What's Happening?
Indeed's Hiring Lab has reported a significant rise in job postings that mention training programs, with 8.1% of postings in August including such mentions, up from 3.4% in January 2018. This increase
is primarily seen in roles such as security, public safety, personal care, and home health, which typically require less education and experience and offer lower wages. Conversely, high-skill roles like data and analysis, which are more likely to be impacted by AI, are less likely to advertise training opportunities. Economists Guillermo Gallacher and Yusuke Aoki suggest that employers expect workers in these fields to take greater responsibility for their own training due to the specific skills required.
Why It's Important?
The uneven distribution of training opportunities highlights a potential gap in workforce development, particularly in high-skill areas affected by AI. As technology evolves, workers in these fields may face challenges in adapting without employer-provided training. This could impact the ability of industries reliant on high-skill roles to remain competitive and innovative. The trend also reflects broader economic and regulatory shifts, as employers may be responding to new certification requirements or addressing skill shortages. The expectation for self-directed training in high-skill roles could influence job seekers' decisions and career paths.
What's Next?
Employers may need to reassess their training strategies to ensure they are equipping their workforce with the necessary skills to adapt to technological changes. This could involve expanding training programs to include high-skill roles or collaborating with educational institutions to develop relevant curricula. Additionally, regulatory changes may continue to drive the need for training, potentially leading to more standardized requirements across industries. As AI continues to impact various sectors, the demand for skilled workers who can navigate these changes will likely increase.
Beyond the Headlines
The disparity in training opportunities raises ethical considerations about workforce equity and access to career advancement. Industries that fail to provide adequate training may face challenges in attracting and retaining talent, particularly as job seekers increasingly expect opportunities to learn new skills. This could lead to a reevaluation of employer responsibilities in workforce development and the role of public policy in supporting training initiatives.
