The institute’s core curriculum is grounded in life design principles and built around the Future of Work, helping students to understand the evolution of work, the workforce and workplace over time – and how that impacts their workforce journey. It focuses on human skills including empathy, written and verbal communication, curiosity, logical reasoning, emotional intelligence, adaptability and resiliency, and problem solving, which are a timeless asset to members of the workforce as they navigate inevitable disruption.
Students also participated in two supplemental modules focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. The AI module covered the latest AI tools, their uses and possible AI-related careers. The module turned out to be the liveliest discussion of the institute, with students expressing a keen interest and some misgivings about the role of AI in the future of work. Kovats said that by the end of the workshop, he felt better about incorporating AI into his career journey.
“The program did a really good job explaining how the culture of work is changing and the impact that AI will have on jobs. While AI may replace many autonomous tasks that humans currently do, it will not replace the soft skills we possess, such as empathy or critical thinking,” he said. “I learned which soft skills I am more proficient at, and which ones I need to work on. The program helped assuage any potential fear around AI and its implementation and focused on showing participants how to emerge successful into a workforce that will be heavily using AI.”
Thomas said she enjoyed the passion with which students discussed artificial intelligence and ultimately embraced its possibilities. “The next generation of leaders from Roanoke College believe that advances in technology present us with the opportunity to build a brighter tomorrow for everyone,” she said. “These students are committed to shaping the future of work by combining human potential with intentional innovation.”
Meghan Jester, director of career exploration at Roanoke, said, “It was truly inspiring to witness our students immerse themselves in the captivating domains of the future of work, the ever-evolving dynamics of the workplace, and the transformation of the workforce. They left this program with newfound inspiration and a refined proficiency in harnessing their unique human skills within the realm of the professional world. PLACE is immensely grateful to have integrated the Future of Work Institute into the array of career-preparation opportunities available on campus this fall.”
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