Let’s start with the obvious: AI technology is changing the world of work faster than anyone anticipated. From predictive analytics and automation to content generation, companies across every industry are rapidly integrating AI into their operations and seeking employees who can understand and leverage it effectively.
To put some numbers to it, 40% of organizations plan to increase their investments in artificial intelligence this year alone. This means that the potential for new job opportunities is huge — especially for early adopters in a market where the number of AI-proficient workers is slim.
From simple prompt writing to programming and machine learning, companies are urgently seeking AI-ready talent — and they’re willing to pay handsomely for it. While the hefty salaries for senior level AI positions tend to get the most attention, entry-level roles are still commanding some impressive numbers. A survey by Bizreport found that entry-level AI workers earn 128% more than in other occupations and that AI has widened the pay gap between tech jobs and other occupations by 36%.
Becoming proficient in AI skills in demand will help you capitalize on AI’s unprecedented growth opportunities. Find out which AI skills will be hot tickets for 2024 and beyond.
Why should I learn AI in 2024?
Some people feel that it’s still too early to invest time and effort into acquiring AI skills. After all, technologies do tend to come and go. However, everything points toward AI being here to stay. So, what makes AI different from other tech fads like Web3? Three factors have secured its staying power:
- Accessibility: Generative AI is easily available for free to almost everyone with an internet connection through user-friendly platforms like Bard and ChatGPT.
- Support from big tech: Tech giants like Microsoft and Google have already started integrating AI into their products and enterprise software.
- Clear value proposition: Whether it’s improving healthcare diagnostics or personalizing shopping experiences, AI has already proven its practical value to organizations.
While we’re still in the first stages of the AI revolution, there are several reasons why it’s beneficial to start developing AI skills sooner rather than later:
- Future-proof your career: Whether you’re looking to advance in your career or pivot to a new role, a strong set of AI skills will position you to adapt faster to a changing labor market.
- Fast-track growth opportunities: As an early AI adopter, you’ll be able to command higher salaries, secure leadership positions, and access exciting career opportunities.
- Develop your expertise: Early exposure provides a solid foundation for developing expertise, making you a valuable resource for employers and your professional networks.
How can my AI skills help me find a job in 2024?
In addition to giving you a competitive edge, being an early AI adopter will set you apart as a valuable asset for employers across industries where this technology is becoming more commonplace. Here’s how learning AI can improve your value in the job market:
- It highlights your initiative and discipline: By jumping feet-first into a complex new topic, you demonstrate a proactive approach to skill development and a commitment to self-improvement.
- It demonstrates you’re agile and adaptable: Being proficient in an emerging technology indicates that you’re a highly adaptable individual who thrives in dynamic environments.
- It showcases your problem-solving skills: From figuring out the best approach to learning a new skill to learning to interact with a complex technology, AI provides a rich environment for honing your problem-solving skills.
What are the top AI skills in demand for 2024?
Because AI has such broad applications, mastering it involves developing a diverse set of skills. But keep in mind, the complexity of those skills will vary based on your role and professional objectives.
For instance, a data scientist focusing on machine learning for predictive modeling would require in-depth knowledge of algorithms, statistical analysis, and programming languages like Python or R. On the other hand, an administrative professional using AI tools for task automation and content generation may only require familiarity with user-friendly AI platforms or automation software.
Some advanced AI skills in demand include:
- Programming languages: Proficiency in languages such as Python, R, Java, or C++ is essential for executing AI algorithms, developing models, and working with AI frameworks and libraries. Roles like machine learning engineer and AI software developer require a strong command of these technologies.
- Machine learning: Whether it’s automating tasks, making predictions, or recognizing patterns, machine learning is what enables systems to learn from data and make decisions. Some roles that require skills for AI and machine learning include data scientist, deep learning engineer, and AI product manager.
- Deep learning: Deep learning architectures, such as neural networks and transformers enable tasks such as image recognition, natural language processing, and sequence modeling. Machine learning engineers and software engineers are both using deep learning in growing frequency.
- Statistics and mathematics: Statistics, probability, and calculus provide the foundation for developing AI algorithms and training machine learning models. As such, these competencies are essential data science and artificial intelligence engineering skills.
Fundamental AI skills that are valuable for workers of all levels include:
- Generative AI: As a highly accessible technology with broad applications, generative AI can boost your ability to innovate and enable you to automate and streamline processes.
- Prompt writing: Being able to write clear and well-structured inputs will help you maximize the utility of chatbots and other large language models.
- Workflow automation: A combination of critical thinking and good prompt writing skills can help you design streamlined, error-free workflows.
- Ethical use of AI: Education on elements like ethics, bias mitigation techniques, and transparency will ensure you use AI systems responsibly and ethically.
How can I develop my AI skills?
The best way to develop your AI skills is through a combination of hands-on practice, and continuous education. While there are no set AI degrees yet, many professionals seeking to build up their skills in this technology opt for courses and training opportunities from trusted tech education providers that offer immersive training in AI concepts, tools, and techniques. These programs often include practical exercises and capstone projects that help students apply their newly acquired AI skills.
Get the AI skills you need to make 2024 your best year yet.
Looking to build up your AI skills? Our growing list of courses will get you AI-ready in no time. Start with a free Generative AI Basics course to build your foundational knowledge. Then move on to more advanced applications like our Generative AI Modules, Intro To Deep Learning, AI for Data Analysis and Visualization, and AI for Workplace Productivity.