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Automation, artificial intelligence and future skills needs: An Irish perspective

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Bukartaite, Raimunda, Hooper, Daire·2023·European journal of training and development
DOI 10.1108/ejtd-03-2023-0045
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Abstract

Purpose This study explores insights from key stakeholders into the skills they believe will be necessary for the future of work as we become more reliant on artificial intelligence (AI) and technology. The study also seeks to understand what human resource policies and educational interventions are needed to support and take advantage of these changes. Design/methodology/approach This is a qualitative study where a sample of highly experienced representatives from a range of small to large Irish organisations, both public and private, provide insights into this important topic. Findings Findings indicate participants see a continued need for soft and hard skills as we evolve towards a more technologised workplace, with a need for employees to adopt a lifelong learning philosophy. As the knowledge economy in Ireland is well established, experts do not expect mass displacement to occur but differ with respect to the predicted rate of change. Novel HR interventions such as hiring for potential, pooling talent and establishing postgraduate supply contracts are seen as key. Current state interventions were mostly viewed positively but revamping of curricula is needed as well as stronger partnerships with tertiary institutions. Research limitations/implications The interpretivist nature of the study limits the generalisability of the findings as they are based on a relatively small sample from one country. Also despite the significant expertise of the sample, it is not possible to predict whether their forecasts will manifest. Practical implications This research highlights the need for Irish SMEs to embrace the impacts of automation and AI as many are seen to be slow in reacting to changes in technology. The study also reveals cutting edge talent management interventions for employers to adopt that will insulate them from the challenges technological change presents to recruitment and employee development. Originality/value The findings from this paper culminate in the development of a conceptual framework, which encapsulates the responsibilities of all parties so that future skills needs will be met. This highlights the interplay between employers, individuals/employees, the Irish Government and educational institutions, demonstrating how they are interdependent on one another as we move towards a more technologised future.

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Research works printed but not linked: 14

  1. Baldassari, P. and Roux, J.D. (2017), "Industry 4.0: preparing for the future of work", People and Strategy, Vol. 40 No. 3, pp. 20-24.
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  7. Mallon, M. (2013), "MOOCs", Public Services Quarterly, Vol. 9 No. 1, pp. 46-53.
  8. Merriam, S.B. and Tisdell, E.J. (2015), Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation, John Wiley & Sons.
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  14. Further reading Torrington, D., Hall, L., Taylor, S., Atkinson, C. (2020), Human Resource Management, (11th ed.), Pearson Education, Harlow.

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Authors
Bukartaite, R., & Hooper, D.
Affiliations
Technological University Dublin (IE)
Corresponding author
Hooper, Daire
Venue
European journal of training and development
Publisher
Emerald
Published
2023-09-27
Volume
47
Issue
10
Pages
163-185
ISSN
2046-9012 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.1108/ejtd-03-2023-0045
OpenAlex
W4387060075
Cited by
65
References
50
Citations by year
2026: 17 · 2025: 27 · 2024: 21
FWCI
18.86
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • European journal of training and development (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • Arrow - TU Dublin (Technological University Dublin) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Business, Management and Accounting › Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management › AI and HR Technologies
  • Social Sciences › Business, Management and Accounting › Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management › Corporate Management and Leadership
  • Social Sciences › Decision Sciences › Information Systems and Management › Education, Management, Technology, Human Resources
Keywords
future skills needs, artificial intelligence, automation, future of work, personnel policy, lifelong learning, talent management, curriculum reform, employer-education partnerships, small and medium-sized enterprises, conceptual framework

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