Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Artificial Intelligence are Replacing Our Workforce — What Are Our Options?
Every year our technology increases in complexity with machines getting smaller and more powerful by the day. Artificial intelligence and robotic devices are displacing our workforce. But are they, really?
Transitions Happen
We went from Manpower to Horsepower to Steampower, Internal Combustion engines and Jet engines. Transitions are inevitable and are more commonly known as progress.
Once there were three main engineering disciplines – Mechanical, Chemical, and Civil Engineers.
Today, there are 36 Engineering disciplines. Additionally, each of those provides multiple jobs. These are jobs that our forefathers never dreamt of. They have all come about due to the advancements in technology.
The Business Transition to Automation
According to the World Economic Forum, machines will create 58 million more jobs than those displaced by 2022.
By transitioning to more automation in our businesses, we will be displacing some jobs AND creating new and more exciting opportunities for our populace.
And new employees have to hit the ground running.
This year’s graduates entering the workforce are surprised. They have to perform on day 1, be flexible and well-rounded, and willing to do whatever is needed.
There is no learning curve. Jobs once reserved for entry-level positions filled by new graduates are now being outsourced or automated by software programs.
Machine Learning Isn’t Artifical Intelligence.
Machine learning involves algorithms that are not part of systems programming. The “learning” comes when the machines can optimize their performance by either minimizing error or maximizing performance.
Deep learning is when machine programs learn to solve more difficult calculations and problems better than their human counterparts.
These two precursors are the stepping stones to full artificial intelligence.
A.I. is the most disruptive of these new learning technologies. It’s why we see a significant push by technology companies to increase the adoption and implementation of these precursor technologies.
A.I. is the “Golden Ticket” to efficiency, performance, and ROI.
Enter Louisville KY and The Bottleneck
The bottleneck? Frankly, it’s finding the right talent, especially the shortage of qualified talent.
According to Gartner’s Emerging Risks Survey, by 2030, the global Technology Talent shortage might be as high as 85.2 million people. That could end up costing businesses trillions in lost economic opportunity.
Cnet.com reports that the global software giant, Microsoft, has announced it’s “first regional hub for A.I.” in Louisville, Kentucky. It is the first time I’ve been aware of a company using their reasoning …
Strange Reasoning
With its substantial manufacturing base, Louisville is in trouble.
Automation technologies could displace more than a quarter of the workforce.
Microsoft’s plan starts with awarding four fellowships and opening an office in downtown Louisville that the community can access. Next, these four fellowship winners will be hired to collaborate on new A.I. solutions and ideas that their business community could incorporate.
Those four fellows at the center will receive intensive training from Microsoft on A.I. certification. They will be encouraged to take that training and curriculum to both educational institutions and private sector businesses located in north central Kentucky.
What Your Businesses Can Do
With the current and tightening talent pool, it is critically important that businesses move from external hiring. We need to train our existing workforces and begin providing and supporting upskilling services them and institute risk mitigation strategies to prevent critical talent shortages from happening.
Are you moving toward Automation? You need to take an active role in encouraging employees to be proactive in selecting learning opportunities that can increase their technical skills and recognizing their efforts when they achieve these skills. Provide them with training, courses, and paid educational benefits. Help the good employees stay with you.
Turn to the Internet
The internet has increased the opportunities for anyone to learn. Easily. Cheaply. Quickly.
Education doesn’t have to be expensive — several websites offer free courses to brush up on your I.T. skills that require nothing more than an internet connection and a laptop or smartphone.
In the U.S. 89 percent of the population has access to the internet, and 84 percent have a smartphone, there is no reason that anyone can not avail themselves of learning opportunities all it takes is a desire.
See More:
World Economic Forum Global Risk Report
