AI and the skills of the future

Opportunities, risks and the new meaning of skills

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), in particular generative AI, marks a profound change for the economy and labor market. Artificial intelligence is therefore often compared with historical innovations such as the steam engine or electricity, as it has the potential to significantly increase our productivity. But this potential comes with both unprecedented opportunities and serious risks.

Ambivalence and macroeconomic drivers

The labor market is currently facing ambivalence: Rising unemployment figures are met with a shortage of skilled workers, which is being aggravated by demographic change. The skills of job seekers often do not match the competencies sought by companies. Demographic change is partially dampening the effects of the poor economic situation on the labor market. Countries such as Germany that are struggling demographically should particularly welcome AI, as it is seen as part of the solution to the shortage of skilled workers.

In addition to demographic shifts, other macro trends are influencing the global labor market up to 2030, including technological changes in general, the transition to a more sustainable economy, economic uncertainty (in particular global trade) and geo-economic fragmentation. Together, these factors are already leading to a transformation that is reshaping both jobs and required skills.

The impact of AI on jobs: Change instead of total destruction?

The fear that AI will lead to mass unemployment is present. An analysis shows that, for every percentage point of increase in automation potential in a sector, an average of around 15,000 jobs are at risk, particularly in the creative industries. According to studies, generative AI tools could destroy half of entry-level jobs in the next five years. Companies such as Microsoft and Shopify have cut jobs as part of AI integration, including highly qualified roles such as software developers and product managers.

170 million new jobs are expected to be created globally by 2030, while 92 million existing jobs will disappear, resulting in a net increase of 78 million jobs. This represents a significant structural change. Although the number of jobs in AI-exposed occupations is growing, they are doing so more slowly than in less exposed occupations. Important jobs that are expected to grow strongly include AI and machine learning specialists, data analysts and scientists, and big data specialists. At the same time, a decline in the importance of certain activities is expected, such as data collection clerks, cashiers or even lawyers and secretarial staff.

The accelerated evolution of skills

AI is changing the world of work not only by shifting job profiles, but also through a dramatic acceleration of required skills. In occupations that are heavily exposed to AI, the skills sought by employers change 66% faster than in less exposed occupations. Employers expect 39% of workers' core competencies to change by 2030.

The fastest growing skills are technological skills such as AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, and basic technological knowledge. But human-centered and psychological skills are also becoming increasingly important. This includes creative thinking, resilience, flexibility and agility, curiosity and lifelong learning, leadership skills and social impact. These skills are seen as crucial to be successful in an increasingly technology-driven world of work and to use the opportunities offered by AI to augment human work.

The shift away from formal financial statements

Another trend is declining demand for formal education qualifications, especially in automatable jobs. This opens up new opportunities for career changers and highlights the importance of current, practical skills via traditional qualifications.

Challenges and solutions

The transformation poses significant challenges, in particular the Skill gap (Skills Gaps). Many people underestimate the actual risk of job loss due to AI (“unrealistic optimism”). Ethical concerns about discrimination and copyright remain.

To address these challenges, Targeted continuing education and retraining programs are essential. Companies are increasingly investing in training their employees. Public assistance in funding and delivering these programs is seen as very helpful by employers. Even the political support through improved immigration laws and faster recognition of foreign professional qualifications is crucial to address the shortage of skilled workers. In addition, there is considerable potential in Germany among immigrant and part-time women whose unused labour could be increased through better childcare and tax incentives. Older workers who work past retirement age also represent rapid potential if jobs are designed in an age-appropriate manner.

It is also important that psychological aspect to consider tomorrow's working world. Core competencies such as creativity or resilience require an individual's “inner economy”, which requires mental relief, self-awareness and emotional regulation. Companies must not only talk about skills, but also create the psychological conditions that make them possible.

Conclusion

Transformation through AI is complex and multi-faceted. AI alone will not solve the shortage of skilled workers. It is a powerful productivity driver that is fundamentally changing the world of work and both moving jobs and creating new ones. The key to successfully navigating this change lies in proactive adjustment from workers, companies and politics. Investments in technological and human-psychological skills, flexible working models, improved immigration processes of qualified specialists and the creation of mental infrastructure in organizations are crucial for seizing the opportunities offered by AI, minimizing risks and shaping a fair future of work for all. The future of work is malleable, but it won't happen by itself and will be fair.

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