8 August, 2024
In today's fast-paced environment, continuous learning is essential for career advancement and job security. One of the best ways to stay ahead is by investing in your professional development. QUT offers a range of short courses and microcredentials that can help you remain competitive and adapt in ever-changing environments.
In this article, we’ll explore two key skills employers are seeking and how you can gain them through our short courses. As the business world invests more in digital intelligence and sustainable practices, it’s important to stay updated.
Artificial Intelligence
With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), many are wondering how this digital transformation will impact their future jobs.
According to the World Economic Forum¹, around 75% of companies plan to integrate AI technologies into their businesses by 2027. They also state that new initiatives are in place to equip the next generation for the future of work by embedding AI skills through educational opportunities.
While some industries may be negatively impacted, AI is also expected to drive job creation. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report ², highlighted in the Forbes article ‘The Future of Work: Embracing AI’s Job Creation Potential,’ projects that 97 million new roles will emerge from the development and growth of AI. Rather than a reduction in the workforce, there will be a shift in the careers and skills needed for a thriving future.
Employees, whether driven by fear or curiosity should consider how AI will impact their roles and how to upskill in this field. By doing so, they can drive innovation and gain a competitive advantage within their organisations.
QUT Professor Marek Kowalkiewicz, a leading AI expert, is at the forefront of these developments. The author of a recently released book 'The Economy of Algorithms: AI and the Rise of the Digital Minions', he brings a wealth of industry experience and knowledge to his teaching at QUT.
According to Professor Kowalkiewicz, “AI will enable more efficient processes, personalised experiences, and data-driven decision-making.”
In our masterclass and microcredential, ‘AI for Business Value’, facilitated by Professor Kowalkiewicz, students will be dive into the current state of AI technology and its emerging trends. This includes exploring AI’s impact in machine learning, large language models, and AI governance, as well as future directions and potential disruptions.
“In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, having a solid grasp of AI is crucial for staying competitive and driving business growth,” he shared.
“The course equips leaders with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about AI adoption, ensuring they can lead their organisations effectively into the future.”
Sustainable finance and investment
Another critical skill is evaluating sustainable finance and investment opportunities. Business leaders are increasingly examining where and how they allocate capital to benefit a broader range of stakeholders. Top investment funds are now emphasising sustainable practices, showing that these can lead to higher returns for investors while also operating within planetary boundaries and helping create a fairer society.
Businesses are navigating sustainable practices such as carbon reduction and reporting, waste reduction and circularity, and nature-positive solutions. However, conflicting definitions and a lack of guidance can make this overwhelming and impact a company’s impact.
This complexity presents both challenges and opportunities, and leaders need to be able to make informed decisions.
Dr Carla Liuzzo, a QUT academic and lecturer in Political Economy and is interested in helping businesses navigate sustainable finance and investment, with extensive experience in high-level corporate roles in public affairs both domestically and internationally. Passionate about shaping future leaders in business, nonprofit, and governmental sectors, Dr Liuzzo is committed to helping individuals navigate complex challenges while promoting sustainability and ethical leadership.
“Leaders need to understand how sustainable financing and investment will impact their organisations, how they will be able to access sustainable equity, and what to look out for,” says Dr Liuzzo.
Talking about the microcredential Leading Sustainable Finance Investment, which she facilitates with Professor Clevo Wilson and Professor Anup Basu, Dr Liuzzo shared, “Students will learn from leading economists, including myself, Professor Clevo Wilson and Professor Anup Basu and will have access to hands-on learning opportunities in the Bloomberg Lab.”
“Using current information on ESG markets, students will benefit from real-world case studies, interactive learning sessions, insights from industry experts, and engagement with the business community as they develop their learning and cement their skills.”
The importance of continuous learning cannot be overstated in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Investing in your professional development is crucial for staying competitive and securing your career. QUT offers an array of short courses and microcredentials designed to equip you with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic environment. Whether you’re interested in artificial intelligence, sustainable finance or something else, QUT has the programs to help you stay ahead.
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[1] AI: 3 way artificial intelligence is changing the future of work [2023]. Retrieved on 23 July 2024. From: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/08/ai-artificial-intelligence-changing-the-future-of-work-jobs/
[2] The Future of Work: Embracing AI’s Job Creation Potential [2024]. Retrieved on 23 July 2024. From: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2024/03/12/the-future-of-work-embracing-ais-job-creation-potential/