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In the era of rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a game-changer – AI is revolutionizing industries and reshaping the employment landscape. As businesses embrace AI to stay competitive, the need for upskilling and reskilling the workforce has become paramount. Prioritizing continuous learning and upskilling helps organizations pivot and adapt to the ever-changing business landscape and hire and retain top talent. However, this transition isn't without challenges, as employees may be unable or unwilling to adopt the necessary changes – this can lead to job desertion or union representation. This discussion explores the critical role of upskilling and reskilling in the age of AI, its impact on the workforce and the potential driving forces behind employee turnover and unionization.
Criticality of Upskilling and Reskilling Embracing AI technologies requires a skilled workforce capable of harnessing the power of automation, data analytics, and machine learning. Upskilling and reskilling initiatives empower employees to stay relevant and adaptable in the face of evolving job requirements. As AI adoption accelerates, a widening skills gap becomes evident. Upskilling addresses this gap by providing employees with the necessary knowledge and expertise to navigate the digital transformation, fostering a more skilled and versatile workforce. Upskilling and reskilling efforts benefit employers and empower employees to enhance their employability. According to the American Staffing Association, 80% of U.S. employees consider a potential employer’s professional development and training offering to be important when accepting a new job. As the economy shifts, World Economic Forum reports that 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted in the next five years. Organizations must consider if their culture fully supports employees in harnessing new skills. The advantage for organizations that do it right is that they will see a more engaged workforce, which will drive productivity and retention of talent. Delivery and how the workforce is mobilized will matter. If not executed correctly, there is an increased risk of turnover, or employees seeking union representation to secure their jobs.
Impact on the Workforce Despite the positive intentions of upskilling, employees may fear that acquiring new skills could render them redundant. This fear may drive turnover as individuals seek opportunities elsewhere that align with their existing skill set. Upskilling and adapting to new technologies can be challenging and stressful. Employees experiencing dissatisfaction with the learning curve, or a perceived lack of support may choose to leave their current positions.
Advantage Unions are Leveraging Unions are using AI as a platform to organize employees stating things like “Workers are at the epicenter of the greatest technological transformation of the modern era-our rights and economic security are at stake. Now more than ever, workers need the collective power of unions “(AFL-CIO website)”. The AFL-CIO websites states that it isn’t opposed AI, but that the working people must be included in the design, development, and implementation of artificial intelligence. The punch line here is, if an organization is not thinking through the people's impact with advancement implementations, the unions will come to represent the employees’ interest and exploit the lack of inclusivity. Organizations are advised to get in front of these transformations that need to occur and figure out a plan for how employees are included in decisions. By creating inclusivity with employees your organization will transcend a third party beating a drum of “we will protect you”. Unions have two platforms they will stand upon regarding AI - job security and equitable transition. Beat them to the punch by being thoughtful and intentional with your AI implementation, and knowledgeable about how it impacts your people. This is where Wolfe HR Consulting can assist.
As AI continues to reshape the workforce, the importance of upskilling and reskilling cannot be overstated. Employers must recognize the potential impact on employee turnover, as well as their engagement or disengagement. Fostering open communication, providing robust support systems, and involving employees in the upskilling process can help mitigate anxieties and build a more resilient and adaptable workforce for the future. In this transformative era, collaboration between employers and employees is essential to navigate the challenges and ensure a smooth transition toward an AI-powered future.
[1] ExtensisHR 10 HR Trends for 2024, December 2023.
[2] ExtensisHR 10 HR Trends for 2024, December 2023