How to Not Get Replaced by AI
How to not get replaced by AI. Adapted from “Surfing the Tsunami” by Todd Kelsey
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The rise of AI does not have to replace you. AI is nothing more than a tool—however strong the tool might be. Learning about this tool is crucial for career relevance and success. For example, in the legal field, much of the work that was once done by new associates is now being completed using AI according to Bloomberg Law (“How is AI Changing the Legal Profession”, 2024).
What does this mean for individuals looking to break into the legal field with no experience?
Probably not great. Although this presents a significant challenge, it is just a change in demand for a different set of skills. Similarly, the introduction of personal computers radicalized industries, eliminating the need for many roles such as file clerks, typists, or how Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) removed the need for switchboard operators. A previous typist may have transitioned into a secretarial role. A file clerk may have transitioned into a records management or administrative assistant role. Both reflect a skillset demanded by their previous role yet adapted to reflect their changing working environment.
“The best way to avoid losing your job to a robot is learn how to do your job working with one” (Kelsey, 2019, p. 65).
The change in the set of skills demanded by the change in technology involve the ability to understand and use this new tech. Understanding what AI software is available and their functions is parallel to understanding what Microsoft Suite applications were available in the 90’s. Understanding basic coding, particularly in Accounting and Finance or similar fields, with languages such as Python or R carries the heavy lifting in data analytics and the ability to manipulate datasets or train machine learning models. And now, with programs such as ChatGPT 4o with Canvas, learning how to use these languages is easier than ever.
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Programming is the demanded language of future employers. During my mostly unsuccessful job search I stumbled across this other worldly posting from amazon.jobs: “Sr. Financial Analysts, APAC Accounting”, requirements: “…Advanced analytical skills…Advanced skills in SQL, Python, Alteryx, ect.” (Amazon, 2024). Accounting and advanced skills in SQL, and Python do not seem synonymous. However, AI automation of routine tasks and an increase in quantity of data means more time in roles previously bogged down by time-consuming tasks. The next logical step is to use this newfound time productively and intelligently. Learning Python in these roles allows professionals to handle large datasets for financial modeling and data visualization through its libraries such as SciPy, Pandas, NumPY and Matplotlib.
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| Pandas, SciPy, & NumPy Respectively. Image Edited with fotor |
Here is an example of how I used Python and its libraries to solve a linear optimization model. I realize it may be simpler in Excel, however Python offers the advantage of scalability for data that exceeds the limits of Excel, and its direct application integration. The question gives the information that of a made up firm that sells automobile radar detectors with two models and both models use the exact same components: 4,000 of component A and 3,500 of component B.
Components Required per Unit
Product A B Profit/Unit
LaserStop 18 6 $124
SpeedBuster 12 8 $136
Using this information, I am to mathematically formulate a linear optimization model.
This not only gives the solution, it also provides useful insight demonstrating that the model is capable of maintaining profitability with minimal loss as suggested by the tolerable profit difference (from rounding) and that the rounded solution matches the integer.
How is AI changing the legal profession? (2024, May 23). Bloomberg Law. https://pro.bloomberglaw.com/insights/technology/how-is-ai-changing-the-legal-profession/
Kelsey, T. (2019). Surfing the Tsunami 2019: An introduction to artificial intelligence and options for responding.
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