Hi learners, I hope the week is coming through pretty well. With all the talks going on about AI and related science taking over the workplace and doing all the jobs, it's okay if we feel threatened about the security of our profession in the near future. Notwithstanding, I prefer that you don’t panic. I say this because, as automation and AI grows, so do the opportunities that come with them, especially in my industry, geoinformatics. In this article, I’ll talk about how Geoinformatics is evolving and what career paths graduates may venture into as Geoinformatics graduates.
First, let's start by addressing the obvious: it is very true that automation and AI are altering how we work in this generation. A number of occupations are already being rendered irrelevant in a way. For example, jobs that involve repetition can be easily automated. This doesn't mean that the jobs are completely going away; rather, it indicates that the nature of labor is changing. Opportunities come with change, and new professions that were not even thought of years ago are now in the fire and in demand.
Source
Let me talk a little about Geoinformatics for those that don’t know. It is a Combination of Information Science and Geography. It is the branch of science and technology that deals with the gathering, examination, and interpretation of data concerning the earth’s surface; it deals with both attribute and spatial data. It incorporates aspects of computer science, cartography, and geography. The profession is changing so fast, thanks to AI. AI has improved the capabilities and applications of Geoinformatics in recent years, this has even made it a critical component of the profession. Some employers even need graduates to have a fair knowledge of AI to be employed in their companies . Here are several ways that AI is changing things:
Better Data Analysis: In the field of Geoinformatics, large volumes of data need to be processed in a short period, depending on the task at hand and AI algorithms make this possible. With AI, it is possible to map and analyze data more precisely and in-depth, which is essential for disaster management, environmental monitoring, and urban planning. AI helps in carrying out predictive analysis which unloved using pet data to predict what can happen in the future. It helps to predict the weather, natural disasters, and even the spread of illness.
Automation of Routine Tasks: Artificial intelligence is used in the automation of tasks like data entry, map updating, and even basic analysis. This allows experts to concentrate on more technical parts of their tasks such as the creation of new models and other field work.
Image Recognition: With the use of AI, satellite images may be properly analyzed to track important phenomena such as wildlife populations, Land use land cover analysis, and monitor deforestation. In this era, the conservation efforts for the environment are taken a notch higher.
** Future Career Paths**
Source
Experts in AI and Machine Learning: In the near future, there will be a need for experts that can create and manage AI systems. These experts will be in demand as there will be a need for professionals to develop more intelligent algorithms and guarantee safe AI procedures.
Data Scientists and Data Analysts: The demand for data scientists and analysts will be on the rise due to the rise in data provided by satellites, and other sources. These tasks mainly involve analyzing important data sets to deliver insights that will be put to use by companies. In terms of my profession, they are called Spatial data scientists.
Urban planners and smart city developers: As smart cities sprout up here and there, it will become important for urban planners to be skilled in AI and geospatial data. They will need to create cities that are sensitive to the demands of their citizens.
Environmental Advisors: Consultants who utilize AI and GIS data to analyze and mitigate environmental consequences will be in demand as there will be a continuous need to address climate change and environmental degradation.
Mapping Professionals: Professionals with the expertise to identify disease outbreaks and plan public health responses using spatial data analysis will become more and more in demand in cases of health disasters.
Having said this, there is a question on the safety of Geoinformatics. Is it safe to pursue a profession in geoinformatics now that AI is taking over? I’d say a big YES! I say so because, even though some tasks in the profession of geoinformatics can be automated, the profession itself cannot be completely replaced. In fact, AI is helping the growth and evolution of the profession. The secret is to be on your game and always be open to learning new things, just like me.
For example, learning about AI and machine learning can increase your value in your job. Being good in sophisticated geospatial software usage and data interpretation are two essential skills that will guarantee your continued relevance. In this field, it’s not just about the BSc but how much you can do. It is a practical profession. AI can do a lot of jobs, but they cannot completely replace humans: they cannot go to the field to collect coordinates which are very useful in the profession. Also, humans are involved in critical thinking, and moral decision-making. These skills are crucial in the geoinformatics profession.
Soirce
Finally, I’d say that, yea, AI is changing how work is being done in my profession, but they are also opening up new opportunities, we are in fact prospering and evolving as a result. If we adopt this new technology and always improve our abilities, the profession will in fact remain relevant. With this said, I think the future is bright and we as youngsters should continue to learn, and to look forward to the incredible jobs that lie ahead without fear. What about you? What do you think of the profession? Let’s know your thoughts in the comments.