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All issuesVolume 330, Issue 2IT NewsCxO Podcasts

AI Saves Five Million W/ Benny Zhang

DPIT, Tuesday, September 9th, 2025

What happens when a chemical engineer becomes an AI-driven IT leader who saves companies millions?

At a major energy company, Benny Zhang serves as VP of Information Technology, transforming how IT departments prove their strategic value. Starting his career as a chemical engineer in China-where his father brought him a Commodore 64 from Cornell University-Benny discovered his passion for technology when all eight IT professionals at his company quit simultaneously, and he raised his hand to help.

From replacing a $5 million consulting project with a $40,000 AI solution completed in three months, to building executive trust through monthly lunch and learn sessions, Benny shares how IT leaders can move beyond the reactive 'car mechanic' mindset to become proactive business enablers who drive competitive advantage.

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