How do you see AI playing a transformative role in enhancing employability skills for individuals in various industries?
AI is transforming employability skills by automating routine tasks and augmenting human capabilities. This requires individuals to develop new skills, such as:
- AI Literacy: Understanding the fundamentals of AI and its applications in various industries.
- Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Ability to identify problems, analyze data, and develop solutions using AI techniques.
- Creativity and Adaptability: Ability to think creatively and adapt to rapidly changing technological advancements.
- Communication and Collaboration Skills: Effective communication with AI systems and collaboration with colleagues in AI-driven projects.
What are the current hiring trends in the AI industry, and how has the demand for skilled workers evolved over the past year?
India ranks 1st in terms of AI skill penetration with a score of 3.09 and has also recently secured the 1st and 5th ranks in AI talent concentration and AI scientific publications, globally. With an installed talent base of 416K professionals (as of August 2022) and a current demand of ~629K, the current gap between talent demand and supply is about 51%. As per NASSCOM, by 2026, the estimated demand for AI professionals in India is expected to be over 1 million.
There are Multiple factors joining to push demand northwards.
Impact of the generation of big data across enterprise value chains and the integration of AI/ML technologies in Big Data/Data tools and applications, Proliferation of pre trained ML models on the cloud and the push towards automation changing the landscape, Growing share of Digital talent as a percentage of overall tech talent is the new trend.
Can you provide specific data on the types of AI-related roles that are in high demand, and how this demand aligns with the skills emphasized in AI education programs?
Certain roles have a higher degree of demand supply disparity, ranging between ~60% and 73% – ML Engineer, Data Scientist, DevOps Engineer and Data Architect. 75 – 80% of the job openings fall between 0-5 years and 5-10 year experience bands
The New Education Policy (NEP)’s emphasis on a quality pool of AI talent that is technically sound and industry ready, is an indication of building the employability quotient of India’s youth in AI related jobs. Further, the disconnect between curricula and industry demand via stronger industry academia tie ups and collaboration, and OJT programs like apprenticeships are the need of the hour. In fact, MSDE has introduced various apprenticeship programs to help organizations to address the skill gap and demand for AI talent. These include roles in AI like Data Engineer, DevOPs Engineer, Database Administrator, Data Scientist, Data Quality Analysts, etc.
Have you observed any geographical variations in the demand for AI professionals, and how does this impact the employability landscape for individuals pursuing AI careers?
The demand for AI professionals is concentrated in major tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi NCR and Pune. However, the demand is also increasing in tier-2 and tier-3 cities as AI adoption expands across the country.
Are there any projections or data points indicating future growth in AI-related job opportunities, and how can individuals prepare to meet the evolving demands of the industry?
As mentioned above, the estimated demand for AI professionals in India is expected to be over 1 million by 2026. Individuals can prepare for this growth by:
- Upskilling and Reskilling: Continuously learning new AI skills through online courses, apprenticeships & certifications
- Networking and Collaboration: Building connections with AI professionals and participating in industry events and conferences.
- Exploring AI-Driven Projects: Engaging in personal or professional projects that showcase their AI skills and experience.
For individuals participating in AI skill development programs, could you provide insights into the average stipends or compensation offered during apprenticeships or training periods?
Stipends for AI skill development programs vary depending on the program duration, institution, and industry focus. Typically, stipends range from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per month.
What are the current men-to-women ratio in AI-related roles in the industry, and what initiatives are in place to promote gender diversity in the AI workforce?
The current men-to-women ratio in AI-related roles in India is skewed towards men. Several initiatives are in place to promote gender diversity in the AI workforce, including:
- Women-in-AI Conferences and Workshops: Encouraging women to pursue AI careers.
- Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Providing support and guidance to aspiring female AI professionals.
- Apprenticeships programs : Enabling women wanting to join the workforce by facilitating OJTs involving AI focused education programs
In your opinion, what impact has AI had on traditional job roles, and how can individuals leverage AI for career growth?
AI is transforming traditional job roles by automating routine tasks and requiring individuals to adapt to new technologies. However, AI also creates new opportunities for job growth and innovation. Individuals can leverage AI for career growth by:
- Specializing in AI-Specific Domains: Developing expertise in specific AI applications, such as healthcare AI or finance AI.
- Becoming AI-Powered Professionals: Combining AI skills with their existing expertise to enhance their value proposition.
- Embracing AI as a Tool for Innovation: Using AI to explore new business opportunities and solve complex problems.
