Every technology company in the world, it seems, is either making AI or using it.
Small surprise then that employers are willing to pay a premium to hire talent with AI skills, according to a study from Access Partnership and Amazon Web Services.
Global firms are actively seeking out AI talent hotspots to mine for precious resources, as exemplified by Pinterest’s recent hunt for engineers in Toronto.
“How can Canadians thrive in the future of work as we roll out new Artificial Intelligence powered tools?” asks Sabrina Geremia, who functions as Country Managing Director for Google Canada. “It starts with skills.”
AI has the potential to transform the way we work, Geremia says—it can “assist, complement, empower, and inspire people across almost every field.”
Google’s “Economic Impact Report” found that generative AI could increase the economy of Canada by $210 billion and save the average Canadian worker over 100 hours a year.
“AI skills will also become a powerful advantage for those in the job market,” Geremia believes, noting that “in 2023 alone, there was a 21x increase in job postings that included AI technologies, highlighting the growing demand for talent.”
In response to the growing demand for AI talent, Grow with Google this month launched a new online course, “AI Essentials.”
“Google AI Essentials is our new self-paced, online course taught by AI experts at Google,” says Geremia.
The course, which requires no prior experience with AI, can be completed in under 10 hours, according to Grow with Google.
Google AI Essentials graduates gain access to Talent Match, a program that offers 1-on-1 coaching, resume help, practice interviews, and job search support. Through Talent Match, grads connect with potential employers.
To grant scholarships for AI Essentials to individuals, Google is partnering with non-profit organizations, including Canada Learning Code, ComIT, Digital Main Street, First Work, and Vector Institute.
“Not everyone needs to know how to build a Large Language Model, but learning how to work alongside these new technologies is critical,” Geremia posits. “I’ve always said that continuous learning is foundational.”
Google also announced Generative AI for Educators in Canada, a course designed to help teachers save time on tasks, personalize instruction to meet student needs, and enhance lessons in creative ways with the assistance of generative AI tools.
“AI has the potential to increase our productivity and will assist workers in developing innovative, forward-thinking solutions,” Geremia said. “The first step in Canada’s success is equipping people with the right skills.”
