Forbes recently asked the question, “if you’re a jobseeker or an employer looking to ensure success in 2024, what are the skills you should be developing?” In this series of articles, we’re taking a deep dive into the 10 most in-demand skills in 2024 and suggest courses you can take to develop these skills to set yourself up and future proof your career! Below we take a look at Generative AI.
The 10 Most In-Demand Skills In 2024: Generative AI
The pace of advancement in artificial intelligence shows no signs of slowing down. As various applications of AI technology are integrated across industries, one capability that is especially sought-after in 2024 is generative AI.
Unlike analytical AI which focuses on classifying patterns in existing data, generative AI allows systems to create new content, insights, and creative outputs based on what they have learned. As companies embrace these AI “co-pilots” and content creators, generative model skills will be highly prioritized.
Currently dominated by cutting-edge modalities like DALL-E for image generation and GPT-4 for text generation, generative AI has displayed aptitudes ranging from translating languages to composing marketing copy, analyzing financial data, optimizing supply chains, and automatizing computer vision. This ability for AI to generate new intellectual value by applying context has game-changing business and societal implications. It also means that AI-powered creation will revolutionize jobs.
In 2024, fluency in directing, optimizing and integrating generative AI to augment human strengths and transform workflows will be among the most valuable skills an applicant can offer. Even with automation handing high volumes of straightforward tasks, employers will still depend on human guidance, high-level strategy and quality control checks. Generative AI experts who can strategically collect and prepare foundational datasets, synthesize their needs into prompt engineering, assess model results, identify biases and manage projects safely will have unlimited demand.
The future pioneers in every domain will be power-users of generative AI co-pilots. From creatives leveraging it as a muse to scientists maximizing R&D insights to analysts boosting predictive capabilities, generative models will make top talent even more productive. As AI literacy grows, modern education must emphasize hands-on generative development. With this human-machine creativity symbiosis, workforces in 2024 can unlock unprecedented efficiency, innovation and meaning.
What do I need to study to become a Generative AI expert:
- Computer Science or Data Science Degree: Start with a strong foundation in computer science or data science. Many Generative AI experts have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in these fields. Courses covering machine learning, deep learning, and algorithms are particularly relevant.
- Focus on Artificial Intelligence: Within your computer science or data science program, focus on courses specifically related to artificial intelligence. This may include courses in machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.
- Advanced Degrees (Optional): Pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or a related field can provide a deeper understanding and research opportunities in Generative AI.
