Artificial intelligence is transforming the world of work and the job candidates of the next year. Even now, new titles are emerging, such as AI content strategist, AI chief, and AI ethics officer. More are coming soon, but there’s one stumbling block: Is our education system preparing teenagers and young adults to take on these roles? Honestly, not yet. This could lead to a gap in the supply of AI talent in the coming years.
In general, students are already engaged with AI, but they are doing so in a preliminary way. A 2023 Junior Achievement poll shows that 44% of students are it relies heavily on genetic artificial intelligence solutions like ChatGPT to help them at school. Although allowing AI to do homework is seen by some as cheating, it is becoming a widespread trend. The result has been the rise of AI detection tools like GPT Zero, as well as a ban on genetic artificial intelligence in some school districts.
The AI revolution will change what you look for in your future employees, but the education system … [+]
Artificial intelligence will be integrated into STEM courses at all school levels at some point. However, it is not universal enough to ensure that today’s students will have the expertise to work for companies like yours when they graduate. That’s where one initiative called AI Camp and other online programs fill the void.
AI Camp has a mission to educate younger generations about using and building AI tools. Through a series of programs, AI Camp hopes to provide a broad education focused on artificial intelligence, which young people do not currently receive in most traditional classrooms. Paying attention to programs like these, asking about them during future recruiting opportunities, and supporting them when possible are just a few ways to prepare your business for an AI-driven future. Here’s what you need to know about these types of programs:
Courses are taught online
Employees are no longer content to be tied to their desks and want to work where it makes sense for them. Already, 35% of knowledge workers are working in ever-remote capacities. Another 41% have hybrid agreements with their employers. Being able to navigate this changing office landscape is essential when hiring the next generation of workers, but you also want to make sure your recruits are capable of producing quality work in this dynamic.
AI Camp leans into the growing practice of remote and hybrid work environments by hosting online courses. Sessions maintain a low teacher-to-student ratio of 6:1 at most, which promotes personalized learning and feedback. Through this model, students gain training in artificial intelligence while learning how to work alone and in teams remotely.
Many colleges, including Louisiana State University, have found that online learning is beneficial for developing strong technical skills, which translate well to the workplace — both remotely and in-office. Specifically, online education helps students expand their skills in using new communication, programming, and learning tools. In a virtual learning environment, students become experts in self-discipline, time management and the use of these platforms.
Participants develop their resumes
Many teenagers enter the workforce or college with modest resumes at best. One of the unique benefits of learning with AI Camp is developing a workable AI product. Some of the products are so successful that they have been put into use. Others may just be considered technological “gimmick games,” but are no less impressive as talking points on a resume or during an interview.
Guided internships are another way for students to expand their credentials and skills. Each internship involves working with companies or influencers, such as Keith Ferrazzi and Matt Upham, to solve AI problems. The final projects are often in use mode, meaning they have real-world applications. Students looking to diversify their college applications can leverage their AI Camp internship to get the attention of admissions counselors. And businesses looking for cutting-edge solutions can benefit from the innovative approaches cultivated by these practitioners.
Leadership is emphasized at every turn
AI Camp strives to teach leadership in addition to technical AI skills in every course.
Throughout the AI Camp journey, students are encouraged to identify, refine and expand their leadership qualities. They are given the opportunity to make self-discoveries and master data-driven decision making. Its format is designed to prepare students for real-world positions and leadership roles.
By the time they land technical jobs, they’re more comfortable with how to be the next-generation leaders that organizations desperately need. Additionally, they have been given a strong background in how to incorporate and ethically use AI in everything they do. As these emerging leaders step into their roles, they possess the technical ability as well as the ethical framework necessary to navigate the complexities of the evolving AI landscape.
Strategic considerations for navigating the AI talent landscape
While initiatives like AI Camp and other online classes play an important role in bridging the knowledge gap, businesses also need to take proactive steps.
Some actions you can take now include investing in continuous learning and development programs to empower workers with the necessary AI-related skills. Partnering with educational initiatives, supporting AI-focused curricula, and supporting education policies that prioritize technological literacy can also contribute to a future workforce well-equipped for the demands of an AI-driven world.
By recognizing the importance of holistic education and skill development beyond traditional classrooms, you can help close the AI talent gap. This ensures a workforce that not only understands AI, but also embodies the principles of leadership and ethics necessary for a sustainable and innovative future.
