The rise of artificial intelligence has been swift, with the industry transforming from mere stuff of sci-fi fantasy to a multi-billion-dollar industry seemingly overnight. Today, AI plays some role in nearly every aspect of our lives—from the health care we receive, to the financial advice we get, to how we’re trained for new jobs. Although we’re far from AI taking over the world, we’re certainly being impacted by technology in multiple ways.
Businesses are reorganizing themselves to incorporate the many changes and innovations that AI is bringing. As they do that, we’re seeing huge adjustments in workflows, safety standards, and training. All these things are leading to more efficient outputs and greater productivity for the businesses that have made the changes. It is an exciting time to be in the industry.
AI for training purposes
Perhaps one of the most exciting roles that AI is playing in the business world today is associated with how it is being used to train new employees. New employees are a large investment for businesses. It takes a lot of time to complete the specialized training required to effectively work in most industries, which can be a drain on many businesses.
Fortunately, AI is here to help. A recent study by PWC demonstrated that virtual-reality headsets and AI-driven simulators can help employees learn the ins-and-outs of their new positions up to four times faster than in a classroom setting. Likewise, new employees were less distracted during training and felt more confident about applying the skills they learned on the job.
Training using AI-driven software like virtual-reality headsets is even occurring outside of businesses. In fact, many classrooms are starting to incorporate AI to educate students about all sorts of topics. For example, teachers are able to take their students on virtual reality field trips to incredible places like the Grand Canyon or the Great Barrier Reef. Even medical schools are incorporating tech to help students practice surgical procedures and other challenging tasks.
The AI revolution
Evidence suggests that these types of training opportunities are having a real positive impact on new employees. Different versions of AI technology can continue to be used even beyond the training period. For instance, companies can utilize AI software to build greater transparency and help in the development and maintenance of a great company culture.
Many jobs now require that employees work directly with AI-driven technologies like robots. For example, in the construction world the incorporation of AI has automated many mundane and repeatable tasks. Some things that AI is taking on now include tasks like repeatedly lifting heavy materials, producing parts on a mass scale, or scanning items for issues as part of quality control measures. This frees up employees for more creative and technical workloads. Ultimately, this can drive innovation and boost overall company productivity.
Even in positions where one wouldn’t think AI would have much of a role, the technology is making an impact. Consider the aviation field. Today, many new pilots spend time in a simulator well before they ever set foot in a plane or helicopter. This training allows pilots to learn where controls are located, get comfortable in the equipment, and practice emergency maneuvers from the safety of the ground.
Once training is complete, AI still has a role in the whole industry. The technology can be used to program flight patterns, track flight prices for consumers, and keep track of maintenance schedules. Further, AI-driven drones can be incorporated to scout areas and collect data prior to sending a larger machine in to complete work.
Artificial intelligence is undoubtedly changing our world in ways that many of us never thought it could. It is opening doors and providing greater opportunities for new innovations. Completing education and job training using AI is becoming more and more prominent and studies suggest it is making a big difference in helping people learn at a faster rate. The prominence of AI doesn’t fade as employees move into their jobs, rather, many will continue to interact with the technology throughout their careers in different ways. The possibilities are endless, and it is an exciting time to be a young innovator.
Katie Brenneman
Katie Brenneman is a passionate writer specializing in lifestyle, mental health, education, and fitness-related content. When she isn't writing, you can find her with her nose buried in a book or hiking with her dog, Charlie. To connect with Katie, you can follow her on Twitter.
