Rising Demand for AI Skills
With graduation ceremonies now concluded, recent graduates are poised to embark on their job searches. Julia Pollak, Chief Economist at ZipRecruiter, appeared on TheStreet to examine the skills and sectors that are gaining traction among new graduates.
CONWAY GITTENS: Regarding recent college graduates, they’re suited up and eager to enter the workforce. Which skills are currently in high demand?
JULIA POLLAK: There is a substantial need for skills related to AI. Many companies are uncertain about their specific needs right now. They are recruiting for highly technical roles, but across the board, organizations are beginning to understand that AI will have extensive effects. This includes legal considerations, intellectual property issues, and creative ramifications. Consequently, they seek individuals who are inherently technologists, keen on emerging technologies, who stay informed about trends, and can innovate in various contexts.
Skilled Trades versus Corporate Ambitions
CONWAY GITTENS: There sometimes exists a gap between the skillsets desired by employers and the career aspirations of graduates. Can you discuss which industries are capturing the attention of college graduates?
JULIA POLLAK: The most significant skills mismatch is evident in the skilled trades sector. There remains a continuous need for individuals with trade expertise, yet the number of candidates acquiring these skills is limited. We are beginning to see younger individuals respond to these market cues, evidenced by a recent rise in vocational training enrollments, but it still falls short of satisfying employer needs.
Many young people aspire to fields like marketing and communications, aiming for appealing white-collar jobs that offer flexibility and remote work options. However, these positions are slower to hire currently, partly due to market conditions, and partly because employers are experimenting with AI capabilities, contemplating the possibility of using advanced technologies to replace entry-level roles, allowing top performers to leverage innovative tools.
This trend is especially noticeable in Australia, where industries such as construction and mining urgently require skilled tradespeople. Electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are in short supply, yet vocational training enrollment hasn’t met this increasing need. The situation is further complicated by an aging workforce in these areas, creating a critical skills gap that must be addressed.
On the flip side, the appeal of white-collar professions remains strong for graduates. Areas like marketing, communications, and media are in high demand, thanks to their promise of creative workplace cultures and remote working possibilities. Nevertheless, these fields are currently witnessing a slowdown in hiring due to economic uncertainties and companies seeking efficiency through AI innovations.
For example, marketing teams are increasingly utilizing AI for functions like data analytics, customer profiling, and content generation. This transition suggests that although opportunities are available, they tend to be more competitive and may necessitate a combination of traditional skills and modern technological proficiency.
As a result, graduates might need to adjust their expectations and weigh the long-term advantages of pursuing careers in skilled trades. These positions not only promise job stability but also competitive pay and the chance to engage in significant projects that enhance Australia’s infrastructure and economic development.
