Currently, everyone is talking about artificial intelligence. As an expert, what do you say: How important are AI skills to succeed in the future workplace?
AI skills will be just as important in the coming years as computer and English skills are today. A basic understanding of AI is therefore essential to be successful in an increasingly digital work environment. This applies not only to technical professions – AI-supported tools are also playing an increasingly important role in business, marketing, logistics, and human resources. Entirely new job fields are even emerging, from AI product managers to ethics experts for AI systems. Those who engage with AI and are knowledgeable about it will have a clear advantage in the job market.
What is the best way to approach the topic? And is it too late for those who haven't done so yet?
It is definitely not too late! AI is a dynamic field, but it is always possible to get started. My advice: just do it. Those who ignore the topic today will have to catch up in a few years. So it's better to take the first steps now and continue learning continuously. In my view, three steps are important:
- Build a basic understanding: There are many online courses and introductory materials that explain the basics of AI and machine learning in an understandable way. The CITT's AI Awareness Training is a good example.
- Gain practical experience: The best way to understand AI is to try it out. Chatbots like CoPilot or image generation models are freely available and offer an easy way to familiarize yourself with AI. Those who are technically savvy can train their own models with Python and machine learning libraries.
- Question critically: AI is not a panacea. It is important to deal with ethical issues, data quality, and the limitations of the technology. Topics such as the EU's AI Act, bias in AI models, and careful fact-checking are crucial for the responsible use of AI.
You advised the CITT on the conception of the AI Awareness Training. Who is the training suitable for?
The training is aimed at anyone interested – regardless of their previous experience with AI. It is designed for both beginners and those who have already had some initial contact with AI. The content provides a deep understanding of how AI works and where it is used. Participants learn the basics, address ethical issues, and explore the limits of AI together. The focus, however, is on practical application. At the end of the five days, participants not only know what AI is but are also able to use it sensibly and responsibly. The beauty of the topic – and this also applies to this course: Getting started is easy, the benefits are great!
Andreas Weinlich has been with Continental since 2015 and has been leading the AI Lab in Berlin for three years. The research facility develops AI technologies for future mobility solutions and deals with topics such as computer vision, generative AI, and autonomous driving. To quickly bring technological advancements into practice, there is a focus on networking with universities and start-ups. The AI Lab team has advised the CITT on the design of AI training programs. Currently, there are new dates available – and upon completion, participants can earn an IHK certificate
