As organizations use artificial intelligence for data-driven decision-making, automation improvements, better efficiency, and enhanced innovation, many find that there aren’t enough skilled professionals to build the necessary infrastructure and leverage it to its full advantage. The explosive growth of AI means that demand for individuals with skills in data science, network design, and management is outpacing the supply, with no signs of abating.
Because the AI skills shortage stems from multiple sources, the solution requires approaching it from various perspectives.
What’s Behind the AI Skills Shortage?
AI is such an integral part of our lives that it’s easy to forget that it’s only been a dominant technology for a few years. It’s practically impossible for education programs to keep pace with such a rapidly evolving field and produce graduates with the skills they need to meet new and complex challenges. Consequently, this means there isn’t a deep talent pool of individuals with multidisciplinary skills in machine learning, AI engineering, and the intricacies inherent in AI, such as ethics, security, and data governance.
However, AI expertise isn’t the only area businesses lack skilled experts. Effectively scaling AI requires adequate network infrastructures. However, many companies lack the necessary talent for network management, data engineering, and pipeline architecture. Without them, it’s impossible to develop the neural networks capable of deep learning that are necessary to take advantage of AI’s full capabilities.
How Companies Are Closing the Gap
Addressing the AI skills shortage requires a multi-pronged approach. Research indicates that most companies plan to build their AI teams by upskilling and retraining current employees. However, in addition to investing in employee education and development, companies must strengthen their partnerships with schools and training institutions to adequately prepare the next generation of IT professionals with data science and AI engineering skills.
It’s also important for companies to empower their current teams to use AI tools and insights effectively. When individuals can manage their AI-driven workflows more effectively, businesses can get more out of their investment in the technology and reach their goals. Fostering an environment of continuous learning and managing change is critical to maximizing AI integration into daily tasks.
Finally, bridging the AI skills gap will require reliance on third-party solutions. Specialized AI vendors have the knowledge and skills to implement and manage AI tools and set companies up for long-term success.
Using AI to Fill the Skills Gap
Forward-thinking companies are also tapping into the power of machine learning itself to solve the AI skills shortage. AI-powered talent identification and management tools make it easier to find and recruit top talent and build a team from the ground up. At the same time, using AI-powered network optimization tools can help ensure network systems can handle ever-increasing complexity and demands.
Companies dealing with the AI skills shortage need to find ways to better anticipate future needs and support ongoing skills development and education. That’s the only way they’ll ever reach their ambitious goals and see the full advantages of this technology.
