Treat Your Career Like Athlete Training, Says AT&T Executive

Joe Drygas, Vice President of AT&T’s Global Enterprise Business, believes the secret to long-term career success lies in approaching professional growth the way elite athletes approach training. In a recent interview with Entrepreneur, Drygas explained that just as athletes adjust their focus and role over time, professionals must continually reinvent themselves to keep advancing.

Reinvention as a Career Strategy

Drygas, who has spent 25 years climbing the ranks at AT&T starting from an entry-level sales role, said the mindset shift is key. He emphasized that every new position demands a different version of oneself, requiring employees to refresh their skills, expand their networks, and adjust how they operate. He also shared a simple daily habit that has shaped his leadership style: scheduling personal commitments like workouts, meals, and sleep alongside work tasks. According to Drygas, this small planning step reduces uncertainty and mental clutter, allowing for greater clarity and calm throughout the day.

Leading Through AI Adoption

On the subject of technology, Drygas discussed the challenge of encouraging a seasoned workforce to embrace artificial intelligence tools. He argued that meaningful adoption cannot come from directives alone — leaders must visibly use the tools themselves. He described holding sessions with managers where he demonstrates AI tools in real time to model the behavior he wants to see across the organization.

Drygas also touched on customer relationships, noting that showing genuine attentiveness — following up on past requests and researching a client’s industry — builds trust and demonstrates that their concerns are a priority, rather than centering conversations solely on business goals.