Empowering the Future Workforce: Highlights from the ICT Regional Advisory on AI in the Workplace
The recent Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Regional Advisory, held on November 7th, shed light on the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workforce and how educational institutions can prepare students for this fast-evolving sector. Hosted by Valley Vision in partnership with the Los Rios Community College District, Sierra College, Yuba Community College District, and Lake Tahoe Community College, the event gathered educators, industry leaders, and workforce development experts to discuss strategies for bridging the skills gap in ICT. This collaborative effort aims to strengthen regional workforce development, equipping students with the necessary skills to succeed in the AI-driven economy.
The employer panel featured a lineup of experts from both public and private sectors:
- James Regan, Deputy Secretary of Workforce Development, California Government Operations Agency
- Joel Maier, CEO, Cyber Proud, Inc.
- Dr. Ximena Gates Hartsock, CEO and Co-Founder, BuildWithin
- Dr. Jeffrey Mrizek, CEO, Mrizek Global, LLC
- Laura LeBleu, Creative Director and Senior Managing Editor, ServiceNow
The panel discussed the key skills required in the AI landscape and the importance of ethical considerations in AI implementation.
The event highlighted the expanding demand for AI skills across multiple industries, not just tech positions. A key finding from the discussion was the importance of upskilling both technical and non-technical workers. Employers are seeking expertise in AI-related areas such as machine learning, data analysis, and natural language processing, while also emphasizing soft skills like project management and communication. The California Government Operations Agency recently released a report identifying top AI-related roles and skills needed in the public sector, including Generative AI Specialists and Data Analysts. This aligns with the growing need for roles such as computer user support specialists and software developers, which reflects the sector’s potential for job growth in the coming years. In the Sacramento region alone, over 42,000 tech-related jobs exist, with software developers expected to see significant job growth over the next five years.
A key takeaway from the advisory was the need for education systems to adapt to these industry demands. The panel emphasized that educators should focus on fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for navigating AI-driven work environments. AI-powered tools and low-code/no-code platforms are making technical roles more accessible, enabling individuals from non-technical backgrounds to transition into the sector. As AI continues to revolutionize the workforce, educators have a critical role in aligning curricula with these rapidly changing needs, ensuring that students are aptly-prepared for the jobs of the future.
The ICT Regional Advisory provided valuable insights for educators and workforce development leaders to understand the scope of opportunities within the ICT sector. The event reaffirmed the growing relevance of AI in various industries and highlighted the importance of preparing the workforce through continuous learning and upskilling initiatives. With strong collaborations between employers, educators, and government agencies, the ICT sector is poised to play a central role in regional economic development, offering a wealth of career opportunities for the region.
