AI Set to Transform 92% of IT Jobs: What Skills Will Lead the Future?

The Transformation of IT Jobs in the AI Era

Artificial Intelligence is more than just a buzzword; it’s a seismic force reshaping the job landscape. According to a recent report by the AI-Enabled ICT Workforce Consortium, a staggering 92% of IT roles will undergo significant transformation due to advancements in AI. This change will ripple across all levels, but mid-level and entry-level positions will feel the most impact.

Shifting Skill Sets and Emerging Opportunities

The report reveals that AI will diminish the relevance of traditional tasks like basic programming, data management, and content creation. Instead, new skills will take center stage. Professionals will need to become proficient in AI ethics, large language model (LLM) architecture, rapid engineering, and AI literacy. These emerging skills are crucial as AI technology becomes more embedded in business operations and everyday tasks.

The Consortium's Commitment to Reskilling and Upskilling

Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce, the consortium—which includes industry heavyweights like Cisco, IBM, Google, and Microsoft—has committed to an ambitious training agenda. They aim to reskill and upskill 95 million workers over the next decade. This initiative is not just about keeping up with technology but ensuring that the workforce can thrive alongside it.

Cisco, for instance, has pledged to train 25 million people in cybersecurity and digital skills by 2032. IBM is targeting the training of 30 million people in digital skills, with a specific focus on AI, by 2030. Intel plans to equip more than 30 million individuals with AI skills by the same year. Microsoft and SAP are also making significant contributions to this reskilling effort, with commitments to train millions globally.

A Call to Action for the Future Workforce

Francine Katsoudas, director of people, policy, and purpose at Cisco, emphasized the importance of this initiative. She highlighted that AI presents an unprecedented opportunity for technological advancement but also stressed the need to ensure that no one is left behind. The consortium’s goal is to create an inclusive workforce ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the AI era.

In essence, as AI continues to evolve, so too must the skills and knowledge of the IT workforce. The future may be uncertain, but with the right training and preparation, it can also be full of potential. The consortium’s efforts are a step towards ensuring that the workforce is not only prepared for the future but is actively shaping it.