The Future of Work: A Dance with Artificial Intelligence
By Nicholas Martino, Director of Professional Development and Training
My work at JAG keeps me at the nexus of education and workforce development working to upskill our educators and leadership to prepare our students for the jobs and communities they will inherit. But before we can upskill we need to orient to the current playing field.
The landscape of work is undergoing a seismic shift, and artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a central driver of this transformation. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 predicts that by 2030, activities that consume up to 30% of our working hours could be automated, clearly accelerated by generative AI. However, contrary to misinformed public opinion this doesn’t paint a dystopian picture of mass unemployment. Instead, as Forbes highlights, AI is poised to become a “force multiplier for human intelligence and productivity.”
Imagine a future where AI handles the repetitive tasks that currently bog us down, freeing us to focus on the creative and strategic aspects of our work. This human-AI collaboration is where the magic lies. But to thrive in this new paradigm, we need to be ready to apply the JAG core value of ‘adapt always.’
Upskilling for the AI Age
The key to success in the AI-powered workplace lies in lifelong learning. As McKinsey emphasizes, automation will likely hit some sectors harder than others, with office support, customer service, and food service industries potentially experiencing significant decline. However, this disruption also creates opportunities. New roles will emerge, demanding expertise in areas like AI system training and maintenance, or demanding strong ethical grounding to guide the development and deployment of these powerful technologies.
The good news for JAG?
Employers increasingly prioritize skills and competencies (like those we teach in our classrooms) over traditional credentials (Generative AI and the Future of Work). This means our transferable skills, our ability to learn and adapt, and our intrinsic capabilities will hold immense value. Don’t underestimate the power of experience either. Up to 60% of US workers lack four-year degrees but possess valuable skills honed through on-the-job experience, according to McKinsey.
The Human Edge: What AI Can’t Replicate
While AI excels at automation and data analysis, it cannot replicate the human capacity for creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These are the skills that will set you apart in the AI age. Remember that as our reliance on technology grows, the need for strong human connection, ethical judgment, and leadership will only become more pronounced. I’m future casting that the near-distant future of training and upskilling will become much more focused on authentic AI prompt creation and the way that humans communicate effectively with machines.
#AI #WorkforceDevelopment #FutureofWork #Education