My Childhood Robots and the AI-Powered Future - Is AI Your Friend or Foe?
#AI #FutureOfWork #Jobs #GenX #Tech #Innovation #Automation #SkillsGap #AIethics
Shout out to all the 80's folks and “Richie Rich” fans! Yup, the original Hanna-Barbera animated series which sparked my fascination with robots because of Irona, the Rich's robot maid and Richie's bodyguard. I always wanted one, and I still do! Then in the mid-80's my siblings and I became hooked on “Small Wonders” featuring V.I.C.I. the Robot (aka Vicki Lawson). Robots with personalities and computers that could think for themselves seemed utterly science fictional and unimaginable at that time. However, somewhere between then and now, science fiction has begun transforming into reality. Full disclosure: I am a Technophobic AI learner, I have no formal education nor training on this space, but I've learned to embrace change, and I learn by reading and writing about it. So, excuse the frequent surge of fascination; this new journey is a big thrill for me!
As we are now facing a future where AI is not just a reality but a force reshaping the very nature of work, everyone wonders - what’s next? ?
The World Economic Forum's "The Future of Jobs Report 2023" paints a stark picture: by 2027, 44% of workers’ core skills will be disrupted by AI and automation. For employers, this signals a need to invest in AI technology and upskilling their workforce. For employees, it's a call to action to embrace lifelong learning and focus on developing skills that complement AI. ?
But here's the key point: It's not just about robots replacing entire jobs. What's more likely is that AI will automate parts of jobs, increasing productivity and efficiency. Imagine doctors using AI to analyze X-rays faster, freeing up more time for patient interaction, or lawyers using AI to sift through mountains of documents, allowing them to focus on building their case. McKinsey's research supports this, showing that while few occupations will be entirely automated, almost all jobs have some tasks that are susceptible to automation. This means jobs are going to change, not necessarily disappear completely.
And here's the kicker: AI isn't just about taking jobs; it's also about creating new ones! The World Economic Forum estimates that while 83 million jobs may be displaced by AI, 69 million new jobs will be created by 2027. This means new opportunities for those with the right skills. Think about all the people needed to build, maintain, and train AI systems. We're going to need people who can explain AI to non-experts, who can ensure AI is used ethically, and who can figure out how to work with AI, not against it. LinkedIn's "Jobs on the Rise" report already highlights roles like AI Specialists and Machine Learning Engineers as some of the fastest-growing job categories. ?
So, what should we do? Should we freak out? Nope. Panic is for the weak. We get smart. Employers need to invest in AI and training. Employees need to focus on skills AI can't replicate. Because while AI is incredibly powerful and rapidly evolving, there are still many skills that remain uniquely human: emotional intelligence, critical thinking, creativity, innovation, complex communication, ethical and moral reasoning – and the list goes on. A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that workers with strong social skills are better able to adapt to changes in the workplace, including those brought about by technology.
As a Gen Xer, I've seen a lot of changes. But this is certainly a big one. I'm curious, and yeah, maybe a little worried. But I'm more optimistic. AI presents a unique opportunity for both employers and employees to adapt, innovate, and thrive. The key is to approach it with a willingness to learn, a commitment to ethical practices, and a focus on collaboration. This now brings us to the big questions:
领英推荐
These are questions we all need to be asking. Because while lifelong learning is essential, it's not a silver bullet. We need a broader conversation about the ethical and societal implications of AI.
References:
?