The MAIITS programme lets me connect my experience with new learning, and I’m glad I chose AIC. The Employability's PRP has also helped me begin my career journey with guidance and confidence.

For Reggie Ragot, nearly 20 years of experience in IT did not mean there was nothing new left to learn.

Originally from Las Piñas City in the Philippines, Reggie returned to study in her 40s to pursue AIC’s new Master of AI Integrated IT Solutions, building on an established technology career while developing skills for an increasingly AI-enabled future.

Before joining AIC, Reggie worked across Singapore, the United States and the wider Asia-Pacific region in project management, software delivery, business analysis and technical support. Her experience also included leading teams of developers, testers, junior project managers and project coordinators.

What drew her back to study was the opportunity to understand how artificial intelligence could be applied to real-world challenges.

“The Master of AI Integrated IT Solutions (MAIITS) programme sparked my interest. I wanted to understand how AI can be applied to real challenges and build skills for a changing technology landscape.”

The Master of AI Integrated IT Solutions (MAIITS) is one of AIC’s newest programmes, designed to bring Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology together through applied learning and real-world problem solving.

For Reggie, the programme provides an opportunity to connect extensive industry experience with new learning.

“The programme lets me connect my experience with new learning, and I’m glad I chose AIC.”

Alongside her studies, Reggie works as a web designer at an architectural firm in New Zealand and is part of the Seen Ventures team through AIC’s external project programme. She also contributes to the AIC community as a Peer Tutor, Student Mentor and Student Ambassador.

Returning to formal study after many years in the workforce has required her to learn new AI concepts while balancing study, project work and campus responsibilities.

Reggie says patience, persistence and the support of those around her have helped her manage that transition. She takes things step by step, remains open to feedback and reaches out to lecturers, mentors and peers when needed.

For her, the people at AIC have been an important part of the experience.

“AIC has given me a new whānau. I feel welcomed, cared for and encouraged, even when I’m struggling or doubting myself. That made a real difference to my journey.”

Reggie also credits the AIC Employability Placement Ready Programme (PRP) with helping her begin her career journey in New Zealand. Through the programme, she received guidance and support that strengthened her confidence and helped her secure her Peer Tutor role.

After completing her master’s, Reggie hopes to combine her IT experience with her developing AI knowledge to help organisations create solutions that make a meaningful difference for people while using technology responsibly.

She would also welcome opportunities to teach and encourage others, sharing the experience she has built throughout her career alongside what she continues to learn.

Her advice to others considering a new direction is simple:

“Your circumstances or age don’t have to limit your dreams. Say yes to opportunities, even those outside your comfort zone. Everyone’s path is different, so stay curious, believe in your ability to grow, and don’t be afraid to spread your wings and fly high.”