Generative AI tools like GitHub Copilot have been game changers—but the real value isn’t in autocomplete tricks. It’s in how we collaborate with these tools as thought partners. In this talk, we’ll reframe AI not as a code generator, but as a pair programming teammate—one that can spark ideas, challenge assumptions, and help teams move with greater confidence and clarity.
Rather than viewing AI as a shortcut, we’ll explore how a truly collaborative approach—where humans remain actively in the loop—can deepen understanding and strengthen core software development practices. Whether it’s clarifying acceptance criteria in BDD, supporting test-driven thinking in TDD, or identifying opportunities for thoughtful refactoring, AI pair programming enhances the conversations that lead to better design and better code.
For those uneasy about AI’s expanding role in software, this talk offers reassurance: these tools don’t replace us—they amplify us. By engaging them as collaborative teammates, we can build better software together.
About our Speaker:
George has two decades of experience in Agile Software Development, concentrating heavily on Extreme Programming (XP), Scrum, SAFe, TDD, CI/CD, and DevOps. He has managed, mentored, coached, and trained Agile teams, serving in many capacities such as TechnicalLead, Scrum Master, Agile Coach & Trainer with a focus on developing people and improving how teams work together using agile methods to achieve desired results. As a software craftsman and adept practitioner of agile development practices, George has helped organizations and teams realize business value quickly and with high quality, and a high degree of customer satisfaction.
Connect with George:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-lively-b6868a1/