"Embracing Our Humanity in the Age of AI: Preparing for the Future of Work

Thoughts on the career development journey, from the early years in school and into early adulthood, I feel an urgency unlike any other time in my career. I want to share my thoughts on how we can guide our children and students through this process, preparing them for a future that is technologically advanced and deeply human.

The first part of this journey is 'early exposure.' This is the stage where children are introduced to the concept of different jobs and professions. For example, during career day at school, children can meet people from various professions and learn about their work. But it's more than just introducing them to different jobs. It's about helping them understand the value of work, the joy of contributing to something larger than themselves, and the fulfillment that comes from solving problems and helping others. It's about teaching them to be curious, open-minded, and ready to explore new ideas and technologies.

The next stage is 'self-exploration.' During this stage, students start to explore their interests and skills. They might take part in a school project that sparks an interest in environmental science, or they might discover a love for writing while working on an essay for English class. Whatever the case, during this stage, students start to get a sense of what they enjoy and are good at. As educators and parents, we should guide and support them, helping them reflect on their experiences and understand their strengths and weaknesses.

The third stage is 'career exploration.' This is when students start to connect their interests and skills with potential career paths. They might learn about different careers related to their interests or start to explore what it would be like to work in a particular field. This is also when students consider the education or training they might need for their chosen career.

The fourth stage is 'career preparation.' This is when students start to prepare for their chosen career in a more focused way. They might choose to study a particular subject in college or seek internships or part-time jobs that will give them practical experience in their field of interest. At this stage, students must learn technical skills and soft skills (I prefer the term Durable Skills) like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, which will serve them well in any career.

The final stage is 'early career.' This is when students have completed their education or training and start their first job. It's an exciting time but can also be challenging as they transition from school to work. As educators and parents, we can support them during this transition by helping them understand what to expect and encouraging them to continue learning and growing in their careers.

In conclusion, career development is not a linear process but a journey involving exploration, reflection, and learning. As parents, educators, and technologists, we are responsible for guiding our children and students through this journey, preparing them for a future that is both technologically advanced and deeply human.