Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a technological trend—it is a reality that is actively transforming every aspect of our lives. From automating production and improving medical diagnostics to creating smart cities and revolutionizing the service industry, AI is permeating all sectors and changing them beyond recognition. However, to sustain this global shift and fully harness AI's potential, the world needs hundreds of millions of specialists equipped with the necessary skills to work with these new technologies.
Growing Demand for AI Specialists
Experts predict that by 2030, artificial intelligence will create millions of new jobs. However, the issue is that there is already a global shortage of professionals capable of designing, implementing, and maintaining AI systems. This shortage could become a limiting factor for global economic growth if no action is taken to address the workforce gap.
AI technologies require specialists with a wide range of skills: from programming and data analysis to ethics and legal regulation. Even those who do not work directly with AI must understand its potential and risks in order to make strategic decisions in their organizations. As a result, not only programmers and engineers are in demand but also professionals in law, psychology, social policy, and business who can effectively integrate AI into various aspects of life.
What Skills Are Needed to Work with AI?
To address the growing demand for AI specialists, global economic systems need a comprehensive approach to training and retraining talent. Key skills include:
Programming and AI System Development: Basic knowledge of developing algorithms for machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision is becoming a fundamental requirement for AI professionals.
Data Analysis and Statistics: The ability to work with large volumes of data, conduct analysis, and interpret results is crucial for creating effective AI models.
AI Ethics and Security: As technology rapidly evolves, there is a growing need for professionals who can assess the ethical implications of AI use and develop strategies to minimize risks related to data security and privacy.
AI Implementation in Business: Companies are seeking professionals who can integrate AI into organizational processes, whether it's improving customer service, automating routine tasks, or creating new products and services.
Interdisciplinary Knowledge: Understanding how AI interacts with other fields, such as law, psychology, and social sciences, is essential for creating a holistic approach to using these technologies.
New Job Opportunities
As AI becomes more widespread, new professions and career paths are emerging. Data analysts, machine learning engineers, AI ethics experts—all these professions are already among the most in-demand. However, in addition to technical specialists, there is also a growing need for individuals who can interpret the outcomes of AI systems and apply them in real-world situations.
For example, AI can significantly speed up the medical diagnostic process, but it is the doctor who makes the final decision based on data provided by the AI system. There is also increasing demand for professionals capable of developing and implementing AI strategies in education, finance, agriculture, and other industries.
How to Address the Shortage of Specialists?
To meet the market's needs, significant investments in education and workforce retraining are required. Universities and other educational institutions worldwide have already begun implementing programs aimed at training AI specialists. It is important not only to educate young students but also to offer retraining programs for those who already work in other fields but wish to transition to AI-related roles.
Government initiatives also play a role. Many countries have developed national AI development strategies that include measures to stimulate research, support AI startups, and create educational programs.
The Importance of International Cooperation
The shortage of AI specialists is a global problem that requires international collaboration. Governments, companies, and educational institutions must work together to share knowledge and experience, create standards, and develop ethical norms for AI use. In an era of globalization and rapid digital transformation, borders between countries are becoming less significant, and the successful development of AI will depend on how effectively the global community can prepare specialists to work in this field.
Conclusion
The world stands on the threshold of a new era where artificial intelligence will play a central role. However, to fully realize the benefits of AI, it is essential to train hundreds of millions of specialists who can manage, develop, and implement these technologies. This requires a comprehensive approach to education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and active participation from both government and businesses. Otherwise, the world risks missing out on the vast opportunities AI presents.
Author: Andrew Azarov
Professor
of Economics and Business at the International Business Academy
Consortium (UK),
Editor-in-Chief of the Information Agency "100%NEWS"