#267 The Future of Skills in an AI-Driven World

In this episode, Dr. Darren interviews Kevin Surace, who shares his journey from being a technology enthusiast in upstate New York to becoming a pioneer in AI virtual assistants. He discusses the evolution of AI, the challenges faced in the early days, and the current landscape of generative AI. Kevin emphasizes the importance of adapting to AI innovations in the workforce and the potential impact on jobs, particularly in customer support and manual testing roles. He reflects on the need for strategic roles as technology advances, highlighting the value and integral role of individuals in shaping the future workforce. He also discusses the loss of valuable skills in the workforce. In this conversation, Kevin Surace and Darren Pulsipher explore the implications of technological advancements, particularly generative AI and humanoid robots, on skills, workforce dynamics, and the future of various industries. They discuss the loss of traditional skills, the convenience factor driving technology adoption, and the emerging skills gap in the workforce. ## Takeaways * Kevin Surace's background in technology and music shaped his career. * He was involved in the early development of AI virtual assistants. * Experience in the workforce is crucial for success. * Generative AI is now widely used, even in education. * The first virtual assistant was built in the late 90s. * AI is poised to replace tier-one customer support jobs. Manual testing roles are at risk due to advancements in artificial intelligence. * Adaptation to AI is necessary for job security. * The cost of technology drives productivity and market growth. * Valuable skills, like those of a good secretary, may be lost. Knowledge is disappearing as technology advances. * Generative AI can create content at unprecedented speeds. * The value of traditional skills is diminishing in the workplace. * Humanoid robots may revolutionize home and work environments. * Convenience drives technology adoption and changes consumer behavior. * Generative AI is changing the landscape of programming. * The skills gap is widening as entry-level positions diminish. * Investing in workforce development is crucial for the future. * The trades are becoming increasingly valuable in a tech-driven world. * Automation will not replace all jobs, especially in complex tasks.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, understanding how artificial intelligence (AI) will reshape job roles and industries is crucial for professionals. As more businesses adopt generative AI and machine learning, it’s vital to comprehend the implications of these technologies on the workforce and the skills needed for the future. Let’s explore how the integration of AI is transforming the workplace and what this means for professionals across various sectors.

 The Evolution of Job Functions

As AI technology advances, traditional roles are being disrupted and transformed. This shift presents a unique opportunity for professionals to engage in more strategic roles that leverage their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The gradual automation of routine tasks, once the purview of administrative assistants, customer support agents, and manual testers, is now being performed by AI systems. For instance, tier-one customer support is set to be heavily influenced by AI chatbots that can efficiently handle inquiries without human intervention. This transformation is not about reducing the number of jobs, but about redefining how work is performed, offering a hopeful outlook for the future.

This transformation is not just about job reduction; it’s about redefining how work is done. Instead of focusing on repetitive, low-value tasks, professionals must adapt by taking on more strategic roles that utilize their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This evolution underscores the importance of continuous learning and upskilling to stay