Many processes are being automated across the world due to the technology boom. Artificial intelligence is also taking over in many industries and machine learning is also taking charge. Robotics has also come to the fore as a key driver of economies. What does this mean for the ordinary employee? What skills do you need to remain relevant?
Automation of process is replacing manual industrial processes and there is now a greater adoption of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Variable Speed Drives (VSD) and the Internet of Things (IoT). It is now possible to monitor manufacturing processes remotely. In the banking sector, the need for bank tellers is greatly dwindling as people are now using ATMs and internet banking.
For many security guards, it is clear that cameras are being deployed to reduce the number of people physically manning premises. The common manpower remaining is those monitoring the CCTV control rooms and a few guards. In the manufacturing sector, packaging is increasingly being done by machines with a few support staff observing.
The key message to the job seeker is that the world is becoming mechanised. As a result, there is need to learn new skills so that you can remain relevant. Gone are the days when one would rely on just one qualification and not develop new skills.
In farming, drones are being deployed to do crop assessments remotely and even to deliver products and blood in some countries. Where will be the role of the messenger or the one to be sent? Computers are learning fast to the extent of being able to do interpretation of language on their own. It is clear that the world has changed and we are now in the age of automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics.
If you think that the only skill that you learnt at university is the only one you need to acquire, you need to revise your thinking before your industry sector is affected by the new revolution of automation and artificial intelligence. Many jobs will be lost and only those who are adaptable to new developments will achieve longevity in the job market.