Some 79 zettabytes of data were created, copied and consumed in 2021–a number that will more than double by 2025. To put that in perspective, a single zettabyte is equivalent to 30 billion 4K movies.
Today’s data volumes are mind-boggling. It’s why corporations and governments alike are looking to machine learning (ML), natural-language processing (NLP), neural networks and other forms of artificial intelligence (AI) to understand, analyze and act on our oceans of information.
Trouble is, there aren’t enough AI-educated people to fill the skyrocketing demand for AI expertise. And it’s not just PhDs in data science who are needed. Organizations require skills and experience in many capacities to realize the full promise of AI.
In response, IT providers are investing in AI education. In particular, they’re supporting AI course programs at technical and community colleges – to equip the workers of today and tomorrow with the knowledge and skills that will underlie the AI capabilities of the future.
Growing demand for AI skills and education
Right now, the fastest-growing jobs are data analysts and scientists, AI and ML specialists, and big data specialists, according to the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2020. AI is also among the top 20 “cross-cutting specialized” skills, along with competencies such as digital marketing, software development, and human-computer interaction.
Gretchen Stewart is chief data scientist for Intel Public Sector. A recognized industry authority, she specializes in AI, ML, deep learning, high-performance computing and datacenter transformation.
Ken Michalek is a lecturer for Ocean County College and works in the AI for Workforce program. He holds master’s degrees in computer science and mechanical engineering, and has many years of leadership experience in the IT industry.
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