In contrast to perceptions of automation replacing human jobs, 95 per cent of energy professionals expect AI to increase demand for human skills, particularly technical skills such as programming/software engineering and IT, and soft skills such as critical thinking/problem solving and creativity. Ninety-two per cent of professionals believe AI will prompt them to acquire new, in-demand skills ranging from cybersecurity to creativity.
The report produced by Airswift found that 38 per cent of energy professionals are already using AI or will begin to do so within six months, and 82 per cent are optimistic about its impact. Most professionals (74 per cent) believe automation will boost their productivity, 60 per cent say it will improve career prospects and job satisfaction, and 54 per cent believe it will even improve work/life balance by freeing up more time for family and friends.
When asked about wider sector benefits, 29 per cent expect the technology to increase R&D and innovation, and 28 per cent expect an increase in optimisation of production, services and/or solutions. However, employees report that lack of clarity on which tools are the best fit for their company and insufficient investment in AI are the biggest barriers to making greater use of AI.
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In a statement, Janette Marx, CEO of Airswift, said: “AI is increasing the demand for skills in the energy industry in everything from data security to software engineering. Meanwhile automating repetitive, logical tasks is unlocking the opportunity for greater use of human skills such as critical thinking and creativity, while freeing up time for professionals to develop these skills.
“Energy professionals that learn these newly in-demand skills will have more career choices in the future. Energy companies need to future-proof their skills base by transforming training to align with emerging AI skills gaps, while also recruiting talent from outside industries such as technology.”
Professionals anticipate some pitfalls to growing industry adoption of AI, especially lack of human or personal touch (42 per cent), lack of training leading to misuse or poor adoption (33 per cent) and the potential for cyber security risks (30 per cent).
A third of energy companies now have AI policies that address some of these concerns such as data protection, integrity and security (52 per cent) and training requirements (42 per cent).
The full report is available for download at http://www.getireport.com
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