#Japan #Career Development #AI Skills #Shibuya #AlSaga Partners

Enthusiasm Among Students at the Lecture by Yuichi Omata

On November 26, 2025, the University of Electro-Communications hosted a special lecture titled "Ways to Build a Fulfilling Career in the AI Era,” delivered by Yuichi Omata, the Chairman and CTO of AlSaga Partners, a company dedicated to promoting DX (Digital Transformation). This engaging session drew over 300 students, both in-person and online, eager to absorb insights from a reputed leader in the field.

A Journey Through Career Choices

Yuichi Omata began the lecture by reflecting on significant turning points in his career, drawing from extensive experience working at major IT companies like Hewlett-Packard Japan and NTT Communications before becoming a serial entrepreneur. He shared how his initial intentions of pursuing a career path didn’t align with where he eventually found fulfillment.

During his time at large firms, Omata acquired a range of technical skills in areas such as network infrastructure, IT management, and project management through formal training programs. However, he felt a sense of unease when he realized many of these skills had limited opportunities for application, leading to his belief that "skills only hold value when utilized."

His shift to the venture sector came through an invitation from a mentor, where he experienced the highs and lows of startup culture. One notable anecdote involved working without a paycheck, a stark contrast to his previous corporate life. This period solidified his understanding of the direct impact individual contributions can have on a company's success.

Key Insights for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

At the age of 35, Omata embarked on his first entrepreneurial venture, emphasizing three critical points: understanding the purpose of starting a company, structuring an effective organization, and formulating an exit strategy from the beginning. He highlighted that a market-driven approach—understanding consumer needs over personal ambitions—was essential for success.

For instance, he discussed a game company founder’s strategy of releasing a demo video to gauge consumer interest prior to development, illustrating the importance of customer-oriented product design.

When addressing organizational structure, Omata advised aspiring founders to initially recruit individuals who resonate with the founder’s vision and possess immediate impact. As companies grow, this approach must evolve to include a more balanced team, incorporating risk management roles alongside those who drive innovation.

He also touched on the trends in recruitment, noting that as large companies adopt methods once exclusive to startups, it’s vital for entrepreneurs to continuously innovate their hiring strategies to remain competitive.

The Importance of Reflection and Long-Term Happiness

Omata emphasized the lessons he learned when faced with a decision between two job offers—one offering significantly higher pay and the other promising a role in a company whose mission he respected and believed in. Ultimately, he discovered that monetary happiness does not equate to life satisfaction. Instead, fulfillment from work and the sense of purpose it brings are paramount for long-term happiness.

He shared with students that work should be seen not merely as a means to earn a living but as a way to connect with society. He imparted the message that it’s crucial to embark on entrepreneurial journeys at one's own pace, reinforcing the notion that there’s no “right” age to start a business.

Adapting to an AI-Driven World

As we navigate an era increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, Omata stressed that roles devoid of responsibility will diminish in value over time. He asserted that humans possessing decision-making capabilities will remain vital to future work environments. To thrive in the AI era, he encouraged maintaining an enduring curiosity to enhance skills continuously.

He advocated for constant engagement with AI technologies, noting that proficiency in foundational knowledge allows individuals to leverage AI more effectively. Omata illustrated that engineers with a solid grasp of basics can extract deeper insights from AI interactions, thus underscoring the necessity of continuous learning.

Student Engagement and Reactions

The lecture concluded with lively discussions, demonstrating the students’ keen interest in Omata’s journey and insights. Feedback from attendees highlighted the newfound perspectives they gained regarding the interplay between corporate and entrepreneurial experiences.

One student mentioned how the notion of utilizing skills acquired in large firms for venture success had never crossed their mind. Another found the lecture insightful, particularly in clarifying complex venture business concepts. Insights shared about entrepreneurial responsibility resonated with many, highlighting Omata’s impact in fostering a better understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape.

Conclusion

With over 300 students participating both online and offline, the success of this lecture showcases not only the appetite for real-world insights among students but also the commitment of AlSaga Partners to foster future leaders. The company is dedicated to bridging the gap between education and practical experience, preparing students to navigate and innovate in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

For inquiries regarding future lectures by AlSaga executives, please reach out through our contact page.

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About AlSaga Partners

AlSaga Partners, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, offers comprehensive DX solutions, bridging consulting and system development with operational support. Their mission is to deliver value through creative thinking and solid logic, harnessing diverse capabilities to boost organizational competitiveness.