digital age. We are fully living in it. Artificial intelligence (AI) has shifted from a theoretical concept to an everyday reality. Over the past year alone, I have seen AI advance at a pace unlike anything I have experienced in my career, quickly embedding itself into how businesses operate and how professionals approach their work.
AI can enable us to analyze large amounts of information more quickly, identify patterns, and reduce time spent on repetitive tasks. Tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot are helping people write, research, assess information, and organize their thinking more effectively. These platforms are not limited to any single role or industry, and they have become a foundational productivity tool across the modern economy.
Where AI Is Supporting Our Teams Today
Within our own company, we are already seeing meaningful applications. Team members are using AI to help structure and analyze spreadsheets, formulate and interpret data, identify trends, and streamline reporting. Work that once required hours of manual effort can now be completed more efficiently, allowing us to focus on decision-making. AI is not changing the nature of our work; it is improving how efficiently we execute certain workflows.
I recently discussed AI at RETCON 2026 during the High‑Stakes & Bold Moves: Strategies for the Next Era of Real Estate panel. One of the central themes of the conversation was the role AI will play in shaping our industry and our jobs. I do not believe that human beings will be replaced by AI. But I do believe that those who fail to learn how to use AI effectively risk being replaced by those who do. AI should be viewed as a tool, not a replacement. While the long-term impact of AI on specific roles remains uncertain, professionals who learn to use emerging tools thoughtfully may be better positioned to adapt to evolving workplace expectations. It enhances productivity, but it does not replace judgment, accountability, experience, or leadership.
This distinction is especially critical in how the firm runs. I believe ours to be a relationship-driven business. Only humans can work directly with cities and local governments, engage with community stakeholders, negotiate complex agreements, and navigate entitlement processes. Building trust, responding to public input, balancing competing priorities, and earning credibility over time are responsibilities that require human presence and judgment. These are not tasks that technology can perform on its own.
AI can support this work by improving analysis, preparing materials, and evaluating scenarios, but it cannot sit across the table from a city council, listen to community concerns, or make decisions grounded in experience and accountability. Those responsibilities will always belong to people.
Change Is Not New. Progress Is Inevitable.
Every major technological shift has brought uncertainty, from the rise of computers to the internet to mobile technology. Each time, I’ve seen jobs evolve rather than disappear. AI is no different. Roles will continue to change, skill sets will expand, and expectations will rise. Those who remain curious and adaptable will be best positioned to succeed.
I believe that we should approach AI thoughtfully, with discipline rather than fear. It allows us to spend less time on process and more time on relationships and long-term value creation. The future is not about humans vs. technology. It is about humans working alongside technology and using it wisely.
AI tools may improve efficiency, but they also involve limitations and risks, including the potential for inaccuracies, incomplete analysis, and inappropriate use of confidential or proprietary information. Any use of AI tools should be subject to appropriate human review and applicable firm policies and procedures.
Disclosures
This communication is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. This is not an offering to buy or sell any securities. Such an offer may only be made through the offering’s memorandum to accredited investors. Any investment in Shopoff Realty Investments (“SRI”) programs involves substantial risks and is suitable only for investors who have no need for liquidity and who can bear the loss of their entire investment. The performance of former assets is not indicative of the future results of other assets. Securities offered through Shopoff Securities, Inc. (“SSI”) member FINRA/SIPC. Certain statements contained herein are forward-looking in nature and are based on current expectations, estimates, and projections. Actual results may differ materially due to a variety of factors. Market conditions and trends discussed herein may not continue and are subject to change.
