In today's fast-paced world, the landscape of work is changing rapidly, largely due to advances in technology and the rise of Generative AI. As industries evolve, the need for professionals to adapt is more pressing than ever. This brings us to the concepts of re-skilling and up-skilling, which are essential for staying relevant in the job market. Many individuals and companies are seeking guidance on how to navigate this transition, and with a plethora of information available online, it can be challenging to discern what is truly useful. Let’s explore the current situation surrounding these important topics and delve into their significance in our evolving professional environment.

Understand the Impact of Gen AI on Your Field

One of the biggest concerns people have (I certainly do) about their careers is the fear of stagnation. As a software developer and manager, it's in my best interest to ensure that I'm aware of what's required to be productive at work; utilizing the appropriate technology where necessary. For instance with Copilot I'm able to generate code or unit tests which I can review and accept. This frees me up to do other high-level tasks such as strategic planning, systems design and stakeholder management.

Identifying Relevant Skills to Develop

Fast forward to the heart of this discussion; how do we determine what skills that we need to take us further? From my personal experience, I try to answer these questions below, tailoring the learning experience to meet my needs:

  • What skills do I currently have?
  • What skills am I interested in?
  • How demanding are these skills?
  • How much effort & time would be required to acquire these skills
  • What projects can I build after acquiring these skills?
  • How can I use Generative AI to speed up the learning process and build projects?
  • What outcomes am I expecting after acquiring these skills?

By adopting a proactive approach and focusing on continuous learning, we can ensure that we remain competitive and effective in this evolving landscape. Embracing this journey is essential for both personal growth and professional success.