Marvin OnumonuInnovate UK has launched the AI Skills Hub, a platform supported by PwC, to help people, employers, training providers and technology partners connect and boost artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and job creation.
The platform is aimed at the agriculture and food processing, construction, creative, and transport, logistics and warehousing sectors.
PwC research found that industries using AI saw productivity grow three times faster, with an 11% wage premium for workers with AI skills.
Over 73% of employers in the four sectors faced shortages of skills in AI systems, AI ethics, governance, regulations and machine learning.
Only 17.3% of employers said staff were resistant to AI training, but cost and finding the right training remained bigger issues.
Zlatina Loudjeva, partner at PwC UK, said: “AI is here to stay, it will develop faster and faster, and presents huge opportunities for employers and employees alike.
“The better the skills a person has, the more they can benefit from the new opportunities. But for those lacking the right skills, the risk is being left behind.
“Put simply, to benefit from AI, workers must take charge of their development, because you have to be in it to win it.”
Loudjeva added: “By improving links between employers, training providers, and technology partners, the Hub aims to increase employability and AI readiness in sectors where there is a clear need.
“Providing these essential skills is not only key to the UK’s economic stability and prosperity but also to promoting greater social cohesion.”
Gary Cutts, executive director for digital and technologies at Innovate UK, said: “The pace of AI development can make AI learning a daunting prospect for individuals and employers, who can struggle to stay on top of training needs.
“The AI skills hub will make the AI learning and employment landscape much more accessible.
“AI holds immense potential to transform construction by driving efficiency, improving safety, and enhancing decision-making processes.”
Cutts added: “Machine learning models, for instance, can predict equipment failures, forecast demand for materials, and ensure their timely delivery.
“In addition, AI-powered cameras and sensors can elevate safety standards on construction sites, detecting compliance with regulations and identifying hazards in real time.
“By integrating these technologies, the construction sector has the potential to turbocharge productivity and growth, at a time when building is a top Government priority.”
Loudjeva added: “The AI Skills Hub will provide businesses in these four industries with confidence and the opportunity to optimise their operations, innovate their products and services, and ultimately create new roles and skills for their employees.
“By expanding access to relevant tech and relevant training, the Hub can give a significant boost to the UK economy, addressing long-standing productivity issues.”
