Mattoon, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The timeless interview question of, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” is significant in gauging a candidate’s career aspirations. Yet, what if we delve deeper and pose a more profound question: “What new skills will you need in five years for a successful career?”
While the conventional response involves detailing key milestones and skill acquisition, a more philosophical perspective acknowledges the unpredictability of the future. In a world where the skills required for success are constantly evolving, it becomes crucial to embrace flexibility and continuous learning.
The international Future of Jobs Report 2023 reveals a striking revelation–44% of the tasks performed today will undergo significant changes in the next five years. As professionals, we must not only adapt but also craft a sustainable plan for our workforce.
Recently, Effingham County hosted a job fair for dislocated workers, highlighting the stark reality of 1,000 job openings for 350 individuals facing job loss. When 41 organizations in our community are facing such a significant labor shortage, creating a robust plan to automate processes and transition staff to new, growing roles is a challenge.
We are fortunate that many businesses in our area invest in customized employee training through Lake Land’s Center for Business and Industry and the Local Workforce Innovation Area 23. Local businesses are also finding success with the apprenticeship model, which allows organizations to grow talent from within.
As we look ahead, what skills are needed for success? The report emphasizes problem-solving, analytical thinking, and technology literacy, including AI and big data. Remarkably, four in five companies responding to the Jobs Report expect to implement strategies to train workers in these areas over the next five years.
As a higher education leader, Lake Land College is at the forefront of facilitating conversations about AI both on campus and within the community. Our innovative staff is incorporating AI into daily tasks and lesson plans, ensuring students learn to use AI responsibly.
I invite you to tune in to the first of two Laker Advantage Podcasts about AI. In this December episode we explore the rapid adoption of AI and its transformative potential for the workforce of the future.
Lake Land College is committed to serving the needs of our local businesses by adapting curriculum to evolving market demands and creating innovative new programming. We are developing competency-based education plans, micro-credentialing opportunities and innovative modalities to meet students where they are. Collaborating with industry experts and educational partners, we create pathways to careers for people of all ages, from middle school to incumbent workers.
Recognizing that in 2031, nearly 75% of jobs in Illinois will require postsecondary education and training beyond high school, we have a unique opportunity to form strategic partnerships that create a highly-skilled pipeline of talent in our area. I look forward to discussing how we can work together to develop innovative models that will elevate both individuals’ lives and the collective well-being of our community.
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