About I CAN Japan AI

Experience Meets Innovation

Effective AI leadership in today’s global economy demands more than technical knowledge it requires hands-on, practical expertise. Based in Tokyo, we provide tailored AI training and consulting that empowers organizations and professionals to adapt swiftly, innovate strategically, and lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Our Core Philosophy

Artificial Intelligence is often portrayed as a tidal wave something to fear, a threat to jobs, or a trend we must adopt without fully understanding its impact. We take a different approach.
Technology is a tool, not a master. It should amplify human capability, not replace judgment, creativity, or leadership. At I CAN Japan AI, we help our clients build clarity, confidence, and a practical understanding of AI through three guiding principles:

  • What AI can do: Grasping the true capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) and generative tools, including how they can enhance productivity, automate repetitive tasks, and support smarter decision-making.
  • What AI cannot do: Recognizing its limitations, such as errors, the absence of empathy, and the need for ongoing human oversight to ensure quality, fairness, and context-appropriate outcomes.
  • Responsibility: Apply AI ethically, thoughtfully, and responsibly. Leaders must ensure that AI decisions respect human values, protect privacy, and align with organizational goals. Ethical AI is not optional—it is essential for sustaining trust, credibility, and long-term success in any team or organization

We do not teach people to chase the latest flashy tool or follow trends blindly. Instead, we focus on building a clear mindset, practical understanding, and the confidence to lead effectively in an AI-driven world, where technology complements human intelligence rather than replacing it.

About the Founder: Lance E. Lee

The "I CAN" mindset is grounded in reality. It is the product of over five decades of living, working, and leading in Japan.

Tokyo-based entrepreneur, educator, and podcaster, Lance E. Lee has spent his career bridging cultures, generations, and industries. His extensive background allows him to see the AI revolution not as a disruption, but as an evolution in how businesses operate, innovate, and deliver value. With decades of leadership experience, Lance has developed a unique perspective on integrating technology with human judgment, fostering collaboration, and guiding organizations through transformative change. His leadership roles include:

  • United States Air Force
  • American School in Japan (ASIJ)
  • Former President, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ)
  • Former President, Tokyo American Club

During his tenure at institutions like the Tokyo American Club and ACCJ, Lance championed initiatives that brought together diverse stakeholders, encouraged cross-cultural dialogue, and created environments where collaboration drove measurable results.

Lance developed the “I CAN” mindset to help professionals move from uncertainty to clarity and confidence. He believes technology, including AI, should complement human intelligence rather than replace it.

At I CAN Japan AI, Lance applies this mindset to executive coaching, corporate consulting, and practical AI training. He empowers leaders to harness AI effectively while preserving critical human qualities such as judgment, responsibility, empathy, and ethical decision-making.By combining strategic insight with hands-on expertise, Lance helps professionals and teams transform how they work, innovate responsibly, and achieve sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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Why “Human-First” AI?

In the rush to automate, many companies overlook what truly matters: people. Technology should enhance human capability, not replace it.

Our approach is distinctive because we prioritize the “Human-in-the-Loop”. Whether collaborating with a traditional Japanese manufacturer or a modern creative agency, our goal is consistent: empower humans to guide machines effectively, ensuring AI amplifies judgment, creativity, and decision-making.

Key Insight: AI is like a bicycle for the mind—it can accelerate your work, but you still need to pedal and steer. Human direction remains essential for meaningful, responsible outcomes.

From Fear to Mastery

Many of our clients arrive feeling overwhelmed, concerned that they are "falling behind."

We want to assure you that you are not behind. You are at the start of an important journey. By embracing AI leadership, you gain control of the narrative and shape the future of your work.

Our training programs are not traditional lectures. They are transformative experiences designed to help you grow, adapt, and lead confidently. We guide you from:


  • "I don't know how this works" → "I understand the mechanism and can apply it effectively."

  • "I'm afraid I'll break it" → "I can experiment confidently and safely."

  • "This will replace me" → "This will enhance and amplify my capabilities."