By 2025, 85 million jobs may be displaced by AI, but 97 million new roles could emerge, creating more job opportunities according to the World Economic Forum.
With rapid advancements and constant evolution, it's a shift that keeps many on their toes. "The technology sector is currently the most exciting industry. Change is happening here like in no other sector," says Christiane Noll, General Manager of Avanade, a leader in digital innovation, sharing her perspective on the trends, challenges, and transformative potential of technology.
"The technology sector is currently the most exciting industry. Change is happening here like in no other sector" - Christiane Noll
the rise of generative AI
The technology sector stands out as one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving industries today. Christiane Noll highlights the relentless pace of change, driven primarily by the challenge of integrating artificial intelligence (AI), which is "creating completely new opportunities and challenges us anew every day."
Recent studies back this up. According to a report by Gartner, generative AI is predicted to account for 10% of all data produced by 2025, up from less than 1% in 2021. This reflects AI's growing influence across various sectors. Christiane underscores the advantages of this revolution: “We will have new, simplified access to knowledge and language will no longer be an obstacle.” This evolution will drive research and analysis to unprecedented speeds and efficiencies, enhancing human capabilities across various industries.
the impact of AI on the tech industry
Looking forward, Christiane forecasts even more significant transformations influenced by generative AI over the next decade: "AI will redefine our working world from the ground up, increasing creativity and productivity enormously," she predicts. This continual innovation shapes every facet of the tech landscape, pushing companies to constantly adapt and evolve. “The big challenge is digital transformation. Every company has to find its way through digitalization,” Christiane emphasises, being at the forefront of this movement.
A McKinsey report echoes this, indicating that AI could deliver an additional $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Christiane explains, "Artificial intelligence will redefine the job of advisors, consultants, and service providers, optimizing the research and analysis phases that are crucial to project work." With AI leading the charge, she believes the industry must embrace a radical overhaul of business models and operational processes to capitalize on increased efficiencies. "We must rethink and redesign our approaches to remain competitive and innovative," she asserts.
the future of jobs in an AI-driven world
The anticipated shift in the job market, driven by AI, presents both challenges and opportunities. Ai will primarily affect roles that involve routine, repetitive tasks, expected to save the average person over 10 hours a week by automating routine tasks, further emphasizing the importance of reskilling.
The emergence of 97 million new roles indicates a significant transformation in the nature of work. These new jobs are expected to be in fields such as AI development, data analysis, and cybersecurity, as well as roles that require uniquely human skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Companies will need to invest in upskilling and reskilling their workforce to prepare for these changes. Educational institutions may also need to adapt their curricula to meet the demands of an AI-driven economy.
can tech drive sustainability and equity?
In the face of global challenges like demographic shifts and the climate crisis, the technology sector is urged to remain agile and responsive. According to the International Energy Agency, digital technologies could help reduce global carbon emissions by 15% by 2030.
Christiane Noll points out that these issues, along with geopolitics, significantly shape our society, economy, and politics, necessitating a proactive approach in every industry. "Businesses must be agile to effectively navigate these developments," she advises, emphasising the need for a stable foundation coupled with flexible strategies and adaptive processes to manage the unpredictable nature of these changes.
As the industry confronts these transformations, opportunities for both established companies and new entrants emerge. Christiane asserts, "Times of change always bring new opportunities. There is room for both existing players and newcomers. There are no predetermined winners or losers—only opportunities that must be seized." This era of transformation presents a chance for reinvention and innovation, allowing existing players to evolve and new players to enter the market with fresh perspectives. The successful navigation of these changes will define the future landscape of the tech industry, making adaptability a key driver of growth and innovation.
how to get started in AI
Currently, women make up only about 22% of AI professionals globally, according to the World Economic Forum. To enter this field, Christiane Noll offers advice for those starting in the tech industry, drawing from her interviews with leading women in IT for her book 'IT Girls'. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. "Embrace courage, openness, continuous learning, and a drive to effect change," she advises. Christiane stresses staying bold, being open to new ideas, and striving to make a significant impact.
Aspiring AI professionals should focus on building strong foundations in mathematics, programming, and data analysis while seeking opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, projects, trainings and collaboration with industry experts. Her guidance underscores the critical attributes needed to navigate and shape the future of AI effectively.
about Christiane Noll:
Christiane Noll is a seasoned leader with a passion for empowering businesses through digital transformation. Since 2016, she's been at the helm of Avanade Austria as Country Manager, guiding clients on their digital journeys. Prior to her tenure at Avanade, Christiane honed her skills at Microsoft Austria, holding leadership positions for six years.
about Avanade:
Avanade is the leading provider of innovative digital, cloud and advisory services, industry solutions and design-led experiences across the Microsoft ecosystem. Every day, our 60,000 professionals in 26 countries make a genuine human impact for our clients, their employees and their customers.
Comments