Getting to lead on an AI project

This is just a little celebration. Last year this time I was a contractor trying (among other things) to support a sensitive AI tool that needed content design, but I was held at arms length. I was advising from the outside and not always heard.
This year, I’m a FTE on a new team. In the course of my regular work, I found a problem with an existing AI tool, and have been totally empowered to explore the issue and lead the project to improve it.

My contract last year had ended early, unexpectedly. It felt like the world might end. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to get another job (times are scary) and didn’t expect to find anything equal to the job I’d had.

But to my surprise, I did get a job and it was better in every way. I’m learning so much. I have benefits for the first time in years.

Just hoping this encourages someone who needs it.