Exploring the Influence of AI on Your Career

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“Will AI replace me?” Has this crossed your mind recently? This seems to be a common question of concern among professionals. Considering how little most of us know about AI, its progression and its capabilities, it is no wonder that so many of us are uncomfortable with the topic. However, AI isn’t going anywhere. In fact, the trajectory of its growth is speeding up. So, where are you in all of this? Left behind, or using this advancement in technology to your benefit. In this blog, we want to give you key knowledge on how you can use AI to your professional advantage and why it needs to be embraced, rather than feared.

 

Synergy Between Humans & AI

 

Seth Elliot COO of strategy execution platform Quantive believes that human and AI collaboration will be the way forward; “The ability to effectively use AI will become a core skill set of many jobs. I think what we’re seeing is really this leveraging of human beings, not this replacement of human beings.” 

 

We believe that this is the best outlook and approach to AI. Rather than stressing about how AI might take over (cue Will Smith in I, Robot), we need to think about how it can help us, our processes, the way we work and more. AI is going to integrate into most workplaces, whether that be now or in the future.

 

We also don’t want to diminish your concerns, because they are absolutely valid. Our LinkedIn audience gave their thoughts on the topic.

 

It appears that workers have some hesitation, but there is overall hope out there regarding AI. So, what can you do starting today to embrace Artificial Intelligence, or at least be more open about the possibilities?

 

Government Endeavours

 

Making AI Safe 

 

What is the Irish government doing to help its citizens learn, use, and embrace artificial intelligence? Knowing the answer to this question will help you feel more comfortable with AI and its place in our society. The government’s efforts didn’t just start this year either. A Silicon Republic article from 2021 stated that “the Government’s plan is for Ireland to become a global leader in artificial intelligence to benefit our economy and society, with a “people-centred, ethical approach to AI development, adoption and use”. 

 

Furthermore, the article stated that the Irish government will commit to joining the Global Partnership on AI as the EU creates a regulatory framework for trustworthy AI.

 

Course Creation

 

DCU has partnered with Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet to offer a part-funded, part-time online MSc in Artificial Intelligence. It is predicted that almost two-thirds of businesses in Ireland will use AI or machine learning by the end of this year. The Government believe that we need to build the talent base necessary to help Ireland become a global hub for AI.

 

So, this is some of what the government are doing. What can you do?

1. Adapting Your Skill Set

AI has started to and will continue to transform sectors. The need for specific skill sets has grown. Adaptability is essential. Professionals who cultivate a willingness to learn and upskill are going to excel. Technical skills such as programming, data analysis, and machine learning will become valuable assets, even in fields that previously had no relation to technology. Go with the flow of change and figure out what you can do to adapt your own skill set to meet this new demand.

2. Follow AI Leaders

 

Following AI leaders on LinkedIn is beneficial for keeping up with the ever-changing technology because it provides a direct channel to real-time insights, trends, and discussions about AI. These leaders are at the centre of AI innovation, sharing their knowledge, research findings, and perspectives on the most recent developments. By following them, you gain access to a curated feed of valuable content that keeps you up to date. We have selected a couple to check out below.

 

AI Ireland: “This is our ultimate goal: to bring together players in the field of AI in order to forge and strengthen ties and to celebrate the development of AI for the greater good” 

Mark Kelly: “I have over five years of experience in leading and delivering AI and ServiceNow staffing solutions to clients across various industries.”

ADAPT Centre: “The ADAPT Research Centre focuses on developing next-generation digital technologies that aim to enhance people’s lives by helping to analyse, personalise and deliver digital data more effectively for businesses and individuals.”

3. Be open-minded 

This is simple but not easy! There is no question that we are all a bit hesitant when it comes to AI. We often will shun things we don’t understand as a way to keep ourselves safe. Accepting that AI is here to stay is the first step. The next is being open to this change and going with and not against it. Those who embrace change and use AI to their advantage will be those who reap the benefits now and in the future.

 

So, if you’re still pondering “Will AI replace me?”. Ask yourself a better question; Do you want to be a passenger on the journey of inevitable change? Or do you want to be an active participant and beneficiary of this AI evolution?

The choice is yours!

We know AI can feel like a minefield to navigate. Here are some insightful links to get you started:

 

  1. AI Ireland: AI Ireland is a non-profit community devoted to promoting artificial intelligence in Ireland.
  2. A Beginner’s Guide to AI: A helpful LinkedIn guide.
  3. National AI Strategy for Ireland: The government’s plans.
  4. Irish Government AI Resources: Helpful links about AI.