How to Prepare for AI Joining the Workforce

For many, the rumblings of AI (artificial intelligence) becoming increasingly present in the workforce bring feelings of anxiety about what the future of work will look like. While these concerns are valid, AI is too often painted as a job killer instead of a catalyst for human evolution that will allow modern workers to leave mundane, unfulfilling tasks in the past. The traveling partner of change is often opportunity. Across industries, AI brings career development and advancement opportunities for workers interested in furthering their education with on-the-job training and online learning programs like those available at Tulane SoPA.

The Modern Workforce

According to PwC, AI will replace up to 40 percent of jobs by 2030, with many workers in the financial sector considered to be the most vulnerable. Other service jobs such as food preparation, cleaning, and transportation are also at high risk of succumbing to the advancements of AI. While these changes can have some negative short-term results, tech enthusiasts would argue these developments give people an opportunity to learn new skills and elevate to more fulfilling work.

Over the last three decades, many companies have transitioned toward digital technology systems for storing information, increasing business space, and reducing paper consumption. The Covid-19 pandemic put this evolution into overdrive and created a global need to adopt alternative business methods that accelerated the use of digital communications. Job losses, universal health restrictions, and remote working conditions altered the face of the world economic forum. Technology allowed many businesses—big and small—to continue to work through the pandemic.

It's essential for workers to plan for how the workplace will change because of AI. There is no doubt AI is coming; how you react to its arrival is the question. One way to prepare is to sharpen your tech skills by enrolling in programs specializing in information technology and cybersecurity management.

It is possible for AI and people to work together in harmony. Often left out of the AI conversation is the fact that new job opportunities will open for information inputting, record updating, system maintenance, and security monitoring. Companies embracing AI empower their staff through training programs that enhance their skills. Thus, knowledgeable employees are able to provide better customer service outcomes, increase productivity levels, and hold greater job satisfaction.

Industries Fit for an AI Workforce

There are some industries where AI is a more cost-effective and safer option than human employees. While this may mean short-term job loss, many believe this automation evolution will help to bring on a safer and more stable human age. Some of the main industries fit for an AI workforce include transportation, electronic commerce, and customer service.

Transportation AI systems are used to record traffic data, create schedules for public transport, and transmit information. In addition, they can build forms of transportation, monitor machinery, and alert signals for mechanical issues. Self-driving vehicles are also in development for everything from the transportation of materials to morning work commutes.

Online shopping has grown exponentially in the last decade, with very convenient options to buy, pay, and ship items in part because of AI. Electronic commerce sites save time using AI to generate automated emails, create virtual assistants, improve chatbot communications, and collect customer data. AI can be used to set up 24/7 customer service availability and handle larger volumes of data than humans.

AI could also have massive impacts on the food industry. According to Hindawi, AI may be able to improve food packaging and increase the shelf life of certain foods. AI algorithms are projected to help the food industry make a more transparent supply chain.

While these new changes may seem scary, along with this evolution will come a wave of new job opportunities for those who commit to learning these new systems. A Graduate Certificate in Cyber Leadership can help prepare workers for these modern workforce changes.

AI skill gap

A study conducted by SnapLogic found that 93% of US and UK organizations see AI as one of their business priorities and are already beginning to plan projects for production. However, this study also found that 51% of those same businesses don't have the right mix of skilled AI workers to help complete these projects. This phenomenon is not uncommon and is often referred to as the AI skill gap. This gap shows that many job opportunities will be available to those willing to learn new skills.

Preparing for AI to Join Your Workforce

AI is coming, and with it will come many changes to your workforce. But don't worry—there are many different ways you can get prepared ahead of time.

Seek opportunities for career and professional development

Gaining new skills and knowledge centered around technology and automation can help you ride the AI wave into your next career opportunity. Many businesses implementing AI are likely to provide on-the-job training on managing this new technology. But if not, there are multiple degrees and programs that can provide you with the skills you need.

Pursue education of a specific skill

Furthering your education is hardly ever a bad idea. Choosing a technology program that gives you specific skills is a great way to find a new role in many evolving industries. For example, Tulane SoPA's Graduate Certificate in Cyber Technology Fundamentals can help you gain data analysis, IT, and cybersecurity skills.

Increase your mastery of soft skills

There are certain soft skills that AI won't ever be able to handle on its own. Prepare for AI to join the workforce by enhancing soft skills such as:

• Solving problems
• Managing people
• Negotiating
• Creating presentations, and
• Providing personal service

FAQs

How will AI affect the workforce?

While there are no guarantees, experts believe AI in the workforce will lead to increased productivity levels, new specialized job roles, and an increased need for human skills such as creativity and problem-solving.

What is an AI-driven job assessment?

An AI-driven job assessment is a pre-hiring assessment that was created to give recruiters and management teams a more standard and structured way to quickly screen job candidates.

What is automation?

Automation is the technique of making an apparatus, process, or system operate automatically.

Tulane SoPA Offers Academic Programs That Can Help Prepare You for the Future of Work

This is not the first time humans have had to adapt because of technological changes. A quick look back at the Industrial Revolution proves that changes to manufacturing processes are not uncommon in human history. And like the Industrial Revolution, this new technological wave will open new doors for employees, employers, and humankind alike. To prepare for these changes, it's important to gain the appropriate knowledge and skills. At Tulane SoPA, we're committed to helping working adults learn new skills that can help them evolve with the times. To learn more about all the programs of study we offer, request more information today.