How the UK’s energy sector is preparing for AI
- In the realm of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), it's often assumed that professionals are at the forefront of technological change.
- Picture this: only a third of staff in the energy sector feel ready to embrace new tech like AI.
- Nic Granger, a lead in the industry, attributes this to a disconnect between perceived purpose and required skills.
Even Tech-Savvy Staff are Lagging in AI Readiness
In the realm of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), it’s often assumed that professionals are at the forefront of technological change. However, a surprising statistic shows that even in these industries, expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) is lagging.
Picture this: only a third of staff in the energy sector feel ready to embrace new tech like AI. This isn’t just a minor hurdle; it’s a significant challenge that’s driving the oil and gas industry to act decisively.
The Skills Gap
Nic Granger, a lead in the industry, attributes this to a disconnect between perceived purpose and required skills. "According to our survey, the big driver for digital technologies was cost reduction, while for data, it was better decision making. It’s crucial to understand that while digital tools can indeed save costs, the real value lies in how data can generate insights and value."
In response, the industry regulator, the National STEM & Tech Academy (NSTA), is establishing a digital academy. This initiative aims to upskill staff through sessions led by digital experts and product owners, covering a range of technical topics.
Bridging the Gap
The academy isn’t just about structured learning. It also includes "digital drop-in sessions" where staff can ask questions without fear of judgment. Each session is a brief 30 minutes, ensuring even the busiest professionals can attend. So far, it’s proven successful with a staggering 70% attendance rate across the organization.
Meanwhile, the NSTA is encouraging self-driven learning with "innovation time." Professionals are given protected time each month to learn and develop skills, with no meetings or emails to disrupt their progress. It’s a bold step forward, with leaders vowing to respect this time for growth and innovation.
So, as AI continues to gain momentum, the oil and gas industry is taking the bull by the horns, embracing learning, and preparing its staff for the AI revolution. It’s not just about keeping up with the change; it’s about driving it forward.