Why You Need to Upskill and Learn AI

AI is a juggernaut. It's unstoppable. So, if you're still hesitant, resistant, and doubtful, read this article.

Whether you're planning your future career or just trying to figure out your next step, learning about artificial intelligence (AI) is something you can't afford to ignore. The world is changing fast, and AI is at the center of it all.

The Growing Demand for AI Skills

AI is no longer just a futuristic concept—it's already here, transforming industries around the world. 

In the Philippines, more than 60% of companies in the IT-BPM (Information Technology and Business Process Management) sector are integrating AI into their operations. 

However, these companies are facing a significant challenge: there aren’t enough skilled professionals who understand AI. Despite the high rate of AI adoption, a talent shortage is holding the industry back.

Companies in the IT-BPM sector aren't just looking for employees who know the basics; they need people with specialized AI skills. This talent gap is a major issue that could slow down progress across the industry. Upskilling in AI can help you stand out in this growing field and open doors to new opportunities.

The Skills Gap in the Current Workforce

A big problem today is that many new graduates don't have the AI skills that employers are looking for. Schools and universities haven't kept up with the rapid changes in technology, and there’s a severe lack of AI-savvy teachers. 

This gap means that even as companies are eager to adopt AI, they’re struggling to find the right talent. The disconnect between what students learn in school and what the industry needs is clear. 

Even in business process outsourcing (BPO), a major part of the Philippine economy, companies find that many new hires aren’t prepared to meet the demands of an AI-driven workplace. 

Without the right skills, these employees need additional training, which costs companies time and money. Learning AI skills now sets you apart, making you more job-ready and valuable from the start.

Why Upskilling Matters for Your Career

Not having AI skills can be a major roadblock in today’s job market. 

As AI continues to reshape industries, the number of jobs that don’t require AI knowledge is shrinking, while opportunities for those with AI skills are rapidly growing. 

Learning AI goes beyond adding another skill to your resume—it’s about securing your career in an evolving landscape.

Retraining and upskilling directly impact your employability and flexibility to adapt to new roles as industries evolve. 

AI’s influence spans across various sectors, from healthcare to finance to education. Gaining a solid understanding of AI provides a competitive edge, no matter which career path you choose.

How the Government and Industry Can Help

The Philippine government is taking steps to address the talent gap by launching initiatives like the Philippine Skills Framework, which aims to align academic programs with industry needs. However, the effort requires more than just policy changes. 

The government can further support upskilling by increasing investment in AI education, providing scholarships and grants for AI-related courses, and partnering with international tech companies to bring in experts and resources. 

Enhancing STEM education, particularly in AI, data science, and machine learning, can lay the groundwork for a skilled workforce ready to tackle the demands of a tech-driven economy.

Public-private partnerships are another avenue the government can explore. Working closely with companies in the tech sector can help develop specialized training programs that directly address the skill shortages identified by employers. 

Creating more accessible online platforms for learning AI and offering incentives for both students and professionals who pursue these courses can motivate more people to engage in upskilling efforts.

The industry also plays a key role in promoting AI literacy and responsible AI use. 

Companies should invest in continuous learning and offer employees opportunities to upgrade their skills through in-house training, certifications, or collaborations with educational institutions. 

A workforce that is well-versed in AI ethics, governance, and technical skills ensures that AI implementation remains fair, transparent, and beneficial to society.

Future-Proofing Your Career

AI is constantly evolving, bringing new job roles that require advanced skills like data analysis, machine learning, and AI programming. To keep up, adaptability and commitment to lifelong learning are essential. 

A background in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is a great start, but it’s only the beginning. Staying open to new learning opportunities and continuously building your skills will help you stay competitive.

The demand for AI skills is expected to keep growing. Investing time in learning AI now prepares you for a career that can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. Whether it's understanding data, writing AI algorithms, or simply knowing how to work alongside AI technologies, these skills will be invaluable.

Practical Steps to Upskill in AI

Starting your AI learning journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A good first step is to explore online courses that cater to beginners, such as those offered by Coursera, edX, or even free tutorials on YouTube. Look for beginner-friendly courses in AI fundamentals, machine learning, or data science. Many of these platforms offer flexible learning schedules, allowing you to study at your own pace.

Consider earning certifications that are recognized by the industry, such as those from Google, IBM, or Microsoft. These certifications not only enhance your knowledge but also provide a credential that can set you apart in the job market.

Also, many tech companies offer free workshops, boot camps, and webinars focused on AI and related fields. These are great opportunities to learn directly from experts and start building your network in the AI community.

Gaining hands-on experience is important for understanding AI concepts fully. Joining AI-focused clubs, participating in hackathons, or working on simple AI projects can provide practical experience that goes beyond theoretical knowledge. Engaging in these activities can also help you build a portfolio of work that showcases your skills to potential employers.

Reading AI-related articles, following industry leaders on social media, and staying updated on the latest AI trends are also valuable ways to keep your knowledge current. AI is a fast-evolving field, and staying informed about the latest advancements and ethical considerations will ensure that you remain relevant and well-prepared for future opportunities.

Conclusion

AI is here to stay, and it's changing the way we work, live, and think. Upskilling in AI isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity if you want to keep up with these changes and seize the opportunities they bring. Whether you’re aiming to secure your first job, change careers, or simply stay ahead in your current role, learning AI is one of the best investments you can make in yourself. Take the first step today—start learning AI, and set yourself up for a future full of possibilities.