Post-secondary institutions have a ‘pivotal role’ in meeting the demand for AI skills, says study
Credit to Author: Ramya Ramanathan| Date: Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:24:30 +0000
As businesses increasingly embrace AI technologies to enhance efficiency, automate processes and drive innovation, the demand for professionals with expertise in AI is surging, finds research from the Conference Board of Canada. The publication, Code to Career: Artificial Intelligence Skill Trends, looks at the demand for AI skills across occupations, sectors and geography in Canada, current trends and highlights the role of post-secondary institutions in developing programs to meet this demand.
The study finds that the demand for Artificial Intelligence skills in Canada has tripled from 2018 to 2023. In addition to the demand, the earning potential of professionals with AI skills is relatively high – in 2023, the average hourly wage in 2023 was $43.20, 60 per cent higher than the average wage for other job postings in Canada.
Three provinces – Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia – accounted for more than 90 per cent of Canada’s AI-related job postings in 2023. The projected growth in the employment of AI professionals is robust across various role types, with an average annual growth rate of 5.1 per cent over the next five years.
The research highlights the key role of post-secondary institutions (PSIs) in providing AI training. PSIs are well-positioned to proactively build robust and adaptable AI programs to equip graduates with necessary skills, and have a “pivotal role” to play in meeting the rising demand, says the report.
Active engagement with industry stakeholders can ensure that the curriculum of the training programs offered by PSIs are relevant and aligned with the industry needs. The study recommends key collaborations with industry experts through initiatives such as joint projects, internships, and mentorship programs to help graduates foster a deeper understanding of ethical considerations, industry standards and collaborative problem-solving approaches.
“Through proactive collaboration with industry leaders through our program advisory committee, we gain valuable insights into the most up-to-date industry trends on AI development. This allows us to maintain a nimble approach, swiftly refining our curriculum or introducing new programs that align with the dynamic needs of the industry,” says Dr. Patrick Kelly, Dean, School of Engineering Technology and Applied Science at Centennial College.
The study recommends that PSIs equip graduates not only with technical knowledge but also with soft skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership to foster collaboration and understand diverse perspectives as AI opportunities are spread across multiple domains.
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