Lt. Gov. Jon Husted recently visited Stark State College to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workforce, highlighting the increasing demand for AI-related skills and the college’s efforts to equip students for AI-centric jobs in various sectors.
Lt. Gov. Jon Husted recently visited Stark State College to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workforce with regional employers. Various businesses, ranging from healthcare to manufacturing, highlighted that they are already utilizing AI or plan to do so soon. AI is currently embedded in numerous aspects of daily and professional life, enhancing operations’ efficiency, safety, and appeal.
Employers use AI for various tasks, including data analysis and customer service. The technology streamlines routine tasks, allowing workers to focus on more complex and strategic functions. In manufacturing, AI and robotics are employed to take over manual and hazardous tasks, enabling employees to engage in higher-value activities requiring technical, creative, and critical thinking skills.
The demand for AI-related skills is rising, with positions in IT and data science seeing significant growth. These skills are becoming essential across various industries. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2023 report indicates a high demand for analytical and creative thinking skills related to AI and big data, predicting a 44% shift in workers’ core competencies over the next five years.
In response to this trend, Stark State College has been designated an AI for Workforce College by Intel. The institution will offer two new AI certificates this fall, developed in collaboration with Intel, to help students quickly and affordably gain skills for AI-centric jobs. These certificates aim to provide a competitive edge for students in the digital economy.
Stark State College has a history of preparing students for in-demand jobs and is now focusing on equipping them with AI skills for careers in various sectors like manufacturing, business, IT, and healthcare. The recent AI discussion led by Lt. Gov. Husted marks the beginning of ongoing conversations aimed at aligning educational offerings with employer needs in AI-powered workplaces.
Para Jones, President of Stark State College, emphasized the institution’s role in AI education and the importance of community involvement in embracing AI innovation. Stark State College has campuses in Stark and Summit counties.
