Anatomy of an AI Agent: The Hitchhiker’s “GUID” to Understanding Agentic AI

AI agents are quickly moving from buzzword to workplace reality. These systems can research, write, analyze data, interact with software, and even coordinate other tools — tasks that were traditionally performed by knowledge workers. But what exactly is an AI agent, and why is it becoming so important?

This session breaks down how AI agents actually work in plain language. We will explore the components that make an agent “agentic,” how they plan and execute tasks, and how organizations are beginning to use them to augment teams and automate complex workflows. More importantly, we will discuss what this shift means for professionals, managers, and entrepreneurs: how roles are changing, why directing intelligent systems is becoming a core skill, and how individuals can use AI agents to increase their impact or even build new businesses.

Attendees will leave with a clear mental model of AI agents, practical examples of real-world use, and an understanding of how to prepare for a future where humans increasingly work alongside — and supervise — intelligent digital workers.