Debunking a Technology Myth
By Bob Hampe, Actall President and CEO
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the hot technology topic of discussion lately, with some people predicting that it will eventually lead to the elimination of many jobs. In fact, many people have talked about how many new tech inventions are really just a methodology of reducing headcount. New innovations have, and will continue to, revolutionize the way we live and work. In fact, it is unlikely that new technology will eliminate jobs, but rather transform them.
It is essential to understand that new tech is generally not a silver bullet that can solve all problems. Even though most technology can be incredibly useful for automating repetitive and predictable tasks, it has limitations. There are still many tasks that require human cognition, such as creativity, empathy, and critical thinking, especially in custody settings. For example, hardware-enabled AI may be able to diagnose a medical condition based on symptoms, but it cannot provide the same level of care, understanding and empathy as a human doctor.
In the longer term, the development and implementation of technology requires skilled workers. Technical systems need to be designed, programmed, and maintained by a human workforce. This means that there will be new jobs created in the tech industries; jobs that will require a high level of expertise and education, creating demand for workers who are willing to adapt and upskill.
When examining short-term benefits, technology impacts today’s workforce by introducing insights and innovations that enhance existing and new positions in any field in which new tech is integrated. Corrections, Behavioral Health and education are all experiencing workforce evolutions using the efficiencies and improvements created with new technological tools.
Across these industries, new technology will create new job opportunities. With the automation of routine and mundane tasks, workers can focus on higher-level tasks that require creativity and critical thinking. This means that workers can become more productive, and employers can focus on innovation and growth. For example, in the correctional industry, technology can help automate administrative tasks, allowing custody professionals to focus on inmate care and rehabilitation.
Taking a broader view, technology helps address the skills gap. As the job market evolves, workers will need to upskill and adapt to new technologies and industries. Technology can help bridge that skills gap by providing training and education opportunities. For example, technology-powered educational platforms can help workers upskill and reskill, preparing them for the jobs of the future.
The bottom line is while it is easy to understand why the fear that technology will eliminate jobs exists, digging even a little deeper into the facts shows that the reality is much the opposite. Technology is not a silver bullet that can solve all problems, and there are still many tasks that are inherently human and will remain that way. Technology can help employees focus on the less mundane tasks of their jobs, leading to more job satisfaction and greater employment. Development and implementation of technology requires skilled workers, and actually creates new job opportunities.
Ultimately, technology is not a threat to jobs, but rather a tool that can enhance and transform them.
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