AI in Advertising

For the Fall 2025 semester, I had the privilege of collaborating with peers in a senior-level AI in Advertising course at Appalachian State University. This class explored a new era of creative development—leveraging artificial intelligence for campaign ideation, ethical evaluation, and execution. Each student was assigned a brand to research and reimagine through the lens of human insight and machine creativity.

My assigned client was Carhartt, a legacy workwear brand with deep roots in American craftsmanship. The challenge: develop a campaign that honors Carhartt’s heritage while expanding its relevance to emerging audiences. This required strategic research into brand perception, emotional resonance, and market segmentation.

Working with AI tools presented unique challenges. Aggregated online data often lacked context or credibility, requiring discernment and cross-referencing to ensure accuracy. Communicating effectively with AI also demanded precision when each prompt had to clearly articulate intent, leading to multiple iterations and refinements. The process mirrored real-world creative development: test, revise, and validate.